Liz Wellby - Artist, Teacher & Maker reviews

10 Apr 22'

Karen Booth reviewed: Inspired by Bloomsbury: exploring mixed media in Derbyshire.

"This workshop is a delightful introduction to the art of the Bloomsbury group, an exploration of their decorated home. I thoroughly enjoyed Liz’s excellent tuition and enthusiasm for her subject. Starting with simple designs on template plates, I moved on to making picture compositions which were fun, and full of vibrant colours, all with Liz’s guidance and inspiration from her lovely samples, and vases of flowers to study. At the end of the session I was thrilled with my joyful picture and was very keen to carry on making more pictures and consider possibilities for decorating my own home with this inspirational art. Thank you again Liz for your encouragement and kindness, skilful instruction, and a wonderful welcome into your studio, which must be one of the most beautiful places to soak up art in Derbyshire! One day wasn’t long enough!"

Liz Wellby - Artist, Teacher & Maker responded:

"Hi Karen, Lovely to work with you again and thank you for telling me about your day at The Slipper Studio - I have a big smile on my face. It’s a lovely workshop, with some much potential to explore colour and pattern, so I’m really pleased that it hit the mark with you. I hope you have time to continue your investigation into the art of Bloomsbury. Very best wishes Liz Wellby"

5 Apr 22'

Jennie Merriman reviewed: Birds on a wire - creating small sculptures in Derbyshire

"Thanks very much for the workshop on Saturday, I really enjoyed it. The day was very easy going without any pressure, yet we managed to produce three quality finished pieces which I now have hanging in my kitchen. It was good to have you working alongside us so you kept the chat going and were always there to help with problems and questions. An easy start to the day, coffee and a brief catch-up between the three of us followed by lots of chat, drinks and biscuits, yet it was easy to opt out when I needed to concentrate on the work at hand. A very good working pace which we were a part of setting. Excellent handouts to use after the weekend to construct new pieces and good product advice and contacts. It was just what I needed to get back into the process of working again in a supportive atmosphere. Sorry but I can’t think of anything that would have made the day any better for me. You are obviously a very experienced teacher and passed on your enthusiasm and enjoyment of the work. A super day"

Liz Wellby - Artist, Teacher & Maker responded:

"Hi Jennie, Thank you for telling me about your experience at The Slipper Studio; it was lovely working with you again and I’m really pleased that you found the day a supportive experience. I think there’s lots of potential for wire work to be be incorporated into your creative practice, so I look forward to see where it may take you. Very best wishes and happy making. Liz"

3 Apr 22'

Joy Rattray reviewed: Birds on a wire - creating small sculptures in Derbyshire

"Thank you so much for your hospitality, patience, knowledge and friendliness Liz. It was another fabulous workshop. Thoroughly enjoyed the day and built on the skills I acquired at a previous session in the studio. The day was extremely well planned and paced and I came away with three pieces of completed work and heaps of inspiration and ideas for future artworks. Looking forward to signing up for another course with you - maybe Lino printing or paper sculpture next time."

Liz Wellby - Artist, Teacher & Maker responded:

"Hi Joy, Lovely to hear about your day at The Slipper Studio and thank you for taking the time to comment. It was lovely working with you again, seeing your work develop throughout the workshop and sharing your day. Time to crack on with your stock of wire and create the 70th Birthday gift you spoke of; I’m sure they’d love a handcrafted gift from you. Hope to see you later in the year. Best wishes Liz Wellby"

14 Mar 22'

Claire Elliott & Nic Pryke reviewed: Explore 1 & 2 colour lino cutting and printing in Derbyshire

"We had a fantastic day out with Liz. Having done a little lino cutting in the past but wanting to push it so much further now, Liz taught us some tricks of the trade, made printing and colour mixing non onerous and fun and loosened us up to try new things and techniques from what we had been taught previously. The setting was fabulous, the small group meant we learnt so much from Liz and even with bad weather the views were amazing. Thanks Liz, you have reinspired us on lino cutting and already Nic has sold a piece :-)"

Liz Wellby - Artist, Teacher & Maker responded:

"Hi Claire & Nic, Thanks for letting me know about your day - it’s much appreciated. It’s lovely working with such enthusiastic folks and it was great to see your skills and understanding develop throughout the day. I hope you’ll have time to complete your second stage printing in the next few days. Great to hear that Nic has already sold a piece; perhaps he should run a how to sell your art work workshop! Happy printing Liz Wellby"

13 Mar 22'

Jo Polmear reviewed: Create with a gel printing plate in Derbyshire

"Liz's Gelli plate workshop was a great experience and I would definitely recommend it. Held at her beautiful Slipper Studio in the Peak District on a grey blustery day, warmed up with a snug log fire an and handsome Bert, the Studio cat. Only three in the group, Liz had organised us all an individual goodie bag full of information and tools. Liz demonstrated the processes and encouraged us to experiment and explore the technics. The day flew by, I left with a small pile of printed papers and full of ideas how to continue working with gelli plate printing in my own practice. Many thanks to Liz for an enjoyable creative workshop."

