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Hugh McNeill is a talented craftsman in Crystal Glass Cutting & Engraving. He has worked professionally in this field over the past 45 years. He trained under Eddie Flavin a master glass cutter from Waterford Crystal Glass in Ireland. Hugh has created pieces for many famous people over the years and has established his name in this field. Hugh has a growing concern for old styles hand made crafts that are slowly dying out and not being taught to next generations. These podcasts are to bring awareness to these crafts provoking new craftsman to take up a dying craft that is now on the ”In danger of being extinct list of which there is well over 100 skilled crafts in danger of being forgotten forever. www.madewiththesehands.com
Episodes

22 hours ago
22 hours ago
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 for building a successful business in the creative industry. In this conversation, the speakers discuss the challenges and rewards of running a handmade crafts business, emphasising the importance of valuing handmade products, the impact of the pandemic on sales, and the significance of trade shows and collaborations. They also share personal experiences and advice for aspiring craftspeople, highlighting the need for community support and the importance of not overthinking the transition from hobby to business.
https://katesprostondesign.com/
https://www.instagram.com/katesprostondesign
https://uk.pinterest.com/katesprostondesign/?eq=kate%20sproston&etslf=18695
https://www.facebook.com/KateSprostonDesign/
https://www.tiktok.com/@katesprostondesign

Saturday May 10, 2025
Saturday May 10, 2025
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 and modern technology. They also delve into the challenges faced by young craftspeople, the significance of community and organizations, and the growing appreciation for handmade items. Sustainability in craftsmanship and the role of social media in promoting their work are also highlighted, culminating in a discussion about future aspirations and the impact of experiences like participating in a woodworking competition.
Sean Evelegh | Bespoke Fine Furniture Makers London
Sean Evelegh ~ Fine Woodworking (@sean_evelegh) • Instagram photos and videos
Making A Bespoke Hand Carved Elm Desk | Parametric Wave With Hidden Storage!

Friday Apr 18, 2025
Friday Apr 18, 2025
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 engaging conversation, Hugh McNeill shares his journey from a challenging financial crisis to becoming the project Manager of Coventry Foodbank. He reflects on his experiences in the restaurant business, the importance of craftsmanship, and his newfound passion for podcasting. Hugh emphasises the value of handmade products and offers insightful advice for aspiring craftspeople, highlighting the significance of perseverance and community support.

Saturday Apr 12, 2025
Saturday Apr 12, 2025
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/

Friday Apr 04, 2025
Friday Apr 04, 2025
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://www.instagram.com/botanicalweaves/
https://www.facebook.com/botanicalweaves

Sunday Mar 30, 2025
Sunday Mar 30, 2025
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.instagram.com/helen_brough/#
https://crouchendopenstudios.org.uk/

Saturday Mar 22, 2025
Saturday Mar 22, 2025
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

Sunday Mar 16, 2025
Sunday Mar 16, 2025
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/

Friday Mar 07, 2025
Made With These Hands, Hugh McNeill interviews engraver Tracey Shepperd
Friday Mar 07, 2025
Friday Mar 07, 2025
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

Wednesday Feb 26, 2025
Made With These Hands with Hugh McNeill Interviewing Jane Catherine Sanders
Wednesday Feb 26, 2025
Wednesday Feb 26, 2025
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