Indie Makers

A quirky little shop housed inside Leeds’ historic independent shopping haven, The Corn Exchange, at Indie Makers you can discover a whole host of creative and funky pieces from local UK makers, artists and designers. Home to a specially curated collection that has been painstakingly put together by the shop’s owners, expect to find art, treats and gifts made by independent brands across the UK.

Taking shopping small to a whole new level, Indie Makers is owned and run by Leeds couple, Matthew Chalk and Yvonne Blenkinsop. Both passionate about supporting independent arts and crafts, when they initially opened up shop in the aftermath of the Covid 19 lockdowns people said they were insane – but four years on, it’s Matthew and Yvonne who are having the last laugh.

As well as making their own range of soy wax candles and melts under their brand the York Candle Company, the couple decided to move to Leeds in 2021 and set up shop in Leeds Corn Exchange – showcasing their own creations alongside a carefully curated selection of other hand picked UK brands from high quality artists and makers, focusing especially on promoting local talent where possible. 

Over the past few years, the shop has become something of a cult destination for those on the lookout for fun and unique gifts. Especially popular for its championing of local artists from the Yorkshire area, the couple’s passion for the brands they sell really shines through on every visit here – and they are full of stories about each piece, all you need to do is ask. Even better, you’re likely to find works from artists who may have ever been stocked in another physical retail store before, meaning that gift you’re picking up is almost guaranteed to be one of a kind.  

From adorable, quirky cards, to candles, art, artisan chocolate bars, ceramics, soap, keychains, funky socks and so much more, there’s a little something for everyone here. Found on the ground floor of The Corn Exchange in Leeds city centre, if you’re looking for somewhere special to pick up a unique gift then you simply cannot go wrong with Indie Makers.