Craft essentials...

The time: 10.30am to 5.30pm 17 to 20 July The place: Art In Action, Waterperry House, near Wheatley, Oxford

The country's biggest craft fair attracts 250 artists and craftspeople from all over the world. It's a rare chance to see British, Indian, Russian, Islamic and Chinese skills in action - including the ancient art of kimono- making, mosaic glass work, marble inlay, book binding, hand-painting ceramics, wood-carving, pottery, sculpture, furniture and jewellery-making. Around 23,000 visitors are expected to attend the exhibition, which also offers practical craft classes for adults and children for pounds 3. Admission: adults pounds 9, children nine to 17 pounds 5; children under nine free.

1 These hand-painted bone china cups and saucers are designed by Clare Foster and Philip Gearing, who specialise in brightly coloured ceramic tableware, tiles and clocks. The cups and saucers cost pounds l9 each and the teapots pounds 36. Commissions taken on 01303 258651.

2 Will Levi Marshall makes dishes, candelabra, stools, jardinieres and pottery bowls like this one, which costs pounds l20. Commissions taken on 01556 640399.

3 The fine art of kimono-making will be demonstrated by Midori Matsushima. Each hand-embroidered garment takes between one and two years to complete and costs pounds 6,000. Commissions taken on 0181 2019324.

4 Elaine M Goodwin specialises in glass mosaics, making wall panels, tables and flower pots. This 2ft by 18in glass fountain mosaic costs pounds 400. Commissions taken on 01392 270943.

5 Paul Lucas works with silver to produce candlesticks, cruets, cutlery and jewellery. This solid silver, hand-made salt and pepper pot costs pounds 350. Commissions taken on 01 323 844804.

6 Alison Richards makes jewellery with 18ct gold, silver and precious stones. These earrings, made with silver and precious stones, cost pounds 195. Commissions available on 0171 2674881.

7 Hand-woven silk scarves by Bobbie Kociejowski cost pounds 75 to pounds 85. She also makes hand-dyed shawls, men's ties and fabric for jackets in silk or silk/linen. For commissions, call 0181 7480924.

8 This elegant pounds 2,400 cowhide love-seat has been crafted by Angus Ross, who creates limited-edition furniture. Commissions taken on 01491 613749.