Crafted Futures – Stockport’s past powering its future

GRIT Studios is set to host a week of heritage craft events designed to educate, inspire and spark creativity in young people.

In a modern world of AI and instant gratification, it’s easy to forget that heritage crafts built the Stockport we know and love. That’s why GRIT Studios are shining a light on them with Crafted Futures – a week-long programme designed to reconnect residents with Stockport’s identity, spark pride in place, and showcase real pathways into heritage skills and trades.

From 24–30 November, venues across Stockport – including Where The Light Gets In and Runaway Brewery – will host hands-on workshops, talks, demos and a major public mural celebrating the crafts that shaped the town, the makers keeping them alive today, and the young people who could take them forward.

Expect guest makers like Netflix signwriter Damien Whyatt, mosaic artist Tracey Cartledge, and the National Trust Heritage Skills Team delivering practical stone masonry sessions. GRIT’s studios will also host workshops in leatherwork, upholstery, mosaic restoration, signwriting and more – all free, all open to all skill levels.

A standout moment: a huge new heritage-inspired mural by artist Oskar, set to become a striking addition to Stockport’s skyline.

Explore the full programme and book your place at peoplewithgrit.org/crafted-futures