This May 2026 residential retreat at the Angel Hotel in the charming and historic market town of Abergavenny offers a unique opportunity to join artist and knitting designer Dee Hardwicke for a three-day workshop and masterclass. Working on a main project inspired by Dee’s much-admired swatch wrap design, and drawing on other creative elements that feed into this (details will be revealed nearer the time), you will enjoy first-hand access to the design processes and artistic techniques Dee uses behind-the scenes in her studio … all in the stylish surroundings of The Angel.
Abergavenny is surrounded by the dramatic landscapes of the spectacular Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons), and this retreat is designed to nurture your creative spirit while offering ample time to unwind, connect with fellow participants, and enjoy the hospitality of a highly regarded family of local businesses.
Following welcome drinks and a delicious dinner the previous evening, day one of this very special retreat will begin with a visit to a private cut flower garden. The head gardener will give a brief talk about the garden, and you will be able to select flowers that will inspire the botanical drawings you will be creating with Dee’s expert guidance. You will then head to the comfort of The Angel’s beautiful ballroom. There, Dee will guide you through everything from creating palettes and botanical motifs, to charting designs to knit into swatches for a project based on Dee’s hugely popular swatch wrap design. The result will be a really versatile bespoke design to treasure for years to come.
Dates: Sunday May 17th (check-in from 3pm, with welcome drinks from 5pm) to Thursday May
21st 2026 (check-out by midday).
Price: £2,320.00