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IELTS Speaking Cue Card

Describe a person who is good at making things by hand.

• Who this person is
• What he or she makes
• What materials or technologies he or she uses
• And why you think this person is good at making things by hand

8+ Band Sample Answer

Well, there are many talented people around us who are good at creating things with their hands, but the person I’d particularly like to talk about is my mother.

She is exceptionally good at making things by hand. She has always been a creative and patient person, and over the years, she has developed quite a talent for embroidery and stitching.

She makes a variety of things, including beautiful suits, embroidered dupattas, cushion covers and decorative pieces for our home. What I find particularly impressive is that her work never looks ordinary because every piece has a personal touch and reflects her creativity.

As for the materials and techniques she uses, she mainly works with different types of fabric, colourful threads, needles, beads and an embroidery hoop. She learnt these skills from her mother when she was younger. Later, she improved her techniques by watching online tutorials and experimenting with different patterns and designs on her own.

The most interesting thing about her is that she doesn’t always need detailed instructions. If she comes across an attractive design, she can carefully observe it and recreate something similar using her own ideas. Sometimes, she even modifies the original design to make it more attractive or suitable for a particular suit.

I remember being fascinated by how patiently she works. She can spend hours focusing on tiny details without losing her concentration. She pays close attention to colours, patterns and finishing, which is probably why her work looks so neat and elegant.

What I admire most about her is that she has turned what could be considered an ordinary household skill into a genuine form of art. She has shown me that creativity doesn’t always require expensive equipment or advanced technology. Sometimes, creativity simply requires simple materials, patience and imagination.

Overall, I feel really proud of my mother because she is not only talented but also completely self-motivated. Her handmade work is a beautiful reflection of her personality, creativity and dedication.

Useful IELTS Vocabulary and Idioms

IELTS Speaking Part 3: Follow-up Questions

1. Does art, like music or theatre, have an impact on society?

Yes, definitely. I believe art can have a powerful impact on society because it can influence people’s emotions and shape the way they think about different issues. For instance, a meaningful film, song or play can raise awareness about problems such as pollution, inequality or discrimination. So, I think art is not only a source of entertainment but can also be a powerful tool for social change.

2. Is it good to have creative people in a team?

Absolutely. I think creative people can bring fresh perspectives and come up with innovative solutions to problems. For example, in a group project, a creative person might suggest an interesting way to present information, which could make the project more engaging and effective. They can also encourage other team members to think outside the box.

3. What impact can artistic buildings have on society?

I think artistic buildings can give a city a distinctive identity and make it more visually appealing. They can also attract tourists, which can boost local businesses and create employment opportunities. In addition, impressive architecture can make residents feel proud of their city and create a stronger sense of community.

4. Do children these days still like doing arts and crafts?

Yes, I think many children still enjoy arts and crafts, although technology has become a major distraction in their daily lives. Activities such as drawing, painting and making models give children an opportunity to express their creativity. They can also be a refreshing break from screens and help children develop patience and concentration.

5. Why do some children enjoy making things by hand?

In my view, children enjoy making things by hand because they can turn their imagination into something tangible. It gives them a real sense of achievement when they see the finished product. Moreover, these activities can help them develop useful qualities such as patience, concentration and problem-solving skills.

6. Do you think art classes are important for children?

Yes, I believe art classes are quite important for children. They provide an opportunity for children to express themselves freely and develop their creativity. They can also build confidence because children can create something in their own unique way. In addition, art classes can teach them to appreciate beauty and think more imaginatively.

Why This Answer Is Useful for IELTS Speaking

This sample answer uses a clear structure, natural linking expressions, descriptive vocabulary and relevant examples. Instead of memorising every sentence, IELTS candidates should understand the ideas and adapt them to their own experiences.

A strong Speaking answer should sound natural and organised. Candidates can use topic-specific vocabulary, explain their ideas clearly and add examples wherever appropriate. The aim is to communicate confidently rather than simply use difficult words.

Quick Revision for Students

• Person: Mother
• Skill: Embroidery and stitching
• Products: Suits, dupattas, cushion covers and decorative items
• Materials: Fabric, colourful threads, needles and beads
• Strengths: Creativity, patience and attention to detail
• Key idiom: Think outside the box
• Advanced word: Tangible

Final Thoughts

The topic of making things by hand is a useful IELTS Speaking topic because it allows candidates to discuss creativity, traditional skills, hobbies, art and personal experiences. Practise the structure, learn the vocabulary and then personalise the answer so that your response sounds natural during the test.

Watch the video above for a complete explanation and speaking practice.