Congratulations: South Korean Artist Jongjin Park Wins 2026 Loewe Foundation Craft Prize

South Korean artist Jongjin Park has won the 2026 Loewe Foundation Craft Prize, with the announcement made on 12 May at National Gallery Singapore*.

Awarded annually by the Loewe Foundation, the prize recognises artists whose work demonstrates exceptional technical skill and creative vision, while shaping the contemporary craft landscape internationally.

Park’s latest body of work is currently on display during London Craft Week as part of Origin of Materials, an exhibition presented by Soluna Fine Craft for the International Pavilion of South Korea. The exhibition runs from 11 to 17 May at St George Street Gallery in Mayfair.

Click HERE for more details on Park's winning entry and the Loewe Foundation Craft Prize.

Alongside this year’s winner, Origin of Materials brings together four alumni of the Loewe Foundation Craft Prize in a curated presentation of collectible Korean craft. Among them is Dahye Jeong, whose practice centres on horsehair inspired by Korea’s historic millinery traditions for men. Using traditional Korean weaving techniques, Jeong transforms the material into intricate three-dimensional works.

The exhibition also features 2023 finalists Choi Keeryong, Kyouhong Lee and Woosun Cheon. Choi works with glass using inlaid colouring methods influenced by the Korean sanggam technique traditionally associated with celadon ceramics. Lee explores the physical limits of glassmaking through works informed by traditional Korean domestic objects, while Cheon creates vessel-like forms from metal wire, drawing inspiration from Korean ceramic jars.

The 2026 prize also highlights the continuing influence of London-linked artists within contemporary craft. This year’s finalists include Xanthe Somers and Jobe Burns, both of whom reflect different approaches emerging from UK-based practices.

Somers uses ceramics to investigate the emotional and political dimensions of domestic labour, incorporating postcolonial narratives and references to weaving and cloth-making traditions. Burns, meanwhile, works with industrial materials and production methods to examine the legacy of labour in the West Midlands, combining artisanal techniques with industrial processes.

Together, the finalists and exhibitors reflect the increasingly international outlook of contemporary craft, where traditional materials and methods continue to be reinterpreted through new ideas, technologies and cultural contexts.

*Singapore exhibition

The winning piece and works by all 30 finalists of the 2026 Loewe Foundation Craft Prize are now on view at the National Gallery Singapore until June 14.  Address:  1 St Andrew’s Road, Singapore 178957

Exhibition Review: Palais Galliera of Paris Shines Light on the Hidden Crafts of Fashion

In Paris, the Palais Galliera is drawing attention to the often-unseen artisans of haute couture with its expansive exhibition: Weaving, Embroidering, Embellishing: The Skills of Fashioning. 

Voluminous sculptural dress and shoes by Rei Kawakubo of Comme des Garçons, for her "18th Century Punk"
Haute Couture Collection.
The Japanese designer reimagined in 2016 how Punk might have seemed during the period of 18th-century revolutions exploding across Europe.

Running until 18 October 2026, the wide-ranging exhibition, dedicated to the technical métiers that underpin the fashion industry, foregrounds craftsmanship rather than celebrity designers, offering visitors a detailed examination of the processes behind some of fashion’s most intricate creations.

The exhibition’s emphasis is on craft rather than on blockbuster-style display of iconic couture pieces.

As digital tools increasingly influence design and marketing, exhibitions such as this underscore the argument that the enduring appeal of haute couture lies in embodied knowledge — the precision of the hand, the trained eye, and the accumulated skill transmitted across generations. 

Mise-en-carte (Point-paper design), 1770 - 1780, France, from an Album showing painters' designs transferring onto hand-drawn graph paper to created instructions for a weaving look.  

By foregrounding these crafts, the Palais Galliera situates fashion’s future resilience in the preservation and valorisation of its most traditional competencies.

Chanel evening dress by Karl Lagerfeld, Haute Couture SS 2019.

In this context, the reaffirmation of artisanal expertise functions not only as cultural homage but as economic positioning. For luxury brands, savoir-faire remains a core differentiator: hand-executed embroidery, heritage weaving techniques and workshop-based production cannot be easily replicated by algorithms or mass automation. 

