Did you know it takes 4-5lbs or 2kg to make 15mls of essential oil?
Spend a morning or full day with us at Mentley Farm in a group of no more that 6 students and learn the art and science of steam distillation. I have currently shown 4 spaces on each workshop but will extend to 6 if necessary. The main reason is the size of the studio. I can teach larger groups and/or come to you instead. Please contact me to discuss.
We will begin with tea or coffee of course followed by a tour of the lavender field depending on the weather. We will distill lavender or rosemary depending on the availability in the morning and citrus fruit in the afternoon if a full day workshop.
If you have a particular plant you would like to bring with you to use in class then please contact me.
If you have bought a small still and need a hand settling it up, I can help you. Again contact me before to discuss.
The first three workshops are for a half day workshop 9am - 1pm. The second two are for a full day 9am - 4pm .
If you wish to extend the half day in July to a full day 9am - 4pm with a light lunch included, distilling citrus in the afternoon at an addition cost of £50 please contact me.
You will learn
What is essential oil and hydrosol
How to source the right still for your needs.
How to set up your still.
What plants and what part of them can be distilled and their use
How to bottle, test and store your products.
You will leave with a 125ml bottle of hydrosol, 10ml bottle of lavender essential oil and digital/paper handout of useful links etc plus ongoing advice.
Refreshments or lunch provided if a full day.
Reviews
Thank you, Louise, for such a fantastic day on Saturday! The information you shared beforehand made it really easy to find the farm and know exactly where to park. The food was delicious, and the hot drinks throughout the day were much appreciated. You were incredibly generous in sharing your knowledge, and your help and advice on setting up my own still were invaluable. I left feeling inspired, full of ideas, and excited to get started—thank you again! Claire
Louise was brilliant—she made the whole session feel welcoming and engaging. She took time to thoughtfully answer every question. This is an excellent course both before and after you have your own distillation setup. I wholeheartedly recommend her—and let’s not forget, the lunch and snacks were a delight! Jules
Great venue. To be welcomed into your home was lovely. Gretel - The studio was beautiful, from the furniture to the decoration. Nice and bright and airy. Very tasty lunch and it being home made was a nice touch. You told me everything I needed to know. You are very welcoming, authentic and knowledgeable. . The day has set me up with the knowledge and confidence I need to give this a go at home. Gail
Great venue, I liked that it was broken up and we didn’t stay in one place. Love Gretel. It felt peaceful and warm in there. Beautifully decorated, a great workspace. Lunch was delicious! You were very generous with drinks, biscuits and food. Very much enjoyed the soup, you’re a great cook! I feel you covered all I needed to know. I didn’t really come with any expectations. I was excited to see something I’m passionate about happen in front of me. It was a treat to hear your knowledge and I’ve come away with a greater understanding of the process and had a wonderful experience. You made me feel very welcome and I’m very pleased that I booked it! Thank you! Katy
If you are a group of 4 or more and you would like another day to suit you please contact me. If you would like me to visit you with my portable still then please contact me to discuss.
Please elect to PICK UP to avoid the ‘POSTAGE’. charge which I can’t remove.

