Recognising excellence across the handmade industry.
The handmade industry is full of talent—but it’s often overlooked or undervalued. We started The Handmade Awards to give makers and creative businesses the recognition they deserve.
This award programme is designed to spotlight those who are building reliable, high-quality businesses, not just those who are popular on social media.
We understand what makes a handmade business credible. It’s not just about what you make—it’s how you present it, how you treat your customers, and how you show up for your business.
What We Look For
Every award is backed by a clear set of criteria. You don’t need to be perfect—you just need to show that your work is consistent, considered, and customer-ready.
We assess:
- The quality, finish and originality of your products
- Your branding, photography and online presence
- Customer reviews, feedback and trust
- Business activity, tone, and professionalism
- Signs of growth or clear direction
We don’t give feedback on individual entries, but every award reflects careful review and consideration.
Our Award Categories
Handmade Business of the Year
For established handmade businesses that show strong quality, branding, customer service and business performance.
This award recognises the best all-round handmade business and how well you run, present and grow your brand.
Craft-Specific Awards
For businesses that want to be recognised for excellence within their specific craft.
Awards can be given across areas such as home fragrance, jewellery, ceramics, textiles, art, woodcraft and other handmade disciplines.
Rising Star
For handmade businesses that have been trading for less than 3 years and are showing strong progress.
We’ll look at how your business is developing, how you present your brand and the potential you’re showing for future growth. A three-year threshold is commonly used for new-business award categories.
Community Champion
For handmade businesses that make a positive contribution to their local community or the wider handmade sector.
This could include supporting other makers, running community activities, sharing skills, fundraising or creating opportunities for others.
Sustainability Award
For handmade businesses making genuine efforts to reduce their environmental impact.
This could include your materials, packaging, production methods, sourcing, waste reduction or other sustainable practices. Judges should look for evidence of sustainability being part of how the business operates, rather than a single isolated action.
How We Choose Our Winners
Our judging is designed to recognise real effort and business quality, not just likes and followers.
We look at your business in context—your shop or site, your product presentation, how customers respond to you, and how you communicate your brand.
Each entry is assessed by our team. There are no public votes and no popularity contests. We make decisions based on substance and presentation, not buzz.
We assess:
- Craftsmanship and product quality
- Originality or distinctiveness in your category
- Branding and how well your business is presented online
- Customer reviews, testimonials, and repeat buying
- Business growth, consistency and tone
You don’t need to “tick every box”.