Inspiring Makers 2025

Now in its fourth year, Inspiring Makers is a not-for-profit event hosted and organised by Artichoke and The Furniture Makers’ Company, taking place on Thursday 8 May at the historic Guildhall in Bath.

Artichoke and The Furniture Makers’ Company believe in the future of craftsmanship. Despite the decline of master furniture makers—from 90,000 to just 1,000 over the past 150 years— we are leading the commitment to inspire the next generation of skilled makers.

Previously known as the New Makers’ Conference, this event brings together rising talent, established designers and influential voices in furniture-making to inspire, educate and connect.

This year’s thought-provoking themes will cover AI and craft, sustainability, diversity, gender inclusion and grassroots education with an exceptional line up of guest speakers as well as panel discussions:

Bruce Hodgson, Founder of Artichoke

Sean Sutcliffe, Founder and Chairman of Benchmark

Camilla McLean, MD, Greg Stone, Creative Development Lead & Katy Thompson, Junior Furniture Maker/Finisher at Matthew Cox

Selena Bolingbroke, Principle of The Building Crafts College

John Orchard, Chief Executive of Woodland Heritage

📍 Date & Time: 9am – 5pm, Thursday 8th May

📍 Venue: The Banqueting Room, The Guildhall, Bath

Ticket includes lunch and refreshments

Book your place to help shape the future of craftsmanship and forge connections that will support your journey in the industry.

With thanks to our sponsors Artichoke, The Furniture Makers’ Company, Axminster Tools, Ergochair, Halstock, Castelan Group and Sykes Timber.