Cristobal Balenciaga evening dress and bolero ensemble haute couture SS 1947, from the wardrobe of Daisy Fellowes, heiress of the Singer forturne, French socialite and columnist of the American Harper's Bazaar magazine.

"Weaving, Embroidering, Embellishing: The Skills of Fashioning" (Tisser, broder, sublimer. Les savoir-faire de la mode) brings together more than 350 works, spanning garments, textile samples, tools and archival materials. 

While spotlighting the myriad of techniques and craftsmanship related to ornamentiation - from weaving, dyeing, printing, embroidery, to artificial flowers, lace-making and decorative embellishment, all are explored through the single unifying theme: the flower. 

Jean Patou by Christian Lacroix Poker d'as Evening Gown
Haute Couture AW 1986 - 1987

The aim is to demonstrate the variety of techniques, embellishments, the interplay of materials, the treatment of colour, volume and so forth - all ingenious and creative variations on the floral motif, which has been ubiquitous in fashion and the decorative arts for over three centuries.   To this, the exhibition showcases the masterful use of artisans' techniques on haute couture designs.  For his final couture collection before his death, Karl Lagerfeld's evening dress inspiration from the 18th century featuring embroidered flowers that imitate Vincennes and Sevres porcelain.  The embroidery took 1,205 hours of work incorporating 3D techniques to sculpt volumes in high-relief.  An evening ensemble from cristobal Balenciaga's Haute Couture SS 1947 collection depicts a floral print that evokes the designs of the Lyon silk maker Duchante.  The embroidered details are the work of Metrl that specialised in high quality mechanical embroidery.

Rather than presenting couture as spectacle alone, the curatorial approach emphasises crafts as disciplines in their own right. Magnification devices and close-up displays allow visitors to examine stitching, beadwork and fabric structures in forensic detail.

Cultural commentators in Paris have praised the exhibition’s balance between visual appeal and technical insight, noting that it avoids overwhelming audiences with specialist terminology while still conveying the complexity of the trades involved. 

One would applaud the curators’ decision to spotlight the “petites mains” — the skilled workshop artisans whose labour sustains the haute couture tradition but who rarely receive public recognition.

Embroidery example from the Maison Beauvais & Cie ca 1830 featuring metallic thread on silk mousseline.  Maison Beauvais was renowned for its fine laminated threads that ensure the lasting brilliance and fluidity essential to First Empire and Restoration of court gowns.

The exhibition is contemplative and intellectually rigorous, paying tribute to intergenerational knowledge and the preservation of craft. Rather than centring on runway glamour, the show positions material technique and artisanal expertise at the heart of fashion’s cultural value.

Being both visually enticing while being elegant and educational, there is a wide diversity of trades represented — from broderie and plumasserie to specialist weaving — and the opportunity to better understand the layered production process behind finished garments.

Its focus on savoir-faire arrives at a moment of strategic significance for the luxury sector. High fashion houses are grappling with slowing global demand, particularly in key markets where aspirational spending has softened. 

At the same time, rapid advances in artificial intelligence — from generative design tools to automated production modelling — are reshaping creative and commercial workflows. While AI promises efficiency and speed, it also intensifies questions about authenticity, originality and the human value embedded in luxury goods.

Images by Lucia Carpio

Craft and Culture: Dale Chihuly's vibrant glass sculptures for all to admire at Chelsea Barracks, London

Celebrated American glass sculptor Dale Chihuly has garnered acclaim throughout his 60-year career for his groundbreaking and expansive installations. Renowned for his ability to redefine the boundaries of glass as an artistic medium, Chihuly's creations often evoke organic forms with their intricate and vibrant designs.  

Within the meticulously landscaped gardens of Chelsea Barracks is Chihuly's the pièce de résistance, the "Electric Yellow and Deep Coral Tower," offset against the greenery and giant glass balls.

During London Craft Week 2024, May 13 - 19 2024, the general public with great interest in crafts has the opportunity to admire a selection of Chihuly's works in bright and cheerful colours sited within the lush outdoor grounds of the upmarket residential development, Chelsea Barracks, in the heart of Belgravia, London, just moments away from the River Thames. 

"Amethyrst Reeds, 2004! by Dale Chihuly is presented in deep hues of violet and vivid magenta atop logs of raw wood to incorporate an element of contrast between the tall, sleek stalks of glass and the rough grain of wood, set within the water feature of Mulberry Square.

