Have you ever been told, “You should sell those!” after gifting a handmade creation? Maybe you already have and now you’re wondering how to turn your craft into something more.
Across Hull and East Yorkshire, makers and creators are transforming their hobbies into thriving small businesses. But while creativity comes naturally, knowing how to get your work seen online can feel like learning a whole new skill set.
Read on for more…
From jewellery makers and ceramic artists to textile designers and printmakers, East Riding is home to a vibrant community of creatives turning ideas into beautifully hand-crafted products. But while your work might be gallery worthy, getting it noticed and building a steady income takes more than talent.
That’s where digital marketing steps in.
Many local crafters start out simply making what they love. Then comes that first sale. Then another. Suddenly, what began as a hobby starts to look a lot like a business.
But here’s the tricky bit: creativity comes naturally, marketing less so. From juggling social media to managing websites and learning how to stand out online, the leap from maker to micro business can feel daunting.
The good news is that you don’t have to figure it out alone.
In today’s online first world, being great at your craft isn’t enough if nobody knows you exist. Whether you sell on Etsy, run a small online shop, or showcase your work at local markets, your digital presence is your shopfront and it needs to shine.
Digital marketing helps you:
Be found: So when someone searches “handmade ceramics Hull”, your work appears right where they’re looking.
Tell your story: People don’t just buy products, they buy from people. Your story, your process, and your passion make you stand out.
Turn fans into customers: Social media likes are lovely, but they don’t pay the bills. Smart marketing helps turn followers into loyal buyers.
Fareport’s Hull & East Yorkshire Digital Marketing Skills Bootcamp course is designed specifically for people who live and work in the East Riding region. It is not a faceless online course with generic content.
You’ll learn alongside other makers, freelancers, and small business owners in your community. People who understand your local market, your customers, and your challenges.
Even better, if you’re a sole trader or self-employed resident, it’s fully funded and free if you’re eligible.
Across 14 weeks and 104 guided hours, you’ll get practical, hands-on support to help your craft business grow. Each module focuses on a real-world skill that can make a measurable difference:
Find your ideal customer: No more marketing to everyone. Learn who actually buys from you and how to reach them
Build a credible brand: Show why people should choose your handmade work over mass production
Master visual storytelling: Capture stunning photos and videos that make your creations stand out
Be found online: Make sure your website appears when people search for handmade goods in your area
Use social media effectively: Turn posts into sales and reach the right local audience
Keep customers coming back: Build a loyal following through email marketing and content planning
Spend wisely: Learn how to budget for ads and measure what works, so every penny counts
This Skills Bootcamp is more than just a course. It’s a community. You’ll meet other makers, freelancers, and creative business owners across Hull and East Yorkshire, share experiences, and even find opportunities to collaborate.
If you’re ready to turn your craft from hobby to hustle, this is your moment.
The next Bootcamp cohorts start on the 20th of November and the 10th of December 2025.
For eligible sole traders and freelancers in Hull and East Yorkshire, the programme is fully funded and completely free to join.
👉 Find out more and secure your place today on the Digital Marketing Skills Bootcamp
Don’t wait – we’re here to help. Drop us a message about our Hull & East Yorkshire Digital Marketing Skills Bootcamp course and we’ll get back to you right away.
Whether it’s a quick question or something more, fill out the form below and let’s connect today!