Masson Mills working in partnership with Derbyshire Makes to host ‘Women Who Make’ festival on Saturday 4th October

Masson Mills is delivering a one-day festival in partnership with Derbyshire Makes, on Saturday 4th October, to celebrate Women Who Make.

The festival will be a vibrant showcase of women makers, artists, designers, storytellers, and activists. Also featuring are 4 guest speakers, a Dare to Dream ‘Sewing Bee’ with special guest Alex Murphy from last year’s hit BBC show, an exhibition, and a market of local artists and makers who identify as women.

Women Who Make aims to become a cornerstone for creativity and collaboration in Derbyshire, celebrating the power of women to make, inspire, and transform. By creating a sense of community and providing platforms for shared learning, Women Who Make has the potential to catalyse artistic and social innovation. The aim is not only to highlight the talents of Derbyshire’s women, but to create lasting cultural and social impact.

Event Details:

Saturday 4th October 2025

Masson Mills

10am-4pm

Stall cost: £10* (subsidised by Derbyshire Makes)

*Additional cost may apply for equipment/ booking fees

To find out more or to apply please email Caroline.bowler@massonmills.co.uk

Where possible, we’d like to encourage exhibitors to demonstrate or explain their craft to visitors so they can understand the making process behind the finished pieces.

Additional Info

Derbyshire Makes is a three-year programme of making-related events and activities across Derbyshire – led by Derbyshire County Council, delivered by Arts Derbyshire and Local, and funded by Derbyshire County Council and Arts Council England.

Masson Mills was built by Sir Richard Arkwright in 1783 to utilise the water power of the River Derwent for the mass production of spun cotton. The mills are part of the Derwent Valley Mills UNESCO World Heritage Site and are now home to a heritage textile museum, visitor centre, offices and unique meeting and event spaces. The entire site is still powered by the River Derwent today producing renewable energy via hydro electric turbines.