These installations, characterized by their exploration of form, light, and space through the medium of glass, are created in deep amethyst, aqua blue and amber, or striking hues of electric yellow and orange, crafted from blown glass and supported by steel, providing striking contrast while harmonizing with their surroundings.

Curated by New Public, this latest project at Chelsea Barracks aligns with the development's ethos of seamlessly blending modern architecture with the site's rich historical heritage. 

Visitors entering Chelsea Barracks from Chelsea Bridge Road are welcomed by Chihuly's "Amethyst Reeds, 2024".

Among the highlights are three of Chihuly's works situated in Mulberry Square, including the  "Amethyst Reeds, 2024", which greets passersby along Chelsea Bridge Road.  According to descriptions accessible through a QR link, Reeds made their debut during the ground-breaking 1995-96 Chihuly Over Venice project.  Reminiscent of the icicle forms common in his chandeliers and towers, Reeds is described as the most extreme expression of this elongated form, at up to three metres tall each.

Chihuly's Electric Yellow and Deep Coral Tower standing majestically amongst the greenery of the Mulberry Square garden at Chelsea Barracks.

Further within the meticulously landscaped gardens lies the pièce de résistance, the "Electric Yellow and Deep Coral Tower," a captivating creation dating back to 2017.  This soaring creation of upstretched tendrils in radiant yellow and coral hues of hand-blown glass forms affixed to a steel armature evokes flames and though, static, suggests a riot of writhing movement. This tower was previously sited at Gardens by the Bay in Singapore in 2021, and Chihuly at Biltmore in Asheville, North Carolina, USA in 2018.

Another striking work is "Mulberry Square Fiori" (2024) or is it Mille Fiori, Italian for thousand flowers.  The arrangement of glass in various shapes add vibrancy to the lush green gardens, with the appearance of living forms.  According to descriptions, it captures the unrestrained vitality of a July garden in a tribute to Chihuly's beloved late mother, Viola, a master gardener and colour fanatic.

The "Aqua Blue and Amber (2011)" chandelier resting on a !"quad pod" suggests it is a heavy sculpture. 

Another of Chihuly's installations at Chelsea Barracks, the "Aqua Blue and Amber, 2011" chandelier supported by a !"quad pod" steel frame, commands attention in Whistler Square near the Pimlico Road entrance. Described as a cascade of glass combining long, trailing tendrils and bulbous, marine globes in cheery shades of blue, gold and citron, playful in both form and palette.  This had previously been sited in the US, in Desert Botanical Garden, in Phoenix, Arizona in 2021 and the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden in 2012.

This particular piece draws parallels to Chihuly's celebrated installation at the historic Victoria and Albert Museum in Knightsbridge, London, titled "Chihuly: Reflections on Nature." It was originally showcased in a 2001 exhibition that featured several of Chihuly's iconic glass sculptures and is now suspended high and mighty from the domed ceiling of the V&A museum's atrium at its Cromwell Road entrance, captivating visitors to this day.

"Chihuly: Reflections on Nature"
at the Victoria and Albert Museum.

As for the transformation of Chelsea Barracks in Belgravia from its origins as a late 19th-century military barracks for the British Army into a luxurious residential enclave has been a journey marked by both historical reverence and modern reinvention. Despite initial controversies and opposition from various quarters regarding its redevelopment, the site has emerged as a testament to the seamless integration of heritage preservation and contemporary design, offering residents and visitors alike a glimpse into London's rich past and vibrant future.

All images by Lucia Carpio.

Craft and Culture: London Craft Week, May 13 to 19, spotlights on artisans and unique craft traditions from around the world

London Craft Week, running from May 13 to 19, is celebrating its 10th anniversary and has invited partners worldwide to partake in its annual celebration of exemplary craftsmanship. 

Image from London Craft Week 2024

With a focus on both the lesser-known artisans of local craft traditions and the innovative interpretations of established practices by contemporary makers, LCW honours the unsung heroes while highlighting the evolution within the craft landscape.

Crafting Japan, one of the key highlights of London Craft Week 2024.

Dedicated to offering fresh experiences, the programme showcases crafts from under-represented region from around the world.

