The work of crafters and artists at Keswick’s Makers Mill will be demonstrated and exhibited at an ‘open bench day’ being held today, July 8.
It is also an opportunity for members of the public to pop along and be nosey, asking the four resident makers anything they want to know about ceramics, woodwork, art and textiles.
They will be able to impart more than four decades of knowledge and experience and offer advice about hobby/home projects; answer career advice questions; suggest material choices for different projects and explain about tools and techniques.
Resident potter Michelle Best will be on her wheel for the day demonstrating her techniques, specialist tools and answering questions about glazes and firing of stoneware. There will also be an opportunity to buy from a selection of Michelle’s seconds and archive pottery at a reduced price
Fine artist Celia Burbush will be on hand to answer questions on all aspects of being an artist. Whether it is to do with a specific painting medium, or more general questions around creativity, exhibiting or working with the community, Celia is looking forward to sharing her experience. She will be showing some new window paintings and there will be a special 10 per cent discount on her current print collection.
Sophie Harding of SEW Design will be available in her studio with her sewing machine and supplies at the ready to advise and answer questions.
She has been sewing for eight years and has been designing and developing her own patterns for the last four. She is interested in a wide range of sewing projects including garment making, bag design, soft furnishings and upholstery.
Luke Harding of MOS Bespoke Furniture will be in his workshop with the door propped open all day letting all that lovely ‘timber smell’ escape.
He has been a cabinet maker for 15 years, making one-off pieces of hardwood furniture by commission to clients’ specific requirements.
Over the years he has built up a large knowledge on different making techniques and specialist furniture making tools.
There will also be a selection of rare, specialist and extra beautiful timbers on display in the studio that are normally in storage.
Luke is very passionate about timber and sources specialist ‘live edge’ timbers from around the country so they are ready and waiting for that perfect job.