Fringe Handmade Market in early February

A joint initiative between The Fringe coordinating team, the Cape Craft and Design Institute (CCDI), the Cape Town Fashion Council (CTFC), Woodheads and Fledge Creative Catalyst, it will feature innovative designs. The Fringe is a provincial government, Cape Catalyst Initiative and is project managed by the Cape Town Partnership's Creative Cape Town.

Phila Makaba, assistant for Greer Valley who founded Kushn handmade leather accessories, inspired by Africa. Photo by: Caroline Jordan

"The Fringe creates a platform for creative interaction and gives designers an opportunity to showcase their work," says Fringe coordinator Zayd Minty. "The first market saw over 100 designers take advantage of the opportunity and we hope that the second market inspires more young designers to share their creative products with the rest of Cape Town."

Erica Elk of the Cape Craft and Design Institute (CCDI) says, "We learnt a lot and got lots of positive feedback from the first market. What most people seemed to appreciate was the range and variety of products and the camaraderie between organisers, visitors and stand holders. It had a local community feel. We think we have a great thing going and have some fresh ideas about making it 'the' place to go to in Cape Town for local handmade products. The next one will have more food and a better layout - but we are keeping the focus on local eclectic handmade products for all pockets and tastes. Keep an eye out for details on street corners and Facebook."

For more information, go to www.facebook.com/FringeDistrict, follow @fringedistrict on Twitter or go to www.thefringe.org.za.