This year's lineup includes weaving from Kuwait, and embroidery from Yemen.  Amidst the perennial favourites like Japan and Korea, visitors can delve into a myriad of disciplines and artisans, from meticulously handcrafted baskets to the ancient art of mother-of-pearl inlay and traditional Korean Jogakbo patchwork. 

“It seems like yesterday that The King & Queen launched the first London Craft Week in 2015. Now, in our tenth year, we host over 225,000 visitors, 520 events and 700 artists and makers. Our aims remain the same: to bring alive exceptional craftsmanship from across the UK and around the world by tapping into the energy, diversity and serendipity of our city. In a small way, I hope we have in turn contributed to London’s cultural credentials and reinforced the importance of making.” – LCW Chairman, Guy Salter.

Image courtesy of Meisterstrasse Handmade.

Also the Austrian Pavilion presented by Meisterstrasse Handmade, will open at the Austrian Embassy on Tuesday 14 May is dedicated to Salzkammergut, providing glimpses into one of the most famous rural areas in Austria.  It will host a series of events at 18 Belgrave Square, featuring the rich local craftsmanship from Bad Ischl and the Salzkammergut region, designated as this year's European Capital of Culture. 

From May 14 - 19,  Meisterstrasse Handmade showcases a curated range of craftsmanship.  This year’s mission statement is ‘building bridges between East and West’. Traditional manufacturers and innovative craft businesses from Austria welcome master craftspeople from Germany, the UK, Japan, Thailand and Malaysia, including H.M. Queen of Pahang, Malaysia's Royal Pahang Weave Foundation.

Visitors can explore an array of objects, including mouth-blown glass, crystal chandeliers, perfumes, handmade tiles, wooden tables, table linen, hats and headdresses, traditional porcelain and ceramics, handmade caskets, cushions, handprinted and handwoven fabrics, jewellery and more. The curation is divided into three themes: interior design and architecture; sustainable living; and Austrian hospitality and crafts.

Five remarkable makers from the Bad Ischl and the Salzkammergut region will introduce their craft traditions as well as their approaches to a new future of craftsmanship. 

Cavalier Finn is featuring a roster of international artists during London Craft Week 2024.

Among the highlights, Cavaliero Finn is celebrating 20th anniversary. Visitors can expect to see work by a roster of internationally acclaimed artists including ceramicists Annie Turner, Matthew Chambers, Ashraf Hanna, Ikuko Iwamoto, Akiko Hirai, Frances Priest, Sophie Cook, Mimi Joung, Mizuyo Yamashita, Björk Haraldsdóttir, Sarah Purvey and Nicholas Lees; metal sculptors Cecilia Moore, Juliette Bigley, Simon Gaiger and Helen Carnac; textile artists Sara Brennan, Caron Penny, Katharine Swailes and Isabel Fletcher; wood sculptor Robert George; and work by a number of painters whose paintings are exhibited in dialogue with the craft works.

Art and Craft: London Craft Week - May 13 -19 Celebrates 10th anniversary with a rich programme spanning the capital

From May 13th to 19th, 2024, London Craft Week (LCW) will celebrate British and international creativity, bringing together 750 established and emerging makers, designers, brands, and galleries from London and beyond.  LCW promises a curated showcase sure to captivate craft enthusiasts and aficionados alike.

Across various genres covering craft, art, design, luxury, fashion, and accessories, a diverse array of immersive experiences, original exhibitions, masterclasses, workshops, and demonstrations will unfold, offering boundless opportunities for exploration. As the highly anticipated 10th-anniversary edition approaches, anticipation builds for the multitude of experiences awaiting attendees.

While spontaneous delights abound, many events boast limited capacity and require advance booking. Interested visitors should go to the LCW website  to secure their tickets and delve into details of the programme.  For real-time updates, visitors and followers can stay tuned to @londoncraftweek as the excitement mounts.

Unspun image courtesy of The Mills Fabrica,
the Official Innovation Partner of London Craft Week.

Celebrating a decade of creative exploration, LCW pays homage to visionary artisans pivotal in shaping the event's evolution, while also casting a gaze toward emerging trends and innovations set to define the craft landscape. Notably, collaborations with exceptionally talented artists and makers from across the globe, alongside esteemed cultural institutions and renowned brands, promise to enrich the experience.

