Makers Directory showcases local makers and repairers

From blacksmiths and milliners, to painters and stone carvers, a new directory is inspiring us all to support and learn from the skills of local artists, makers and craftspeople 

If you want a thriving local economy, supporting the skills and creativity of local makers and artists is pretty important. Not only does it allow money used to buy goods to stay (and be reused) locally – it also allows skills and knowledge to be maintained and shared. 

That’s the thinking behind The Makers Directory (themakersdirectory.co.uk). Started by graphic designer Corina Fletcher Buckwell and Artwave coordinator Charlotte Parsons, The Makers Directory is designed to be a one-stop online directory of makers and artists working in the districts of Lewes and Eastbourne.  

Launched in mid-March, it now has almost 300 listings, with a tagging system that enables users to search by discipline, location and service. Alongside people who can make things, it details services for mending and repairing and also workshops and classes to learn new skills 

How to be included
The Makers Directory aims to be as comprehensive as possible, so makers and artists living or working in the Lewes District or Eastbourne Borough are warmly encouraged to get a listing at themakersdirectory.co.uk. A basic listing is free; additional listing features can be included for a small fee.  

Corina says: “We both love knowing where our products have come from and like supporting local businesses. But we know that there is more to it than that. By purchasing things made in our own community there is a calculable benefit to the local economy.”