Collaborative art piece open call & sessions - 2nd March, 8th & 9th March 12- 2pm FREE
Make your own square to our collaborative art piece. We are welcoming all submissions from any age & all people. You can collect a square from The Craftship or make your own piece of card 21cm square (we will punch holes in the edges). The theme is Inspire & Include which is the theme for this years international women's day. You can paint, collage, write or decorate your square in any way you wish. Submissions are to be dropped off at Made in Ashford or The Craftship. Deadline will be 2pm 8th March.
Book your space to work on a piece together at The Craftship workshops.
- Made in Ashford
Diversify LGBTQIA Social IWD Special - 7th March 7.30pm-10.30pm @Coachworks FREE
- Diversify group (part of Ashford Pride)
Girls Night Out - 8th March 7pm-12 @Coachworks £30 early bird £40 after
Celebrating International Women’s Day in style! An informal, inclusive night out with a bunch of brilliant women, eating good food, drinking local booze and dancing to some seriously epic tunes. Fundraiser for the Beehive to support women in Ashford. You will receive a drink & food token as well as music, craft, dancing & fun.
Book your ticket here & click for more info.
- The Beehive
Family craft session celebrating International Women’s Day - Sat 9 March 10.30-11.15 @The Craftship
Get creative with Made in Ashford team and celebrate International Women’s Day through celebrating & making. We will have a variety of different craft activities themed around women who inspire us I'm these 45 minute sessions held at the Craftship in Park Mall. Book your slot here.
- Made in Ashford
Community Platter and Natter - Sat 9 March 1-4pm @Revelation St Mary's Church
B-Arts Co are creating a Community Platter and natter - collecting the flavours of Ashford as part of our #internationalwomensday events this year.
Ashford has such a rich and diverse community, we want a chance for you to share your recipes, share your heritage and stories in a great big bring and share. Y’know, like a street party where we all bring something to add to the table to share with everyone in our community!
-B_Art & Revelations
Live Music - Sat 9 March 7.30-11pm @Low Key Taproom - FREE
- The Bash Promotions & Low Key Taproom
Run for Equality - IWD family run club Sun 10th March 9.45 - 10.30am @Victoria Park Fountain
Everyone is welcome to attend a fun run around Victoria Park for International Women’s Day.
(Which happens just after junior park run if you fancy a bit of that too!)
- Oh so Fit
Park Write Family Creative Writing Session - Sun 10th March 10 - 11am @Harpers Cafe Community Room at Victoria Park FREE
Free Colouring in sheet available here.
- Made in Ashford
*Please note that all events are being run by individual organisations and they hold the responsibility for each of the events they are holding.
We hope you can make it to some of our events. You can grab a flyer from Made in Ashford, The Beehive & Salata.
]]>
Craftship Enterprise CIC 2023 report including Made in Ashford & The Craftship as well as our other activities as part of our social enterprise.
Another year of our amazing social enterprise! Here is a report of all the things we did in 2023! I am so proud to be part of our incredible organisation & the impact it has on Ashford & beyond!
Read our report here Craftship Enterprise CIC 2023 report.
Read our report here Craftship Enterprise CIC 2022 report.
]]>Print out an colour the colouring in sheet below as part of the #intheloop project and learn what litter goes in which side of Ashford's new bins
]]>
Nine bright, colourful and eye-catching dual recycling and general waste bins have appeared in Ashford Town Centre, as a new on-the-go recycling initiative - #InTheLoop, is launching Saturday 9 September 2023.
#InTheLoop is a three-month trail which will make it as easy as possible for visitors to recycle empty glass, plastic bottles and cans. The initiative is a partnership between Ashford Borough Council, Kent Resource Partnership, Kent County Council, Litter Lotto, metroSTOR, N+P (dry and mixed recycling processors in Kent), and environmental charity Hubbub, made possible with funding from McDonald’s.
The new bins have bold graphics showing clearly what goes in each section of the bin. The recycling section collects empty glass and plastic bottles as well as cans, so these valuable materials can be made into something new instead of going to waste. To keep contamination to a minimum, people are being urged to put items like coffee cups, dog waste and crisp packets in the general waste section of the new bins and to think “if in doubt leave it out”.
Litter Lotto are offering a monthly jackpot prize of £200 in addition to their usual prize offerings. Visitors to the town centre simply need to take a picture on the Litter Lotto app putting their recycling or general waste into one of the town centre bins to be entered for the chance to win!
