Crux Craft Fair - November 2026

Guest Blog Post - Crux Craft Fair

Like many good things, Crux was an idea that grew from the close friendship of a few creative women. This particular group of friends lived along the lower reaches of the river Dart, surrounded by the most wonderful nature, and all had a passion for making beautiful things, while also treading lightly on the earth. 

The first Crux Craft Fair was in a barn on the edge of the Dart, and after a couple of years it moved to a ‘cruck’ barn, designed by the architect Rod James, which is where the name Crux morphed from (a spelling mistake on the part of the poster designer, me – Jane Wellens!). It was about thirty years ago and, apart from the Covid year, it has taken place annually, through winter storms, power-cuts, flooded roads and icy lanes - and even some sunny weekends, too. 

From its original setting by the Dart, it moved slowly, year by year, through different locations and several village halls, until finally finding its current home in Rattery, which has suited the needs of the makers and the people who return to Crux each year. 

Crux has a reputation for good work, for makers whose ethos is much the same as that of the original founders of the fair – well-made pieces, original designs, ethically sourced materials, and bags of integrity. 

You won’t find mass-produced or imported work at Crux. One example is basketry, handmade from locally grown willow, created using skills that have been passed down over the centuries – some pieces are contemporary designs, but many are much the same as those made by artisans hundreds of years ago. The tools are simple; the skill is phenomenal. 

Many of the stallholders are also teachers, and their skills are passed on to new makers, both here and further afield. 

All the makers are from the West Country, with the majority from Devon and Cornwall. The applicants outnumber stall space by about three to one, so a rigorous selection process takes place each spring, to ensure that the fair remains interesting and varied. 

In a time when most things can be bought with the click of a mouse, made from materials of unknown provenance and dubious recyclability, Crux is, and always has been, about sustainability. The joy of making, and the delight in owning hand made things, is at the core of everything Crux stands for.

 Crux Craft Fair 2026

https://www.cruxcraftfair.co.uk/

Friday 27 November - 12pm - 6pm

Saturday 28 November - 10am - 5pm

Sunday 29 November - 10am - 4pm