All About Just Makers...
Our founder, Deborah, always had a passion for creativity. When her children were young she enjoyed sewing, often making bags and cushions. Looking for somewhere to sell her designs, Deborah struggled to find many local opportunities for makers to showcase and sell their work. Never one to be put off, she decided to change that.
Teaming up with a friend, Deborah started to run regular craft fairs under the name Made It, hosting events across Harrogate, Horsforth, and Wetherby. These events soon became a hub for independent artists and makers, giving them a space to connect with customers who appreciated handmade, thoughtfully crafted goods.
The success of Made It ultimately led to a new opportunity: a chance to sell artisan products annually at RHS Harlow Carr. Deborah's enjoyment in doing so led her to seek something more permanent, and so when a shop space became available in Ripley Castle Courtyard in 2016, Deborah grabbed it and opened the doors to our much-loved Just Makers shop. The seasonal pop-up at Harlow Carr also continued to thrive.
Over the years, Just Makers has grown into a friendly, welcoming space for people who value handmade products, traditional skills and supporting small, local businesses. We've been proud to champion Yorkshire-based makers and help their stunning range of products reach new audiences.
In 2025, after nine years, Deborah decided to take a step back from the business, giving herself more time to enjoy her first grandchild, get back to more sewing and try her hand at pottery. Yes, she has bought herself a second hand pottery wheel with promises to be a pottery maker for us yet!
It goes without saying that Deborah will be missed but Just Makers remains in safe hands...
Helen has stepped in to run Just Makers and is joined by our two fabulous existing team members, Sarah Nicholls and Sarah Tustin – both of whom are not only key to running the shop but are also two of our talented makers.
The heart of Just Makers hasn’t changed.
We are still driven by supporting Yorkshire’s creative community, celebrating small independent businesses and championing both traditional and contemporary crafts.
Whether you shop with us online or pop into our Ripley shop to see us, we're so happy you are choosing to support our makers.
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Shop Local
We are a small Yorkshire business supporting small Yorkshire businesses
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Made with Love
Our makers are skilled at their craft and put passion into their products (guaranteed!)
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Conscious
We believe in the philosophy of people and planet over profit
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Affordable
We aim to have products available for every budget
