MADE WITH THESE HANDS

In This Episode, Hugh McNeill of Made With These Hands, the podcast for those who love everything handmade, Hugh interviews Tom Gaskell of Limned Glass. Tom shares his journey from engineering to glass art, highlighting the importance of creativity, quality, and personal expression. Discover how a life-changing event inspired a new artistic direction and learn practical insights for aspiring artis...

In this episode, Hugh McNeill of Made With These Hands interviews the wonderful, Ricky Keech of Creative Vibe Glassblowing. Ricky shares his journey from a non-academic background to becoming a passionate glass artist. He discusses the importance of individuality, experimentation, and the spiritual connection to nature in his creative process. They discuss the importance of individuality in art, t...

In This Episode Hugh McNeill of Made With These Hands Podcast interviews Adam Jenkins of Now Strike Experiences. Growing up, our guest’s journey didn’t follow a straight line, but rather a series of unexpected turns that all seem, in hindsight, to share a common thread: a deep connection to hands-on work, nature, and experience. From studying animal science and working closely with birds of prey a...

My guest today is Gunta Andrews, a textile artist whose work beautifully combines personal history, hand-stitching, and storytelling. Growing up as the daughter of immigrant parents in a city still recovering from the war, her early life was shaped by questions of identity, resilience, and belonging. Creativity entered her life early, learning embroidery and sewing from her German grandmother—skil...

In this engaging conversation, Hugh McNeill from the podcast Made With These Hands interviews one of Britain's leading glass engravers Chris Ainslie. He shares his remarkable journey as a glass engraver, reflecting on his early life, monastic experiences, and the evolution of his artistic techniques. He discusses the importance of community and guilds in the craft, his inspirations, and the contin...

In this episode, Hugh McNeill from Made With These Hands Podcast, interviews the lovely Ella Merriman, a Rush basket maker based in London, she shares her journey into the world of handmade crafts. She discusses her connection with natural materials, the importance of sustainability, and the challenges faced by contemporary makers. Ella emphasises the dialogue between material and maker, the signi...

In this episode Hugh McNeill from "Made With These Hands Podcast" Chats to Amelia Skachill-Burke. She shares her journey from growing up in Manchester to becoming a skilled glassblower at E&M Glass. She discusses her early experiences with art, the challenges of balancing creativity with business, and the importance of sustainability in glassblowing. Amelia also reflects on the value of handma...

In this episode of Made With These Hands, host by Hugh McNeill, he chats to the remarkable Anna Rennie, also known as the "Steel Maiden." Anna is both a talented silversmith and one of only four professional Maille makers in the country — and notably, the only woman among them. Using traditional techniques, she has mastered not just one exceptional craft, but two. With a deep passion for history a...

In this inspiring episode, Hugh McNeill from Made With These Hands Podcast Interviews Chris Fisher, known as the Blind Woodturner, Chris shares his journey from losing his sight to becoming a skilled craftsman. He discusses the challenges he faced after his diagnosis of toxoplasmosis, his discovery of woodturning, and how he navigates his craft without sight. Chris emphasizes the importance of men...

In this conversation, Hugh McNeill from Made With These Hands Podcast speaks to the wonderful Louise West from Louise West Lace Design.  They explore the rich history and personal journey of lace making, highlighting its significance in society, the challenges it faces today, and the importance of education and innovation in keeping the craft alive. The speaker shares personal anecdotes, notable c...

In this engaging conversation, Hugh McNeill from Made With These Hands Podcast interviews Karen Willis. Karen shares her journey from growing up in a creative household to becoming a successful ceramicist with her brand, Circle of Willis. She discusses the influence of her artistic upbringing, her transition from media to ceramics, and the importance of storytelling in her art. Karen emphasises th...

In this conversation, Hugh McNeill interviews Ross Alcock from A J Alcock and Son, Horologists. Ross shares his journey into the world of horology, detailing his early influences, education, and professional experiences. He discusses the importance of mechanical understanding, the challenges of running a business in craftsmanship, and his passion for clockmaking. Ross reflects on notable projects...

In this conversation, Hugh McNeill from Made with these hands Interviews Lucy Martin, a jeweler based in London, she shares her journey into the world of jewelry making, discussing her early inspirations, educational background, and the evolution of her design philosophy. She emphasises the importance of craftsmanship, the challenges faced in the jewelry market, and the significance of client coll...

In this conversation Hugh McNeill interviews embroider Kate Sproston from Kate Sproston Design, They explore her journey as a textile designer, delving into her early influences, the significance of embroidery in British culture, and the challenges faced in her career. The discussion highlights the importance of mentorship, the transition from education to professional practice, and the strategies...

This conversation Hugh McNeill interviews award winning designer Sean Evelegh already a Master craftsman at the tender age 24.  Sean is a Woodworker based in the beautiful county of Kent. They explores the journey of craftsmanship, focusing on design and woodworking. they discusses the creative processes, the importance of education and mentorship, and the balance between traditional techniques an...

In this conversation, Hugh McNeill shares his journey from his upbringing in Coventry to his experiences in Ireland, exploring how his background influenced his creativity and work ethic. He discusses his career in glass cutting, memorable projects, and the impact of his faith on his life. Hugh also reflects on his transition to supporting vulnerable adults and the importance of community work. In...

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 chan...

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...

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 m...

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 i...

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 g...

In this engaging conversation, Tracey Sheppard, 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 fac...

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...

Please click Follow for the latest episode. 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 fundi...

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 hig...