Latest reviews

Kathryn Sheffle reviewed: Pottery throwdown at Claynglaze Pottery

"Such a fun afternoon. Excellent teachers who build your confidence to create something you are proud of. Great company and great cake too! Thank you Wendy and Matt."

Bridget from Gloucester reviewed: Hand embroidery Workshop - Garden Borders with Julie Brand at Tigley Textiles in Worcestershire

"I had a fabulous day at the Tigley studio doing the Garden Borders. A relaxed day learning lots of new techniques, thank you so much!"

Jackie from Dymock reviewed: Hand embroidery Workshop - Garden Borders with Julie Brand at Tigley Textiles in Worcestershire

"Another fantastic day with Tigley Textiles. I've learnt more stitches and how to use fabrics for layering. Great teaching, so helpful and inspiring. Hugely enjoyable."

Liz from Lancashire reviewed: Hand embroidery Workshop - Garden Borders with Julie Brand at Tigley Textiles in Worcestershire

"What a wonderful craft shed! Julie is inspirational, encouraging and a very patient teacher. I can't praise her highly enough. My garden border was mounted and I took away a lovely finished piece- I'm coming back!"

Joan Wilkinson reviewed: Weave a scarf in a day - handloom weaving

"I had a very enjoyable day at Ripley. This was a technique I had always wanted to try and I was not disappointed with what I learned in six hours. I now am the proud owner of a scarf I can say 'I made myself', with a lot of help from Anne, and it has already been admired. Anne is a very patient teacher who was very willing to impart of her knowledge. It is certainly a day I would love to repeat. Thank you Anne Joan"

Sioux Watchorn reviewed: Beginners Weaving Workshop in Brighton

"Siobhan was very friendly and welcoming, even though we turned up late. She gave good instructions and, with a relatively small group, she was able to offer one to one support for those of us a little slow on the uptake. Not anything Siobhan could control but the other weavers were pretty miserable but our group of 4 had a whale of a time weaving and drinking (tea for some and prosecco for the others). I was really pleased with what I went away with and all in all had a fabulous time. My only constructive criticism and advice for Siobhan would be the workshop gets very cold. We were fully wrapped up and still shivering so I would recommend some more heaters!"

Shiv Textiles responded:

"Thanks for your review and thanks for coming. I love sharing my love of textiles with others. I don't think the other students on the course were miserable, they just didn't know each other. Weaving takes a lot of conscious, some students end up working in silents as they find it easier. I'm so sorry you were cold, the heater was at the other end of the room. For my next workshop, I will make sure there is another heaters at the other end of the room. Thanks again for your helpful feedback. Kind regards Siobhan"

Laura Riddell reviewed: Blacksmith experience day in Bristol with Joanna Williams, Fire Iron Art

"This was a wonderful birthday for my big 3-0 from my partner! I've never done any metal work before so wasn't entirely sure what to expect but it was such a brilliant day! Joanna was brilliant at explaining the steps, doing practical demos and then giving helpful guidance when it was my go to get stuck in. I was really proud of the hooks & handles I made and I cannot wait to put up around the house as a nice reminder of my day! Joanna is super talented as both a blacksmith and a teacher (a rare, but excellent combination of skills!) I cannot recommend this course enough!"

Shirley reviewed: One day fused glass

"I had a really enjoyable glass fusing day with Melissa, she was very knowledgeable and patient. I would recommend the day."

Nicola Sturrock reviewed: Half day Christmas themed cold process soap making workshop with Keri at The Soap Coach

"Thoroughly informative course which was well presented, hands on and professionally run. Keri was on hand to answer any questions and nothing was too much trouble. Thank you for a lovely 1/2 day, just wish it was longer!"

The Soap Coach Limited responded:

"Thank you so much Nicola. I am really pleased you had a great morning and enjoyed the course. If you have any questions at all following on from it please do get in touch. Keri"

Maria Clancy reviewed: 1-to-1 Organic Skincare Workshop at Maid in the Meadow

"What a fantastic, fun filled day my friend and I had with Allison making lotions and potions. Allison was friendly, accommodating and shared her knowledge of making homemade beauty products. The workshop was very well stocked and we were able to choose the types of skincare products to suit our skin. The ingredients were of high quality and after using them at home, I must say my skin feels lovely. I will definitely be making my own at home with the help of a very informative handbook Allison gave us. We absolutely loved the day and have recommended to friends who may be interested in making their own skincare products."

