Pebble Mosaic Workshops
For many years, David has run one day pebble mosaic workshops from his working studio in central Ilkley.
This workshop is unique in that it has been designed to fit comfortably into one day, covering the history and practicalities of mosaic, giving advice, as well as creating your own mosaic through to casting it, which can then be collected once it has cured.
The workshop usually runs on Saturdays from 10 until 6pm, so if you are staying for a few days, the cured mosaic can be picked up on Monday before you travel home or it can be picked up at a later date.
People find the workshops not only informative, but relaxing, therapeutic, and good for their wellbeing.
The workshops give David the opportunity to share the knowledge he has built up over many years on commission work and give people practical advice to help them with their specific projects, whether that is in pebble or other types of mosaic.
Numbers are kept to a maximum of 3 people to make sure that everyone gets the best from the day, and his wife Caroline who is a designer and mosaicist provides support throughout the day.
<
Workshop content
David will take you through all the steps involved in creating a square or circular or shell shaped pebble mosaic measuring 45cm/18inch square or in diameter. This will weigh about 20kg (45 lb). Time is given to discuss materials, methods, tools and techniques as dictated by your interests.
The pebble mosaic will then be cast and can be collected at a later date once it has cured.
Tools, materials and are included in the cost. Hot and cold drinks will be provided, just bring your lunch.
Dates - Saturdays
2025:
May 31st
June 14th
June 28th
July 12th
August 16th
Other dates are available for group bookings and to celebrate special occasions and events.
Fee:
£350 per person
How to book and more information
For more details on the workshops and current availability, contact me by phone or email:
07980 086266
Getting the most out of your visit to Ilkley
Whether you are spending the day with us or making a long weekend of it, Ilkley has a lot to offer in terms of food, entertainment and accommodation.
If you are with someone who is not attending the workshop, there is something to suit most people’s interest’s, so they won’t be at a loose end and can join us at the end of day.
So why not maximise your stay and enjoy what Ilkley has to offer whilst you are in the area.
About Ilkley
Set on the southern edge of the Yorkshire Dales, Ilkley is a picturesque Victorian Spa town surrounded by specular unspoiled scenery, nestling underneath the moor and the famous Cow and Calf rocks.
As well as being popular with walkers and cyclists, Ilkley is the ideal place to relax and treat yourself. There are excellent restaurants, independent shops, hotels and self catering cottages.
Indulge yourself at the famous Bettys Cafe and Tea Rooms or enjoy one of the many cultural events which take place throughout the year such as the Ilkley Literature Festival, the Real Food Ilkley Market, concerts and exhibitions at the Manor House, Kings Hall and the Play House.
For more information about Ilkley visit Discover Ilkley
Nearby
Ilkley is within easy reach of Harrogate, Leeds and Bradford with good road and rail connections.
If you are looking for garden inspiration there are plenty to choose from nearby including, the Duke of Devonshire’s stunning estate at Bolton Abbey, the beautifully landscaped gardens at RHS Harlow Carr, the jewel like Arts and Crafts Garden at York Gate in Adel, and Harewood House.
If you are interested in local arts and culture Salts Mill is worthy a visit. It sits within the Unesco World Heritage site of Saltaire, and holds a large collection of work by locally born artist David Hockney, as well a vast bookshop, cafe and designer shopping.
The Bronte Parsonage and Shibden Hall, the home of Anne Lister made famous by the Gentleman Jack TV series, are worth a visit too.
Sara
Gift - lucky me
"I had been interested in taking a mosaic course for a while and this course was a gift – lucky me!
I learnt so much from David who was really generous with his knowledge and the practical session was really well structured.
Both David and Caroline were amazing at gently steering me in the right direction.
I would highly recommend this course to anyone interested in learning how to do this gorgeous craft."
Kate
A perfect day and weekend
"I've just come back from a one day course in pebble mosaic at Olicana in Ilkley.
I was a complete novice.
What a lovely day, David is so informative and he and his wife helped us to produce our own mosaic to take home.
Lovely relaxed atmosphere in their own workshop.
I've always wanted to try this and I am so pleased with my mosaic.
Ilkley is a wonderful town to visit, we stayed in a local Airbnb, plenty of lovely coffee spots and shops and places to eat out in the evening.
A perfect day and weekend. Thank you David and Caroline”
Shelley
A fantastic day
March 2025
We had a FANTASTIC day with David and Caroline, creating pebble mosaics for our garden,
and are stunned by what we have been able to produce... we LOVE them!!!
We also have all we need to be able to have another go at home.
David and Caroline have been so generous with sharing their knowledge, experience and skills.
We can't recommend this course enough.
Thank You
Judy
Utterly inspired and delighted, a magical day
March 2025
In an unassuming workshop in Ilkley, exquisite examples of their work lurking behind buckets of pebbles and stones,
neatly laid out tools of their trade, and a glimpse of commendations from the great Chelsea Show itself, you will find
David and Caroline of Olicana Mosaics fame.
Apprehensive about what’s in store, and hoping that you won’t let yourself down in terms of your ability or, in my case, somewhat limited talent,
I assure you that you will not be prepared for this duo’s brilliance, patience and expert guidance.
You will leave the place utterly inspired and so delighted with your unique piece of work
and the magical day you’ve just had, that you will want to return, as soon as you can, to do it all again!
Megan
An unforgettable experience and a great way to unwind
April 2025
I had the pleasure of attending a pebble mosaic workshop with my brother, and it was an unforgettable experience!
David and Caroline were great, their engaging teaching style made the day fly by as they shared their wealth
of knowledge about the art of mosaic-making.
From the moment we arrived, they created a welcoming atmosphere that encouraged creativity and collaboration.
They were not only informative but also genuinely interested in our ideas and input throughout the process.
It felt more like a conversation with friends, which made it all the more enjoyable.
They shared fascinating stories about their own journeys in mosaic art, which added a personal touch to the workshop.
Not only did we leave with our own creations being completed, but we also felt a deeper appreciation for this art form.
I highly recommend this workshop to anyone looking to explore their creative side in a supportive and fun environment!
For a couple of professional corporate types, this was a really great way for us to unwind and use a completely different part of our brains!
|
|