Yesterday I fulfilled a long-held ambition.

I went to a workshop at Hope and Elvis. And thankfully, it lived up to expectations and was every bit as good as I hoped it would be.

(Unlike my visit to the Taj Mahal. But that’s another story.)

Hope and Elvis is the studio and workshop of Louise Presley, situated within the beautiful Welbeck Estate in Sherwood Forest – which is a surprisingly long drive away from Nottingham.

It was a beautiful autumnal morning for a trip out to spend a day being inspired by Jess Quinn – one of my favourite artists.

I had no idea what to expect really, apart from a vague thought that I might gain ideas for some new creatures to make.

As it turned out, it was Jess’s very first workshop, so she had no idea what to expect either!

And I didn’t end up making any creatures.

I made a doll. And I loved every minute of it!

I learned how to paint on fabric using an array of paints, which Jess gave tips on using.

I chose supplies from boxes and baskets of inspiring fabrics, trims, buttons, bits and bobs from Louise’s almost infinite stash…

I learned how to make button joints whilst chatting with my classmates.

I now covet specialist esoteric tools I didn’t know existed until today (and will be hunting some of them down forthwith.)

I was shown how to face a doll’s frock – although I had to finish the frock off at home, as I ran out of time to get it done.

The tutor, my fellow students, the workshop surroundings – and the lunch – were all wonderful.

Even the loo was inspiring…!

I came home glowing with possibilities.

And I’m sure I wasn’t the only one. Here are some of my fellow students’ creations…

By the time I’d got my own creation finished off, it was too late to take any pictures of it.

So I’ll have to leave you hanging on a bit longer to see the results. I promise I’ll take some photos today. And also show you my purchases.

But I really wanted to say a huge thank you to Jess Quinn, Louise Presley and fellow classmate Leah Halliday.

I couldn’t have had a more inspiring day. ♥