There are also hidden virtual coins to find around Ashford Town Centre and Victoria Park to win extra prizes. Find out more by downloading the Litter Lotto app and get binning and hunting! The monthly £200 jackpot prize and coins will be available from September to November 2023.
Made in Ashford’s Craftship Enterprise are running three workshops to show how we can re-use materials and put them back #InTheLoop.
The first workshop is taking place this Saturday 9 September at The Craftship, where visitors will have the chance to add to the living wall art installation made of plastic bottles, which will be displayed in a shop window as well as make your own recycled plant pot to take home. Find out more about these workshops on Made In Ashford's website.
Steve Campkin, Portfolio Holder for Climate and Environment, said: “It is great to be part of this pilot to explore how we can better support our residents to recycle and share the learning with other authorities. Whilst our ultimate aim is to reduce waste in the first place, recycling what we do need to use out and about is essential. These bins, kindly funded by the #InTheLoop project, we hope will significantly improve our recycling rates in the town centre.”
Beau Zilesnick, Project Lead at Hubbub, said: “We’re really excited to bring #InTheLoop to Ashford Town Centre. Through our eye-catching bins, we want to give residents, workers and visitors a better and easier opportunity to recycle while out and about. We’re urging everyone to use the new bins and help us ensure that as much valuable packaging is recycled as possible.”
For more information about the campaign visit Love Ashford website or contact the Kent Resource Partnership by email.
Ashford's very first Food & Drink Festival is coming to town this July!
Join us for a month-long celebration of food and drink businesses in and around Ashford Town Centre!
Throughout July there will be a programme of culinary delights that we hope will tempt you to try something new or revisit an old favourite!
There's also many special offers and two incredible competitions - A Discovery Experience for 4 at Gusbourne Vineyard and a Kent Cookery School class for 2 (scroll to the bottom to enter).
So join us as we “Taste and Try Throughout July”…
⭐Ashford Food and Drink Launch Party at Coachworks ⭐
Friday 30 June / 4pm-10pm
Free launch with live music, family-friendly pizza making workshops from Il Pakkero, and an independent food and drink market.
⭐ASHFOOD! at Elwick Place⭐
Saturday 1 July / 11am-7pm
Sunday 2 July / 12pm-5pm
A two-day including food and drink stalls, live music, children’s crafts and so much more.
⭐A Tasting Evening With Wine Garden of England and Boys Hall at St Mary's Church ⭐
Wednesday 19 July / 7.30pm - 9.30pm
Tickets £35 per person, over 18s only - Book here
Enjoy a tutored wine tasting from seven of Kent’s finest wineries alongside local cheeses and charcuterie, all accompanied by live music from Jonny Hepbir.
⭐Summer Beers & BBQ Festival at Curious Brewery⭐
Friday 21 July, 5pm – 11pm / Saturday 22 July, 12pm – 11pm / Sunday 23 July, 12pm – 4pm
Taste summer small plates, BBQ classics, exclusive brews and enjoy live music.
⭐Wine tasting with Wine Tours of Kent at Coachworks⭐
Thursday 13 July / 6.30pm-8.00pm
Tickets £20 per person, over 18s only
A tutored tasting of six amazing Kent wines accompanied by some light nibbles.
Bookings coming soon
⭐Bond-Themed Cocktail Night at Valerie's Wine Bar⭐
Friday 28 July / 7pm-12am
Tickets £7.50 per person (includes a glass of Prosecco)
Enjoy 5 Bond-inspired cocktail, a DJ and even a best dressed competition.
Bookings coming soon
⭐Craft Beer tasting Evening & Pizzas at Coachworks⭐
Thursday 27 July / 7pm-9pm
Tickets £25 per person (including pizza)
A tutored tasting of 5 amazing craft beers as well as making your own pizza with Il Pakkero in their wood-fired oven.
Bookings coming soon
⭐5-course dinner special at Everest Inn⭐
Monday 10 July / all evening
Tickets £60 per person
Enjoy a 5-course feast of the finest Nepalese cuisine. Includes Prosecco and Canapés. Book a table online.
⭐Liquid Light Tap Takeover at Low Key Taproom⭐
Saturday 8 July / all day
Try 6 different beers from the brewery Liquid Light.
⭐Made in Ashford's food and makers market at Park Mall⭐
Saturday 1 July / 10am-4pm
Head to Park Mall for the monthly Makers Market which for July will be food themed!
