Latest reviews

Dr Miriam Silver reviewed: Try Enamel workshop - suitable for all abilities

"Teresa does fantastic workshops to learn crafts, particularly warm glass and enamelling. I did a full day workshop to learn to make enamel bowls, and it was probably the best crafting day I've done. We first made some small plaques, firing the powdered enamel in layers onto a copper blank, so I could learn to use stencils and different types of materials, including stringers, flakes and millefiore. Then I learnt to make my bowl, building up the layers on a copper blank until it was a glorious shiny peacock texture with blues and greens and golds shining through. I'd completely recommend checking out the workshops on offer, as Teresa was a great teacher, the quality of the work produced looked way more professional than I expected, and I came away really enthused about enamelling. She also made soup for lunch, carefully catering to everyone's needs, along with plenty of refills of tea. With the materials included, that made it amazing value for money, because I came away with three items and a new set of skills, having had a very enjoyable day."

Tricia Hudson reviewed: Kate Morrell willow sculpture courses

"Had a fantastic inspiring day with Kate on Saturday. I was a little apprehensive at first but was soon put at ease. I found Kate's instructions easy to follow and I didn't feel rushed at all. A great way to completely absorb yourself from the outside world and relax. The provided lunch was fabulous and home cooked. This workshop was bought as a Christmas present from my husband, and a great one it was and still is as I have a wonderful Heron waiting to go outside in the Spring. Thank you Kate for your patience."

Lesley Johnson reviewed: Explore your camera - Part 1 - Get off auto!

"Thanks Peter for great course. My objective was achieved - I now understand ISO in a digital context! Clearly more practice is required on my part but at least I know how to change settings to come off "auto ISO". (Maybe I should revert to "auto ISO" on dull days!!!)"

Going Digital West of England and South Wales responded:

"Auto ISO is fine in shutter priority but I think in Aperture you are best to stay in control, even if you are changing it frequently because of the weather."

Susan Kerslake reviewed: 1 Day bag making course - 10 design options

"I have made both the hobo and the shopping bag. The course and teaching was so good on the first course that I came back for another one. I can thoroughly recommend these courses. It is a lovely day crafting with a beautiful bag at the end of it."

Mike Baldwin reviewed: Four day intensive beginners woodwork course

"This intensive beginners course is superb and Ciaran is the best instructor I've ever come across. I really cannot rate the experience high enough. Where to start ...... first Ciaran himself ... he is pleasant, friendly, attentive and so good at explaining and demonstrating techniques. The course has a maximum of six people on it and we each have our own bench and tool set. This is a perfect number to create a great atmosphere and allow Ciaran to spend time with each of us individually. You start with an intro to the basic woodworkers tool kit and learn how to sharpen blades. Then move on to sawing and planning and by the end of day one you're cutting a mortice and tenon joint. On day two you start to make a display stand (similar to a light weight bar stool). Over the next three days Ciaran teaches you a large number of techniques which are used in its construction - measuring and marking out, squaring up, cutting, planning, chiselling, jointing, sanding, gluing, clamping, oiling and thoughout you learn how to handle all the tools correctly. It's so easy when someone with his great skills and communication shows you how. Our group arrived with varying degrees of experience ranging from none at all, through to long forgotten lessons at school to occasional home diy exponent. We all made an attractive stand of equal quality and amazed ourselves with what we'd achieved. Throughout the course Ciaran made us regular cups of tea, supplied endless packets of all sorts of biscuits and took us to lunch every day at the White Lion. We all arrived at 8:30 and started straightaway. Most days we finished about 17:45 and the last day about 18:30 but time flew by and I was on such a roll I could have stayed all night. Ciaran stays with you every minute of every day. You are totally immersed in a world of woodworking - Ciaran has his own workshop next door to the class workshop and he shows you bespoke pieces he is working on and discusses wood selection, hardwood suppliers, how to buy wood for your own projects and where to buy tools and what to look out for. I strongly recommend that before you set off for the course you search your home tool box (and any that the family may have) and take old tools along to show Ciaran. He is an enthusiast for old tools and emphasises that they are often much better quality than modern equivalents and urges you not to throw them away. He'll show you how to clean them up and sharpen them and during the odd quiet moment you can use the tools around you to sharpen blade and restore them. Above all you'll come away with great confidence and enthusiasm and eager to tackle projects that you never dreamt of being able to tackle. I found it important to take notes throughout the course otherwise I'd never remember the steps and many tips that Ciaran provided. Go for it - if you have the slightest interest in woodworking and would like to explore whether it could become a meaningful hobby, then book onto this course. You don't need to have done the one day beginners course. Fantastic experience, thank you Ciaran and thank you Cathy, Loz, Rich, Iggy, and Chris. 28.1.20"

