In the heart of Sherborne, Butterfly Bright is a passionately-run independent shop with a character and community all of its own. Owners, Alison and Lizzie, bring together a lovely collection of home and kitchen accessories by local and international makers, a treasure trove of fabrics, haberdashery, an occasional artisan market and a series of inspiring professionally-led creative ‘making’ workshops.

I recently joined four other aspiring handmade homemakers, in the Old Stable workshop, for some expert tuition in the fine art of decorating cupcakes. It was a really lovely way to try something new, great fun and genuinely inspiring.

With the guidance of the super-talented Lisa Notley, a well-known wedding cake designer who generously shared her trade secrets, we all made the most beautiful cupcakes. Bursting with pride I raced home to share my precious little creations – hydrangea petals in pastel pink, no less! What a delicate teatime treat for a birthday, or just to enjoy on a whim.