⭐Lily’s Kitchen Presents Cooking on a Budget at One You⭐
Wednesday 12 July / 11am & 2pm
Learn how to make delicious food, without pushing the purse strings with the team from Lily's Kitchen.
⭐Mama-Mia Themed Cocktail Night at Itaca's⭐
Friday 21 July / 6pm-2am
Enjoy a night of ABBA inspired cocktails as you feel like you're on your own Greek adventure, right in the centre of Ashford.
⭐Caribbean Sundowner evening at Jay’s Soul Food⭐
Saturday 22 July / 4pm-7pm
Saturday 29 July / 4pm-7pm
Tickets £30 per person
A feast for the senses with finger licking finger food, refreshing tunes & unforgettable uplifting afrobeats & reggae music.
Saturday 15 July / 2pm-11.30pm
The second TMI beer festival with live, original music from local bands.
⭐Lily’s Kitchen Presents Pasta Making at One You⭐
Wednesday 19 July / 12pm & 3pm
Tickets £20 per person, adults only
Learn how to make pasta with the team from Lily's Kitchen.
⭐Cheese and Wine Night at Leo & Sage⭐
Thursday 6 July / 6pm-9.30pm
An evening of great local produce in a lovely setting.
⭐Bottomless Brunches at Coachworks⭐
Saturday 1 July and 15 July / 12.30pm-2pm
£35 per person - Book here
90 minutes of unlimited House Lager, Fizz, Pimms or Cocktails, plus one main course from any of the street food vendors.
⭐Cupcakes – let’s decorate at The Little Teapot⭐
Monday 3 July / 3pm-6pm
£1 per cupcake
A chance for the whole family to get creative with cupcakes!
⭐Pizza making workshops at Coachworks⭐
Thursdays 13, 20 and 27 July / 4.30pm-6pm
£12 per adult / £5 per child
An authentic pizza making session where you can make your own pizza and learn how to use the wood fired pizza oven.
Bookings coming soon
⭐Lily’s Kitchen Presents Kids Cream Teas at One You⭐
Wednesday 26 July / 11am & 2pm
Tickets £7.50 per child
Get your child making their own scones this July with the help of the team at Lily's Kitchen.
⭐Formula One Contest at Matches⭐
Sunday 9 July / all day
⭐Independent food and drink market at Coachworks⭐
Sunday 30 July / 10am-4pm
Check out local producers as this monthly event takes a food and drink spin.
PLUS THERE'S MORE...
⭐⭐CREATIVE WORKSHOPS⭐⭐
Made in Ashford has a series of fun family-friendly workshops with a food and drink spin including pizza bunting, ice cream garlands and making your own piñata – just a few of their all-inclusive programme for the festival. You can book onto the workshops here.
⭐⭐OFFERS⭐⭐
Matches - 3 to 16 July
Celebrate Wimbledon with £10 jug of Pimms or £6 Strawberry Daiquiri
Low Key Taproom - whole of July
Buy any burger & get free fries
The Little Teapot - whole of July
Any large tea or coffee & a slice of cake for £4.95
Salata – whole of July
Salad box, snack & drink £10
Everest Inn – whole of July
20% off your food bill when booking a table at the Ashford or Mersham sites via the website by adding 'Food Festival' in the comment box
Jay’s Soul Food – whole of July
One main & side £6.50; One patty & drink £2.50 from 12.30pm-3pm
On Pizza - whole of July
Special pizza deals available via their website
Bank Street Cafe - whole of July
Summer Sri Lankan Food Month and Asian Afternoon Teas
Brownbills Optitians – whole of July
Free glass of fizz & nibbles (or soft drink) with every appointment
PLUS, County Square Shopping Centre will have an Urban Beach throughout July with a Summer Selfie Competition – and the chance to win a £100 gift card!
⭐⭐COMPETITIONS⭐⭐
To celebrate the launch of the Ashford Food and Drink Festival, we are delighted to be partnering up with Kent Cookery School and Gusbourne Estate to give you the chance to enter two exclusive competitions!
WIN A COOKING CLASS FOR TWO PEOPLE AT KENT COOKERY SCHOOL
Join Kent Cookery School for a fun hands-on cooking session where you will whip up some delicious dishes. Choose from over 25 evening courses including Mexican, Vietnamese, Thai, Turkish and even Street Food courses. If baking is more your style, then you’ll love the doughnut and macaroon baking sessions. Learn from friendly professional tutors and meet like-minded food lovers for an informative hands-on session.
