London Craft Week 2026 returns to the capital for its 12th edition, promising a richer and more varied experience than ever before. The event, now a staple in London’s cultural calendar, highlights both national and global talent, drawing visitors with its focus on craftsmanship amid a tech-driven world.
Founder Guy Salter credits the event’s growing popularity to a renewed appreciation for human creativity. “Developments in AI and global uncertainty may make us value human interaction more,” he says. Managing director Aoife Leach echoed this in an opinion piece, noting the increasing importance of “human making” as digital native habits take hold.
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This year’s lineup includes 30 works by batik artist Lisa King, exploring her late mother’s textile archive. The exhibition offers a personal lens on Indonesian batik, blending history with contemporary design. For hands-on engagement, King leads a workshop with color consultant Laura Perryman and interior designer Lishan Tham to create batik moodboards for interiors.
Ceramicist Emma Louise Payne’s Atelier 76 opens its west London townhouse, showcasing seven makers across disciplines like leatherwork and glass. Payne’s own sculptural pieces—clay prayer chairs and wall sconces—anchor the display. Demonstrations and classes in the basement provide a behind-the-scenes look at her process.
Paul Smith’s Foundation launches a new design grant, inviting glassblowers to reimagine the water jug. The Albemarle shop features their final pieces, along with sketches and interviews detailing the creative journey. Visitors can explore the process from concept to finished product.
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Corston Architectural Detail’s new Pimlico Road flagship offers a respite with Alice Gaskell’s cozy interior. The store showcases reading lights and candle lanterns, including the popular “Sloane” wall lamp. Workshops focus on letter crafting and bookbinding, blending functionality with artistry.
For those missing the Chelsea Flower Show, Dan Pearson’s courtyard at the Garden Museum becomes a sculpture garden. Outdoor furniture brand Them Outdoors displays pieces by Lewis Kemmenoe and others, from jesmonite sheep to corten plant sculptures. The exhibit explores how sculpture interacts with garden spaces.
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Edinburgh artist Juli Bolaños-Durman transforms discarded glass into vibrant sculptures inspired by Jorum’s perfume range. On display at the Marylebone Street outpost, the pieces merge fragrance with visual art, creating a synaesthetic experience. Tours of her whimsical flat offer deeper insight into her creative process.
Each highlight underscores a broader theme: the enduring relevance of craft in a digital age. From batik workshops to glassblowing, the week invites attendees to engage with materials, techniques, and stories that bridge tradition and innovation. The event’s success lies in its ability to make craftsmanship feel both timeless and urgently necessary.
