Burning Bright at the Curious Creatives Craft Retreat
18th – 22nd August 2025 | Kingham Hill School, near the Cotswolds
What a week! I’ve just returned from an unforgettable week at the Curious Creatives Craft Retreat, and I’m still on a high! Organised with flair and heart by the wonderful Sue and Penny, the retreat took place in the stunning surroundings of Kingham Hill School, nestled just outside the Cotswolds - the perfect backdrop for a week of making, mingling, and a little bit of mischief!
I had the absolute joy of being the pyrography tutor for the retreat, teaching a three-day course on the therapeutic (and slightly addictive) art of woodburning.
After a quick but crucial health and safety briefing, it was time to dive into the fun part! I introduced the students to one of my all-time favourite pyrography tools: the Peter Child pyrography kit. With a spark of curiosity, we kicked things off by experimenting with basic mark-making using the wide range of interchangeable tips.
It didn’t take long before we jumped into our first creative challenge: designing and burning artwork onto wooden coasters. But not before we sanded those pieces reeeeally well. Smooth wood, happy burn!
Students could either use templates or go freehand with their own sketches, and wow - what a talented bunch! The room was buzzing with creativity, and the results were seriously impressive. Let’s just say this group had some serious pyrography potential!
My four amazing students - Andrea, Danya, Karen, and Toni - brought such warmth, curiosity, and enthusiasm to each session. It was incredible to watch their confidence grow as they each developed their own unique pyrography styles. The pieces they created were full of personality, detail, and care. Very inspiring stuff.
Outside of the main course, I also ran three evening workshops, where retreat guests could have a go at burning their own wooden signs or coasters. These sessions were a lovely mix of casual creativity and social buzz - perfect for winding down after a day of crafting. Some fantastic pieces were made and fun memories created.
Beyond the pyrography studio, the whole week was a beautiful blend of crafts, creativity, and connection. From metal and polymer clay to silver jewellery and stone carving, there was a workshop for every mood and a friendly face around every corner. It was such a joy to spend time with like-minded creatives, whether we were focused on our own projects, helping others or just having a good laugh doing something completely silly (which happened more than once!).
The Curious Creatives Craft Retreat was more than just a teaching opportunity. It was a reminder of the magic that happens when people come together to make things with their hands and hearts. I left feeling inspired, grateful, and already looking forward to teaching again!
Thank you to everyone who came along, and a massive shoutout again to Sue for bringing it all together so beautifully. You are our saviour (following the hornet episode... buzzzz!)
Until next time, keep burning, stay creative and keep smiling!
The Curious Creatives Craft Retreat Tutors 2025