On a damp but surprisingly warm November evening, we packed up our Bookery spirit and headed to the Crediton Congregational Church for something truly special—our first event outside the shop in two years. And what an occasion to mark the moment: a celebration of Britain’s incredible craft heritage with BAFTA-nominated broadcaster and historian James Fox, joined by Camilla Hampshire MBE, Chair of MAKE Southwest.

From the start, the atmosphere was warm and appreciative. Camilla, chairing her very first author event (and doing a brilliant job!), kicked things off by asking what “craftsperson” really means. James smiled and said it’s a slippery term—many of the people he met while writing Craftland prefer “maker” or “tradesperson.” They’re not just preserving heritage; they’re earning a living through skill and creativity. In fact, James takes a wonderfully broad view: anyone who works with their hands, even a florist, is part of this story.

James’s journey across Britain to meet these makers was full of surprises and moving moments. He told us about dry stone wallers, hand grinders, and thatchers—and shared a poignant story of finally arranging a meeting in Sheffield, only to find the craftsperson had sadly passed away just days before. Others, like the UK’s only parchment maker, were simply too busy to meet him (a good sign for craft’s future, if you think about it!). He also introduced us to the Heritage Crafts Red List, which tracks endangered crafts and reminds us why these skills matter so much.

The conversation was full of gems. James reminded us that craft isn’t a luxury—it’s part of what makes us human. “The history of craft,” he said, “is the history of everything.” He even traced craft through our surnames—Smith, Taylor, Glover, and the wonderfully odd Kellogg (from “kill hog”!). At one point, he read out a list of old craft names that his seven-year-old son finds hilarious—think Baller, Bender, Boner, Bottom Stainer—and the room erupted in laughter.

And let’s talk about the book itself. Craftland isn’t just about craft—it is a crafted object. Printed on special paper, filled with Helen Cann’s astonishing illustrations and a variety of intriguing diagrams, and tables, it’s a joy to hold. Many of us couldn’t resist getting our copies signed after the event.

The best part? This wasn’t just a talk—it was a celebration. Two local craftspeople displayed their work, sparking conversations about the beauty and resilience of handmade traditions. The Q&A was lively and full of curiosity, and as James signed books, you could feel the sense of connection in the room. Craft isn’t just surviving—it’s reviving. As James reminded us, in times of crisis—from the 1930s to the pandemic—people turn to craft for meaning, creativity, and hope.

We left feeling inspired and grateful: to James Fox and Camilla Hampshire for an evening that reminded us Britain is still a craft land, and to everyone who joined us to celebrate the makers, the dreamers, and the hands that shape our world.