Maker’s Market opens in Cullinan
Plans are in the pipeline to also host monthly markets where locals can exhibit their handmade goods such as arts and crafts, food and local produce
Maker’s Market, a renowned hub of creativity, craftsmanship, and community, is now also open in Oak Avenue, Cullinan.
At Maker’s Market you will find exceptional work of people who create items not easily found in traditional stores.
The carefully selected “makers” specialise in home décor, fashion, art, design, food, and more, offering visitors the chance to discover one-of-a-kind or small-batch products they never thought to look for.
A distinguishing feature of Maker’s Market is the Makers Space which provides crucial support to artisans through product development and, whenever possible, access to shared equipment.
“We understand the current trading methods of informal entrepreneurs and traders are often inefficient, particularly given the challenging conditions under which most markets operate,” said Tania Bryant from the Maker’s Foundation.
“Many entrepreneurs lack access to transportation and storage space for their goods. To address these challenges, Maker’s Village was developed as a transformative environment that bridges the gap between a pop-up market and a shopping centre.
“Crafters in the Makers Village have a permanent space to manufacture goods in full view of clients, offering them the opportunity to teach their trade while enjoying the benefits of selling the end product,” said Bryant.
The original Makers Village in Irene, established 14 years ago, has evolved from a craft shop to a fully-fledged Makers Village, with Railways Cafe serving as the anchor entrepreneur.
In addition to trading spaces, the Makers Village provides tool-sharing facilities, maker spaces, and a theatre for performing artists.
“By opening the Makers Village in Cullinan, we aim to create additional shelf space for entrepreneurs and further enhance their economic opportunities through collaboration between the two locations.
“Visitors to the Makers Village can immerse themselves in a vibrant atmosphere where they can explore the creations of hundreds of makers. Guests can also indulge in delectable food, refreshing drinks, engaging DIY experiences, and captivating photo walls that create unforgettable memories.”
Bryant said these markets have a lasting impact on local neighbourhoods and communities and naturally revitalise local economies.
According to Bryant, Makers Village Cullinan will provide these services to the community – trading space for handmade South African products, tool sharing facility, a marketing platform, and a mentorship programme.
“Currently, we have a sewing and design workshop, a ceramic workshop and in the next few months, we will include the Mini-Makers Lab, aluminium refinery, jewellery making and much more,” Bryant said.
