It wasn’t my first time exhibiting at The Creative Craft Show in Birmingham, but it’s always an event I look forward to. There’s something really special about returning to a show where you get to meet new people while also catching up with some familiar, friendly faces.
Bringing my pyrography Make & Take sessions to Birmingham is always exciting. Each show feels a little different, with new visitors discovering pyrography for the first time and others returning to have another go at the craft.
"I do lots of painting in all sorts of media but had never tried pyrography before. Great fun and I can see how it could be addictive." - Ness Foott
My reason for being at The Creative Craft Show Birmingham was to share my love and passion for pyrography and give visitors the chance to try the art of wood burning for themselves using tools they may never have come across before.
To prepare for the show, I spent hours sanding hundreds of wooden eggs and bunny shapes, making sure each one was perfectly smooth and ready for burning. To help beginners feel confident, I added simple design templates so visitors could follow a line with the pyrography pens and create their own decorative piece.
"I really loved the smell of burning wood. It was really therapeutic. Loved the craft, it was really enjoyable. Could sit here for hours!"
The designs available during the Make & Take sessions were inspired by spring and nature. Visitors could choose from floral designs, cute bunnies, sheep, butterfly patterns and more. Some participants decided to add colour to their creations, while others loved the natural look of burnt wood and pyrography shading, leaving their pieces beautifully simple and “au naturel”. Seeing everyone put their own spin on their design was one of the most rewarding parts of the show.
"Thoroughly enjoyed it. Patience is key and that really appeals to me. Such an instant craft!" - Nicola
One particularly lovely moment was meeting a kind lady called Ali, who connected with one of the pyrography decorations I’d made as a sample. She loved it so much that I decided to gift it to her. In return, she made a donation to Cats Protection, the charity where I adopted my own little fur babies from. Such a thoughtful gesture. Thank you, Ali!
I also had the absolute pleasure of meeting a young 10-year-old called Connie who was adorable and incredibly creative too. It’s always a joy to meet another Connie (we’re quite a rare breed!) Watching her enthusiasm and creativity shine was such a lovely moment.
"Thank you. What an amazing therapeutic craft. I think I may have found my new hobby!"
Craft shows always have a wonderful sense of community, and this event was no exception. I want to give a special shoutout to Jo, Amanda and Rosie, who have been supporting me since my very first appearance at The Creative Craft Show and continue to support me year after year. Your enthusiasm and kindness are appreciated more than you realise.
"So chilled and relaxing, like a little oasis of calm in the madness of the show! Thank you." - Lucy
It was also lovely to catch up with friends I’ve made through the Curious Creatives Craft Retreat and at workshops I’ve hosted at By HeatherMay. It felt really special to welcome you into my own little world, hidden amongst all the incredible crafts under the NEC roof. Thank you for making time to come and say hello!
Although I often exhibit at these shows on my own, I never feel lonely. In fact, quite the opposite. My “Wall of Kindness” grew even stronger this year, and I’ve been completely overwhelmed by the gorgeous comments left by visitors.
"Thank you so much. I really enjoyed pyrography and I would recommend it to anyone as it's a fun thing to try and Connie was really nice and kind to us. I would definitely recommend."
Being surrounded by like-minded creative people is such a joy. For some of you to tell me that I was the reason you came to the show feels incredibly special. I know it was probably more about having the opportunity to try pyrography than meeting me (haha!), but still, I truly hope I was able to make you smile or inspire you in some way, because this is exactly what I love to do.
"So relaxing. Just remember to breathe and you're flying! Best experience all day."
By the end of the show I was definitely tired, especially after exhibiting at Glasgow for the first time the week before, but it was the best kind of tired. This year at Birmingham was certainly the busiest Spring show I've exhibited at! A few days filled with creativity, conversation, big hugs, and sharing a love for handmade crafts is always incredibly rewarding.
Watching visitors leave with their handmade pyrography decorations, pieces they had created themselves, was a real highlight. The joy, smiles, and laughter made every moment worthwhile. Seeing people discover the art of wood burning and pyrography for the first time is always incredibly special.
Your support helps me continue this creative journey, and I genuinely can’t thank you enough. And remember, the best advice I can give you is... remember to breathe!
I hope to see you in Birmingham again for the Christmas show in November where I'll be hosting more Make & Takes! Save the dates: 5th - 8th November 2026.