Fabrication flourishes with support from City of York Council

Fabrication, a social enterprise, independent shop and creative workspace, recently celebrated a significant milestone with the launch of their newest creative spaces.

CEO Dawn Wood and her team welcomed mayor David Skaith, who toured all three premises in York, and met with local artists.

“Fabrication started out life in Leeds in 2008, and we now have a ten-year lease in Briggate. We continue to grow in York and will be involved in York Fashion Week, using Feasegate as a hub at the beginning of May,” said Dawn Wood.

The studio spaces accommodate the ‘messy side of making’ and is home to a diverse group of creatives, each occupying a mini workshop pod and a community space.

In Feasegate, there are 20 pods, with 18 currently occupied by local artists, the youngest being just 11 years old.

David Skaith commented: “I have been heavily involved in the high street for about 15 years. Having my own business, I know how hard it is to get started and open.

“Taking on a lease is incredibly expensive and having spaces like this where 10 or 20 people operate together is invaluable for building healthy and thriving communities.”

Fabrication’s commitment to building communities and putting people first is evident in their approach. Their sellers serve as shop staff, helping to combat social isolation among craftspeople.

Local artists expressed their gratitude for the space Fabrication provides, enabling them to grow and build valuable connections.

Louise Saw, Business Growth Manager at City of York Council, has been instrumental in supporting Fabrication, through introductions to professional contacts across the city who have helped promote their new spaces, and to the Women’s Leadership Circle Pilot,  a peer learning group designed exclusively for female leaders. She has also identified current and future funding opportunities for the business.

Louise said:“One of the best parts of my job is getting to see York’s amazing businesses go from strength to strength – it’s been a pleasure to see Dawn and the Fabrication team launch their latest venues and to hear that their maker pod spaces are already nearly full. The three new spaces will be a brilliant addition to the city’s thriving creative scene.

“I’ve been delighted to support the business on their journey, by helping the team identify funding streams, connecting them to networks that can help them grow, and providing ongoing business advice.

“If, like Fabrication, you’re looking to grow your business here in York, you can access free business support by emailing economicgrowth@york.gov.uk.” Their journey is a testament to the power of community and creativity, highlighting the positive impact Fabrication has on York’s cultural landscape.