Yours For The Making with Robin Johnson

• The Art of Gilding and Mirror Making with Shaun Phelan

  In this episode of Yours for the Making, Robin Johnson speaks with Shaun Phelan, gilder and mirror maker, whose career began in 1996. Shaun explains the detailed craft of gilding, from preparing wood with layers of gesso to the flexibility of water gilding and the creation of burnished finishes. He shares how his work evolved from antique frames to convex mirrors, pigmented glass, and bespoke furniture.Shaun talks about his early influences, the rise of social media in bringing new commercial commissions, and his collaborations with Asian factories that allow him to combine rare materials like onyx and amber into new designs. He reflects on balancing artistic creativity with commercial demand and the importance of innovation in keeping a centuries-old craft alive.Key Topics CoveredShaun Phelan’s journey into gilding starting in 1996The process of water gilding and the role of gessoTransition from antique frames to convex and coloured mirrorsPigmented glass and experimenting with nitrate finishesThe impact of Instagram on commercial successCollaborations with Asian factories on bespoke furniture and lightingChallenges of balancing artistic integrity with commercial projectsUsing materials like onyx, amber onyx and alabaster in designPlans for expanding visibility through online platformsAdvice for young makers on failure and resilienceEnjoying the show?Leave a review, follow us, and share the episode with a fellow maker. New episodes every week with artists, designers, craftsmen and creators from around the world.Yours for the Making with Robin Johnson is the podcast that celebrates creativity, craftsmanship, and the art of making. Hosted by Robin Johnson — founder of Johnson Bespoke and BBC presenter on The Travelling Auctioneers, The Restorers, Woodland Workshop — this podcast dives into the stories of makers from all walks of life. From woodworkers, metal fabricators, and chefs to artists, designers, and hobbyists, each episode offers real conversations with the people behind the things we love.Whether you're a hands-on creative, aspiring artisan, or simply curious about how things are made, this podcast offers inspiration, insight, and practical wisdom. Expect behind-the-scenes stories, lessons in process and passion, and a celebration of the maker movement in all its forms.Subscribe now and follow Yours for the Making wherever you listen to your favourite podcasts.Key Moments:00:00 – Robin introduces Shaun Phelan, gilder and mirror maker01:18 – Explaining gilding and the role of gesso layers04:14 – Why Shaun prefers water gilding to oil gilding05:39 – Childhood influences and fascination with antiques06:47 – Moving from gilded frames into mirrors09:03 – How Instagram brought new commercial work12:47 – Partnering with Asian factories and bespoke production18:06 – Returning to gilding for artists and commissions21:16 – The creative process behind pigmented glass mirrors26:14 – Expanding into furniture and lighting design34:08 – The challenges of retail versus commercial focus41:25 – Where Shaun’s mirrors fit best and why exclusivity matters47:29 – Advice to his younger self about failure and resilience49:00 – Finding Shaun online and the role of Instagram

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• From Plumbing to Pizza with Dan Caldieraro of Brewing Brothers

  In this episode of Yours for the Making, Robin Johnson speaks with Dan Caldieraro, executive chef and director of Brewing Brothers, the team behind some of Hastings’ best pizza and pasta. Dan shares his unexpected journey from plumbing with his father in Italy to finding his calling in the kitchen, inspired by his brother. He explains the realities of working in a high-pressure restaurant, the importance of quality ingredients, and why slow fermentation and wood-fired ovens transform pizza dough.Dan also talks about fresh pasta, the difference between egg and semolina pasta, and why gnocchi holds a special place in his heart. He opens up about the balance of being a new dad while leading a kitchen, the creative buzz of seasonal tasting nights, and why simplicity and proper technique are at the core of Italian cooking.Key Topics CoveredDan Caldieraro’s journey from plumbing to cookingThe experience of working in a busy Italian restaurant kitchenMoving to Hastings and joining Brewing BrothersWhy wood-fired ovens create the best pizzaThe science of flour blends, yeast, and slow fermentationFresh pasta versus dried pasta and the secret of textureGnocchi and the role of nostalgia in foodRunning tasting nights and using seasonal produceBalancing family life and the pressures of hospitalityFuture plans for Brewing Brothers and the ImperialEnjoying the show?Leave a review, follow us, and share the episode with a fellow maker. New episodes every week with artists, designers, craftsmen and creators from around the world.Yours for the Making with Robin Johnson is the podcast that celebrates creativity, craftsmanship, and the art of making. Hosted by Robin Johnson — founder of Johnson Bespoke and BBC presenter on The Travelling Auctioneers, The Restorers, Woodland Workshop — this podcast dives into the stories of makers from all walks of life. From woodworkers, metal fabricators, and chefs to artists, designers, and hobbyists, each episode offers real conversations with the people behind the things we love.Whether you're a hands-on creative, aspiring artisan, or simply curious about how things are made, this podcast offers inspiration, insight, and practical wisdom. Expect behind-the-scenes stories, lessons in process and passion, and a celebration of the maker movement in all its forms.Subscribe now and follow Yours for the Making wherever you listen to your favourite podcasts.Key Moments:00:00 – Introduction to Dan Caldieraro of Brewing Brothers01:15 – From plumbing in Italy to cooking with his brother03:35 – The intensity of a busy restaurant kitchen05:20 – Falling in love with Hastings and joining Brewing Brothers07:57 – Opening the Imperial and starting with pizza09:36 – Why wood-fired ovens change everything12:12 – Blending different flours and slow fermentation for pizza dough17:08 – The science of heat and perfect crusts21:38 – Fresh pasta versus dried pasta and cooking times25:16 – The ritual and joy of making pasta at home29:40 – Gnocchi and childhood favourites31:45 – Hosting seasonal tasting nights with foraged and local ingredients34:54 – Pizza as the winning model at the Imperial37:17 – Favourite pizza toppings and experimenting with flavours40:42 – Pasta, sauces, and the Italian food code43:48 – Advice for aspiring chefs and the value of asking questions45:17 – Where to find Dan and Brewing Brothers

