Latest reviews

June reviewed: One day silver jewellery making in Worcestershire.

"I had a lovely day on the jewellery course with Jonathan, he is a good teacher, very helpful and patient. I made a lovely bangle for my daughter's 50th Birthday. I also enjoyed the cups of tea and cake! Hope to do another course soon!"

Salt Way Silver responded:

"Thank you June. Lovely to meet you and well done with the bangle. Jonathan"

Anil J reviewed: 2 Day Leather Practical Skills Course

"I recently attended Richard's 2 day workshop and in summary I can say it is truly excellent! I attended post covid and he has gone to great lengths to ensure the workspace is safe and socially distanced so there is nothing to worry about on that front. The course itself is very good, as Richard goes through all the important points of working with leather. You are provided with all the information you need to get started. There are also lots of tips and pointers as you start making your first items. Most importantly Richard is genuinely enthusiastic and knowledgeable about his craft and it shows in the way he runs this course. By the end of the course, to my amazement (even as a left hander) I had made several items which looked very professional! I enjoyed it so much I'm tempted to do another workshop..."

paula harrison reviewed: Art classes for adults at Ushaw College. 7 Week Course

"I signed up right from the start in January 2019 with some trepidation, having never even studied the subject to O Level standard (showing my age) but had always had the desire and that feeling of what if... Jayne's fabulous teaching, positivity and encouragement together with Michael's wonderful support and hard work have fulfilled my hopes and more. As other students have already mentioned the feel good factor derived from producing a pleasing piece of work coupled with the ability to switch off from life's pressures and troubles has been an absolute bonus, not to mention the wonderful social aspect. I love it and just keep on signing up to the next course, would thoroughly recommend it."

Colour Wheel County durham LTD responded:

"Thanks Paula"

Kim reviewed: Beginners 1-day 1-2-1 woodturning workshop for 1 person

"Great course- we got hands on very quickly and Simon was an excellent tutor. Gave very good explanations to all questions without throwing too much information at us. We made some beautiful bowls and had a memorable day. Absolutely loved it."

Blended Monkey - pottery - woodturning - green woodworking - pole lathe - throwing responded:

"Really pleased you had a good day Kim, and thank you for your fab review. You just need to convince Annie to to buy a lathe now ;-). Well done making some beautiful pieces!"

Annie reviewed: Beginners 1-day 1-2-1 woodturning workshop for 1 person

"As a total novice at wood turning (and all other crafts!) I had an amazing day. Simon pitched the day perfectly so we could get the most out of it. We learnt a lot and felt that we really achieved something. It was also great fun! We had a lovely lunch and felt utterly welcome with Simon and Louise."

Blended Monkey - pottery - woodturning - green woodworking - pole lathe - throwing responded:

"Annie, thank you for your lovely review. We're so pleased you enjoyed the workshop. You made some beautiful pieces and you should be very proud of your efforts :-). Thanks again!"

Alex Keating reviewed: Beginners 1-day 1-2-1 pottery / ceramics workshop for 1 person

"I brought the half day beginner pottery workshop for my mum for Christmas. We had a wonderful time with Louise. The instruction was clear and easy to follow. We really enjoyed the morning & can't wait to see our finished pots!"

Blended Monkey - pottery - woodturning - green woodworking - pole lathe - throwing responded:

"Thank you for your lovely review Alex. So pleased that you and your mum enjoyed the pottery workshop! I'm sure your glazed pots will look wonderful. Thanks again!"

Brett Jones reviewed: Individual 'Bushcraft blade in a day' course in Shropshire

"What a terrific day! Me and my Mother decided to attend this course after watching a show about bladesmithing. With the help of Jake we were able to make our very own knives! I would like to say a big thank you to Jake for such a wonderful experience and a chance to ignite our passion on a whole new level! His level of experience and warm personality made it a day we will never forget! Thank you again."

Hedge Ironworks responded:

"Thank you so much Brett for your kind words. It was a pleasure having you both at the workshop!"

Damian Pinel reviewed: Straw skep hive making course - with Bees for Development

"An excellent course. Tutor very knowledgable, engaging and enthusiastic. The venue, Yew Tree Inn, was first class and this contributed to a really enjoyable day. The booking process is simple and the Bees for Development staff most helpful. Highly recommended."

Belinda Dent reviewed: Creating ceramic animals courses - with James Ort & Alison Pink

"Fantastic two days of food for my soul in wonderful surroundings and friendly, approachable and helpful teaching. Really loved it."