The work of renowned American artist Dale Chihuly
will be among the highlights of London Craft Week 2024 to be shown in the Chelsea Barracks.
Here is a hanging sculpture by Chihuly
in the grand entrance of London's Victoria and Albert Museum.
Photo by Lucia Carpio 

Reflecting on the journey since its inception in 2015, Guy Salter, Chairman of LCW, reminisces, "It feels like just yesterday that The King & Queen launched the first London Craft Week. Now, in our milestone tenth year, we welcome over 225,000 visitors to experience 520 events featuring 700 artists and makers. Our mission remains unwavering: to celebrate outstanding craftsmanship from across the UK and beyond, leveraging the vibrancy, diversity, and serendipity of our beloved city. In our own small way, I believe we have contributed to London's cultural tapestry and reinforced the significance of the craft."

Among those stepping into the spotlight are forward-thinking artisans and brands championing sustainable materials and innovative practices to minimize their environmental footprint. Once again, LCW partners with The Mills Fabrica as its Innovation Partner, presenting an exhibition spotlighting 12 Planet-Saving Innovations across key themes such as climate change, water, land use, chemicals, waste, and microplastics.

As the Official Innovation Partner of London Craft Week, The Mills Fabrica invites visitors into the realm of sustainable innovation with a compelling lineup of events hosted in King’s Cross. Leading the charge is Fabrica X's newest exhibition, "Planet-Saving Innovations," unveiling the top 10 sustainable innovations and their impact on ecological priorities. From garments dyed with bacteria to accessories crafted from plants and cutting-edge materials derived from proteins and fungi, bespoke installations offer a glimpse into a harmonious future for fashion and textiles.

“Beyond the Loom: Contemporary Expressions of Sadu” is a unique showcase at the Embassy of Kuwait that will tell a story of cultural continuity and artistic innovation through meticulously crafted Art produced by Kuwaiti artisans.
The exhibition showcases the skilled translation of geometric patterns, vibrant colors, and cultural motifs from Sadu textiles into the realm of furniture and crafts, resulting in a stunning fusion of heritage and creativity, with each piece narrating a tale of cultural pride and artisanal expertise.
Photo from LCW website.

The LCW programme also features collaborations with leading material innovators, industry experts, and brands united in their commitment to advancing sustainable innovation in fashion and textiles. Through events with NFW, Colorifix, unspun, Positive Luxury, and The Woolmark Company, visitors are empowered to join the movement toward a just and sustainable future for both people and the planet.

Highlighting the international dimension of this year's festival will be an exhibition showcasing the work of Kuwaiti artisans, hosted by the Kuwait embassy. Titled "Beyond the Loom," the exhibition pays homage to the rich traditions of Sadu weaving, a craft steeped in history and nurtured by generations of dedicated practitioners. Originating from the demands of nomadic desert life, Sadu weaving embodies the art of transforming scarce resources into intricate and cherished community treasures, showcasing the beauty and significance that emerge from simplicity and ingenuity.

In the contemporary pieces on display, traditional Sadu motifs intertwine with modern aesthetics, showcasing the artisans' remarkable ability to bridge heritage with contemporary design. This fusion marks a vibrant evolution in Kuwaiti artistic expression, capturing the essence of adaptability and artistic innovation. "Beyond the Loom" transcends mere exhibition; it offers a meticulously curated journey through time, seamlessly blending past and present to illuminate the enduring influence of traditional arts on Kuwait's cultural landscape. It stands as a testament to the enduring impact of tradition on contemporary art and design, celebrating the richness of cultural heritage in shaping the artistic narrative.

LCW is also set to host a craft symposium at the London Victoria & Albert Museum in South Kensington, featuring panel discussions and keynote speeches by leading figures in the field. Delving into topics such as the evolving craft lexicon over the past decade, digital innovation, the transmission of skills through apprenticeships, and the intersection of craftsmanship and luxury, the symposium promises insightful exploration and dialogue.

