Latest reviews

John Nicholson reviewed: Art classes for adults at Ushaw College. 7 Week Course

"During my university career in Science Education, I ran courses for adult learners and saw many others in action. Quite simply, this is the best organised and most productive of the many I have run, seen, and enjoyed (or otherwise!). Jayne and Michael are a great double act, bringing together their different skills to make sure that every member of their class can make 2D art of good quality, some of it outstanding. Jayne is an accomplished artist and teacher who understands the essentials of drawing and painting in a range of media and puts them across with energy and enthusiasm. Michael manages the day-to-day running of the course, makes sure we have the materials on hand - all set out for us when we were at Ushaw College so that we spent our time on art. They were superb online during lockdown. At times It was just like the old days."

Colour Wheel County durham LTD responded:

"Thanks John"

Terry reviewed: Stonecarving Weekend, Gloucestershire Cotswolds

"Lovely setting , and a pleasant laidback method of teaching.Overall a very enjoyable experience. Terry"

Amanda Morgan reviewed: One day bangle/ring workshop

"A fantastic day of learning and fun with a wonderful teacher. Never thought I could do this but Jolene makes it so easy with her step by step directions. She made us all feel at ease during these uncertain times of Covid."

Jolene Smith responded:

"Thank you x"

Sue reviewed: Quilt in a Day, one-to-one course with Amanda Jane Ogden

"Fantastic day in a beautiful historic building quilting with Amanda. She is a patient, careful and inspiring teacher. All Covid precautions were respected and a safe environment for learning was created. I’m very pleased with my finished quilt and ready to start on my next project. Thank you so much"

Amanda Jane Textiles responded:

"Thank you for your review, Sue. It was good to meet you and your finished quilt was lovely. Well done. Lots of quilt-making ahead! Amanda"

Gill Naylor reviewed: Creating ceramic animals courses - with James Ort & Alison Pink

"A most wonderful two days sculpting clay animals. I've never left so revived and revitalised. I can't wait to try this at home. Thank you so much."

The Phoenix Studio responded:

"Ahhh thanks for the feedback Gillian! I think we all needed that course after a pretty hellish year x"

Dan Gibbons reviewed: Individual 'Bushcraft blade in a day' course in Shropshire

"Booked onto the 'Bush knife in a day' course after finding Hedge Ironworks online. Any nerves were completely laid to rest upon meeting Jake, personable, friendly and a consummate professional. Jake welcomed me into his workshop and talked through all the equipment with dazzling detail, all health and safety aspects adhered to the day began superbly. Throughout the day Jake delivered outstanding instruction allowing me to produce my very own forged Bush knife. I would absolutely encourage people to book on this course, you will not be disappointed. I will definitely be back."

Hedge Ironworks responded:

"Thank you so much for your kind words Dan! The pleasure was all mine. Very much looking forward to having you back at the forge!"

Adelaide Morgan reviewed: One day bangle/ring workshop

"Came with my family as a bubble and had a wonderful time, felt incredibly safe and welcomed. Great activity to do while in these uncertain times, will be returning soon !!!"

Sue Grist reviewed: Sculpture workshop two days with Jo Garden Art in beautiful rural Norfolk/Suffolk border setting

"Attended the 2 day sculpture course along with my two sisters. Had an absolutely wonderful two days. Never knew I had it in me, being artistic that is! Well I think so anyway. My cat has pride of place in my hallway. Thoroughly enjoyed every minute, Jo is so patient and really encourages you to express yourself via your creative work. Worth every penny and was great bonding for me and my sisters. Next time I am going to try abstract art. Go on, give it a go, you wont regret it."

Jo Garden Art responded:

"Thank you so much Sue! You made a fabulous cat complete with whiskers ;-) and I'm so pleased he has a new home in your hallway. It would be great to see you on an Abstract Art workshop! Jo x"

Susan Bickford reviewed: Art classes for adults at Ushaw College. 7 Week Course

"I left a review 8 months ago and can only reiterate my positive comments and add to them. I have loved this course from the very start and was so disappointed when it had to stop due to the Corona virus lock down but Jayne and Michael didn't let us down - they provided weekly projects via e-mail and videos, set up a class WhatsApp group which has kept us in contact with our classmates and Zoom classes. Although it wasn't the same as attending classes in person it was the next best thing and has kept me entertained during these long weeks and I can't wait to start again at Ushaw College in September when I know Michael and Jayne have worked wonders to accommodate us and get us back into class. Thank you again both of you! Susan Bickford"

Colour Wheel County durham LTD responded:

"Thanks Susan. Looking forward to your return in September."

Denise Barlow reviewed: Creating ceramic animals courses - with James Ort & Alison Pink

"Really enjoyed the modelling tutoring given by James and Alison and a chance to create my own pieces over the 2 day course. Such a lot to get done in the two days and felt a little rushed to complete two pieces in the time allotted . Looking forward to glazing the figures to bring them to life if they make it through the first kiln firing. Thank you to James and Alison for their help and guidance on the course."