Liz Wellby - Artist, Teacher & Maker responded:

"Hi Jo, I really appreciate hearing about your day at The Slipper Studio - thank you. It was lovely working with you and I think you’ll find that gel plates have lots of potential and connections to your painting practice; it’s always good to explore something new and see where it takes you. There will be lots more hedgerow plants available over the next few weeks, which will provide lots of interesting shapes for masking and layering. I’ll keep my eyes peeled on social media, as I look forward to seeing how your print work develops. Very best wishes Liz"

6 Mar 22'

Sally reviewed: Create with a gel printing plate in Derbyshire

"Great fun on Saturday on the gell press printing workshop. Liz was very welcoming and was so informative. The studio is in a beautiful setting. Lovely working with the other two people on the course and seeing what they were doing. Would definitely recommend this course to anyone looking to learn more about gell press printing. Hope to come on another course later in the year. Sally"

Liz Wellby - Artist, Teacher & Maker responded:

"Hi Sally, Thanks for taking the time to let me know about your time at The Slipper Studio - it’s much appreciated. Gel plates are a great way to create prints exploring marks, pattern and colour. The immediacy of the process is lovely and I hope you’ll have time to build upon the skills you learnt and explored yesterday. I’m really pleased that you enjoyed your day with the other makers; I think it’s a real bonus to learn from each other and share the experience. Looking forward to seeing you again and until then, happy printing. Best wishes Liz Wellby"

6 Mar 22'

Ruth reviewed: Create Tiny Wire & Paper Bird Sculptures in Derbyshire

"Such a brilliant day. Liz made you feel so welcome right from the start. It was such a relaxing atmosphere and under her guidance we all produced items that we were proud of. Would highly recommend as it is something completely different, which anyone can do regardless of their artistic ability. Thank you so much Liz for making it such a fun and enjoyable experience- we will definitely be back!"

Liz Wellby - Artist, Teacher & Maker responded:

"Hi Ruth, Good to hear from you and thanks for letting me know about your time at The Slipper Studio. It’s always lovely working with such an enthusiastic and open group of people, who are determined to embrace the opportunities offered and have some fun. Bert and I will be very happy to see you here again, but until we do, I hope you have time to enjoy some more making and also share your skills with your students - I’d love to see what they create. Very best wishes Liz Wellby"

6 Mar 22'

Marion Heygate reviewed: Create Tiny Wire & Paper Bird Sculptures in Derbyshire

"What a wonderful day in beautiful surroundings. We received a very friendly welcome and I immediately felt very relaxed. Liz is a very good , encouraging, teacher. We had a fun day of creating paper and wire birds. Definitely feel as if I have learnt a new skill. An added bonus was the company of a delighful cat!"

Liz Wellby - Artist, Teacher & Maker responded:

"Hi Marion, Lovely to hear from you and thank you for taking the time to review your day. It was great fun to have you here and lovely to share your gift - I should have provided crackers! I hope you have time to create some more paper and wire pieces; they can be quite addictive. Very best wishes Liz Wellby PS Bert sends his regards"

13 Feb 22'

Brian Fawcus reviewed: Experimental Printmaking inspired by Mid Century Design in Derbyshire

"I came away from the course feeling highly inspired to continue printmaking, using the techniques we had experimented with. Liz got us printing very quickly and we came away with a great variety of prints created during the day. Highly recommended!"

Liz Wellby - Artist, Teacher & Maker responded:

"Hi Brian, Lovely to work with you at last and I really appreciate your taking the time to let me know about your day. You have taken to printmaking like a duck to water, so I think you’ll really enjoy continuing to explore block printing/lino cutting and printing, especially with those cracking cutters you have. Get a few single colour prints under your belt and I’ll lure you back to The Slipper Studio for a 2 colour print workshop. Best wishes Liz Wellby"

12 Feb 22'

Laura Frampton reviewed: Experimental Printmaking inspired by Mid Century Design in Derbyshire

"Decided to have some me time, and saw an advert for the printmaking course. I’ve had a lovely day, getting nice and messy with paint, and have several prints to take home, having mastered basic stamp making and then a Lino cut. Liz was very welcoming and on hand to give advice and suggestions. I’ll definitely do another course, maybe even bring a friend!"

