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If you’re looking for a true taste of Manchester’s creative spirit, head straight to the Manchester Craft & Design Centre in the heart of the Northern Quarter. This vibrant area of the city is famous for its bustling mix of independent businesses, quirky bars, street art, and a café culture that spills out onto the streets. Long shared tables and open spaces encourage strangers to connect, making it one of the most unique and lively quarters in Manchester city centre.

Amongst the murals, small shops, and hidden gems, the Manchester Craft & Design Centre stands out as a must-visit destination. Home to over 30 independent artists, designers, and makers, it’s where you can meet the maker, discover original works, and even commission bespoke pieces.

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Highlights Inside the Manchester Craft & Design Centre

Jane Blease

One of the most captivating studios belongs to Jane Blease. Jane’s designs celebrate craftsmanship with a contemporary twist, combining natural veneers like oak, ash, and walnut with laser-cut technology and delicate hand embroidery. Their autumnal-inspired lampshades embrace warm orange tones, often compared to Scandinavian design—but unlike mass-produced pieces, these creations are heirlooms in the making, destined to become antiques of the future.

Jane Blease work can be purchased from her website directly or in person when visiting her studio.

👉 Love statement lighting but find it a little low-tech? Try combining a bedside table lamp with a sunrise alarm clock.

Susan Kane

Walking a few doors down, you’ll find Susan Kane’s studio—a visual delight that blends season-inspired colour palettes with timeless design.

Susan Kane’s studio is a treasure trove for art lovers. Using watercolour, chalks, acrylics, and experimental mono print techniques, Susan creates accessible yet striking works. Her brooches, made from reclaimed materials, carry the mark of her artistic fingerprint—unique, personal, and full of character. With a career that began in the late ’80s as an in-house designer for Mary Quant Susan now channels her creativity into wearable art that forms part of current craft exhibitions.

A selection of Susan Kane’s work is available by contacting her online.

👉 Louche do a great range of tops which will combine well with the brooches.

Lee Page Hanson

On the ground floor, ceramic artist Lee Page Hanson shares a studio with three other makers. His creations include everything from geometric vessels to intricately lidded boxes, embossed with lace and wallpaper patterns. Using under-glaze pencil and resist techniques, he produces tiles, vases, and ceramics that double as statement pieces for the home. Quirky and beautiful, his work often features playful motifs like cats, birds, and flowers.

The ceramics can be brought directly from his online store.

👉 Want to have a go at making your own? Jackson’s do a great range of air drying clay.

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Why Visit the Manchester Craft & Design Centre?

A visit here is more than shopping—it’s an experience. You get the rare chance to speak directly with the artists about their processes, inspirations, and even commission custom-made gifts. Whether you’re seeking a unique souvenir from Manchester, a one-of-a-kind gift, or simply want to soak up the creative energy of the city, the Craft & Design Centre is the perfect spot.

Pair your visit with a wander through the Northern Quarter’s independent shops, murals, and bars, and you’ll see why this part of Manchester is loved by locals and visitors alike.

👉 Can’t make it to Manchester? Explore ethical gifts online and browse the handmade ranges.

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Plan Your Visit

📍 Location: Manchester Craft & Design Centre, Northern Quarter, Manchester
🕒 Best time to visit: Saturdays are ideal for exploring studios, chatting with artists, and enjoying the buzzing atmosphere.

The next time you’re in Manchester, don’t miss this hidden gem. The Manchester Craft & Design Centre is where creativity thrives, stories are shared, and future antiques are made.

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