The Phoenix Studio responded:

"Ahhh thanks Belinda! It was a lovely course and nice respite from all the covid madness! x"

Adrian Vanderplank reviewed: Straw skep hive making course - with Bees for Development

"A really good day learning the history and how to make skeps, it's made me appreciate the time and skill that goes into making them. Great venue and the lunch was excellent. Thanks again to Giacomo and Chris."

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

"I had so much fun and learnt a lot with expert tips for my first time. Joss was really attentive, helpful and friendly. It was a lovely environment to work in with inspiration galore. When I got home, I was eager to get on with another piece and have definitely found a new enjoyable hobby.x"

Peacock Mosaics responded:

"That’s great to hear Becky, good luck!"

John reviewed: One day leather work course - small leather goods

"Absolutely fantastic course. The explanations and tutoring given is brilliant. If you are thinking about going into leather working whether as a hobby or change in job. I cannot recommend this course highly enough. I finished the day with a professional looking made pencil case, which I had made. Completely pleased & delighted to of done the course."

Conrad Nelson reviewed: Stained glass leading for beginners

"A great course with a talented and dedicated professional artist. Do it for fun or to get an insight in tackling your own restoration project- either way by taking part you’re helping to promote the craft and support the artists who practice it."

Julie Muncey reviewed: Bespoke candle making workshop - Edinburgh

"Really enjoyed the workshop, very well lead. Informative yet relaxed. Kerry is very personable and her love for what she does shines through. It’s made me think hard about doing this as more of a business than a hobby. The morning flashed by, lots of laughs too along the way. Highly recommend x"

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

"Well organised and safe. Could work individually with help and support. Knowledge was given freely, a thoroughly enjoyable course."

Peacock Mosaics responded:

"Thank you Mary. Hope to see you again sometime. Joss"

Debbie Waterworth reviewed: Kate Morrell willow sculpture courses

"I enjoyed a great workshop with Kate this week. Kate offers a choice of sculpture you would like to make which is rare in this kind of workshop along with just the right amount of guidance in a relaxed environment. Lunch and refreshments are provided throughout the day and at the end you take home a fabulous sculpture. I would highly recommend."

Beth Trew reviewed: Beginners 1-day 1-2-1 pottery / ceramics workshop for 1 person

"I had a brilliant day with Louise. Not only did I learn how to throw, centre, cone up and down, open and pull a pot on the wheel but I also had a go at a slab vase and a pinch pot. I did the 1/2 day course and I wish I'd booked a full day as I could have stayed longer. Louise is a very talented potter and her work is all around her studio and inspires you to do better. She is encouraging, friendly, kind, patient, easy going and knowledgable. I would highly recommend doing this course. I am definitely going to re-book for some more tuition. Thanks Louise and Simon...for the tea!"

Blended Monkey - pottery - woodturning - green woodworking - pole lathe - throwing responded:

"Hi Beth, What a lovely review! Thank you so much :-). Massively pleased you found the workshop inspiring - and I had a funny feeling you'd enjoy the slab work just as much as the throwing ;-). Look forward to seeing you again - we can focus a little more on the whole "cylinder" thing then ;-). I'll let you know when your pots are ready to collect :-). Take care Louise"

Barbara Davies reviewed: Pottery wheel throwing & glass fusing 1-day course

"This day was shared with my husband and me, both being complete novices. Sarah provided a very positive day for me. She clearly explained the techniques and options available for my project and was always on hand supporting (but in an inobtrusive way) so I could try my own creative ideas whenever possible. I was amazed that I was able to make a range of items beyond what I had anticipated, and can't wait to collect the fired items in a few weeks. Would recommend this day course to anyone who wants to bring out their inner artisan. Barbara. I opted for a complete day of pottery with Chris. Obviously very experienced in running courses, he began with the necessary health and safety briefing. After a short demonstration, it was straight into throwing pots, which was just great. He gave just the right balance of advice and intervention and I completed numerous examples refining the shapes and gaining confidence during the morning. There was a chance to reflect over lunch and a much-needed coffee break. The afternoon was spent finalising each pot and decorating with liquid slip. I found the whole day both therapeutic and incredibly rewarding. I'm looking forward to seeing the finished products. Very much recommended. Mike"

Sarah Greening Glass responded:

"Thank you so much to you both for leaving such a comprehensive and glowing review! Very much appreciated - we'll be in touch as soon as your pieces are finished. Sarah & Chris"

Jane R reviewed: Beginner's Patchwork and Quilting Course

"I learnt so much on this course. I had always wanted to make a quilt but didn't know where to start. Jen explains things in such an easy to understand manner. I really enjoyed the course and I am now making quilts for all of my grandchildren!"