WIN A WINE TASTING & 3 COURSE MEAL FOR 4 PEOPLE AT GUSBOURNE WINE ESTATE
Win a Discovery Experience for four people at award-winning winery, Gusbourne Estate. Begin the day with a perfectly chilled glass of sparkling wine, while taking in the views across the Boot Hill vineyard. Enjoy a brief tutored tasting, where your host will guide you through two distinctly different styles of Gusbourne sparkling. After the tasting, you’ll be left to enjoy a leisurely seasonal three-course lunch perfectly paired with a selection of Gusbourne sparkling wines.
Are you stuck with what to buy for Fathers Day? Then take a look at our ultimate handmade gift guide for Fathers Day 2023. All items are made locally to and are sold in our Made In Ashford shop and on our website.
Cycling Fathers Day Gifts
1. Cycling Wash Bag by Aye Aye
2. Cycling Wooden Pin Badge by Tinybeegle
Vintage Car Gifts
1. Green Camper Van Pencil Case by Pancake Pet
2. Blue Mini Car Pencil Case by Pancake Pet
3. Morris Minor coaster by Charlotte North Photography
4. Vintage Camper Van Greetings Card by Charlotte North Photography
Personalised Gifts
1. Daddy & Me Frame by Keep It In A Frame
2. Busy Dad Note Book by Keep It In A Frame
3. Dad Note Book by Keep It In A Frame
All items available in store at Made In Ashford
]]>
Meet Tom from Drum&Ink! Tom’s business name combines his two passions, playing drums and printmaking!
The name drum&ink came about because I was teaching drums and creating artwork for sale, predominantly lino prints, and it made sense to combine all my creative work under one banner; less time on admin work means more time available for creative work and more time to get to know people.
I love the process of developing an imagined image or idea into a sketch then to the carving process to create a relief block for printing. You never really know how the final piece will look until the last layer of ink is added and you lift the paper! The process teaches lessons in patience and accepting the outcomes of something even though it isn't quite how you imagined it.
I am presently developing my ideas on how to combine my love of music with promotion of wellbeing. I've run a few different sessions now including some meditative practice which have been very different to the usual drum band sessions. My focus with this work is promoting wellbeing because I feel that we often work from a curative standpoint rather than preventative. I also run Ashford Community Drum Band CIC which is an accessible band for everyone regardless of experience, goals or social situation.
I work full time as a community mental health nurse prescriber so much of my time is spent in the community in Ashford working within the NHS. Otherwise, along with the love of my life and our kids, I tend to be growing plants, bumbling around the woods, swimming in rivers and the sea whilst learning about birds, butterflies and trees.
We'll be exploring places from our imagination or thinking about our favourite spots and then making maps to guide us to these special places. I love using a map to find somewhere, it makes me wonder who else has been there before and who will visit afterwards, I like to think about what their personal stories might be.
To book Tom's Adventure maps printmaking workshop on Wednesday 31st May click here
]]>When did you start Ragged Life?
It all started in 2014 when I was working in Marketing at Unilever, a couple of years out of university. I’d done rag rugging as a hobby since the age of fourteen and after a chance encounter was asked to run a one-off class at Tea and Crafting in London. I really enjoyed teaching that first evening class, so agreed to run more rag rug workshops on the side alongside my full-time job. As I was teaching more workshops, I needed more tools and materials, which I began pulling together into beginner kits and also selling on the side. Before I knew it, I had a side hustle that I felt confident could become a full-time job if I was brave enough to leave my cushy graduate job. Well, I took the leap of faith and here we are today! Now Ragged Life has grown into a one-stop-shop for rag rug materials, workshops and textile inspiration.
What's your favourite thing about rag rugging?
I love how easy it is to learn. I often say that rag rugging is the most forgiving craft you'll ever try as it's almost physically impossible to go wrong and any mistakes can be easily fixed without having to go back. What's more, unlike a lot of crafts, we embrace imperfection as it adds texture and interest to a rug. You don't have to cut your strips an even size, you don't have to space the fabric pieces evenly apart and a tatty old t-shirt that you've worn to death will look equally as nice as a gorgeous Liberty Tawn once it's in a rug. Rag rugging is a mindfully repetitive craft, which makes it easy to pick up and put down, especially when you use a rag rug spring tool.
Have you always been creative?
