Latest reviews

Jane and louise reviewed: Fused Glass Flowers Wave or Candle Holder Workshop

"We had a super day at the fused glass workshop, gentle , and without pressure. We learnt a lot and our tutor answered questions without making you feel stupid. We would recommend to everyone a lovely way to spend a morning. Ps I had no skills but I'm proud of the result !"

Stanwick Lakes Art and Craft Courses responded:

"Good Afternoon Jane, Thank you so much for taking the time to write a review and for your lovely words, We're so glad you had a lovely time with us and we look forward to seeing you at another course soon! Kind regards, Stanwick Lakes Team"

Rebecca Shillito reviewed: Half Day Potters Wheel & Clay Hand Building, Heskin Chorley

"It was my first experience using the wheel and Hannah was fantastic, explaining everything & supporting me throughout! I had a great time - thank you!"

The Crafty potter responded:

"Hi Rebecca Thank you for your fab review- you did awesome, it was a pleasure having you in the studio xx"

FandA reviewed: Circular Sock machine one to one lessons

"We arrived with a non working sock machine and left with one that worked. Julie's husband was very patient and got the machine working by the time we left. We were able to complete a pair of socks on Julie's machine. However, on the domestic front, all was not well. During the time we were there, we were only offered one drink, and I had to supply my own tea bag as the promised beverages were not available."

Circular Sock Machine school responded:

"Thank you for your review. I would like to return your ribber disc that my partner is modifying for you, however I don’t have your postal address. Please message me privately with your address and I will post it back to you. "

Jonathan Rounce reviewed: Line & Wash ... 'Painting buildings in the Landscape' with John Harrison ...a Quirky Workshop at Greystoke Craft Garden and Barns

"My wife, Catherine, and I attended John Harrison’s wonderful workshop and thoroughly enjoyed the whole experience - the teaching, company, the catering & the fascinating location. As a pure pen & ink artist I had never dabbled with colour/wash and so was nervous, but John soon put me at my ease with his inspiring examples of bringing pen and ink to life with colour wash. His book too is a very useful reminder of how to perfect this wonderful art form. "

Quirky Workshops at Greystoke Craft Garden and Barns responded:

"Thank you Jonathan for this lovely review, we're so glad you both thoroughly enjoyed your day. We'll pass on your comments to John who no doubt will be delighted to hear how successful his teaching is in giving students of all abilities and experience such enjoyment in trying something new. It's lovely to hear when all the aspects of the day come together to make a thoproughly enjoyable day. We hope to welcome you and Catherine back here again soon. Annie and the Team"

Julian Morgan reviewed: Mig Welding For Beginners Introductory Day Course.

"Thank you Tony for an excellent day of training. We learnt so much that will give us the safe and correct way how to set up and use the MIG equipment. Best wish Julian"

Newport Wrought Ironwork responded:

"Thank you for your positive comments, I hope you continue to develop your welding skills in your own workshop. It was great meeting you both. Regards Tony "

Faye Lockwood reviewed: Jewellery Workshop - Make a Silver Ring

"I took my mum to her ring making experience and honestly we had such a lovely time. Sheila was excellent, she was really patient and explained everything well. It was a safe and clean workspace that was very obviously looked after well. We had a blast and came away with some lovely pieces. Well worth it!"

Paul Brock reviewed: Beginners 1-day 1-2-1 woodturning workshop for 1 person

"1to1 Wood Turning Oct 2024. What a super fun day with Simon in the very well equipped workshop. Simons knowledge and patience led to achieving results to be proud of. Just to show that at the age of 76 it’s never too late to learn new skills."

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

"Hi Paul, Thank you for a lovely review; it was great to spend the day with you and so glad you enjoyed your stay too. — Simon"

Sian Davies reviewed: Confidence with tools for DIY beginners

"Finally! An introduction to DIY in the most fabulous of workshops with a great instructor. Matt was so welcoming, had the most fantastic day. I only wish I’d done this type of course years ago as would have saved ££££’s in handyman costs for the most simple of tasks. Matt was also patient and understood the nerves of sawing something for the first time! Since that day I’ve fixed my shed using wood filler and put up some shelves. Changed door handles, got my Dyson fixed onto the wall. I got some decorators chalk and sorted out my skirting boards and sealant in my bathroom around the bath and sink. I’ve even been practising drilling holes into old bricks and pieces of wood. Would highly recommend to anyone thinking about a day with Matt to get it booked. After some of the disasters I’ve seen some male friends attempt with DIY I think the blokes should get themselves booked in too! Thank you Matt for giving me the confidence boost that I can do house jobs myself. And do them well. "

matt boysons responded:

"Hi Sian Thank you so much for your review, I think I might print it and stick it up on the wall in the workshop to remind me I'm on the right path. I'm thinking seriously about running a more advance course next spring, if I do I'll certainly let you know. Thanks again for your kind words and for being such a big part of what was a great day for all of us. Matt"

Caroline reviewed: Introduction to Lino Printing in Cambridgeshire

"I thoroughly enjoyed the linocut course. Judith explained everything thoroughly and I’m so pleased with my prints. I’m really looking forward to putting what I learnt into practise. "

print paper stitch experiences responded:

"Thank you Caroline, your landscape prints were beautifully cut and printed, I'd love to see what you create in the future!"

