Jewel in the crown 
If you’d like to join Welsh icons such as Catherine Zeta-Jones, Michael Sheen and Bryn Terfel and have yourself a distinctive piece of contemporary jewellery, made by an award-winning jewellery designer, Llandeilo is a must-visit town. At the Old Castle Hotel you’ll discover Welsh treasure, Mari Thomas, listed in the prestigious who’s who directory of leading jewellery designers and twice-maker of the National Eisteddfod of Wales crown. Treat yourself to one of Mari’s designs drawn from Welsh culture and textures in the landscape. Take home a piece from a range based on the written Welsh word – cariad (love) and cofio (remember) to remind you of Carmarthenshire. 

The Old Castle Hotel, 113 Rhosmaen Street, Llandeilo SA19 6EN
www.marithomas.com
T: 01558 660001

• Individual commissioning service to requirement and budget
• The gallery houses Mari Thomas’ jewellery collection alongside a showcase of 30+ award-winning Welsh and International designers
• Enjoy watching Mari and other jewellers crafting their collections in the jewellery workshop
 

The colour silver 
Dylan Thomas might be Laugharne’s most famous son but a close second must be silversmith, Alby Barratt. Time and time again loyal locals and international visitors return to Quicksilver Jewellery where Alby’s been designing and crafting bespoke jewellery for nearly 30 years. It’s said that silver is related to the moon and the ebb and flow of the tides so perhaps it’s Laugharne that drew Alby to Wales and is the inspiration for the elegant and beautiful hand-crafted rings, bangles and pendants made from sterling silver. Choose from a large selection of semi-precious stones and decide how you’d like your unique creation set. 

Kingston House, King Street, Laugharne SA33 4QE
www.quicksilverjewellery.co.uk
T: 01994 427700

• Watch your piece being crafted – some can be fashioned within an hour though individual commissions take longer
• Unmissable – Laugharne’s 3 day big name arts’ festival every spring

 

The story of wool 
It might surprise you to know that wool was once the most important and widespread industry in Wales. And at the National Wool Museum in the picturesque village of Dre-Fach (Little Town) in the Teifi Vally (which was once the centre of a thriving woollen industry) you can spend time, throughout the year, getting to know that spellbinding story. The museum was once the Cambrian Mills making shirts and shawls, blankets and bedcovers, stockings and socks that were sold across the world. Learn how fleece became fabric. See contemporary textiles in production and Wales’ National Flat Textile Collection. Unmissable. A great day out for all the family. 

Dre-Fach, Felindre, Near Newcastle Emlyn, Llandysul SA44 5UP
www.museum.wales/wool
T: 0300 111 2333

• Dre-Fach once earned the nickname, ‘The Huddersfield of Wales’
• Families can have fun following the specially designed trail, ‘A Woolly
 

Ancient craft, modern design

Founded in 2010, Phoenix Forge has been shaping ideas into reality through the timeless art of blacksmithing. Specialising in custom-made pieces for homes and gardens, they breathe life into iron, blending ancient techniques with contemporary design. Led by William Holland, a blacksmith with a background in architecture, each piece is a one-of-a-kind creation that serves its purpose and context. Phoenix Forge’s expertise extends beyond personal projects; they’ve had the privilege of working on some of the country’s most prestigious ironwork, including iconic landmarks like Hereford Cathedral, St Donat’s Castle, and Castell Coch. Their work has also graced properties maintained by the National Trust, Cadw, and countless private clients. If you're looking for something unique and personal, Phoenix Forge is where your ideas become reality.

Mile End Farm, Trevaughan, Carmarthen, SA31 3QL
https://www.phoenixforge.co.uk/  
Info@phoenixforge.co.uk 
T: 01267 234603

•  Offers blacksmithing classes for beginners and advanced learners
•  Blends traditional techniques with modern design for one-of-a-kind creations
•  Impressive portfolio spanning from gates and curtain poles to one-of-a-kind wall pieces and a series of mythical beast sculptures

Cennen Creations

Nestled in the heart of Carmarthenshire, Onnen Studios draws its inspiration from the breathtaking surroundings of Trap, Llandeilo, with views of the iconic Brecon Beacons and the historic Carreg Cennen Castle. Founded by a duo passionate about metalwork and design, Onnen Studios creates unique pieces of metal art for homes, gardens, and businesses alike. What started as a local venture has quickly expanded, with Onnen Studios now shipping its handcrafted metal pieces worldwide. Visit their growing Etsy store or contact them directly via text or WhatsApp for inquiries. Onnen Studios also welcomes group visits to their home studio for a more personal experience.

Onnen Fawr Farm, Llandeilo, SA19 6TH
https://www.etsy.com/shop/onnenstudios/?etsrc=sdt  
T: 07791 445996

•  Home studio open for group visits of 6-25 visitors – message to book a viewing
•  Specialises in unique, handcrafted metal sculptures that celebrate Welsh culture and heritage
•  Bestsellers include the Blodwen and Myfanwy Welsh Ladies, as well as the iconic Dai Dragon metal artwork