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Edinbane Pottery, Isle of Skye
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Skio Pottery, Waternish, Isle of Skye
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Skye Weavers, Glendale, Isle of Skye
With the dramatic landscapes and rich history for inspiration, it is not surprising that there is a thriving arts and crafts community in Skye, Raasay and Lochalsh. Art galleries, pottery studios, jewellery shops and craft markets are just a taste of what is on offer.
For a great introduction to the diverse range of artists, Art Skye is a good place to start. Not only listing the majority of local independent shops and galleries, they also have a downloadable brochure to browse through and plan your day out and about.
A few of our favourite places to visit for gifts for loved ones at home (or for yourself! Everyone deserves to take home a souvenir after all!) include:
Skio is a pottery studio on the Waternish run by Kayti and Luke. Their Studio is usually open Mon to Fri giving you a glimpse of their workmanship, future projects and have a blether about all things ceramic! They also have a Croft Box which is self service and is stocked with a lot of their work.
Edinbane Pottery was founded in 1971 and is still going strong with the next generation getting on board! They showcase a wealth of pieces from small tableware to large decorated vases. They are open all year from Mon to Fri, and seven days a week from Easter until October.
Island at the Edge is also based in Edinbane. A working croft, they breed native Hebridean, North Ronaldsay and the rare Black Cheviot sheep. They specialise in wool and yarn and offer an array of courses using the material. They also stock other products and produce made by other crofters and will happily introduce you to their sheep if you stop by!
The Isle of Skye Soap Company produces hand crafted aromatherapy soap without coloring and using on the purest essential oils. You’ll find many of holiday cottages use their soap! It is well loved! You can also stop by their shop in Portree, just off Somerled Square.
The Isle of Skye Candle Company has shops in Broadford, Inverness, St Andrews, Edinburgh and Glasgow. However, you’ll find their visitor centre located on the edge of Portree. As well as stocking their own products, you’ll find handmade cards, finely crafted furniture and a great selection of gifts. They also have a pizzeria, wellness space and cinema!
Skye Skyns began by repurposing local sheepskins into exquisite rugs and throws. They now have a tannery for producing sheepskins, sell a range of home accessories and sustainable clothing and have yurt for light refreshments and cake! They have a shop in Portree and their workshop, tannery and yurt on the Waternish.
Skye Weavers are based in Glendale and showcase what can be beautifully woven from the sheep grazing the hillsides. Their shop is open from April to October, Tues to Sat.
Atlas Arts organise a variety of art projects across Skye, Raasay and Lochalsh. Covering music, visual arts, hands on activities and book launches, including one of their events could enrich your stay.
Ooshke, Kyle of Loachalsh houses a wide range of artisan gifts, perfect for yourself, your home or your loved ones!
Made in Minginish Artisan Market are held fortnightly on Wednesdays showcasing arts and crafts made locally in the Minginish area. They usually run from April to September and in the run up to Christmas. Check out their Facebook page for up to date details!
Christmas Markets are held all over Skye, Raasay and Lochalsh through November and December. Dates are usually announced on local Facebook pages and on notice boards.