IF&IT

ethical projects and marketing

December: Seeking eco cool

I've spent the last year setting up my stall at craft fairs and markets. It's been a learning experience.

The first lesson learned was to choose each fair carefully. I avoid "craft and gift fairs", which can be horrid events. Handmade craft competing with mass-produced imports. Not good.

The worst clash I saw this year was beautiful Harris Tweed handbags opposite £2.50 watches in a tatty bucket.

And there was the woman who dressed up as a pink rabbit ... that will remain with me for a while yet.

My search for locally-made eco cool continues.

At our Eco Crafts Market last month, during three amazing days, over 700 people visited. We all overheard the same whispered words, "I didn't realise it would be so nice".

So many people believe that eco design is all recycled circuit boards and rubber tyres. And that's simply not cool at all.

For 2010, we have a grand plan. No global expansion or mega-profits for us. Just a concerted effort to work hard within our community and support the wonderful talent and creativity that exists all around us.