The East of London is chocked full of emerging makers, I interviewed Elizabeth from Limehouse Ceramics not long ago and got a glimpse in to the combination of historical significance of the area and her new spin on the process. Lots of people are moving in to this rich fast growing area of London, so what follow’s close behind. Wonderful markets! I have been spending my weekends exploring farmers markets; buying local produce, finding out what’s on offer.
A pioneer for the crafty makers of East London is Urban Makers East, founded in 2015 by two makers Julia & Ilka who wanted to give a voice to the talent in their local London area. Organising their own events as well as collaborating with other larger festivals as a strong partner.
I heard about this Pop-Up not long ago and was reminded on the day on my way through Hackney, following the poster up the canal to Here East. A surprising development in the middle of the Olympic Park and a wonderful rest bite from the heat that last Sunday threw out.
So many great traders, fanning themselves after setting up and ready for a lovely day out. I had a couple of must see’s, a few brands which have been making the rounds on the market circuit at the moment, improving each time. I went with a high expectation for new products for the summer.
HELLO GRIMES
Amy is an illustrator and a maker who creates wonderful prints, with plenty of landscapes & plant life in her distinct textured layering style. The ‘Little Plants’ print has been in my mind since I saw her at the Urban Makers Fete weeks ago.
LITTLE SASQUATCH EMBROIDERIES
Embroideries are something I used to do as a hobby but Joanna takes it to a new level, lots of quality stitches and clever quotes. They make great little gifts and quirky thoughts to hang on your wall.
M.A.E CERAMICS
I loved Lilly the minute I saw her scribbling her prices on masking tape, taking the less is more approach. Cute ceramics in blush & charcoal tones with the best handle shapes attached to everything! Her sprinkle planter has been added to my wish list.
MOLCRETE
Molly is a new face to craft markets after graduating in surface design not to long ago and is all about experimentation. Trying out new concrete flat and 3-D combinations adding flashes of material & colour with quirky results. Each item is unique so grab the one’s you like quick.
MOSS STICH CERAMICS
Gill’s lovely glossy ceramics created a magpie worthy stall display; including lots of new products. I love the planters with feet Gill definitely add them to the regular line up.
NIKKITA PALMER
Maybe my favourite chat of the day was with Nikkita who makes reclaimed wood furniture & homewares. She collects wood to work in to functional item with a white doodle flair that is great for all sorts of interior styles. You can commission bespoke pieces for your space getting exactly what you need.
FARRYN AMBER
Yummy scented candles, Blackberry & Sugar is my favourite!
MIKABONBON
Cute cotton canvas bag, purses, pouches with real personality and eyes.
POSY & POT
This is another new maker doing the circuit at the moment, stunningly accurate handcrafted paper flowers by Duen. Her craftsmanship is top quality and worth the investment, capturing flowers in time so they last forever.
SHOORAH SHOORAH
My first jewellery trader of the day that really caught my eye with their vibrant colours, Sian’s rope accessories. They are handmade and surprisingly light weight, the navy Rosetta Pendant is my favourite and on my wish list.
THREE OAKS LONDON
A brand with a mum of two behind it creating cute kids inspired pieces based in white with neon highlighting. Funky horse bums & pom pom’s all with a little bit of magic included.
Ending with two foodie traders that you wouldn’t have wanted to leave without trying. It was a market enjoyed from every angle, snacks & drinks, live music, activities and lots of shopping obviously.
PECCADILLO POTS
– Super tasty jam’s and sauces’s the pea pesto had me coming back for seconds.
LICK A LIX
All natural, organic ice lollies full of fruit. Vegan/Vegetarian friendly.
The usual location for UME is the Ecology Pavillion in Mile End park where their Spring & Christmas markets appear bi-annually. So that’s where you’ll find them on the 9th & 10th of December and the applications to trader are open now!