Liz Wellby - Artist, Teacher & Maker responded:

"Hi Laura, Good to meet and work with you today and thanks for letting me know about your day. Printmaking is a lovely direct process and you jumped in with both feet. It was great to see your enthusiasm for the processes and outcomes. It will be a pleasure to work with you again; do try Create with a Gel Plate - I think you’ll really enjoy it. Best wishes Liz Wellby"

6 Feb 22'

Candy reviewed: Experimental Printmaking inspired by Mid Century Design in Derbyshire

"Lovely day making all kinds of prints. Beautiful setting, clean and well organised. We were allowed to have fun and use all different colours (paper, paints and inks) to see the different effects. It was lots of fun and it’s well worth a visit."

Liz Wellby - Artist, Teacher & Maker responded:

"Hi Candy, Thanks for taking the time tell me about your day at The Slipper Studio. Printmaking provides such a wide range of creative opportunities and so I hope it’s just the start for you. Looking forward to working with you again. Best wishes Liz Wellby"

6 Feb 22'

Cris H reviewed: Experimental Printmaking inspired by Mid Century Design in Derbyshire

"Yesterday I was part of a Printing Workshop. What a wonderful day, it all passed far too quickly. Lots to learn, lots to do. Chance to experiment too. I'm inspired to continue with this new found skill, and have already ordered some basic equipment so that I can get going. Liz is a wonderful host, and she provided excellent tuition, also giving support and ideas. We felt Covid safe, and we were very comfortable."

Liz Wellby - Artist, Teacher & Maker responded:

"Hi Cris, Thanks for telling me about your day. It was lovely to have you here at The Slipper Studio, with lots of learning and laughter. Hope to see you here again for more fun and creativity. Best wishes Liz Wellby"

30 Jan 22'

Nicola Paxton reviewed: The First Cut - lino cutting for beginners & rusty printmakers

"From the moment we walked up the drive we felt welcomed. The day was well paced and well organised. The studio is in a ideal location, one couldn't help but feel relaxed and inspired by the beautiful surroundings. Liz's obvious passion for sharing her skills and knowledge enabled, even a complete beginner like myself, to produce a piece of art that I was proud of. Since returning home I have ordered some essential materials and am looking forward to creating more designs - thank you Liz for giving me a great basis of understanding from which I can continue my journey of discovery in this art form. I would definitely recommend this workshop and can't wait to return."

Liz Wellby - Artist, Teacher & Maker responded:

"Hi Nicola, So pleased that you enjoyed your day with me and Bert and thank you for taking the time to review your day; I have a big smile on my face. You all produced such lovely outcomes and showed determination and an openness to try something new. It was lovely working with you all and I really appreciate the distances that we’re travelled to get here. Very best wishes and already looking forward to welcoming you back. Liz and a sleeping Bert"

23 Jan 22'

Joanne Hackett reviewed: The First Cut - lino cutting for beginners & rusty printmakers

"This was my second course at the slipper studio. I enjoyed the blind embossing course so much that I decided to book a Lino cutting course for my daughter as a Christmas present. Liz is a fantastic teacher and makes you feel very welcome in her beautiful studio. The course had to be postponed due to snow but Liz was very flexible and we agreed a new date. Best Christmas present ever and some great prints made. Thanks Liz we lived our day with you and Bert ?."

Liz Wellby - Artist, Teacher & Maker responded:

"Hi Jo & Louise, Great to work with you again and thanks for letting me know about your day. You both produced some lovely pieces and will hopefully be able to continue with more lino cutting and printing. I hope Louise’s prints will be a useful addition to her coursework. Best wishes Liz (and a sleeping Bert)"

11 Dec 21'

claire Halsey reviewed: The First Cut - lino cutting for beginners & rusty printmakers

"Attended my second workshop at Liz Welby's beautiful studio in the Peak District. The workshop was excellent, geared to my interests, all equipment and materials were ready and available and the workshop felt well managed around COVID 19 safety. Liz is an excellent teacher and encouraging throughout"

Liz Wellby - Artist, Teacher & Maker responded:

"Hi Claire, Lovely to work with you again and thank you for letting me know about your day. Lino cutting and printing is such a great process and so easy to begin with just a few materials and pieces of equipment. I’m sure you’ll be onto multi coloured prints in no time. Happy printing Best wishes Liz Wellby"

23 Nov 21'

Lauren Misiukanis reviewed: Block Printing on fabric in Derbyshire.