Ever since I was a kid, I've always enjoyed making things with my hands. Part of that is probably a result of growing up in an artistic household. My mum (who taught me how to rag rug) has an excellent eye for colour and dabbles with all sorts of textile and fibre crafts. There's very little Victoria hasn't tried by now! In particular, she loves charity shops and pulls together the most amazing, colourful interiors. My father is also great with colour and paints large pastel canvases. He has also written a number of books! So, getting back to the question, I grew up surrounded by creativity and I'm sure some of it brushed off on me. I am however a firm believer that everyone has creativity in them (just look at how we all begin as little kids), they just need the space to tap into it.
Is rag rugging easy?
The fact that rag rugging is so easy is one of the main reasons why I love it so much. All you need are a few basic tools to get you started (you can buy them all together in one of our Ragged Life starter kits), some old clothing and a bit of hessian. This is the type of craft you can do on your lap in front of the TV after a couple of glasses of wine without worrying that you're going to have to unpick it all at a later date! We've run hundreds of rag rug workshops all across the country and have never come across anyone unable to do it.
Join Elspeth on Sunday 11th June for a British Rag Rugging Workshop here at The Craftship in Park Mall, Ashford.
Book here
]]>Meet The Artist - Zo Defferary
Zo is a freelance artist! As well as running workshops Zo paints murals and works on commissions, including decorative sign writing and illustration.
We asked Zo a few questions about her work and inspirations.
Have you always been creative?
Always been a bit arty I guess yes, being able to make a living from it is something I am very grateful for. To my parents' dismay I have been doodling on anything I could get my hands on, since I was little!
What art projects have you recently been working on?
Most recently I've been working with a group of year 6 kids from Whitstable who are preparing for Secondary school in September. We are making a banner; everyone is responsible for specific letters and when we are all done it will spell out 'Follow Your Own Path'.
Who are your favourite artists and how do they influence your work?
Phyllida Barlow, and her use of salvaged materials scale and colour have always been something I’ve loved. She has influenced my 3D making, for sure. Claes Oldenburg and his 3D versions of everyday objects. Many are made from available materials and often oversized, his work has always amazed me. Maya Hayuk is a street artist who works on a huge scale with geometric patterns, they are truly incredible, and her use of colour is awesome.
What is your preferred medium to work with?
Paper & pencils. Drawing either in my sketchbook or on huge pieces of paper, it is the best place for me to try out ideas & my favourite medium for sure.
What’s your favourite thing about being an artist?
It’s different every day, not only the different types of art I get to do but all the different people I meet. Collaborating with other people is great fun. Getting messy is my happy place!
Look out for two Zine (mini magazine collage) workshops that Zo is running here at The Craftship in the Easter school holidays! They are suitable for ages 9+ and take place Monday 3rd April and Tuesday 11th April Book here.
]]>
Join us for the launch of Unframed, Ashford's first Mural Festival.
Taking place at Coachworks on Friday 31 March between 4pm - 10pm. It's free to attend and includes family friendly art workshops run by us, live painting by ODISY, artist talks and DJs.
Celebrating the launch of the incredible mural festival in Ashford we are running a variety of creative workshops across various sites in Ashford. You can book your slot on a workshop below.
]]>
SATURDAY 1ST APRIL
1.30-2.30pm Street Art Style Name Drawing FREE
SUNDAY 2ND APRIL
10am-4pm Watercolour Day Course
for beginners
MONDAY 3RD APRIL
10:30-11:15am Story, Craft &e Play Faster Special
2-3:30pm Zines with Zo
TUESDAY 4TH APRIL
3:30-4pm Easter Fairy Carden Workshop
WEDNESDAY 5TH APRIL
1:30-3:30pm Paper Craft Bird Mobile Workshop
THURSDAY 6TH APRIL
10:30-11:15am & 11:15am - 1pm
Flower Collage Easter Card Workshop
FRIDAY YTH APRIL
10:30-11:30am Faster Egg Painting
& Paper Basket Making
SATURDAY 8TH APRIL
1.30-2.30pm Framed Art & Mural wall FREE
MONDAY 1OTH APRIL
10:30-11:15am Story, Craft & Play Easter Special
TUESDAY 11TH APRIL
2-3:30pm Zines with Zo
THURSDAY 13TH APRIL
10:30am-12pm Children's Relief Printmaking
FRIDAY 14TH APRIL
1-3pm Crochet for Beginners
All held here at our dedicated craft space.
The Craftship unit 1 Park Mall, Ashford
]]>
Poca and Pan (AKA Christina and Hollie) are a formidable duo, who stand for female solidarity, inclusivity and kindness. They’re a LGBTQ+ run company that promotes individuality and they always try to empower and encourage others within their work.
Tell me about the message behind your work?