Lynn and Brett Osborne reviewed: 1 Day bag making course - 10 design options

"We have taken a few courses with the lovely Bex and, as always had a fantastic day making the Hobo bag. Bex's studio has great lighting and is well equipped with plenty of work space and sewing machines. Bex has been sponsored by Tysew and has several of their industrial sewing machines for student use. As it was our first time using industrial machines with walking feet, she spent time explaining how to use them and allowing us time to practice. We soon had the hang of it, and made the bags with no problem. Bex always uses top quality leather and hardware so the bags are stunning, I have had lots of comments about my lovely bag, my mum has bag envy!! . Lunch was provided and it was really enjoyable to sit with the other students and have a natter. We travelled from north Kent (around 80 miles) but soon found another student had travelled further and was also a repeat student. Obviously shows what a great teacher Bex is! I'm a confident sewer but learnt a huge amount from Bex. I've booked again to make the backpack in March."

Lizzie Phillips reviewed: Upholstery course - bring your own project

"I'd wanted to reupholster a couple of little old tub chairs and managed to complete one on a weekend course. There was a lot to it and I enjoyed learning all the different aspects of this upholstery job. Polly was a very patient and knowledgeable teacher. Lunch was delicious, and much needed! Thanks Polly for a great weekend!"

jon nicholls reviewed: Pottery Tuition ~ Learn how to Throw on the Potter's Wheel, Slab-build and Coil in 1 Full Day's Attentive Teaching

"Sophie and I attend a 121 pottery class with Sonya this weekend. I have to say it was a while since I did any pottery throwing, so was a little apprehensive. However Sonya was brilliant, she took us through a demonstration and then asked us to try it out...very mindful and tactile experience. We even managed to produce a couple of pots each - hope they don't explode in the kiln! Sonya is very knowledgeable about all aspects of pottery, glazing etc. and I would thoroughly recommend her course...even if it's just for the fun element. Thanks Sonya"

Sonya Ceramic Art responded:

"Dear Jon, Thank you for your enthusiastic review. I very much enjoyed showing you and Sophie the different techniques of throwing and helping you both start to build a 'personal formula' for the different hand positions. You both did so well to produce 5 pieces in total which I will be gazing for you as momentous of the experience. Your pieces should be ready in the next couple of weeks so I will be in contact then. Best Wishes, Sonya :-)"

Stephen Morris reviewed: 2 Day forged chef's knife course.

"Well, where do i start? This course is great and very interesting. Steve is a top bloke and is a great teacher of this art. I would recommend White Tiger Knives (Steve) for either course. His workshop is equipped with the necessary tools inc a kettle & biscuits. You will thoroughly enjoy this course, I know I will be back to build on my knowledge on the future. Thanks again Steve"

White Tiger Knives responded:

"Hi Steve Thank you for your comments about your two day knife course with me. You created a beautiful Santoku and I know it'll serve you well. From our conversations over the two days I could see you've become a bit of a lost cause as far as bladesmithing is concerned. You've been bitten and there's no turning back now. ATB Steve White Tiger Knives"

Rachel Bartley reviewed: Make a Garden Mosaic in Manchester City Centre

"Was nervous but Tracey put you at ease. Very knowledgeable. Great start off project to make a decent size fridge mosaic and a more decorative piece which dried throughout the day, and with the time allotted allowed you were able to go back to and learn more quality knowledge about mosaics. Started a larger project as well. You were given a goodie bag of materials to finish your project at home or if you live near come to her classes once a week. Thoroughly enjoyed myself and going back for more!!"

Tracey Cartledge Artist responded:

"Thank you for the lovely review, Rachel. You made a lot of progress in one day and left with two great mosaics, the completed fridge mosaic and your beautifully detailed robin mosaic. I'm really pleased that I'll be seeing you and the robin again at the weekly evening class!"

Claire Stoddard-Jones reviewed: Calligraphy lessons for beginners, Gothic Old English

"I have attended two of the beginner’s classes run by Northwest Calligraphers Association and have thoroughly enjoyed them. Andrew is a brilliant teacher with an in-depth knowledge of calligraphy having taught it for many years. His classes are relaxed and fun and he also makes sure that each person has time on a one to one basis with him to help with technique. This is a great starting point for learning calligraphy."