Chris reviewed: Fundamentals of Italian fencing - Historical European Martial Arts (HEMA)

"I attended the knightly art of renaissance fencing 30th September. I had great communication prior and found the instructor to be very knowledgeable and patient. Perfect training ground and even given cuppa and biscuits half way through. Absolute bargain for the price. Would certainly recommend. Keep up the great work⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️"

The English Country House responded:

"Hi Chris, I’m really glad to hear that you enjoyed yourself and found the day informative. It was a genuine pleasure to meet you too! 🙏🏻"

Frances Saunders reviewed: Willow Deer at The David Hall with Jo Sadler

"A really enjoyable and creative day that ended up with a sculpture to take home that far exceeded my expectations. Jo is an excellent teacher with an engaging style that kept us all motivated, especially when we were got tired from concentrating. Her knowledge of the craft and choice of materials was inspirational. The time flew by! I would recommend a session with Jo to anyone, regardless of their artistic abilities. You could surprise yourself for what you can achieve in 9 hours!"

Jo Sadler at Forged n Willow responded:

"That's fantastic. They were lovely. Thank you for your company too!"

Hazel reviewed: Fused Glass Half Day

"A fantastic experience and a wonderful birthday celebration. Julie was a brilliant teacher and hostess."

Nicky Rogers reviewed: Willow Deer at The David Hall with Jo Sadler

"A lovely day and we learnt so much. We will definitely do another day with Jo, making owls next time, I hope. Well worth every penny too. "

Jo Sadler at Forged n Willow responded:

"Thank you. I look forward to seeing you again. The Deer were lovely. Jo"

Sheela Vishwanath reviewed: 'Bag in a Day' Practical Leather Course - Mini Bucket bag

"Bag in a day I had a fantastic day in the ‘Bag in a day’ workshop. It was my first time working with leather. Georgie is incredibly welcoming, knowledgeable, experienced, and patient throughout the entire process. The bags we made turned out amazing—i can’t believe that I made mine myself! I highly recommend spending a day at this workshop. As it was my first time working with leather, I was nervous at first, but it ended up being an unforgettable experience with outstanding results that I’ll cherish for a long time. Thanks again!"

Sheela Vishwanath reviewed: Pattern Cutting for Bags and Introduction to Leather craft - Designing Bags in 3D (1 week course)

""The 1-week Pattern Cutting for Bags and Introduction to Leather Craft course was an incredible experience! It gave me an understanding of designing bags, especially working in 3D. The hands-on approach made everything easy to understand, and I left feeling confident in my ability to bring my ideas to life. With the techniques I learned for cutting patterns and working with leather I am looking forward to putting them to use very soon and design my own bag patterns. A special mention to Georgie’s vast knowledge and experience, and her patience as a teacher. She is encouraging and ensuring that we understood the concepts correctly. I highly recommend this course to anyone looking to pattern bags. It is definitely a worthwhile investment to time and money. "

Gill reviewed: Upholstery for Beginners Workshop - in Warrington

"Had a really good day at the course. Jo was an excellent teacher and explained everything bit by bit and checked our work as we went along. Ended up with a lovely footstool. I can recommend the day "

The Boho Shed responded:

"Thank you so much for your lovely review Gill. I'm delighted you enjoyed the workshop. You made such a lovely job of your stool. x "

Jade reviewed: Introduction to Lino Printing in Cambridgeshire

"I really enjoyed the Lino day course. Judith was great! She was incredibly helpful and went through everything thoroughly. It has re-inspired me take up Lino printing again. "

print paper stitch experiences responded:

"Thank you, Jade, I really hope you continue with your printing, your design in the workshop was very striking and carefully executed."

Gillian Ripley reviewed: Linocut printmaking in Cornwall

"It was an inspiring and informative lino printing workshop. Olivia's enthusiasm was shared amongst all the students regardless of whether they were beginners or experienced artists. Clear instructions were given with examples of previous students work, illustrating a range of printing techniques. The small group size enabled us all to receive individual attention and encouragement throughout. I came away full of new ideas,and keen to set up my own studio!"

Olivia Clifton-Bligh, Cornwall responded:

"Thank you for your lovely review Gillian - I’m so glad you enjoyed the workshop. And congratulations on making such a beautiful print!"

