This weekend marks the end of Just A Card’s Indie Week campaign, for small businesses to push back against the pressure of the big Black Friday discounts that the huge retailers seem to overload us consumers with this time of year.
Small businesses like mine just can’t compete with this when it comes to enticing customers in as we just do not have the margin for big discounts. However, what we do have to our advantage though is the promise that the products you buy from us are full of love, passion, care and quality. When you buy from a small business you are supporting a dream, enabling a mother or father to support their family whilst also being there for their kids and most importantly supporting your local economy. What’s not to love about that!?
Anyway, to make life a little easier for you this Christmas I’ve put together a list of some fabulous artists, makers, designers and creators across the North West all of who can be found at The Warren in Stockport’s historic market place – a treasure trove of talented independent artists, makers, crafters and creators. (some are also available online for those not in the North West!)
Kitsch Republic
Kitsch Republic is the brainchild of the fabulously talented Angela who designs and makes all of the quirky homewares and gifts available from her Etsy shop, market stall or one of the many retailers lucky enough to stock her designs.
From lampshades and cushions to mugs and coasters and everything in between, if you’re looking for something unusual to brighten your home then Angela most definitely has what you need!
Follow Kitsch Republic on Facebook or Instagram to keep up-to-date with all the latest news!
Kat Pearson Designs
For the cat lovers amongst you, Kat Pearson Designs offer fabulous feline gifts handcrafted by the very talented Kat herself.
Kat primarily works in clay creating beautiful sculptures of your treasured pets, along with mini cat decorations, wall art and a range of feline themed homewares for the cat fan in your life!
Christopher Walster Illustrations
Christopher Walster is a Scottish born artist now living in Manchester. His beautiful signature black and white sketches feature places he has travelled and cities he loves. He also works to commission so if you have a favourite place, person or pet you would like immortalising in ink then get in touch!
You can shop his work on his Etsy page and also at local markets, fairs and shops across the north west.
Smash and Grab Papercut
Karen is the talent behind the fabulous Smash and Grab Papercut. She designs and hand cuts all her fabulous artwork with beautiful intricacy. She also designs a range of illustrations and greetings cards.
You can find Karen’s work in various outlets across the Manchester area, including her very own shop The Warren where she spends most of her time! Follow Karen’s social pages to keep up-to-date with her news!
S L Scott Art
Sue is a Manchester based artist specialising in cityscapes and urban scenes. Her distinctive style feature iconic Manchester buildings and architecture in a contemporary style in a range of bold modern colours. Sue also creates a range of small gifts featuring her beautiful artwork, from mugs and coasters to hand painted and framed ceramic tiles.
Sue’s artwork can be found in a number of galleries and stores across the northwest. Follow her on her social pages to keep up to date!
The Lobe Wardrobe
The Lobe Wardrobe’s fabulous modern geometric distinctive earrings are all handmade by Sally in a huge variety of colour and styles. Lightweight and stylish they brighten up any outfit and can be worn for any occasion. Sally has also recently launched a small range of necklaces (currently only available at markets) .
You can find her and her beautiful jewellery at various markets and retailers across the northwest. Follow her social pages for more information.
Bear Print Design
Bear Print Design is the brand name for the absolutely stunning artwork created by Jo Wright. Jo specialises in lino cut and produces the most beautiful prints inspired by animals and the natural world.
You can find Jo’s work, which includes a range of home décor and gifts with her designs on in various locations across the north west as well as her Folksy shop if you aren’t local!
Find all of these independent businesses and more (including my jewellery!) in The Warren, 6 Market Place, Stockport, SK1 1EW.