The Phoenix Studio responded:

"Thanks Denise, we got there in the end and you did great, especially given the covid situation we had to cope with! See you both soon for glazing! x"

Roger H reviewed: Introduction to spooncarving at Hill End

"Having no experience of working with wood, let alone carving using sharp tools and knives I was rather hesitant about this course; but the thought of creating, through my own efforts, a useful and beautiful wooden object spurred me on to apply for a place on David's spoon-carving course in 2018. How wrong I was to be so uncertain, from the word GO It was a most enjoyable day. There were about eight in the group and we met outdoors in very pleasant surroundings, we were all new to spoon-carving and very impressed with the examples that David had laid out before us. David himself is an inspirational teacher, it was clear from the start that not only is he a superb craftsman, but that he is also driven to share his knowledge and talents with others. The first part of the day, much to my pleasure, dealt with safety, then armed with the knowledge of how to keep ourselves and others safe we were taken step by step through the process of carving a spoon. I tasted an experience that day that has lasted and will last me a lifetime and that experience, quite simply, is the pleasure of working with wood by hand. The feel, the texture, the smell of freshly cut wood and the work involved to produce something so personal and individual and functional as a spoon was and still is quite wonderful. Since that course I have joined the Oxfordshire Bodgers which is organised by David and continued to develop my skills and interest in green woodworking. All in all, I can thoroughly recommend this course it is useful, practical and above all creative as well as being me back to nature. David, as I have said, is an inspirational teacher and mentor. Through his passion, knowledge and enthusiasm I have learned new skills and developed a new and enjoyable interest."

David Knight Woodland Crafts responded:

"I’m blushing! Thanks so much for the review Roger and it is wonderful to see how you’ve developed yourself as a woodcarver, exploring the properties of different wood species and incorporating that into your designs."

Steff reviewed: Introduction to Green Wood Furniture Making - 2 Day Course in South Devon

"As a complete novice to woodworking, I had no idea how I would do on this course. However, Peter and his apprentice Toby were brilliant in instructing the group and we all came away with really amazing pieces of furniture. I thought I'd really messed up at one point but Peter fixed the problem so you can barely tell anything went wrong, which I was so relieved about! I would fully recommend this course to everyone, brilliant few days working with my hands in the Devonshire sun :)"

Peter Lanyon Furniture responded:

"Thanks Steph, thoroughly enjoyed working with you. Enjoy tour new table. Peter"

Lorraine Doll reviewed: Introduction to Furniture Restoration at Craven Conservation

"Had such an informative day and found it so helpful in approaching my current furniture projects. I brought a small cabinet with me to the course which needs repair and Bill helped me to assess the structure and create a treatment plan for it which I have started on my return home. I really had very little knowledge and Bill was able to advise me on the basic tools and materials I needed to buy to get started. Without Bill's input I would have made stripping all my furniture as the starting point (YouTube advice) and now I realise after the course it's actually the final resort and not what my furniture needed. Once I finish my current projects I will return to pick up more restoring skills. My course was taken August 2020 during Covid 19 restrictions and I felt appropriate measures were taken so a very safe environment was provided. Thank you Bill for a very enjoyable day."

Steve Tapp reviewed: One day stained glass classes by Le Breton Traditional

"Thanks Matt for a great day learning the basic skills for stained glass. A class size of 5 was ideal to enable you to develop your skills on your own but also to know that any assistance was not far away. Will definitely do a follow up course as it is a craft that you could do at home with great reward in seeing your completed pieces. Steve"

Tracy Groom reviewed: Quilt in a Day, one-to-one course with Amanda Jane Ogden

"I spent a day with Amanda on this course and found her experience invaluable. She was patient, informative and understanding. I completed a sample quilt which I thoroughly enjoyed making. I would recommend this course to anyone with an interest in quilting."

Amanda Jane Textiles responded:

"Thank you for your review Tracy. I hope this will be just the start of your quiltmaking! Looking forward to seeing the photo of your finished item. Amanda"

Ali Yenidunya reviewed: Stonecarving Weekend, Gloucestershire Cotswolds

"It is no wonder why this course is in the 'Platinum Award' category. I spent 2 great days with Sebastian and other lovely people who took the same course. In a pleasant and peaceful setting, you forget your problems and focus only on your own project. I guarantee that you will never understand how time will have passed by the end of the second day. Sebastian is an easygoing and helpful person. His approach is not based on imposing a set of instructions on you, rather he listens to you, and understands what you want to achieve. He is very supportive. Whenever you need help, he is right next to you. He is also a very kind person. I am so very thankful to him. I learned so much in these 2 days and I am definitely going to be back. If you are new to stone masonry and want to give it a go, please do not think about it, just book it!"

