Sadhbh O’Mahony, Sean O’Sullivan and Riki Matsuda of Badly Made Books at the launch of the 2021 Made Local campaign run by the Design and Crafts Council of Ireland. Photo: Damian Coleman

Support local campaign starts

The Made Local initiative is back for another year!

Developed by the Design & Crafts Council Ireland (DCCI), it will run throughout the summer and aims to one again spotlight some of Ireland’s most talented craftspeople, while boosting sales and driving revenue for makers and retailers alike.

Badly Made Books is a member of the DCCI and taking part in this year's Made Local campaign which seeks to encourage people to support local makers this summer and beyond.

Badly Made Books are producers of recycled paper notebooks, journals and planners. All their books are handmade with machines from post-consumer waste and secondary materials. Based in Cork city, the Badly Made Books studio specialises in the production of high quality, low impact local stationery.

They choose to use recycled materials, risograph printing and hand operated, pre used machines.

An Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Leo Varadkar and jockey Rachael Blackmore joined with DCCI Chair Andrew Bradley in launching the second annual Made Local campaign.

Announcing the launch of the campaign, An Tánaiste Leo Varadkar TD, said: “I’m really pleased to launch this year’s Made Local campaign. During this summer’s campaign, designers and makers are looking forward to welcoming visitors back to their studios, galleries and craft markets.

“As we reopen and things are looking more hopeful, it is more important than ever to support Irish designers.

“Irish designers and makers are world renowned for their unique talent and skill. The craft and design sector contributes €500m to the Irish economy every year. I encourage everyone to discover what their local designer has to offer and support this #MadeLocal campaign.”

Rachael Blackmore said: “I am so proud to be part of the #MADELOCAL 2021 initiative. It’s incredible to see so many talented Irish makers who have spent decades honing their crafts, creating everything from timeless pieces and heirlooms to treasured gifts and home comforts. The time for supporting local makers has never been more critical.

“DCCI has undoubtedly supported many through these challenging times and so this second annual campaign is full of perseverance and hope. I have discovered some amazing Irish designers through the #MADELOCAL initiative and will continue to buy from Irish designers whenever I can,” the record-breaking jockey added.

For more, see dcci.ie for more.