Hollie and I started Poca and Pan during lockdown but it's always my face (Christina) you'll see in MIA. We stand for female solidarity, inclusivity and kindness. As an LGBTQ+ run company, we love to promote individuality - being who you want to be. We always try to empower and build others and our print designs reflect this.
Who are your top three female icons?
Our top 3 female icons are; Maya Angelou, Lady Gaga and Xena The Warrior Princess - all equally fabulous in their own ways.
Oooh.. Can we add Lizzo to our favourites too. We cannot forget about her!
What print is your personal favourite?
Personal favourite print: Ruth Bader Ginsburg quote "Not fragile like a flower, fragile like a bomb" it's so vibrant and striking. Plus, it's our favourite feminist quote!
What is your best seller in Made In Ashford?
We get lots of enquiries about our personalised portraits and people then get in touch because they've seen our work in the shop - which is awesome. However, our 'Woman Up' print which comes in a variety of colours, has been a bestseller since we first started in MIA back at the start of 2021
Find more of Poca and Pans work in store at Made In Ashford
]]>Aimee has been selling her cards and prints in Made In Ashford for a while now, her distinctive bohemian style is well recognised around Ashford. Especially because of the murals she has painted on the old bingo hall.
We asked Aimee a few questions about her work...
Have you always been creative?
Yes I’ve always been creative but after school I didn’t do anything with it as I was too shy to continue on to college or uni. I didn’t pick up a pencil or brush again until I was nearly 30.
What inspires you?
I’m inspired by other artists' work, many who I follow on Instagram, I’m also inspired by nature and bohemian style.
What murals are you responsible for?
I’m known for the murals on the bingo hall, both the wings and the Odeon history. However I’ve painted many murals in and around Ashford including an 80’s themed mural, a Swan on The Swan Inn pub and a garden mural with a fox for The fox and Goose Pub. All murals can be seen on my Instagram or Facebook page.
What has your favourite art project been?
I've loved painting all my murals but I equally love hosting workshops and seeing other people’s joy at creating a piece of art using the skills and techniques I’ve taught them.
What do you like about painting with watercolour?
I love how watercolour can be adapted to any style. I personally feel watercolour allows you to paint freely and it doesn’t have to be perfect to produce something beautiful. I’m constantly experimenting and learning when I paint in watercolour.
Aimee is running a Day Watercolour Course for Beginners at The Craftship on Sunday 2nd April and a Six Week Watercolour Course that runs over July & August.
Book here
]]>
Casey B is an award winning art educator, community artist, anthropologist and mum of 2…yep, her days are jam packed with creativity!
She has been an art teacher in schools and colleges for 20 years, but has been working to bring art out in to the wider Ashford community having created B-Art Co. during her maternity leave after having her daughter 6 years ago, as she felt the need for affordable, fun and relaxed art and photography workshops and clubs for everyone out there.
You can find her regularly excited about upcoming projects, and bringing the community together through the power of art.
The films are produced by Square Stone Media, a new creative collaboration between local filmmakers Richard Grebby (RG Studios) and Dominic Rees-Roberts (Borderpoint Films) - A massive thanks to these guys for providing us with a brilliant video & photographic showcase for Womxn Up Ashford.
]]>Lucy is the Operations Manager at Coachworks Ashford. A unique community space based in Dover Place which offers co-working, office space, street food and local drinks plus it is a music and event destination
Lucy’s quest is to put Coachworks on the map specifically to showcase and help small, independent businesses grow.
Lucy is passionate about women achieving their life goals and being given an equal opportunity to achieve their full potential in business.
As well as running the Coachworks, Lucy is a busy dog mum who enjoys all the amazing parks and green space Ashford has to offer
The films are produced by Square Stone Media, a new creative collaboration between local filmmakers Richard Grebby (RG Studios) and Dominic Rees-Roberts (Borderpoint Films) - A massive thanks to these guys for providing us with a brilliant video & photographic showcase for Womxn Up Ashford.
]]>
Debz set up her small business in 2020 called Pancake Cat. At the time a friend of hers had just opened a Pet Shop called Not for Humans on Folkestone Old high street, so she had an immediate outlet to sell her pet beds, puppy carriers and dog toys that she makes at home in her workshop. Debz love sewing and collecting all sorts of stuff, especially vintage fabrics. Soft furnishing fabrics are my favourite, she dabbles with upholstery too and uses her off cuts for purses and pencil cases that she sell in Made In Ashford. You can also find Debz in one of my favourite places, the Craftship where she runs kids craft workshops and a Home Ed art class. Working on my creative projects is an amazing escape from her busy mum life looking after my beautiful 6 year old twin boys.