Sara Reid reviewed: Leather Lined/Embellished Belt or Dog Collar Workshop

"I purchased this as a gift for my husband and he was delighted with the experience: Karen was incredibly skilled, knowledgeable and patient. The facilities and tools were excellent and she took time to answer the many questions that were thrown at her. It was my first foray into leatherwork and she took time to introduce me to the basic techniques before supporting me to produce the finished item. I left with a beautiful belt, valuable guidance and a real enthusiasm for the craft, thanks to Karen's passion and enthusiasm."

Judith Cowan reviewed: Small Leather Goods Workshop

"This class was a great introduction to working with leather. Richard was a fabulous, knowledgeable instructor who shared with us how leather is made and the types of leather suitable for different projects. Great workspace to work in and Richard took you through each step, making practice cuts on pieces of leather before working on your piece. Explaining the tools used along the way. Very enjoyable afternoon and a great course."

Alison Anthony reviewed: Have a go at kiln fired enamelling

"Attended this course recently and it was so much fun. Really enjoyed the variety of techniques used and Lesley is a wonderful teacher! I have done a similar course previously but this was very different and I learnt a lot more about how to work with enamel. Based in a fab studio! Would highly recommend and will definitely be looking into the other workshops offered by Lesley in future :)"

G Evans reviewed: Blacksmith experience day in Bristol with Joanna Williams, Fire Iron Art

"Joanna was brilliant. Really good. She covered all the bases, admin, H&S, equipment, tools, techniques, really clearly. She knows her environment and the capabilities of all materials so well after many years of experience, which is the invaluable element a good teacher brings to a new student. And this is a student that she has no idea of what they are able to do! She demonstrated, in stages, a basic learners piece which became my hands on introduction. She was fully attentive and guided my abilities without undermining my shortcomings in anyway, she was patient when I hadn't quite 'got it' without ever making me feel uncomfortable. She was also great in guiding and nudging me on personal pieces that I might want to try or trying other techniques not used on the learners piece given the limitations of time and skills. A one day workshop will not equate to a three year degree, a 7 years apprenticeship or a life long career, so that at the end of the workshop day I left with 5 trophy pieces I was thrilled with and also had a deep respect for the craft was a proper result in the hands of a wonderful teacher. Thankyou Jo!"

Fire Iron Art Blacksmithing responded:

"Hi Gyl, Thank you for the review and kind words. So glad you enjoyed the day and were happy with the pieces you made. It was a pleasure teaching you. Joanna"

Anne Gore reviewed: Beginners Mosaics Workshops near Exeter, Devon

"This is an excellent workshop, very well taught and which enables you in one session to take home a piece of mosaic work fully finished. Denny's teaching is fun and full. It is lovely to see her own work and then be let loose on an array of lovely tiles and glass. Mosaic combines art and craftmanship but this is an activity for all abilities."

Jackie Pollitt reviewed: Natural soap & cosmetic products workshop

"I did this course with my mum and sisters recently and we all thoroughly enjoyed the whole day. Jules is a natural at teaching, the atmosphere is very relaxed and friendly and all four of us were really pleased with the products we made and took home. The icing on the cake was the afternoon tea which was delicious! It's the second course we have done with Jules and Jan and we can thoroughly recommend it - a great day out!"