Trade fair Top Drawer opens January 15 to kickstart the 2023 buying season at Olympia London

Top Drawer has opened on January 15th at Olympia in the heart of Kensington, London, reporting a buzzing atmosphere on the first day that attracted trade buyers from some of the biggest retailers from the UK and abroad, including Harvey Nichols, HMV, Harrods, Glasgow Museums, John Lewis, Oliver Bonas, National Trust, the Government of South Australia and Dobbie’s Garden Centre. Still registered to attend and source over the next two days are the likes of Liberty, Selfridges, Wolf & Badger, The Conran Shop, SCP, Aria, Fortnum & Mason, TJ Maxx Europe, Fenwicks, Marks & Spencers, Waitrose, the Walt Disney Company, and Waterstones.  

The London trade fair's S/S 2023 edition slated for January 15 - 17 2023  features 1000s of new launches across nine curated sectors -  Home, Wellbeing, Gift, Fashion, Food Emporium, Craft, Greetings Cards & Stationery, Play and Launchpad for promising new talent – to help buyers source the key products for the season ahead, and professional visitors to grasp in one venue the key trends that will help drive business.  

Organisers say 50% of exhibitors are exclusive to the show and 25% are making their Top Drawer debut. More than 500 brands from the UK and abroad are presented in this latest edition, including the likes of Aery, British Colour Standard, CABAIA, Inside Out Toys, Kind Bag, Lifeguard Press + Ban.do, LIGA, Ohh Deer, Poppy + Ted, Reeves & Reeves, Roger La Borde, Scream Pretty, Swole Panda, The Bottled Baking Co. and Wanderlust Paper Co. to name just a few, showcasing their latest product launches and Christmas collections.

Featured are Discovery Journal; Dahlia London Official; Charlotte's Web Jewellery;
Trixie Baby and We Are Proper Good
All images from Top Drawer SS 2023.

Show Manager, David Westbrooke said: “As the first show of the year, we understand just how important it is that Top Drawer offers our visitors the most exciting and inspiring sourcing opportunities of the season. In addition, the unique curation process that makes Top Drawer the event that it is, saves retailers time and effort by hand-selecting only the very best established brands and emerging names for them to discover on the show floor.”

Joanna Hockett, International Sales Manager for Lifeguard Press further expands on the appeal of the event: “Top Drawer is easily our favourite trade show - the timing, the location and the buyers here put it a cut above the rest, and this season is no exception!”

Once again The Better Trends Co. are providing attendees an exclusive trend forecast service unveiling fully two of the biggest trends for the season ahead at the show.   

Musango - HOME

“Rhythmic form” is a trend that emphasises the use of repetitive shapes and patterns to create a sense of visual harmony within a space and usher in a feeling of calm. By utilising a variety of materials and textures, this timeless trend can be easily incorporated into any space and is just what we need as we enter 2023. 

“Modern psychedelic”, on the other hand, is a trend characterised by bold, vibrant colours and patterns that evoke a sense of defiant, unapologetic joy. This style often features a mix of geometric shapes and organic curves, as well as a variety of textures and materials to create an eye-catching look that is sure to turn heads. 

Locomocean - GIFT

Tihara Smith - LAUNCHPAD

Alongside the top brands and household names, fresh new talent will be put in the spotlight in the “Launchpad” sector (which made its debut during the SS22 edition),  allowing them to network with high-calibre buyers and build lasting connections within the industry. For this edition, we’ll also see the return of the show’s partnership with the University of Arts London who have been hand-selected to showcase their products and are eager to increase their brand exposure.    

In addition, RetailFest has lined up speakers to inspire visitors, to offer advice and support for businesses by presenting their new Ecommerce Insight programme at Top Drawer S/S23. This will help businesses to tackle digital strategy head on, with actionable takeaways from sessions covering SEO, audience engagement and online advertising.

Speakers include the likes of Cath Kidson, The Conran Shop's Campbell Thompson, Oliver Bonas' Camilla Tress and more, offering the inside scoop on the industry, plus tips to help businesses to understand social media, how to engage with customers and operate sustainably plus marketing insights.

Registration for Top Drawer is free for professional buyers and store owners; more information on registration, exhibiting brands and seminar sessions can be found at their website. 

The Etsy Awards UK and Ireland 2016 announces its winning line up.

Making things with our hands with the valuable time we have -  a trend that had sprung up since the financial crash of 2008 - has turned out to be what many modern consumers want to do today.