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• From Graffiti to Tattoos with Alexis Camburn of Two Snakes Tattoo

  In this episode of Yours for the Making, Robin Johnson sits down with Alexis Camburn, the founder of Two Snakes Tattoo in Hastings, to explore her journey from graffiti artist to respected tattooist and studio owner. Alexis shares candid insights about the tattoo industry, from her early apprenticeship days in a father-and-son shop to building a thriving business that has become a cornerstone of the Hastings creative community.She opens up about the realities of running a tattoo studio, the financial pressures of self-employment, and the supportive network of local makers, barbers, brewers, and butchers in Trinity Triangle. Alexis also discusses the importance of proper tattoo aftercare, her own fears of needles, and how tattoos shaped her confidence and identity. Alongside tattooing, Alexis talks about her catering venture Fed Box, her 20 months of sobriety, and how resilience and passion keep her moving forward.This episode is a deep dive into creativity, community, and carving out your own path as a maker.Key Topics CoveredAlexis Camburn’s journey from graffiti to tattooingFounding Two Snakes Tattoo in Hastings and building a creative communityTattoo conventions and networking in the UK and abroadThe reality of running a tattoo business and financial challengesThe rise of tattoo culture and changing public perceptionsTattoo aftercare and the pain factor of placementsThe importance of sobriety, resilience, and creative freedomEnjoying the show?Leave a review, follow us, and share the episode with a fellow maker. New episodes every week with artists, designers, craftsmen and creators from around the world.Yours for the Making with Robin Johnson is the podcast that celebrates creativity, craftsmanship, and the art of making. Hosted by Robin Johnson — founder of Johnson Bespoke and BBC presenter on The Travelling Auctioneers, The Restorers, Woodland Workshop — this podcast dives into the stories of makers from all walks of life. From woodworkers, metal fabricators, and chefs to artists, designers, and hobbyists, each episode offers real conversations with the people behind the things we love.Whether you're a hands-on creative, aspiring artisan, or simply curious about how things are made, this podcast offers inspiration, insight, and practical wisdom. Expect behind-the-scenes stories, lessons in process and passion, and a celebration of the maker movement in all its forms.Subscribe now and follow Yours for the Making wherever you listen to your favourite podcasts.Key Moments:00:00 – Robin introduces Alexis Camburn of Two Snakes Tattoo05:30 – From graffiti to tattoo apprenticeship in Sidley13:10 – First tattoos, fears of needles, and building confidence21:45 – Tattoo conventions and the global tattoo community34:20 – Founding Two Snakes Tattoo and early financial struggles47:00 – The Hastings creative community and Trinity Triangle collaborations55:15 – Tattoo culture, celebrity influence, and customer perceptions1:05:40 – Tattoo aftercare and the pain of placement1:14:30 – Running Fed Box Catering alongside tattooing1:21:50 – Sobriety, resilience, and personal growth1:28:00 – Future plans for tattoo conventions and collaborations

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• 45 Years of Joinery Mastery with Richard Muddiman of Johnson Bespoke