Chris B reviewed: Axe or bladesmithing weekend workshop – 2 days making your choice of a seax, bushcraft, bowie or chef knife

"Having taken this course (2 day Axe Making) over the past weekend, I can say it was worth every second and every penny. Matt is an excellent instructor and host, patient and informative (he even put up with my 1 billion questions and answered every one of them). Both days flew by with how fun they where and you really do make something you will be proud of. He even kept me brewed up with nice tea and coffee. Ali was a wonderful hostess and very friendly, The provided food was wonderful both days and they are just great people. Will be taking another course in the future."

Deby Young reviewed: Woodturning courses in Hampshire - Beginners and improvers wood turning courses - Turn British, all British lathes!!

"Wow, what a great day. Andy is so knowledgeable and patient. I had so much fun. Martine is lovely, very friendly and a great host. I would thoroughly recommend them both."

Andy Browne Woodturning responded:

"Hi Deby - the pleasure was all ours! Hope to see you back someday, if you need any help just drop me a line or give me a ring! Andy & Martine"

Jocelyn reviewed: "Sparkle & Shine": beginner mosaic workshops with Joss Hughes, Peacock Mosaics

"Lovely morning learning about mosaic. Joss was really helpful and I have come away inspired to try other mosaic projects."

Peacock Mosaics responded:

"Good to know! Have fun!"

Louise cranton reviewed: "Sparkle & Shine": beginner mosaic workshops with Joss Hughes, Peacock Mosaics

"Lovely morning with a Joss learning mosaic, I will be doing more ! Very enjoyable, would highly recommend xx"

Peacock Mosaics responded:

"Thanks Louise"

Bonnie reviewed: Creative Writing Course, one-to-one tuition, via Zoom.

"I had all but given up on my dreams of becoming a writer, but doing this course inspired me to pick up a pen (well, keyboard) and start trying again. Deana is a skilled and experienced teacher, who offers a positive and comfortable environment for you to explore your creative ideas. Beforehand, I thought that one-to-one zoom sessions might be awkward, but it was relaxed and fun. As with any creative writing course, you will get out what you put in, and there is enough structure and practical guidance to help develop your work, but lots of practical opportunities to explore your own style. I would highly recommend this course for writers at any level of experience - I'm certainly glad I did it."

Deana Luchia responded:

"Bonnie, thank you! I'm so happy you enjoyed the course."

Kate Smith reviewed: 'Sunset' wool fibre painting kit

"My husband bought the Sunset In Wool Painting Kit which I did online over the weekend. What a fantastic present creating this picture online with Raya's. It was so therapeutic, relaxing and having a great time with people I haven't met before. I lacked confidence in the very beginning but as the day went on I became confident using Raya's unique teaching methods. I would recommend this course to anyone and I have mentioned this to my sister as she is a keen on Arts and Crafts."

Magic Wool Art and Craft Studio responded:

"Dear Kate, Thank you very much for leaving the review. I am so glad that you found the kit really useful and enjoyed my therapeutic online wool painting course. Look forward to seeing you again soon at the next wool painting course with live tuition. Raya Brown"

Ana Rubio reviewed: Macrame Pot Hanger Workshop

"What a great workshop! It was so nice to just switch off from everything and focus on one thing and being in the moment. A great way to learn something new and practice mindfulness. I loved it! Alice is lovely and so patient. And I'm chuffed with my pot hanger. I would definitely recommend this workshop."

Lydia reviewed: Jewellery School 4 day intensive course at The Cheshire School of Jewellery

"10/10, 5*, fantastic! This is a must-do course for anyone looking for a new skill or hobby or even to brush up their knowledge from any previous workshops/online tutorials. Lisa’s experience was obvious from the off-set - she is extremely knowledgable, creative and patient! I cannot stop looking at my creations - a sea glass bezel set sterling silver ring and 2 additional stacking sterling silver rings (as well as numerous amounts of pretty copper practice pieces). I thoroughly enjoyed the 4 day course, set in the new and fully equipped workshop. I would recommend Lisa and her courses to anyone!"

Cheshire School of Jewellery responded:

"Thank you Lydia! so glad you enjoyed the course and have fun creating more sea glass pieces! I look forward to seeing them."

Kate Smith reviewed: ‘Sunset in wool painting' interactive online course with live tuition

"My husband bought the Sunset In Wool Painting Kit which I did online over the weekend. What a fantastic present creating this picture online with Raya's support. It was so therapeutic, relaxing and having a great time with people I haven't met before. I lacked confidence in the very beginning but as the day went on I became confident using Raya's unique teaching methods. I would recommend this course to anyone and I have mentioned this to my sister as she is a keen on Arts and Crafts."

Magic Wool Art and Craft Studio responded:

"Dear Kate, Thank you so much for your lovely review. I really enjoyed teaching you and I am so glad that you liked the therapeutic wool painting course. Look forward to seeing you again at one of my wool painting or felt making courses. Regards Raya"