Master the Art: Heritage Craft in the Heart of Shropshire
Ever fancied trying your hand at paper flower making, experiencing the delicate art of marbled paper, or learning to block print your own textiles? At Master the Art - the Roger Newton & Daughter School of Decorative Finishes - curiosity is not only encouraged, it’s expertly guided. This isn’t just another workshop space; it’s a warm, welcoming hub where heritage crafts are lovingly passed down and creativity is rekindled, no experience required.
Roger Newton and his daughter Kate Elwell, outside their studio in Shropshire. Photo Credit: Andrew Montgomery.
Founded in 2021 by master gilder Roger Newton and his daughter Kate Elwell, the school - situated in leafy Leighton, Shropshire - has grown into a beacon for traditional decorative arts. What began as intensive three-day gilding and paint finish courses has blossomed into a vibrant programme of creative day workshops. Students from across the UK (and increasingly, around the world) come to learn everything from oil painting flowers and wax-dipping paper blooms to chair caning, botanical metalwork, and textile-based crafts.
Chair Caning workshops at Master the Art, with Rachael South, a 3rd generation chair caner.
Roger, who began his training in the 1950s at the legendary Colefax and Fowler, brings a lifetime of skill to the classroom. His teaching style is both meticulous and encouraging, guiding students through centuries-old techniques with warmth and patience. In his paint finish courses, wood surfaces are transformed into convincing imitations of tortoiseshell, marble, or malachite with little more than oil paint and brush.
Paper Flower making with Charlotte Hepworth at Master the Art. Photo Credit: Ruth Yardy Photography
Kate, meanwhile, brings both heart and organisation to the venture. After a career in Financial PR and diplomatic communications, she left London to return to her creative roots. With her father, she transformed a Georgian home and its outbuildings into the school’s studio space, combining Roger’s expertise with a deeply personal commitment to creating a nurturing, screen-free environment for learning.
“Taking time for yourself and learning a new skill - screen-free - is incredible,” says Kate. “The satisfaction of creating something you didn’t think you were capable of is so therapeutic.”
A painting workshop in progress at Master the Art.
Workshops are inclusive and hands-on, with all materials provided and a home-cooked, locally sourced lunch to keep the creative energy flowing. Accommodation is available on-site, making it easy to turn a course into a restorative country escape.
For those who fall in love with the finishes they’ve learnt, the school’s online shop features a curated selection of hand-painted homewares that echo the techniques taught in class.
Whether you're seeking inspiration, reconnection, or just a joyful few hours away from screens, Master the Art invites you to relax, try something new, and take home more than just a finished piece - you'll leave with confidence, calm, and craft in your hands.
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Further Information:
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Image Credits:
LEAD: Icelandic Poppies by Charlotte Hepworth for Master the Art.
All other images courtesy of Master the Art and as credited in photo captions.