You’ll have access to a community of artisans and designers who share your interests and passions, providing opportunities for knowledge-sharing, problem-solving and collaboration via group chat forums and a members’ Facebook group.
Socially Connected Community
Trusted Brand Identity
As a member you will be eligible to use the Scottish Furniture Makers Association logo on your digital channels and marketing materials - giving customers the reassurance of a trusted brand.
Online Profile & Gallery
The Scottish Furniture Makers Association website gives members the opportunity to personally curate their own Profile Page, complete with biography, image gallery, contact details and links to your website and social channels. You can also raise your profile by submitting articles to the online Maker’s Journal and completing the Featured Member Interview.
Exhibition Opportunities
Group exhibitions are one of the highlights of the Scottish Furniture Makers Association year, taking members’ work to a wider audience. Opportunities include the Scottish Furniture Makers Association Annual Show (with award categories) as well as group stands at a number of regional art and craft fairs. Participation fees are competitive and you’ll also benefit from support and promotion from the association.
Special Projects
The Scottish Furniture Makers Association works with partner organisations to create one-off projects which are open exclusively to members. Past projects have included the Wych Elm project and the prestigious After the Storm exhibition at the Royal Botanic Gardens Edinburgh.
Regular News Updates
As part of the Scottish Furniture Makers Association community you’ll read about industry news, opportunities, events and support via the News & Events section of the website and our regular members’ email bulletins.
Access to Resources
You’ll be able to develop and share your skills with access to planned resources including online tutorials and workshops. You’ll also get a free copy of the Association of Scottish Hardwood Sawmillers (ASHS) ‘The Full Circle’ magazine delivered to your door twice a year, with opportunities to write and submit your own articles.
Discounts
The Scottish Furniture Makers Association negotiates with suppliers to provide members with discounts on a range of products.
Annual Membership Rates
- Individual / Professional £100 (50% discount for start-up business)
- Student / Unwaged £15
- Associate / Supporter £30
Membership rates are payable annually via GoCardless (direct debit).
Definitions of Membership Categories
Applications are subject to approval by the Association committee who will ask to see examples of recent work and details of your business.
Individual
Professional members are classed as furniture makers, based in Scotland, who work full or part time as professional designers and makers. A one year 50% discount is available to new members who are in their first year of trading.
Student
Unwaged members are currently studying recognised courses in furniture making, furniture design, design production etc.
Associate / Supporter
is open to anyone who wishes to support the association and keep up to date with our activities. Also suited to curators, gallerists, educators and those with a professional interest in contemporary craft in Scotland.
Corporate Sponsorship & Other Ways to Support the Scottish Furniture Makers Association
We welcome enquiries from businesses, public sector organisations and individuals who want to help the association achieve its objectives: to sustain and grow a thriving sector of high-skilled creatives who provide distinct services and products for clients at home and abroad. There are opportunities for financial and in-kind support - please contact us for further details.
