Craft gift ideas from the Artist Support Pledge this Christmas

Makers need support more than ever after a year beset by lockdowns. Those searching for craft gifts online can buy directly from them via with #artistsupportpledge, the Instagram hashtag set up by artist Matthew Burrows that has proved a vital lifeline this year. Every time an artist reaches £1,000 of sales, they pledge to buy £200 of work from others, in the spirit of mutual support.

We’ve picked seven makers who regularly sell work through the hashtag. Items go fast, however, so be aware that some of the pictures may no longer be available. You can contact the maker to see if they have similar work available or commission the craftsperson to create new works.

Jayne Against The Grain has been offering her lathe-turned pieces in scorched or whitened wood ever since the hashtag began. We like how she turns pieces while the wood is fresh and green, creating asymmetrical shapes as it dries.

Emily Botelho AKA Salt Stitches creates colourful abstract embroideries, inspired by an eclectic array of nature’s textures. Each is framed within an embroidery hoop – perfect for displaying on your wall.

Crafts Council Directory maker Deiniol Williams uses Welsh stones in his clay, which can act unpredictably in the kiln – combining the harmony of the potter’s wheel with the chaos of chemistry.

Printmaker Sarah Young uses the woodcut and lino cut techniques to craft her characterful creations: think fantastical mermaids, colourful cockerels or tattooed bathers.

Ceramicist Adam Ross creates traditional pottery – with a twist. Each piece is carefully thrown or handbuilt before being sliced through then reassembled into new, characterful forms.

Jeweller Mim Best uses recycled silver and gold to create her guilt-free pieces, working with traditional techniques to create contemporary jewellery – often featuring her signature stamped surfaces.

Crafts Council Directory maker Julie Gurr uses willow for her sculptural and traditional baskets, which she has been crafting for over 20 years. Julie grows willow herself, tending her wands on Romney Marsh in East Sussex.