  In this episode of Yours for the Making, Robin Johnson sits down with Richard Muddiman, the Joinery Foreman at Johnson Bespoke. With more than 45 years of woodworking experience, Richard has seen it all – from traditional hand tools to the evolution of modern machinery. Calm, collected and deeply skilled, Richard shares insights on the art of joinery, the lessons learned over a lifetime in the trade, and why true craftsmanship can never be replaced by shortcuts. If you’ve ever been curious about what it takes to stay at the top of your craft for nearly five decades, this conversation is packed with wisdom, humour and practical knowledge.Key Topics Covered:Richard’s 45-year journey in the joinery tradeHow woodworking techniques have evolved over the decadesLessons learned from leading a workshop teamThe importance of patience, discipline and attention to detailWhy craftsmanship still matters in a world of mass productionStories from a lifetime in joinery and bespoke furniture makingEnjoying the show?Leave a review, follow us, and share the episode with a fellow maker. New episodes every week with artists, designers, craftsmen and creators from around the world.Yours for the Making with Robin Johnson is the podcast that celebrates creativity, craftsmanship, and the art of making. Hosted by Robin Johnson — founder of Johnson Bespoke and BBC presenter on The Travelling Auctioneers, The Restorers, Woodland Workshop — this podcast dives into the stories of makers from all walks of life. From woodworkers, metal fabricators, and chefs to artists, designers, and hobbyists, each episode offers real conversations with the people behind the things we love.Whether you're a hands-on creative, aspiring artisan, or simply curious about how things are made, this podcast offers inspiration, insight, and practical wisdom. Expect behind-the-scenes stories, lessons in process and passion, and a celebration of the maker movement in all its forms.Subscribe now and follow Yours for the Making wherever you listen to your favourite podcasts.Key Moments:00:00 – Introducing Richard: 45 years in joinery06:45 – How the woodworking trade has changed over time14:20 – Lessons learned from apprenticeships and mentors23:10 – The role of patience and attention to detail32:55 – Why mass production can’t replace craftsmanship41:30 – Richard’s proudest projects in joinery50:10 – What keeps him passionate about woodworking after decades

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• Traditional Joinery, Business Grit, and the Future of Craft with Damen Foord

  What does it really take to survive and grow in the modern joinery trade? In this episode of Yours for the Making, Robin Johnson sits down with Damen Foord, founder of D Foord Joinery, to talk about the highs, lows and lessons of life as a traditional joiner.Damen shares his journey from a tough apprenticeship into running his own joinery business, the constant struggle to balance craft with cost, and why he believes traditional skills are being lost in a world dominated by mass-produced furniture. Together, Robin and Damen unpack the realities of managing staff, training apprentices, finding clients, and staying profitable through economic downturns.This episode shines a light on the value of skilled craftsmanship, the risks of going it alone, and the future of joinery in Britain. Whether you’re a maker, apprentice, or simply curious about the craft behind bespoke furniture, you’ll get an unfiltered look at what it means to dedicate your life to wood.Key Topics Covered:Damen Foord’s journey from apprenticeship to founding D Foord JoineryRobin Johnson on rebuilding after shutting down his first businessWhy traditional skills matter in modern joineryThe real cost of bespoke furniture vs mass-produced alternativesApprenticeships, staff challenges, and training the next generationThe impact of COVID and economic downturns on the tradePlans to use YouTube and social media to showcase craftsmanshipHow passion and dedication keep small businesses aliveEnjoying the show?Leave a review, follow us, and share the episode with a fellow maker. New episodes every week with artists, designers, craftsmen and creators from around the world.Yours for the Making with Robin Johnson is the podcast that celebrates creativity, craftsmanship, and the art of making. Hosted by Robin Johnson — founder of Johnson Bespoke and BBC presenter on The Travelling Auctioneers, The Restorers, Woodland Workshop — this podcast dives into the stories of makers from all walks of life. From woodworkers, metal fabricators, and chefs to artists, designers, and hobbyists, each episode offers real conversations with the people behind the things we love.Whether you're a hands-on creative, aspiring artisan, or simply curious about how things are made, this podcast offers inspiration, insight, and practical wisdom. Expect behind-the-scenes stories, lessons in process and passion, and a celebration of the maker movement in all its forms.Subscribe now and follow Yours for the Making wherever you listen to your favourite podcasts.Key Moments:00:00 – Introduction: Robin Johnson and Damen Foord on confidence and business06:45 – Robin on shutting down his first business and rebuilding stronger12:30 – Damen’s traditional joinery training and lessons from mentors20:15 – Why doing things right matters more than shortcuts27:40 – Starting D Foord Joinery in 2018 and early challenges35:10 – The reality of bespoke joinery costs vs mass production44:25 – Apprenticeships, training, and finding the right staff54:40 – COVID, economic downturns, and adapting as a small business01:05:30 – The role of YouTube in showcasing traditional joinery01:13:20 – Robin and Damen on collaboration and supporting the trade01:22:15 – Final advice for aspiring joiners and reflections on the future

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