MADE WITH THESE HANDS (Hugh McNeill)

In today’s episode of Made with These Hands, the podcast for those who love everything handmade, host Hugh McNeill sits down with renowned ceramicist Rob Bibby. At nearly 80 years young, Rob has dedicated his life to his craft and remains as passionate as ever—still working, teaching, and inspiring others. Join us as he shares his wisdom, experiences, and the enduring joy of creating with his hands. Don’t miss this fascinating conversation!

Rob Bibby Woodnewton Pottery

Made With These Hands 

In this engaging conversation, Tracey Shepperd, the renowned glass engraver, shares her journey from a creative childhood to becoming a prominent figure in the glass engraving community. She discusses her early influences, the significance of the Guild of Engravers, and her experiences with teaching and mentoring. Tracey reflects on her notable works, collaborative projects, and the challenges faced by craftspeople today. She offers valuable advice for emerging artists and shares her aspirations for future projects.

Tracey Shepperd Engraver:   http://www.traceysheppard.co.uk/

The Guild of Glass Engravers https://www.gge.org.uk/

Made With These Hands Podcast on Spotify, Apple and Podbean

In this conversation, Hugh McNeill interviews Dominic, a glass engraver living in Japan. They discuss Dominic's journey from the UK to Japan, his passion for glass engraving, and how storytelling influences his art. The conversation delves into the technical aspects of glass engraving, the challenges faced in the craft, and the importance of community and networking in the art world. Dominic shares insights on how to encourage new artists and reflects on his future aspirations in the field.

In this episode of Made With These Hands, host Hugh McNeill interviews horologist Seth Kennedy, who shares his journey into the world of watchmaking. From his early interests in engineering and model kits to his serendipitous entry into antique watches, Seth discusses the intricacies of pocket watch restoration, the emotional connections people have with their timepieces, and the historical significance of the watches he works on. He also touches on the challenges faced by craftspeople today and the importance of community in preserving traditional skills. The conversation highlights the legacy of John Harrison and the unique experiences of working on historical watches, culminating in a discussion about the future of craftsmanship and advice for aspiring artisans.

https://www.sethkennedy.co.uk/

instagram sk_mechanician 

Made With These Hands Hugh McNeill interviews Sandra Snaddon

In this engaging podcast episode, Hugh McNeill interviews Sandra Snaddon, a talented glass engraver from North Yorkshire. Sandra shares her journey from a creative youth to becoming a respected craftsperson, detailing her experiences living in various countries and how they influenced her art. She discusses the techniques and tools she uses in glass engraving, the importance of detail in her work, and the inspiration she draws from her travels. Sandra also highlights the significance of being part of the Guild of Glass Engravers, the challenges faced by modern craftspeople, and offers valuable advice for those looking to start in glass engraving. The conversation concludes with Sandra's future aspirations and her commitment to continuing her craft.

http://www.snaddon.com/

Made With These Hands Podcast

This episode Hugh Interviews one of the last Clog makers in the UK Phil Howard. Their conversation explores the significance of Morris dancing and clog making in British culture, the challenges faced by traditional crafts, and the personal journey of a clog maker. The discussion highlights the importance of cultural heritage, the impact of mass production, and the future of craftsmanship in a changing world.

Phil's website https://nw-clogs.co.uk/

In this episode of 'Made With These Hands', host Hugh McNeill interviews Alix Costin, a young engraver and teacher. They discuss Alix's journey into the world of glass engraving, her sources of inspiration, and the challenges faced by craftspeople today. Alix shares her experiences in teaching art, the importance of community engagement, and offers advice for aspiring artists. The conversation highlights the passion and dedication required in the craft industry, as well as the need for greater recognition of handmade artistry.

https://www.instagram.com/alix.costin.illustration.glass/ alix.costin.illustration.glass@gmail.com

https://cgs.org.uk/artists/alix-costin/

www.madewiththesehands.com (under construction)

https://hughmn.podbean.com/

Made With These Hands on Spotify, Apple and Podbean.

In this episode Ed Griffiths talks about the journey of a craftsman transitioning from woodworking to leatherworking, highlighting the importance of sustainability, the craft of shoemaking, and the personal motivations behind pursuing a creative career. Ed shares insights on the challenges and rewards of craftsmanship, the significance of quality materials, and the community support that fosters growth in the artisan field.

Ed shares his passion for his craft and his desire to make the sustainable boot for the British weather!!!

https://www.grandeysplace.co.uk/craftspeople/edward-griffiths

https://www.greenshoes.co.uk/

In this conversation, Hugh McNeill interviews Glass Artist Helen Brough. She shares her journey from early creative influences to her current work in glass art. She discusses the importance of education, the impact of awards on her career, and the continuous learning process that fuels her creativity. Helen reflects on unique experiences, including working in the the United States at some of the most prestigious Museums and Galleries, She speaks about the challenges of international exhibitions. Helen emphasises the significance of community and offers advice for aspiring artists, highlighting the pressures they face in the industry today. Helen shares about her time working in Cockpit Yard with other outstanding artists and Crafts people.   

https://www.helenbrough.com/

https://www.instagram.com/helen_brough/#

https://cockpitstudios.org/

https://crouchendopenstudios.org.uk/

Hugh McNeill in Converstaion with Ian Reeds from Watermead Leather.

In this conversation, Hugh McNeill discusses the importance of preserving endangered heritage trades, particularly focusing on leatherwork and craftsmanship. In this episode he interiews Ian Reeds from Watermead Leather. Ian shares his unique journey from cycling to crafting, his experiences living on a narrowboat, and the challenges artisans face in balancing quality with market pricing. The discussion also highlights the value of handmade goods, the significance of teaching craft skills, and aspirations for growing the craft community.

