Native Makers is a platform and community for creative people powered by Real ideas.

We provide support for creative entrepreneurs through makers markets, workshops and coaching.

Native Makers Markets celebrate the artistry and sustainability of craft. For nearly 10 years Native Makers events have showcase talented makers who prioritise originality, diversity, and sustaining creative practices and process. Each market features unique, handcrafted products made by hand mindfully with materials and processes reflecting a commitment to creativity and environmental responsibility.

In 2022, Real Ideas proudly inherited Native Makers from our long-term collaborator and supporter, Rosie Drake-Amery. Since then, we’ve been dedicated to continuing the vibrant momentum that Rosie and her team established. Our mission is to sustain this dynamic platform for the future, while evolving to meet the ever-changing needs of the creative community.

The experience for our visitors is just as important as the experience for our makers. We believe that our markets should be free and open to all, with creative demonstrations and activities. We work with collaborators to showcase making initiatives and ensure our events are a family-friendly day out, fuelled by delicious locally sourced food and artisan coffee.

Across the year, our markets draw in over 100 makers from across the South West and beyond, highlighting the breadth of regional knowledge and making expertise. We provide opportunities for start-ups, students, graduates and charities, ensuring you can get a foot on the market platform within a positive and supportive community.

Where We Began

Native Makers’ journey with Real Ideas began at Ocean Studios in Royal William Yard. These early markets laid the foundations for what Native Makers is today building strong relationships with makers, audiences and partners. As the programme grew, we gradually expanded into new spaces, including Market Hall in Devonport and Liskeard Library, enabling us to reach wider communities and test new ways of delivering markets and creative activity.

Where We Are Now

We have now moved on from Ocean Studios and are proudly based at Market Hall, an integral part of the Devonport Creative Quarter. This bold regeneration initiative is transforming historic Devonport into a vibrant cluster of creativity and social enterprise. Anchored at landmark venues such as the Guildhall & Column and the Grade II-listed Market Hall, the Quarter brings together artists, technologists, community groups and local residents to co-create a more inclusive and prosperous future, making it the perfect place for makers and visitors alike.

Native Makers links closely to the wider Real Ideas programme, developing workshops, demonstrations and activities that inspire emerging makers.

Find out more about real ideas on their website at www.realideas.org