Cottage Crafts

Charlestown Cottage Crafts is a collaboration between various small creative businesses, all living and working in the Fife villages of Charlestown or Limekilns. We come together every November to run this very special event in the traditional cottages around Charlestown village, and welcome you into our homes and studios, offering you a unique shopping experience in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.

Come and explore the wealth of creativity right here, on your own doorstep. Browse through hand painted silk scarves, fused and stained glass, handmade soap, textile art bags, jewellery and cushions and hand thrown pottery.

Leave behind the hectic banality of the High Street and enjoy your festive shopping in our coastal cottages, enjoying the crackling fires, homemade shortbread and take pleasure in the relaxed and gentle atmosphere, knowing you're purchasing unique products direct from the makers themselves. Most of us are happy to work on commissions, so please ask us if you'd like something even more special.

All our locations are within an easy 5 minute walk of each other and are mere yards from the main parking area at the Queens Hall. Seating for the weary visitor is provided in most locations. Easy access is guaranteed, with most studios wheelchair friendly. Our spaces are small however, so a short wait may be necessary during very busy times. We ask that pushchairs and prams be left outside.

All locations will be clearly marked with our branding, plus there will be signs dotted around Charlestown village itself.

Ruth Downie - Stained glass and handmade soaps

I trained in Textile Design and Printmaking at Edinburgh College of Art but have since found myself drawn to glass, it has the most amazing depth and strength of colour – I just love it! I make leaded and copperfoiled glass pieces ranging from small suncatchers, photo frames and mirrors to larger scale panels for the home. All designed and made by me in my garden workshop.

I love the great outdoors, so many of my larger pieces take inspiration from the beautiful world around us, especially the Scottish coastline and mountains.

I have recently begun Stained Glass classes, covering leaded, copperfoiled and mosaic projects. Oh and did I mention that I have a passion for soap? I make cold process soap from fine oils and essential oils which are just amazing to use.