Many of Britain’s ancient heritage crafts are endangered, but this show presented by comedian Bill Bailey aims to reverse their fortunes.
The series follows the progress of nine young crafters as they learn from experienced artisans and hone their skills.
It’s immensely satisfying to see the incredible skill of the heritage crafters and the enthusiasm of the next generation.
This series will focus on wood carving, stained glass and silver smithing.
Your guide to Bill Bailey’s Master Crafters: The Next Generation
Where is Bill Bailey’s Master Crafters: The Next Generation filmed?
All of the masterclasses take place in Messums Barn, which is a 12th century barn in Wiltshire.
When is Bill Bailey’s Master Crafters: The Next Generation on TV?
Bill Bailey’s Master Crafters: The Next Generation is on Sky Arts at 8pm on Thursdays, starting on 13th July 2023.
There will be four episodes of the show in this first series.
Who presents Bill Bailey’s Master Crafters: The Next Generation?
Bill Bailey’s Master Crafters: The Next Generation is presented by English musician, comedian and actor Bill Bailey.
Bill is a comedian known for his role in the Channel 4 show Black Books, as well as appearances on various panel shows including Have I Got News for You and QI. In 2020, he was the winner of the 18th series of Strictly Come Dancing.
In addition to his TV career, Bill Bailey is a talented musician and is known for incorporating songs into his comedy shows.
Bill’s grandfather was a carver and he hopes that the show will reignite his crafting dna.
He says: “I love stained glassing. I know you shouldn’t have a favourite, but I loved the stained glass.”
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What to expect from Bill Bailey’s Master Crafters: The Next Generation
In each episode, you’ll see the junior crafters learning a new skill from experts in wood carving, stained glass and silver smithing.
At the end of the series, the young crafters will be commissioned to create a special piece for the gardens of Highgrove House. Highgrove is the summer residence of King Charles and Queen Camilla.
Episode one
In episode one, the first trio of junior crafters will learn the art of stained glass guided by master crafter John Reyntiens.
John helped to restore the stained glass windows of Windsor Castle after they were destroyed by a fire. He’s also restored the clock faces of the Elizabeth Tower at the Houses of Parliament (aka Big Ben).
Episode two
In episode two, three budding woodworkers will learn how to carve with Clunie Fretton. Clunie is a classically trained sculptor, carver and gilder who trained at the City of Guilds of London Art School. She graduated with a distinction in Ornamental Woodcarving and Gilding.
Episode three
In the show’s third instalment, the final three young crafters will discover the magical art of silversmithing from Ndidi Ekubia MBE. Ndidi creates stunning pieces of silverware that pushes sheet metal to its limits.
Episode four
For the final episode, the young crafters will come together to create a bespoke arbour for the gardens at Highgrove.
As well as learning all about these fantastic heritage crafts, Bill will also take a tour around Highgrove’s gardens and pen his own tribute to his surroundings.
Bill Bailey’s Master Crafters: The Next Generation is a real treat
Does it get much more wholesome than watching skilled crafters at work? There’s something very soothing about watching talented people creating beautiful things.
It’s also brilliant to see the next generation learning to keep heritage crafts alive!
Finished the show? Here’s what to watch next
In the autumn we love to settle down with one of our favourite crafting shows: Britain’s Best Woodworker. If you can’t wait until then, you can catch up with all of the episodes on the Channel 4 app.
Find out more about Britain’s Best Woodworker with Gathered’s in-depth TV guide.
