Talented makers from across the region are preparing to exhibit and sell at Craft Festival Wales next week.

Taking place at Cardigan Castle over the weekend of September 6 to 8, the event will showcase work from craft professionals from across the UK, with around half of them being Welsh or based in Wales.

One of the makers is John Pearce, a furniture maker from Henllan near Llandysul, who operates as Teifi Woodworker.

Mr Pearce makes a range of cricket tables and stick chairs from sustainable, locally sourced timber.

He said: "I’ve been making furniture as a hobby since I was a teenager but only started the business in 2023.

"I love making tables and chairs and wanted to see if I could make an income out of my passion.

"I’ve always dreamt of taking part in a large craft fair and, having been aware of Craft Festival Bovey Tracey for quite a while, when Craft Festival Wales was announced I had to apply.

"I feel very honoured to have been selected to exhibit."

Linda Unsworth of Crymych-based LU Ceramics also expressed her excitement about the festival.

She said: "I think of making pottery as meditation when hands centre the clay and clay centres the mind.

"It’s very exciting that Craft Festival is coming to Cardigan.

"It’s a great opportunity to connect in person with customers and it will attract many visitors to the area, which will have a positive impact on the local economy - supporting small local businesses and highlighting local makers and artists."

Craft Festival is a not-for-profit enterprise led by Cardigan-born Sarah James MBE.

The event is funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund administered by the Cynnal y Cardi team, Ceredigion County Council, Arts Council of Wales, and QEST (Queen Elizabeth Scholarship Trust).

Ms James said: "I’m delighted that so many Welsh makers were selected by the independent panel to exhibit at the Craft Festival Wales.

"This is a national contemporary craft event that’s bringing the best makers from across the UK and Ireland to Cardigan."

Tickets for Craft Festival Wales at Cardigan Castle are £7 in advance online, with children under 18 entering free with an adult ticket holder.

The festival will take place over the weekend of September 6 to 8, 2024.

For more information, visit the Craft Festival Wales website.