Crafters Cottage Holmfirth responded:

"Thank you so much Jackie for your lovely review and so glad you all enjoyed the course you were a fabulous family group who were a pleasure to have at Crafters Cottage xx"

Can you Candle - Candle making reviewed: Bespoke candle making workshop - Edinburgh

"The workshop was very enjoyable and the atmosphere relaxed. I love the fact we were sitting around Kerrylyn’s kitchen table. The whole process, from booking to workshop was seamless with Kerrylyn providing information and gift vouchers as requested. Kerrylyn sets the tone of the workshop which is light hearted, fun and informative. I would highly recommend the experience and I look forward to attending another one."

Sue reviewed: Oil painting day - In the artist's studio with Laura Andrew - Lincoln

"Attended an oil workshop with Laura. The studio is a lovely space. Laura was a very thoughtful, helpful, skilled and considerate tutor. I would definitely recommend this course for anyone at any stage in their learning."

Ilse Dodd reviewed: Lino Printing Day with Oxford Linocut Workshops

"I really enjoyed the course. Claire is an amazingly talented artist, and great tutor. I came away inspired to be more creative!"

Sandra reviewed: Hare Sculpture workshop with Jo Garden Art in beautiful Norfolk/Suffolk

"Myself and my friend Julie attended this course at the weekend. I have to say it was a delightful day in so many ways. We were part of a lovely group of fellow sculptors, with several laughs, amongst periods of deep concentration. Jo is a superb teacher and lovely host, and her husband and dear little dogs were equally welcoming (Olive the cat was a little more aloof , but gorgeous anyway). All the hares produced on the day were magnificent ! Kim Haredashian now has pride of place on the bookcase . Thanks so much Jo :)"

Jo Garden Art responded:

"Thank you Sandra - Kim Haredashian was bootylishish! So glad you and Julie had a great day. Olive has just had chicken for breakfast so is having 5 minutes of friendliness before the scowl returns ;-) xx"

Silvia reviewed: Natural Vegan Cold Process Soap Making

"I attended Lily's workshop with zero knowledge about the soap making process and it did exceed my expectations! She provides clear instructions and there is a great variety of scents and colours to play with. The atmosphere was great, she was lovely and the whole experience was very enjoyable. I travelled all the way from Birmingham and no question that I would do it again. 100% recommended!"

Green Fig Soap Studio responded:

"Thanks Silvia, really glad you had a lovely time, enjoy your soap :)"

Philippa reviewed: Making a stained glass art hanging

"This was a really enjoyable day making a stained glass art hanging. Caryl was lovely and walked us through various processes with ease, enabling us all to come away with something really quite fabulous! Only 4 people in the class, making sure you get all the help and attention you need. Can't recommend any course with Caryl enough, you won't be disappointed. Going back to do another course in June! Fabulous lunch too ? Thank you so much Caryl x"

Caryl Hallett Stained Glass responded:

"Thanks Philippa- so good to hear you all had a fab time! Caryl x"

Peter Robinson reviewed: Beginners spoon carving taster session

"Well thought out and extremely informative clear direction and monitoring. For someone who had never done this before, I found that the use of just 4 cuts was sufficient for me to take in for this taster session, and though a couple of them took some effort to get right, I eventually managed without losing too many fingers! All in all, the course was really good, better than I hoped for and has encouraged me to explore some other options as a potential hobby when I retire."

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

"I have just attended this course, which was bought for me as a gift, and had a wonderful time, leaving with a lovely hand made side table that I am truly pleased with. The small group format meant that Peter was able to pass on his extensive knowledge and enthusiasm for greenwood working and design, through both group instruction and individual advice, stepping in to show correct technique where necessary, while leaving you free to work on your own design. I worked with a friendly and interesting group of people, who all left with fabulous and individual completed tables and chairs. The course is held in and around Peters lovely workshop barn, well stocked with tools and timber. Peter was ably assisted by ‘Row’, who also provided great help and advice. Thoroughly recommended."