That's why it is understandable that Sincerely Louise - which designs DIY knitting kits that allow customers to create gigantic faux taxidermy trophy heads for their homes - has won the People's Choice Award, one of the winners in this year's Etsy Awards UK and Ireland.

Louise Walker, author of `Faux Taxidermy Knits`, designs every element herself and hand prints and packs each kit.  and believes that enabling people to be creative is a driving force behind her business'.  She also runs workshops for different knitting projects of all levels.  Louise's prize for winning the top award is £10,000 plus a chance to stock at John Lewis, one of the UK's favourite retailers.

Going through Sincerely Louise's website, I found this particular knitting kit for a faux fox scarf particularly enticing.  As a beginner in knitting, I may order it and give it a try.  It could be great for those rainy days spent indoors.

Etsy is a marketplace where millions of people around the world connect, both online and offline, to make, sell and buy unique goods. Founded in 2005 in New York, the Etsy community includes the creative entrepreneurs who sell on their platform, particularly appealing to thoughtful consumers looking to buy unique goods from their stable of retailers and manufacturers who partner with Etsy sellers to help them grow their businesses.

The 2016 Etsy Awards winners were handpicked from thousands of entries, and are a series of design awards created to celebrate and support local Etsy makers and designers throughout the UK and Ireland.

The expert panel of industry judges this year included Anna Rigby, John Lewis; Patricia Van den Akker, The Design Trust; Pip McCormac, Red Magazine and Erica Davies, The Edited. The People’s Choice Award winner, receiving the top prize of £10,000, was voted for by the public from the pool of 60 finalists.

Here's is the line up of the rest of the top prizes.
Home & Living Award

Gold winner: Estampe and Co, Prize £2,500
A collaboration of two artist-designers their patterns are based on endangered species and tribes native to the Amazonian region and are designed to inspire eco-friendliness and habitat conservation. They are printed using non-toxic inks on non-woven paper from certified forests. Their range also features an innovative ‘peel and stick’ wallpaper option. 5% from each sale is donated to an organisation which promotes the sustainable use of resources.
Silver winner: Factory Twenty One
Bronze winner: Naive Noir Furniture

Fashion & Accessories Award
Gold winner: Pluck’d Designs, Prize £2,500
East Londoner Saffie Pluck has developed her own reflective yarn using local mills and suppliers. She designs and hand knits accessories and clothing for urban cyclists and runners. The products look normal during the day and seamlessly transform to highly functional, reflective pieces at night. Pluck’d Designs’ ethos is focused on creating everyday slow fashion, with quality being a top priority, ensuring that her products will last season in, season out.
Silver winner: R Palmer Jewellery
Bronze winner: Katie Brown Designs

Kids & Baby Award
Gold winner: Button and Blue, Prize £2,500
Amy is a Brighton based mum of two who started her Etsy shop to facilitate flexible working hours around raising her children. Knitting was her hobby which she transformed into a business. She knits with natural fibres and her designs are minimal and classic with a pop of fun. She hopes to get Button and Blue products into stores and would like to see a local network of parent run businesses.
Silver winner: The Fox in the Attic
Bronze winner: Sian Zeng

Retail Star Award
Gold winner: Yvonne Ellen, Prize £2,500
Yvonne Ellen homeware is a unique range of tableware designed to add charm and intrigue to the home. Yvonne combines a passion for beautiful fine bone china with a love of quirky, decorative illustration in her ranges. Every piece is designed and made in Britain. She handmakes the majority of her collection, with a selection of pieces made in one of the original pottery factories in Stoke-on-Trent, UK.
Silver winner: L'Etabli London
Bronze winner: Papio Press

Etsy New Talent Award
Gold winner: FeatherOak, Prize £2,500
Alexandra is 19 years old from rural Northumberland. She gathers many of her resources locally, including crystals, bone, sea glass and coal. Months of research and planning went into opening her Etsy shop, she sold sheep skulls online to raise the funds to buy a professional camera and taught herself photography. Alex hopes to expand her jewellery production into working with precious metals such as silver and gold and would love to travel around Britain to gather more natural treasures for her work.
Silver winner: Laura Slater Print
Bronze winner: Rowenna Mason Weaving

For more info on the winners, click HERE.