View more of Pancake Cat here
The films are produced by Square Stone Media, a new creative collaboration between local filmmakers Richard Grebby (RG Studios) and Dominic Rees-Roberts (Borderpoint Films) - A massive thanks to these guys for providing us with a brilliant video & photographic showcase for Womxn Up Ashford.
]]>
Sam started her dream path later on in life, a single Mum of 2 boys who weaved and juggled her way through family life, working and completing a degree in childhood studies with an SEN specialism. She paved her way into a successful career in local radio, which enabled her to connect with the community. Sam is currently Operations and Fundraising Manager at local charity Find A Voice, supporting people with severe communication difficulties encompassing all her knowledge, passions and skills under one roof.
The films are produced by Square Stone Media, a new creative collaboration between local filmmakers Richard Grebby (RG Studios) and Dominic Rees-Roberts (Borderpoint Films) - A massive thanks to these guys for providing us with a brilliant video & photographic showcase for Womxn Up Ashford.
]]>
Becca is the founder and manager of The Beehive; a second hand women’s clothing boutique and community cafe in Ashford’s town centre. The Beehive began as a pop up in October 2017 and has been a permanent feature on the high street since November 2018. With her team, Becca is passionate about helping women in Ashford reach their full potential. As well as running the shop, she is a leader at Pneuma Church, a member of Ashford Sings choir and single mum to three rowdy kids.
The films are produced by Square Stone Media, a new creative collaboration between local filmmakers Richard Grebby (RG Studios) and Dominic Rees-Roberts (Borderpoint Films) - A massive thanks to these guys for providing us with a brilliant video & photographic showcase for Womxn Up Ashford.
]]>To celebrate International Women’s Day 2023 a growing group of folks from our town center community have got together to put on some events, offers & fun.
This is Womxn Up Ashford!
Wed 8 March
10 - 11.30 Female artist celebration - sketch book club
@The Craftship, Park Mall - Click here to book.
10.30 -12 'Just for me' collage & vision boarding
workshop @ the Beehive w/Charlotte
12.30 - 1.30 Femme Felts hand sewing & chat session
@The Craftship, Park Mall - Click here to book.
Friday 10 March
I am Natural Skincare consultations at Bare Bazaar 11-
2 @barebazaar
Saturday 11 March
International Women's Day Zine making 10.30 - 2.30
Click here to book.
Plus
Liv 2 Dance Free weekly pass for women in all Adult
classes 6th to 16th March
Salata Lunch for £5 (wrap & a drink)
We will also be showcasing 5 Women who inspire us in Ashford.
Our friends Revelation Ashford had free music from female artists on the bandstand on Saturday too. I hope you got to see it!
On Sunday from 3pm there was a march in Victoria Park Ashford for Reclaim these streets and speakers after.
We also have a FREE colouring in sheet you can print out to do here or pop into the Craftship for one. Click here for the link to it.
]]>
Craftship Enterprise CIC 2022 report including Made in Ashford & The Craftship.
Another year of our amazing social enterprise! Here is a report of all the things we did in 2022! I am so proud to be part of our incredible organisation & the impact it has on Ashford & beyond!
Read our report here Craftship Enterprise CIC 2022 report.
]]>Meet Jean and Amy! A mum and daughter team selling Organic beauty products here in Made In Ashford. Their business is called The Little Organic Company, selling Coffee Body Scrub, Whipped Shea body Butter and loads more.
1, When and why did you start your business?
Amy started the business after making her own products. She liked the fact that they were pure with no environmental nasties and that they worked better than other products she was using. She started working with a small company who made the products based on her design. Being organic the products need to be certified and they do this for us.
2, Are you local to Ashford?
We live in Charing and reasonably new to the area, moving here 18 months ago and we just love it.
3, What is your favourite product that you sell?
Amy loves the coffee body scrub and CBD products and it shows in her hair and skin
For me it’s the face scrub, I use it twice a week and the whipped Shea body butter is a super nice moisturiser
4, What is your best seller?
There is no one answer as it varies, online it’s the face scrub, as it’s been Amazon Choice for 3 years! At pop-ups it’s CBD and whipped Shea products and in Made In Ashford the face products sell particularly well.
5, What is your top beauty tip?
We only have one skin and if we need to look after it…….you can’t go wrong with quality, clean products.
