The Crafts Council's National Register of Makers provides the most comprehensive listing of contemporary craftspeople in Britain. Registration is free and open to any contemporary craftsperson living and working in Great Britain, who designs and makes their own work. Those working in illustration, fine art, painting, restoration, conservation, reproduction and sculpture are not eligible for inclusion. The Register is used by members of the public wanting to contact individual makers, as well as shops, galleries, designers and businesses looking for new work. As well as the Register, the Crafts Council manages a Development Award, business advice unit, reference library and desk, and the Photostore, which contains over 35,000 images of work for viewing by potential clients. The Register is non-selective; Photostore is selective. Development Award - Annual deadlines are 1 March, 1 June, 1 September and 1 November. Endeavours to support new creative practices in England and candidates must either be about to, or within three years of, setting up their first workshop. The grant is given in two parts; maintenance grant of GBP 2,500; equipment grant of 50% towards purchase and hire of essential equipment and tools, up to GBP 5,000. In deciding the level of grant, other grants received towards the setting up of business will be taken into account.

The Making is an arts education charity established to develop high quality contemporary craft and to inspire new audiences to engage with the art of making. The Making engages new audiences, especially young people and families, by providing innovative, high quality programmes in non-traditional venues throughout the region and by piloting new approaches to informal learning. They actively support the development of artists and arts educators by providing employment, promotion and networking opportunities and informal mentoring.

Did you, or someone you know, study or work at one of the Colleges of University of the Arts London? Register with the Alumni Association and take advantage of the free benefits which include monthly email newsletter, opportunities to promote you and your work, invites to reunions and private views, access to the College libraries and discounts on short courses. Register your details online at the website above, or contact the Association for more information. Colleges include London College of Fashion, London College of Communication, Chelsea School of Art and Design, Central St Martin's College of Art and Design, Camberwell College of Art and Wimbledon College of Art.