"My best friend and I attended a block printing workshop with Liz last weekend. We both spend the week juggling work and family life and were looking forward to the chance to switch off and try something new. Liz was the perfect host, making us feel comfortable and at home in her beautiful studio, she even suggested we bring a pair of slippers! She had sent a detailed list prior to arrival so that we knew what to bring along and also how to find the studio. Liz took us through each stage of the process carefully, explaining the tools and materials as we went along. She also provided a goody bag to take home which included instructions and supplier information should we want to block print at home. We both left with an armful of printed goodies including gift tags, wrapping paper, fabric samples to make into lavender bags, tea towels, napkins and a table runner. Thank you Liz for a thoroughly enjoyable day. We both look forward to returning to your wonderful studio in the near future, your workshop was a real treat!"

Liz Wellby - Artist, Teacher & Maker responded:

"Hi Lauren, So pleased that you enjoyed your workshop at The Slipper Studio and thank you for taking the time to tell me about your day - I have a big grin on my face! It was lovely working with you both, seeing your skills developing and ultimately creating some beautiful pieces - your Christmas will be enhanced with your napkins and table runner. Bert and I look forward to see you in 2022. Best wishes Liz Wellby"

19 Nov 21'

claire Halsey reviewed: Blind Embossing: lino printing without inks, in Derbyshire

"Such a wonderful day of blind embossing at the Slipper Studio, Liz is a great teacher, patient and informative. The setting and facilities were excellent and I learnt (and made) a lot with Liz's help and instruction. The day was relaxed and very welcoming, we went at our own pace. The tea and coffee was excellent and flowed freely and overall the experience was relaxing, informative and very enjoyable. So much so I've booked again already for another workshop."

Liz Wellby - Artist, Teacher & Maker responded:

"Hi Claire, Lovely to hear your thoughts about your recent workshop. I am sat with a wide smile on my face! Looking forward to seeing you soon. Thank you Liz Wellby"

13 Nov 21'

Tracy Revill reviewed: Blind Embossing: lino printing without inks, in Derbyshire

"I have attended Liz’s workshops before. I love being creative but lack confidence. Liz always makes the experience accessible and fun. What’s more, the outcome is always better than I expected. Today I am very proud of ‘Chubby Owl ?’, which is all thanks to Liz and my fellow attendee Claire, who brought some amazing owl sketches to fire my imagination. I would recommend this course as a great one to start with if you’ve not done one before"

Liz Wellby - Artist, Teacher & Maker responded:

"Hi Tracy, As ever, it was lovely to work with you at The Slipper Studio. Your pieces are lovely and unique, including your curvaceous owl and I hope they are well received. Best wishes Liz Wellby"

27 Sep 21'

Jane Cryne reviewed: Block Printing on fabric in Derbyshire.

"Liz is a really excellent facilitator who was very welcoming and made sure we all felt comfortable in her lovely studio. All very covid safe. The course was just the right length and pace so as to accommodate printing novices like me and also my friend who had a little more exprience. Preparation was good, so I had everything I needed, although I'd prepared some images on Pinterest and it's worth noting phone signal is not great so bring printed images or photographs stored on your device that don't rely on being online. It was nice to have a 'tech break' in fact. All resources provided were of high quality and Liz gave many tips throughout the process that will be easy to remember and follow at home. I look forward to more printing at home and hopefully another day in the studio soon."

Liz Wellby - Artist, Teacher & Maker responded:

"Hi Jane, Thanks for taking the time to review your workshop and I’m really pleased you enjoyed your creative day at The Slipper Studio. You produced some lovely pieces and quickly developed the necessary skills for cutting and printing, so I hope you can continue with this addictive process. It would be lovely to see you back at the studio for some further creative opportunities. Best wishes Liz Wellby"

25 Sep 21'

Joy Rattray reviewed: Create Tiny Wire & Paper Bird Sculptures in Derbyshire

"A thoroughly enjoyable day in a beautiful setting. The session was well paced and allowed me to build up my skill level and confidence. I’m so pleased with the birds I produced and can’t wait to make more. Thanks to Liz for your expertise, warmth and hospitality"

Liz Wellby - Artist, Teacher & Maker responded:

"Hi Joy, Really pleased you enjoyed your day and thank you for taking the time to review your workshop. It was lovely working with you, seeing your smile broaden as you created your wire and paper birds. Get your wire ordered PDQ and then you’ll have a brood of birds in no time! Hope to see you back at The Slipper Studio, for Birds on a Wire. Best wishes Liz Wellby"

19 Sep 21'

Mary Jowitt reviewed: Blind Embossing: lino printing without inks, in Derbyshire

"Very enjoyable workshop in a lovely setting. Liz ( the tutor) gave us a friendly welcome . The workshop included well structured, clear instructions regarding the processes of blind embossing. Liz allowed each persons to express their individuality and gave support as and when needed throughout . Great for those new to printmaking or the more experienced. Everyone went away with something they felt happy with having produced . Would recommend others should have a go !"

