Hey Clay! 2019. Image: Iona Wolff
From 14 - 16 May 2021 join the Crafts Council’s nationwide festival of craft participation, as part of the Get Creative campaign.
From needle felting to whittling, we believe everyone deserves the opportunity to learn a new skill and unleash their inner maker. Whether you consider yourself a novice knitter or professional potter there are plenty of mediums and techniques out there for you to try.
As part of Get Creative – a nationwide campaign to support everyday creativity – this year the long-running participation festival formerly known as Hey Clay! will evolve into Hey Craft! and take place from Friday 14 – Sunday 16 May. Hey Craft! Is open to all craft disciplines and experience levels, so whether you’re a professional maker, studio collective or member of the public looking to learn a new skill – join the fun and discover the transformative power of craft.
At-home activity
Can't host or attend a Hey Craft! event this year but still want to get involved? We've asked maker, drag king and paper-cutting extraordinaire Lady Kitt to design an at-home activity for all ages. Download the step-by-step guide below and turn plastic bags into posies.
Public activities will focus on the following themes and outcomes:
- Increasing craft participation across the country
- Uplifting participants’ sense of wellbeing
- Building participants’ confidence in pursuing a new craft skill
In light of the Covid-19 pandemic’s impact on physical events, this year we are inviting event organisers to host their workshops online. Should UK Government guidance allow for in-person or outdoor activities in May, we will review and communicate a blended mix of virtual and physical activities nearer the event date.
This year’s programme also takes place during Mental Health Awareness Week (10 – 16 May), offering a welcome chance to emphasise the positive impact making can have on our mindset, health and wellbeing.
Deadline for event submissions - Friday 30 April
To plan your activity and find out how the Crafts Council can support your promotion, please download the guidance pack for organisers.
When submitting a What's on listing, please remember to include "Hey Craft!" in your event title.
Download guidance for event organisers
Get involved
For more information, please email heycraft@craftscouncil.org.uk and make sure you’re signed up to our Maker Newsletter for regular updates.
Acknowledgements
Hey Craft! is part of the Get Creative campaign run by the Crafts Council, Voluntary Arts, Family Arts Campaign, What Next?, Arts Council England, Arts Council Wales, Creative Scotland, Arts Council of Northern Ireland, 64 Million Artists and Creative People and Places.