Emma reviewed: Absolute beginners beaded jewellery workshop

"We booked with Scarlet for a group of 18 girls. Scarlet was lovely and the girls thoroughly enjoyed the workshop. We can't wait to work with Scarlet again. Thank you"

Scarlets Fairy Folk responded:

"Many thanks for the review Emma, your girls aged 11 to 13 were all lovely and made very individual bracelets, and I must say they were the least messy with the beads group we ever had, very disciplined :) As tutors we really enjoyed the workshop and hope you book with us again. Scarlet."

Louise Fletcher-Moran reviewed: Watercolour painting day - Floral & botanical - with artist Laura Andrew

"I had such a beautiful day painting with Laura. I was a total beginner with the watercolours but felt like I could paint due to Laura's kind yet constructive feedback and help. I would absolutely recommend her courses and will definitely go back!"

Fiona reviewed: Container candlemaking course and wax melts with afternoon tea

"I really enjoyed this course. The setting was really lovely, great welcome and fun and productive day. Julie is so knowledgeable about her subject, and patient and generous and funny too. Recommended to anyone from those who want to set up a candle making business to those who want to dabble and have a go. Thank you."

Charlotte reviewed: Woodcarving for beginners - two day course in Suffolk

"I had a fantastic time on Gerry's 2 day beginners course this January 2020. I was a total beginner. I learnt so much, and feel I achieved so much too! This was thanks to Gerry's excellent teaching style and to the great resources available to us all. I loved the way everything was demonstrated in a step-by-step way, as well as how core information about the wood and the tools was shown and discussed. It was possibly one of the most relaxing and therapeutic things I have ever done. I'd love to try the weekly classes."

Gerald Adams Woodcarvers Ltd responded:

"Thanks for the lovely review Charlotte. It would great to have you at a weekly class. Still spaces on a Tuesday. Keep in touch. Thanks again Gerry"

Anouska Byrne reviewed: Craft Workshop: Learn to make silver art clay jewellery in a day (beginner)

"I thoroughly enjoyed the beginners silver clay workshop, Sally is an excellent tutor, and a fountain of knowledge which she was more than happy to share. The day was fun with a relaxed environment. I can't recommend this course highly enough, for anyone looking for a new craft don’t look any further. A great fun day, I will definitely be booking another course. ?"

Craft Workshops responded:

"Thank you Anouska ~ we did have a really great day and I know you are setting up at home now to make more jewellery which is fantastic! Looking forward to seeing you again soon :) Sally"

joanna Bradley reviewed: Felt Pictures-Painting with fibres - intro to 2D wet felting/felt making

"Had a fantastic afternoon learning how to make a 2D felt picture last Saturday. The atmosphere was relaxed and the teaching supportive and informative. I was really surprised and pleased with the work I was able to achieve in the 3 hours and am looking to go back to perfect my skills and learn more about the process. I came away feeling really energised and excited about learning a new skill and Heather had time for us all and we all came away with a great piece of art. I am really keen to do more now and will be looking to take this up as another art form... I would highly recommend...."

Kim Clark reviewed: Fused glass day course - beginners/intermediate

"Fantastic day course with Nicky providing great teaching and support, whilst letting you follow your own 'artistic' ideas! This was my first course on glass fusion and it could not have been more fun and interesting. I made a bowl and a coaster and would thoroughly recommend the course to anyone. Certainly planning on another visit to the lovely workshop in the beautiful setting."

Shyam reviewed: Make a Windsor-style stool

"I had a great time. Ben gives clear and interesting descriptions and demonstrations and helps you just the right amount. It’s good fun trying out all the different tools. Time flies! I love my new stool, too."

Heather reviewed: Upholstery course - bring your own project

"I had such a great week learning upholstery, there is a lot more to it than I knew! Which made it even more enjoyable. The week has really inspired me and I’ve decided to do more training with Polly, who is a really good teacher. So helpful and knowledgable, I would recommend her to anyone who is interested in giving upholstery a go. I look forward to learning much more! Thanks again Polly :)"