Crafters unite: RemakerSpace shines during PHEW Fortnight

As part of Cardiff University’s 2024 Positive Health, Environment and Wellbeing (PHEW) Fortnight, RemakerSpace hosted activities for the second year in a row, celebrating creativity and circular economy initiatives.

RemakerSpace hosted engaging sessions on 3D design and printing as part of PHEW Fortnight, which allows staff to explore new activities and expand their knowledge in health, wellbeing, and environmental topics. Building on the popularity of their regular ‘Knit, Natter, Craft, and Chatter’ gatherings, they also organised a special session to welcome fresh faces and returning participants.

These events showcased the Centre's state-of-the-art 3D printing lab, traditional workshop, and new electronic repair workroom. The fortnight also featured RemakerSpace’s inaugural Craft Fayre at sbarc|spark. Celebrating creativity and craftmanship, crafters from across the university came together to showcase and sell their handmade items, including jewellery, beautiful children’s clothes, greetings cards, artwork and intricate textiles.

Cathy Williams, Undergraduate Placements Officer and a stall holder at the Fayre, shared her experience: “Participating in the Craft Fayre was a delight; it was a pleasure to meet so many likeminded crafters and to see the array of talent on offer from members of the University. I enjoyed the opportunity to showcase my handmade polymer clay earrings, and got a lot of really valuable feedback from those who visited my stall (as well as a few new happy customers). I hope to get involved with more opportunities with the crafters of Cardiff University; it’s a wonderful little hidden community!”

Rebecca Travers, RemakerSpace Centre Manager echoed the excitement: “We’re thrilled about the positive feedback from colleagues who attended our PHEW sessions and had the chance to experience our facilities! Witnessing talented and enthusiastic crafters from across the university exhibit their handmade items at the Craft Fayre was an absolute delight!”

RemakerSpace, situated within Cardiff University's flagship social sciences hub, sbarc|spark, is dedicated to circular economy initiatives. It was established through a Welsh Government Circular Economy Capital Fund award, with significant support from Cardiff Business School.

The RemakerSpace team also includes Professor Aris Syntetos (Director), Dr Daniel Eyers (Co-Director) and Dr Franck Lacan (Technical Manager). For more details on how RemakerSpace supports community groups, education providers, and businesses, please contact Rebecca Travers.