The Mad Hatters Craft Party was originally founded by Mary and Andii. They sought out a small group of friends who were all very talented and needed a new venue to peddle their wares. They stalked other craft fairs looking for people who’s work they liked and who they would enjoy spending time with.
Andii, Adrian and Claire (AKA Rustic Reclaimed) had always loved hats so that’s how the name was chosen. Andii having the most hats!
In April 2018 we very sadly lost Andii, the maddest of our hatters. He was always ready to cheer you with hugs and or humour and is very sorely missed.
Of course we don’t need to mention 2020!!
Originally the only rule was that the work must be entirely handmade or handcrafted, which is still the rule today. The wearing of hats was preferred but not mandatory.
When Claire and Adrian took over running the party the hat wearing become a rule, to help us stand out but also because Claire and Adrian felt Andii would have found it hilarious that they finally got their own way!!
The Mad Hatters returned half way through 2021 with just 8 markets and 4 remaining hatters. This quickly rose to 36 markets and 50 hatters!! We were able to return safely due to the unique venue which is outside but under the beautiful roof of the Buttermarket.
2024 has brought challenges within the Craft fair world and The Mad Hatters will no longer be trading in Hay-on-Wye. We are moving with the times once again, and we will now be advertising our wares online to reach a more extensive audience.
We will also be working in conjunction with Showcasing Wales and The Borders to reach a broader audience.
Andii
11th May 1966 ~ 17th April 2018
Bonkers were your jumpers,
Dotty was your art,
Comfy were your tuffets,
And giant was your heart.
Chunky were your boots,
That helped you to walk tall,
Loud and hearty was your laugh,
Which cheered us, one and all.
Jangley were your wind chimes,
Your snails were psychedelic,
You were to us like books to Hay,
You were the butter in the market.
by Chris of Arthe