Baz & Jacqui Wilkinson reviewed: Hare Sculpture workshop with Jo Garden Art in beautiful Norfolk/Suffolk

"We did this workshop as a couple as it was bought as a birthday present for me. A perfect gift for so many reasons; a chance to explore a new form of art, to spend time together and to create great and lasting memories as well as a hare each. We both made a hare that we are very proud of and will cherish. In fact all 6 of us on the course made lovely hares... a testament to Jo’s teaching and enthusiasm. A lovely warm welcome from all the family... including the four legged, furry ones. A good location too. Definitely recommend and excellent value for money. We were absolute beginners and we managed to make a pair of hares. Thank you Jo."

Jo Garden Art responded:

"Thank you Baz & Jacqui - so glad you enjoyed your birthday surprise! I will be posting a photo on my website of the fabulous scrolled designs you made on the side of your hare - a wonderful idea! Jo x"

Jessie Johnstone reviewed: Stained Glass course

"Keith's one day workshop was absolutely fantastic. Easy to sort a suitable day to head over, so I headed over a few weeks after getting in touch. Keith told me a lot about his experience in the stained glass world... he has over thirty years of knowledge and skill to pass on and is so happy to share it. His workshop is a little den of glass goodies and when the sun hits it, the windows show off their glorious colours. I came to the workshop with some different ideas and Keith advised me which would be doable in the time. He showed me clearly and explained things in a very easy way. Once he felt confident that I knew what I was doing, he would leave me to it and would come to help as and when. It was a really relaxing and enjoyable atmosphere... I'm so happy with my rainbow window! Thank you Keith!"

Ajit reviewed: Green wood stool making weekend

"I had absolutely no experience with green wood working and George and Ivan did a great job of guiding me all the way to getting a stool made. They were relaxed, knowledgable, and great instructors. The setting for the course couldn't have been better and the combination of learning about British woodland, to staying in a yurt, to working in a wood was fantastic. Couldn't have asked for a better time! Also, very very tasty food for all the meals!"

Charles Atkinson reviewed: Wood turning courses

"One Day Wood Turning Course for Beginners – with George Foweraker Saturday 25/1/20 A Christmas present from my wife: a fabulous day laid on by George and Sue. George takes a maximum of two on the course at any one time, so the level of personal attention is high which is just what I needed, not having used a lathe since school woodwork classes back in the 70’s - which showed! We received a warm welcome and a cup of tea and then the day began. Many thanks to Sue for feeding us and providing teas and coffees through the day. George is an excellent tutor, splitting the session into discrete and logical sections with a clear explanation and demonstration for each step. He then leaves you to get on with the job and although never intrusive appears like magic when you need some help – he is friendly, approachable and patient. The whole day flew past and was never less than fascinating and thoroughly enjoyable. At the end of the day I had produced a bowl that I take an enormous amount of satisfaction (and not a little pride) in - three days later I’m still gawping at it in amazement. Thank you, George, you are inspiring."

Sara reviewed: Silver earrings workshop

"I loved this workshop, I made 8 beautiful pairs of silver earrings which were well received as Christmas presents. As ever great instruction from Jo who is always happy to share her skills. Lovely relaxed enjoyable workshop."

Joanne Tinley Jewellery responded:

"I'm very pleased to hear that the recipents liked their Christmas earrings - I hope you managed to keep at least one pair for yourself though! Thank you for your kind words."

Shari reviewed: Leather sandal making workshop

"Brilliant course, Nia was very knowledgeable about her craft and to pass on information on how to get started at home, where to get leather supplies from, and pattern adjustment. I came home with a unique beautiful pair of sandals. Thanks again Nia!"

The Smug Soles Co. responded:

"Thank you so much for your lovely review Sharon! I shared a picture of your sandals online and they had such a great response! A really lovely and unique pair of shoes. So glad you enjoyed the workshop :)"