London Craft Week 2025: Spotlight on The Cockpit Edit
Now in its eleventh year, London Craft Week returns this May with a dazzling celebration of creativity, craftsmanship, and global talent. From 12 -16 May, over 1,000 makers from 31 countries will transform the capital into a living gallery of artistry, with more than 200 venues - from national museums to hidden ateliers - opening their doors to the curious and the craft-obsessed.
Woo Jin Joo. A Long Long Time Ago. Embroidery, old socks, wire. 2022
One of this year’s most exciting new additions is The Cockpit Edit, the first-ever curated selling exhibition from Cockpit Arts - a landmark moment for the pioneering craft incubator. Hosted at Cockpit’s Bloomsbury studios, the exhibition brings together over 100 one-of-a-kind pieces by more than 90 exceptional makers, ranging from celebrated names to bold new voices. Visitors will discover a trove of collectable treasures from sculptural ceramics and fine jewellery to handwoven textiles and contemporary design objects, all available exclusively during London Craft Week.
Majeda Clarke. Suddenly Black Scarf.
With over 30 years of experience supporting makers at every stage of their journey, Cockpit is the beating heart of British contemporary craft. Home to a thriving community of over 175 makers working across disciplines like enamelling, woodturning, natural dyeing, and even crocheting with precious metals, the organisation is also the UK’s only dedicated craft business incubator. Every purchase from The Cockpit Edit helps sustain this vibrant ecosystem, supporting individual artists and Cockpit’s wider charitable mission.
Lucy McGrath. Paper marbled slate gift wrap.
Alongside the exhibition, visitors can step inside the studios for a rare look behind the scenes. From 13 - 15 May, a series of intimate demonstrations will offer hands-on insight into the techniques and stories behind the work. Watch artist Kendall Clarke transform paper into thread using the Japanese kami-Ito method, explore Roman micro mosaic techniques with Eniko Leanyvari, or see ceramicist Kerry Hastings in action at the wheel. Tickets cost £12.50 and include same-day access to the exhibition - an ideal way to connect with makers and witness craft in motion.
Nick McMillen - Bark weaver and botanical artist. Photo by Heather Shuter.
The week launches with the unveiling of The Cockpit Effect on 12 May (3–5 pm), an annual impact report that reveals the real-world challenges and achievements of Cockpit’s makers. Through data and stories, it offers a powerful reflection on the resilience, ingenuity and economic impact of today’s craft businesses.
With its mix of collectable design, live demonstrations and a deeper look at the people behind the process, The Cockpit Edit promises to be a headline event of London Craft Week 2025, celebrating the people, skills, and stories behind handcrafted work.
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Further Information:
Image Credits:
Lead Image: Alice Burnhope. Stone Upon Stone.
All other images as credited in photo captions.