Welcome! I'm Phil Parkes. I use traditional hand crafting methods to create maille armour, based on historical research of original items.
I really enjoy showing people the process of making maille and seeing them come away with something they've made themselves as well as a new confidence in using tools and an appreciation of what was involved in making maille in the past!
The skills and techniques are accessible to anyone: I've worked with our local primary school, families at community events and adult workshops, and all have really enjoyed creating their own items and learning more.
My experience with teaching led me to create 'Wooden Maille' kits to help teach the skills involved in putting together patterns and tailoring.
I'm a member of the Heritage Crafts Association - as a maille maker I'm on their list of Critically Endangered Crafts and won the award of Wales Maker of the Year 2024.
My career has been in professionally conserving archaeological finds and teaching those skills as a Professor in Conservation at Cardiff University.
"Fantastic course with a very patient teacher. It was delightful to have an introduction to a new skill where mistakes were treated with humour and kindness. Would leave more stars if I could."
Phil Parkes Maille responded:
"Thank you Zoe, Glad that you enjoyed the course."
"Fantastic day! I now have a good understanding of the history of maille and the process of naking it. Great tutor made everything interesting, relaxed and excellent explanation and guidance. Definitely recommend "
Phil Parkes Maille responded:
"Glad you enjoyed it Amanda, enjoy working your way through the crafts on offer on the website!"
"Interesting course content, and fun to get hands on. It was genuinely an eye opener to learn how much work goes into Maille and the process, it was…..errr…..riveting. Sorry Phil. "
Phil Parkes Maille responded:
"Lol, thanks Greg. Somebody had to do the joke at some point. "
"Had a great time in Phil's introductory maille workshop - a very patient and clear teacher. Both he and partner Ashlea are incredibly kind and generous with their time.
Great tactile experience with some satisfying examples of the maille making process to take home.
Would highly recommend as something different to try or for a glimpse into how people of the past made armour!"
Phil Parkes Maille responded:
"Thanks for the review Aron, glad to hear you enjoyed the workshop."
Our website uses cookies to give you the best user experience. By using the site you are consenting to our use of cookies. You can find out more in our Privacy Policy.
You can manage your selection from the 'Cookie settings' in the footer of the page