2026 UPSTAGEING Craft it Forward! at the Fitters’ Workshop

Craft it Forward! is a hands-on UPSTAGEING program celebrating creativity, community and connection through craft produced with a specific aim of aiding others – whether by donation, recycling, upcycling, mending etc. Hosted at the Fitters’ Workshop, it brings together makers and community groups together in a welcoming, social setting.

The program includes craft showcases, demonstrations and taster opportunities. Activities highlight the important role crafting can play in supporting the wider community and in environmental sustainability.

Local crafting groups or individuals can share their skills, promote their groups, display their work, and share their stories, with opportunities for people to connect with like-minded crafters and the community.

Craft it Forward! is about celebrating and showcasing the people who craft to improve the world around them.

When:

Craft it Forward! runs during the UPSTAGEING festival period 20–29 March 2026. This event will take place at the Fitters’ Workshop will take place on Thursday 26 March 2026 from 10am to 1pm. All activities across the festival period will be promoted by UPSTAGEING.

Participants are invited to indicate their availability below.

Resources Provided at the Fitters’ Workshop

Trestle tables and folding chairs are provided, along with light refreshments. The venue also includes an accessible toilet designated for Fitters Workshop users. Please note that there is very limited access to power and water or washing facilities.

Makers Showcase Days

Participants in Craft it Forward! are eligible for a free stall at the UPSTAGEING Makers Showcase on one of our Sunday festival days – also at the Fitter’s Workshop.

Crafting Connections

Craft it Forward! groups interested in running workshops can also join the Crafting Connections program. This program also includes demonstrations, tasters and come-and-try sessions, alongside arts/craft group gatherings and showcases.

Crafting Connections runs at the Fitters’ Workshop on the Saturdays, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday or Friday during the festival period, with morning (10am–12pm) and afternoon (12pm – 1.30pm; 1.30pm – 3pm) session options. All activities across the festival period will be promoted by UPSTAGEING. If you’d like to apply for Crafting Connections, click here.

Please submit this questionnaire by Monday 16 February 2026, or get in touch if you have questions/need more information.

After submissions close, we’ll confirm details with groups and be in touch to finalise the program—please contact us if you need any assistance.