In this engaging conversation, Hugh McNeill interviews Sarah Brown. Sarah shares her journey from a creative childhood in Essex to becoming a renowned glass artist in Cheltenham. She discusses her early influences, the transition to glass artistry, and the innovative concept behind her award-winning work, 'Good Enough to Eat.' Sarah reflects on the technical challenges she faced, her experiences in prestigious exhibitions, and the importance of community and support within the craft. As the new chair of the Contemporary Glass Society, she expresses her commitment to fostering a collaborative environment for makers and addressing the challenges faced by craftspeople today.

Sarahs Website, Instagram and Facebook 

https://sarahbrownglass.co.uk/

https://www.facebook.com/SBrownGlass

In this conversation, Hugh interviews ceramicist Jane Catherine Sanders She discusses her journey as a chef turned artist, emphasizing the importance of art and food in our lives. She shares insights into her creative process, the challenges faced in the art world, and the significance of nature as inspiration. The discussion also covers marketing strategies for artists and offers advice for those looking to pursue a career in art. The conversation concludes with a call to support local artists and craftspeople.

https://www.facebook.com/janecatherinesanders/?locale=en_GB

https://www.janecatherinesanders.co.uk/

Podbean: https://hughmn.podbean.com/

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2NVIDoueRoSY4AR6nDNMDv

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/made-with-these-hands/id1778722538

Hugh McNeill Interviews Tom Vowden. Made With These Hands 

In this episode of Made With These Hands, host Hugh McNeill interviews Tom Vowden, a skilled stained glass conservator. They discuss Tom's journey into the world of stained glass, his apprenticeship experiences, and the importance of craftsmanship in heritage trades. Tom shares insights into the creative process of stained glass making, the significance of the QEST scholarship, and the establishment of Grandeys Place, a craft center aimed at supporting endangered crafts. The conversation highlights the challenges and rewards of working in this niche field, as well as the need for more training opportunities to encourage the next generation of artisans.

Made With These Hands Podcast

Toms Website https://www.coruscateglass.com

In this episode of 'Made With These Hands', host Hugh McNeill interviews Anya Crook, a luthier based in the UK. Anya shares her journey from her idyllic childhood in Germany to her adventurous move to Ireland, where she discovered her passion for violin making. She discusses her experiences at the Royal Academy of Music, the challenges of instrument restoration, and offers valuable advice for aspiring luthiers. The conversation highlights the importance of craftsmanship, creativity, and the emotional connection to handmade instruments.

https://www.grandeysplace.co.uk/

https://www.grandeysplace.co.uk/craftspeople/anja-kuch

Made With These Hands with Sue Burne 

In this episode of Made With These Hands, host Hugh McNeill interviews award-winning glass engraver Sue Burne. They discuss Sue's journey into glass engraving, the evolution of her craft, and the challenges she faces in larger commissions, particularly for churches. Sue shares her creative process, inspirations, and the importance of mentorship in her artistic development. The conversation also touches on the future of glass engraving and the need to inspire new generations to appreciate and engage in heritage trades. Sue offers valuable advice for aspiring engravers, emphasizing the importance of community and collaboration in the craft.

www.madewiththesehands.com (under construction) 

https://sueburne.com/

hughmn@hotmail.com

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In this episode of 'Made With These Hands', host Hugh McNeill interviews Wayne Hart, a skilled craftsman specialising in letter carving and glass engraving. Wayne shares his journey from a creative upbringing influenced by his grandmother to his education in graphic design and typography. He discusses the importance of mentorship, the challenges of funding his apprenticeship, and the role of the Queen Elizabeth Scholarship Trust in his career. Wayne also highlights his current collaborative workspace, his focus on teaching and community engagement, and his aspirations for the future, including a desire to create more of his own pieces and explore new creative directions.

https://hartstudios.co.uk/

Music by TimothyTitus 

Alison Kinnaird is a renowned glass sculptor, musician, author, and teacher.

She is known for her exceptional skills in glass engraving and her mastery of the Scottish harp. Alison's work is influenced by her Scottish heritage and she aims to capture the character of Scotland in her creations.

She has created notable pieces such as the Psalm Song installation and the Donor Window at the Scottish Portrait Gallery. Alison advises aspiring glass engravers and musicians to find their own distinctive style and to be patient in developing their skills.

She is currently in the process of selling her house and moving into a smaller studio gallery in Edinburgh.

In this conversation, Greg Dietrich shares his unique journey as a glassblower and engraver, detailing his transition from a successful business in Key West to pursuing his passion for glass art in Cozumel, Mexico. He discusses the techniques involved in glassblowing and engraving, the challenges of running a gallery, and the inspiration he draws from his surroundings. Greg also reflects on his favourite pieces, the evolution of his work, and his aspirations for the future, including teaching and collaborating with other artists.

music by Timothytitus

In this episode of Made With These Hands, host Hugh McNeill speaks with award-winning weaver Kathryn Tomassetti about her journey into the world of weaving, the cultural influences that shape her craft, and her commitment to sustainability through natural dyes and reclaimed materials. Catherine shares her experiences living in various countries, the importance of tradition and storytelling in her work, and the challenges faced by contemporary craftspeople. The conversation highlights the deep connection between craftsmanship and heritage, encouraging listeners to explore their own creative passions.

https://botanicalweaves.com/

https://www.instagram.com/botanicalweaves/

https://www.facebook.com/botanicalweaves

https://hughmn.podbean.com/