Sew Forest of Dean responded:

"Thank you Jane, it was a pleasure to get you started on your quilting journey :-)"

Abbie reviewed: Learn to Love your Sewing Machine

"Jen is a superb teacher with so many ideas and I have really enjoyed this workshop. I now feel confident to use my machine and can't wait to get started. The studio is a gorgeous place to spend the day. Thank you."

Sew Forest of Dean responded:

"Thank you Abbie, and thank you for booking on another workshop! I'll see you again soon :-)"

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

"I have been doing Deana's courses for more than two years now on an ongoing basis. She is talented, funny and gives great feedback, both constructive and useful. My writing has developed enormously by doing her classes. Although the classes are only an hour long, absolutely no time is wasted and every class, no matter what the topic, is really useful and enjoyable. I have done longer courses (2.5 hours per class) through other organisations and I must say that Deana's have remained my favourite. Every class is different, covering a variety of aspects of writing and how to write different genres and even if one of the classes isn't where your interests lie, it doesn't matter because you pick up valuable tips and learn how to apply different tools which can be applied across any type of writing. The way the classes are structured means that you don't have to attend every week which is really flexible. I would highly recommend Deana's classes. Overall, the classes are fun, great value for money, professional and consistently great and would suit people of all levels."

Deana Luchia responded:

"Claire, thank you so much. I'm so happy you're still enjoying the course. I always like reading your homework. You create really arresting characters and interesting stories."

Sarah Whatman reviewed: French Polishing & Woodcare - 2 Day Beginners/Intermediate Workshop

"I thoroughly enjoyed this course and was really pleased with what I achieved and learnt over the two days. Ollie is a patient instructor and gave lots of handy hints and advice while I was restoring a bistro chair. Even though I am a complete novice, I found it easy to follow the different steps and am now keen to apply what I learnt to another small project. Thank you Ollie for an enjoyable couple of days!"

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

"Having done a one day workshop with Jo I teamed up with another student & came back to do a 2 day course this week. Jo encourages and helps with whatever ideas you have; with this, two of us made Giacometti style figures that are as tall as we are and Helen made a delightful goat that was finished in clay. We even had time to model a small clay hare to take home. The studio is a relaxing place that encourages creativity & the freedom to explore your own talents. I am already considering what to sculpt on my next visit. Oh, and there is still as much chocolate available as in there is on the 1 day workshop. Superb tutor & environment. Excellent welding skills from Andy too who prepared our armatures!"

Jo Garden Art responded:

"Thank you Terry! Your Giacometti inspired man will make a big statement in your garden ;-) Andy enjoyed the welding challenge of getting the body positioned just right. Looking forward to seeing you with the next challenge!!! Jo x"

Mimi Power reviewed: Glass fusing private class - fun taster class for beginners

"My daughter has recently picked up the beautiful pieces of glass art work she created after a full morning session spent with Sarah. She is especially delighted with her main piece and is hopeful she will be able to include this in her Art GCSE portfolio next year. Sarah explained everything clearly and there were opportunities to practice certain techniques so that my daughter was able to create her piece entirely independently. Thank you Sarah for a lovely morning and a great introduction into the world of glass fusing! Whilst I didn’t actually produce anything I thoroughly enjoyed learning about the process and looking at all of Sarah’s beautiful creations. I am now also the proud owner of two of her gorgeous jewellery pieces!!"

Sarah Greening Glass responded:

"Em should be rightly proud of her main piece! She listened and had practice at the different techniques. A pleasure to teach her and hope she does really well in her exams next year."

Chris reviewed: Blacksmith Experience Day - Anvil Forge

"Unique experience, learnt new skills. Tutor to pupil ratio good. The guys were very helpful, patient and informative. A good day well spent. Thank you Anvil Forge. 1 tiny criticism, signage could be better!"

Anvil Forge responded:

"Hi Chris thanks for feedback , I am pleased you enjoyed the day . I must admit yes signage not great but waiting on some new signs being produced! thanks John"