This International Women’s Day, we’re looking inward at the ecosystem that makes our three hubs—North Docks, Huyton, and Hamilton Square—thrive. The theme for IWD 2026 is “Give to Gain,” and nowhere is that more visible than in our “knowledge economy.”
At Make, we don’t just share a roof; we share a mission. Every time one of our women residents hosts a workshop, they are engaging in a powerful cycle: giving their hard-earned expertise to the community and gaining the platform, visibility, and resources to grow their own creative practice.
The Power of the Maker Community
Our latest impact data tells a story of a creative landscape that is increasingly female-led and community-focused:
- 54% of our current residents are women.
- 60% of the businesses operating out of Make are women-led.
- 36 women-led businesses have called Make home in the past year alone.
- 100% of our Winter Workshops this year were led by women.
Beyond the Studio: The “Made by Make” Commissions
It isn’t just about solo work; it’s about collaboration. Our Made by Make commissions allow us to hire the incredible talent right here in our buildings to create public art and installations. This year, 19 women makers have lent their skills to our commissions.
If you’ve explored the city over the past year, you’ve likely seen their handiwork. From the Taylor Trail and the iconic Eurovision Key to the festive Liverpool ONE Christmas props, our women residents are literally building the visual identity of Liverpool and beyond.
Share the Skill: Upcoming Workshops
If you’ve ever wanted to learn a new craft, there is no better time to learn from the best. Our makers upcoming schedule is packed with opportunities to gain skills directly from the best:
- Ceramic Mug Workshop: A unique collaboration between Aura Ceramics and Bored Now Ceramics. Two distinct styles coming together to teach you the art of the perfect vessel.
- Bookbinding: Join Michelle Murray to learn the intricate, meditative art of hand-stitching and binding your own journals.
- Silversmithing: Our regulars, Noctua Jewellery, continue their popular sessions, teaching you how to forge and solder your own wearable art.
- William Morris Lampshade Making: Mark your calendars for 16th May, where Bluebird Upholstery will guide you through creating a classic statement piece for your home.
The Winter Workshop Collection: A series of 10 workshops led entirely by women, covering everything from Expressive Painting and Watercolour to Mood Board Making and Banner Making.
- The Winter Workshop Collection: A series of 10 workshops led entirely by women, covering everything from Expressive Painting and Watercolour to Mood Board Making and Banner Making.
A Creative Ecosystem
When a maker opens their studio door to teach, they aren’t just sharing a craft; they are building the next generation of makers. We are also proud to practice what we preach: Make hired three new women to our core team this year, ensuring that our leadership reflects the community we serve.
This is a creative ecosystem that thrives because our women residents show up for each other and the creative community. By attending a workshop or commissioning a Make artist, you aren’t just buying a product – you’re investing in the “Give to Gain” cycle that keeps Liverpool’s creative heart beating.
Join the ecosystem.
Are you a maker looking for a community that gives as much as it gains? Whether you’re looking for a studio space or a platform to share your skills, we’d love to meet you. Enquire About Studio Space