Liz Wellby - Artist, Teacher & Maker responded:

"Hi Mary, Thanks for taking the time to review your day. It was lovely to meet and work with you. As an experienced printmaker you quickly understood the process and could see the potential that blind embossing has for your work and how you may combine techniques, so I think it will give you a real creative boost. Hope to see you again at The Slipper Studio and happy embossing. Best wishes Liz Wellby"

13 Sep 21'

Janice Murphy reviewed: The First Cut - lino cutting for beginners & rusty printmakers

"I thoroughly enjoyed the Lino cutting for beginners and rusty printers course. Liz is an inspiring teacher and I learnt some new techniques as well as having a very enjoyable day in a lovely creative environment."

Liz Wellby - Artist, Teacher & Maker responded:

"Hi Janice, Thank you for taking the time to review your day at The Slipper Studio; it was lovely working with you. You definitely fitted into the rusty printmaker category and just needed a little guidance and support to create your beautiful print. Happy printing. Best wishes Liz Wellby"

13 Sep 21'

Rosie reviewed: The First Cut - lino cutting for beginners & rusty printmakers

"A wonderful slice of respite to allow the creatives juices to flow! Liz was a fantastic guide and teacher, providing gentle encouragement to myself as an absolute beginner. The Slipper Studio is beautifully relaxed and Liz really makes you feel at home. It was so rewarding to be able to complete the whole process of Lino cut (from design through to print) in a single day. Thank you Liz for an inspirational workshop"

Liz Wellby - Artist, Teacher & Maker responded:

"Hi Rosie, What a wonderful review - thank you so much! It was lovely working with you and your Mum, sharing a new experience and encouraging each other. I hope you can find time to continue with your printmaking and create more beautiful outcomes. Best wishes Liz Wellby"

26 Aug 21'

Val reviewed: The First Cut - lino cutting for beginners & rusty printmakers

"I had a really wonderful time. The workshop is beautiful - an inspirational environment and well equipped. Liz is a fantastic tutor and guided us through the process offering timely advice and suggestions to ensure we experienced a successful outcome. I came away feeling very positive and pleased with my art work!"

Liz Wellby - Artist, Teacher & Maker responded:

"Hi Val, Thanks for taking the time to review your day - it’s very much appreciated. It was lovely working with you and your enthusiasm was catching. Your hare design was beautifully translated into your lino cut and I hope is a real spur to continue cutting and printing. Best wishes Liz Wellby"

23 Aug 21'

Karen Fiedler Booth reviewed: Create with a gel printing plate in Derbyshire

"I highly recommend this workshop, it is such an enjoyable day! Liz is a very welcoming host and teacher. Her knowledge is considerable, which she happily shares throughout the day. She provides plenty of inspirational examples of gel prints, and her explanations and demonstrations of the process is very clear. She is constantly encouraging and gives some helpful tips and suggestions for how you might develop your own work, and experiment with different colour combinations and printing tools. The day is perfectly paced, as we progressed from making background prints to making up layers of more complex prints. What was great was that Liz showed you how you could make wonderful prints even without much experience, and I think it might become quite addictive! Liz’s studio is a beautiful working environment, exceptionally comfortable and well equipped. Copious amounts of tea and biscuits through the day! She provides detailed notes of the day to take home, so helpful and generous with her knowledge. I came away with a bag full of prints, I had learned so much and had a lot of fun doing it. A fantastic day. Thank you Liz, hope to join you again on another amazing learning experience!"

Liz Wellby - Artist, Teacher & Maker responded:

"Hi Karen, Thank you for such a thoughtful response to your day at The Slipper Studio - it’s really appreciated. It’s always a pleasure to work with you as you have such an openness to new ideas and techniques. I quite agree that gel plate printing is addictive, so let’s hope you enjoy many more leisurely days and evenings creating your beautiful prints. Very best wishes Liz Wellby"