Local arts and crafts at Devon County Show

Local artisans and talented crafts people are coming together to exhibit at the Devon County Show on May 18, 19 and 20 held at Westpoint, Exeter.

A collection of soap makers, leather workers, jewellers, artists, candle makers and many others will be setting up shop in a canvas marquee which would easily cover a premier league football pitch.

The Crafts and Gardens feature is nearly 12,000 square metres and will highlight the popularity of hand-made items, often using centuries-old techniques.

Emma Rhodes of Emma’s Soaps from Strete in South Devon was inspired to make her own soap by her daughter Megan who was allergic to many main-stream products.

“Being a DIY-er, I thought I would try and make my own soap. Having exhausted several recipes, combined with my passionate concern over the amount of palm oil used in the cosmetic industry, especially soap, I went about designing my own, taking eight months to perfect the recipe until I was satisfied.”

She launched Emma’s Soap seven years ago and her environmentally sustainable range of hand-made soaps, which even have organic, fair trade cotton fabric packaging, are a hit at markets and festivals.

She added that she was looking forward to being at the Show: “It’s the county show, where Devon is displaying its best, and I just have to be there too!”

Sally Redmond from Lynton in North Devon started her XOX candle business seven months ago and is already stocked in 13 National Trust properties.

“I have always loved making candles. It’s my passion and there’s just something about putting love into what you’re doing that is so satisfying. I hand blend the waxes and fragrances to ensure the perfectly scented candle which will burn purely right to the very end,” she said.

“I love Devon and coming to the Show is a fabulous opportunity to show the county what I do. All I want is for my candles to hit the mark!”

There will be many other contemporary craftspeople in the marquee offering a wide variety of gifts, crafts and home-style goods made in the Westcountry.   Even a craftsman who makes small furniture items from copper piping!

Handicrafts including spinning, weaving, lace making, quilting, feltcraft and knitting will be demonstrated by skilled practitioners who will be only too happy to share their knowledge and enthusiasm with visitors.

The Devon County Show brings together the best of the county with livestock and equestrian competitions, unrivalled local food and drink, non-stop entertainment and country living.

Tickets are available online and from selected outlets www.devoncountyshow.co.uk