Check out more of The Little Organic Company's products in Made In Ashford today.
]]>With half term around the corner we have got a whole host of creative activities to keep the kids entertained!
We have a great workshop calendar full of crafts to learn & make brought to you by local creatives. We are very pleased to tell you that some of the workshops are FREE this holiday and have been kindly funded by Repton Community Trust.
As always we have Kippys paint your own pottery in store and some half price craft kits that you can sit & do in store or take home. We always have free colouring sheets so you can always come in, keep warm & create.
The Craftship has extended opening hours for half term and will be open 10 - 5 Mon - Sat.
View the workshops on our website by clicking here.
Book your apace on our website by clicking here.
]]>I'd like to introduce Jo from Befandabbydozzy! Befandabbydozzy is an independent business that has just moved into our incubator space upstairs within Made In Ashford.
Befandabbydozzy sells a mixture of handmade gifts, prints and furniture. Jo specialises in personalised giftware. You can buy hoodies, t-shirts, glassware, baubles, dishes, mugs and magnets all with words of your own choice.
Jo has a creative background and is heavily inspired by her mum who never stopped creating despite having MS. Creativity was an outlet for Jo’s mum and she even made her own Wedding Dress!
Her passion for all things creative has been passed on to Jo who says her mum is the driving force behind her business.
Just a word of warning, it's all a little bit swear-wordy! Jo assures me that it's not meant to take offence and hopes that everyone will see the cheeky and funny side of her work.
Befandabbydozzy will be open seven days a week from 10am - 5pm Monday to Saturday and 11 - 4pm on Sunday.
]]>How long have you been Uglybugsteph?
I think I established Uglybugsteph in about 2014. I've always been drawing and making but I'm pretty certain that's when I put the Uglybugsteph name to my work.
Where did you study?
I studied Illustration at Southampton Solent University.
Are you local to Ashford?
I'm from Sturry, just outside Canterbury, so just a short train ride away
Do you have a favourite illustration?
One of my favourite illustrations I've done is a landscape where all the clouds are cats. (I do have a print of this in MIA, but I think it gets overlooked a bit) you can find it on my Instagram.
What's your best seller?
I think my best sellers are my pins, I'm almost out of a bunch of designs such as the axolotl, frogs and pigeon. And when they're gone they won't be back! I like doing small runs of designs so I can always make new stuff
Find more of Uglybugsteph's work here
]]>
This is Hayley! Hayley runs Jackdaw and Bear with her husband in the beautiful North downs East Kent. Between them they have studied illustration and wildlife conservation. Putting these two interests together, Jackdaw and Bear was a natural outcome.
How long have you been running your business?
Jackdaw And Bear was an idea sitting on the back burner for many years, we were always creating and making special gifts for friends and family but taking that extra step took a back seat from the day jobs. The lockdown gave us more time at home and spending time creatively really helped stave off cabin fever and switch off from additional work pressures of the pandemic.
What is your inspiration?
We’ve always wanted to do something that married our interests, between us we’ve studied Illustration and Wildlife Conservation, hence our work is heavily inspired by nature and the countryside home and abroad.
Where did the name of your business come from?
The name Jackdaw And Bear, came from the depths of Al’s mind, it fits nicely with our nature inspiration and so might say that we both channel our inner jackdaw and bear at different times!
When did you get into lino cutting?
Most of our work uses the traditional linocut printmaking technique, we are self-taught and really started during the first lockdown, with the idea being that we could be creative without it taking over our small house…. How wrong we were!
We launched Jackdaw And Bear in November 2020 and had such positive feedback from customers loving our designs that we’ve rearranged the house to include a wee printmaking studio.
What is your best seller in Made In Ashford?
I was thrilled to join MIA, I love being part of a community of makers, supporting each other and local events. Our best seller in the shop is probably either our printed cards or our pollinator friendly wildflower seeds with our bumblebee print.
Find more from Jackdaw and Bear here
]]>Shopping small is kinder to the planet and helps to support the local economy, all whilst enjoying a personal and pleasant experience. Handmade items are unusual and fun and make thoughtful gifts for those you love.
If you are a local independent creative business and would be interested in having a stall at our Festive Makers Market, please apply here.
Our festive Markets will run on the following dates;
Saturday 26th November
Saturday 3rd December
Saturday 10th December
Saturday 17th December
The market market is located outside Made In Ashford and The Craftship in Park Mall, Ashford, Kent. TN24 8RY
See you there!
]]>