Preserving the Past
Seasonal masterclasses focused on preserving fresh produce, sharing traditional skills and reconnecting with the rhythms of home, garden and kitchen.
Hands-on preserving, shared knowledge
Preserving the Past is a hands-on masterclass designed to support people to confidently preserve fresh, seasonal produce for use throughout the year. Participants learn practical skills for bottling, fermenting and creating sauces, chutneys and jams using traditional methods and simple ingredients.
The workshops focus on how to work with excess garden or orchard produce, how to balance flavours safely, and how to preserve food in ways that support both nutrition and enjoyment. Participants are guided through each step of the process, gaining skills they can easily repeat at home.
More than a technical class, Preserving the Past is about slowing down, sharing knowledge and reconnecting with the rhythms of seasonal food. By learning together, participants rediscover the satisfaction of preserving food with care, intention and connection to the past.
What you’ll experience
Hands-on preserving techniques using seasonal fruit and vegetables
Step-by-step guidance on bottling, fermenting and safe food preservation
Learning how to create chutneys, sauces, jams and sauerkraut
Understanding flavour balance, ingredients and traditional methods
Shared learning in a relaxed, supportive kitchen environment
Why does this matter?
Preserving seasonal food is a valuable skill that supports self-sufficiency, reduces waste and reconnects us with traditional ways of preparing and storing food. In a time where convenience often replaces knowledge, these skills help people feel more confident and intentional in the kitchen.
Preserving the Past encourages a slower, more mindful relationship with food. By learning how to preserve excess produce safely and effectively, participants gain practical skills that support nourishment, sustainability and a deeper appreciation for seasonal living.
Who is this for?
Preserving the Past is for individuals who are interested in learning traditional food-preservation skills in a practical, hands-on setting.
The workshops are well-suited to home cooks, gardeners, and anyone with access to seasonal produce who wants to learn how to bottle, ferment and preserve food confidently. No prior experience is required, just curiosity and a willingness to learn.
Facilitated by Dee Petit and Gilly Stewart
Preserving the Past is facilitated by Dee Petit and Gilly Stewart, who together bring a deep appreciation for traditional food skills and seasonal living. Drawing on family heritage and hands-on experience, they create a welcoming environment where participants can learn practical preserving techniques with confidence and ease.
Practical Details
Format
Hands-on preserving masterclass
Duration
Single-session workshop
Location
Community and workshop settings
Cost
Paid workshop (pricing on enquiry)
Take home
Preserved items made in class
What’s included
All ingredients and equipment provided
Ready to join a preserving workshop?
If you’d like to learn more about upcoming workshops or register your interest, get in touch and we’ll share details about future sessions and availability.