Carole Auden reviewed: West Midlands: Beginner Nib Calligraphy Workshop

"Looking for a ‘new’ craft challenge I was not disappointed with this morning session on Calligraphy. The session was well planned, well resourced, and extremely well delivered, and I would recommend this workshop to anyone interested in diving into calligraphy. My disappointment was of my own doing. I find I do not like ‘modern’ calligraphy, with the varying sizes of letters, swirls, and flourishes, which makes reading simple words quite difficult. I did, however, appreciate the challenges in producing controlled broad and fine lines, as well as the discipline of repetitive practice, and am now determined to continue with my own preference, that of modern Gothic calligraphy. This workshop was money well spent, and I came away from it with much more insight into calligraphic practices than I expected."

The Modern Calligraphy Company responded:

"Hi Carole Thank you for the fantastic review of our West Midlands workshop. I will be sure to pass your comments onto our tutor and the rest of the TMCC team. Best wishes Nadine"

Nick Coles reviewed: Building and weaving a simple stool at The Quiet Workshop

"I really enjoyed the Simple Stool workshop and I’m delighted with the end product. I’ve tried in the past to make things out of wood and often struggled to finish with a piece that I’m proud of. The instruction throughout was clear and the atmosphere was relaxed and informative. StJohn was very attentive and ensure that we were doing things correctly all the way through. The food was exceptional and I felt well looked after and welcome by both Bryony and StJohn. I would highly recommend this course and others and have already being telling friends, family and colleagues about my experience. "

The Quiet Workshop responded:

"Thanks Nick! You did a great job on your stool so I’m sure you’ll have no trouble with future projects. Glad you enjoyed the food. Best wishes, StJohn & Bryony"

Chloe Kennedy reviewed: A night (or morning/afternoon!) on the tiles: a 2.5 hour taster mosaic course

"Highly recommend this course! Fiona was so so lovely and really helpful. I got the night on the tiles workshop for my mum and I and it was a really lovely way to spend our morning. We are already planning on another trip and I have many friends that want to have a go too!! "

Valley Craft Studio responded:

"Thanks for your lovely review Chloe. It was so nice to meet you both and I really look forward to welcoming you back again soon x"

Mandy Schofield reviewed: Upholstery for Beginners Workshop - in Warrington

"Fantastic day with Jo at the upholstery workshop. I learned so much and delighted with the lovely upholstered footstool I've cone away with. Can't wait to get stuck into some of my own projects. Jo's teaching style is excellent....very clear and good pace ensuring the whole group understands the different stages before getting the chance to practise. Can't recommend enough - loved it ! Great day with lovely group. Thank you"

The Boho Shed responded:

"Ahhh thank you Mandy. I'm delighted you enjoyed the day and learned so much. What a great bunch you were. I look forward to seeing what you create at home. Give me a shout if you need any further help. x"

Wendy reviewed: The Art of Drawing - full day workshop in Pembrokeshire

"My husband and I did a one day workshop with Kate, arriving at her lovely home for an overnight stay in order to make a decent start the following morning. We were made incredibly welcome during that evening, being shown her extensive collection of beautiful, informative books. Her knowledge is boundless, much like her infectious enthusiasm that grips you and doesn't let go. We enjoyed a full day, exploring various techniques and before we knew it, leaving time had arrived. Taking away with us, a new skill set and unforgettable memories of the day. I can't rate Kate highly enough for anyone wishing to either, gain confidence to begin or extend their existing knowledge in this field. She is an inspiring delight!! We couldn't have been more pleased. Also, big thanks to her husband and gorgeous dog Pip for enhancing our stay - enchanting! Superb!!"

Coach House Studio responded:

"Thank you Wendy! I'm so glad you enjoyed your time here in the studio, and staying with us. It was great to meet you both. It's so rewarding when students are inspired and excited by the processes and techniques I introduce. I hope you carry on making art, and that we see you again sometime. "

Eleanor reviewed: Willow weaving workshops with Pippa Tee - baskets

"An absolutely fantastic 2 day willow weaving course with Pippa in an idyllic location. What a knowledgeable person who oozes tons of enthusiasm and patience and loads of techniques resulting in me creating a very unique basket. A fantastic experience and would certainly go for more "

Pippas plants responded:

"Thanks Eleanor! Doing reviews is very helpful to all tutors ( if tiresome to do sometimes!), and a lovely review is much appreciated,!! I feel sure your crafty creativity will flourish and hope to see photos in due course! Lovely to meet you, all the best, Pippa "

vivien Meadows reviewed: Expressive Flower Painting Workshop - using acrylics

"really expansive course as far as my practice is concerned becoming a 2 way learning pr5ocess. Lynn uses her experience as a garden photographer to inform and enhance painting experience to all 5 of us. lots of individual input and cross relating with other painters"

Paint What You Feel with Lynn Keddie responded:

"Thanks so much for your lovely review, Vivien. I had to do a double take - I thought you said "expensive," not "expansive" at first, lol! It's such a joy working with you, I’m always inspired by how you express your world. Your work is evolving in such an exciting direction - I can’t wait to see where it takes you."