Latest reviews

Emily Ford reviewed: One day slab-building clay workshop

"I had the most enjoyable 'clay day' today at the Sugi Ceramics workshop, Elmswell, hosted by proprietor and most talented artist Louise Gridley. I found the experience to be both therapeutic and relaxing, whilst allowing me to be present and focussed. I created a beautiful name plaque for my home titled, 'Spiritus', which is the Greek word meaning, 'Breath of Life'. It did me the world of good to get out of my comfort zone, and to be in a creative space, something I would encourage anybody to do. Sugi Ceramics comes highly recommended to people of all ages and abilities. In gratitude, Emily Ford"

Sharon reviewed: Storybook Paper Dresses - a one day Workshop with Jennifer Collier, at the Henley School of Art

"The studio at the Henley School of Art is a stunning location for a life drawing course. Jo Harris is an enthusiastic, motivating and funny teacher, full of insight and encouragement and puts everyone at their ease. I learnt so much on this course - each week has a different life model and covers a new aspect (body part/art medium) but graduates to an end point where the student has confidence in finding their own style and level of ability. We each received a folder on the first day in which to store Jo’s weekly comprehensive handouts and which also included a sketch book to practice in between classes. The refreshments are first class and the general ambiance is positive and delightful. I highly recommend Jo’s life drawing classes, whatever your ability."

Sandra reviewed: Five day woodwork course - tools

"What a fun week! The workshop is in a lovely location and full of everything you need. Richard and Mark are patient, generous tutors who are always on hand to instruct and guide (and provide a bit of elbow grease when arms are aching!). I made a lovely step stool and got the opportunity to have a play with some other tools while I was waiting for my glue to dry (lathe, scroll saw, mitre saw....). I would thoroughly recommend this course, you will come away with a piece of beautiful furniture and the confidence to use hand and power tools for your own projects."

Alba & Jonathan reviewed: Make you own fan bird

"We had an excellent day with Steve learning about working with wood and spoon carving. He was very nice, explained everything very clearly and helped us whenever we needed. It is definitely a great workshop if you want to try something new or start a new hobby. We learnt many new things. Thanks to Steve for all his hard work!"

Susie reviewed: 1 day introduction to silver jewellery making

"What a fantastic day Jonathan is an excellent teacher, and in just a single day we managed to make 2 pieces each under his direction. Not only that but we were given a whistletop intense introduction to the world of silversmithing, along with plenty of humour, coffee (lovely bikkies), and a great lunch. The first class factsheets that were emailed later have ensured that you can continue benefiting from his advice and guidance in the future. Heartily recommended"

Peter Wrigglesworth reviewed: Storybook Paper Dresses - a one day Workshop with Jennifer Collier, at the Henley School of Art

"This course is ideal for the beginner. Jo gives just the right amount of instruction and guidance and allows you to develop your eye and your skill. The course includes various techniques including pencil, charcoal, ink and pastels. The studio is an oasis for people who live busy lives and want a few hours learning a new skill in a friendly welcoming environment."

Vanessa reviewed: Woodwork courses - beginner - make a serving tray

"Good hands on course I learned a lot of skills and used tools not available to me at home - Yet! I produced a solid tray which I believe will last for many years to come. Now deciding what to do next. Thanks for a good day."

Terry Sandford reviewed: Wood turning courses in the Midlands

"Just returned from a brilliant two day course with Mark Hancock, upon arrival i was greeted warmly by Mark and I was quickly put at ease by his teaching method, we soon had a good rapport going. I was taught the aspects of basic wood turning and tool sharpening. This was for me very informative as I am a complete novice. I would highly recommend (and Mark hasn't paid me to say this) to you if you are thinking of wood turning as a hobby Mark Hancock comes highly recommended (absolutely brilliant)."

Andrew Riley reviewed: Glass fusing private class - fun taster class for beginners

"My children bought me this course for my 60th birthday. Wasn't sure what to expect so turned up with no expectations. I thoroughly enjoyed the course. Sarah took time to find out what I wanted to achieve, explain the processes I would need and demonstrate them. We had a joint interest in the Worcester Warriors and so I chose to make a coaster, cuff links etc around this theme. Sarah's relaxed approach was just what was needed. Her use of the microwave showed that it would be possible to make many items without a heavy investment in a kiln thus making it possible for people to try the hobby without a big outlay. I thoroughly recommend the course for anyone looking for a new hobby."

Anna K. reviewed: Zarzo Baskets in the Surrey Hills

"Very pleased with how much I learned. Relaxed atmosphere and patient, friendly tutors. Good value for money and fantastic end product. Thank you, Nicki and Brian."

Anna K. reviewed: Willow 'sculpture of your choice' - one day workshops with Willowtwisters

"Inspiring, fun, creative and welcoming course run by warm and knowledgeable ladies, Sara and Hanna. Allowing you to bring your own inspiration to the course, they'll guide you gently and help you to think outside of the box. Thank you and see you soon again."

Elizabeth from Malvern reviewed: Machine embroidery - stitch doodling with Julie Brand at Tigley Textiles in Worcester

"Loved it! machine embroidery is no longer scary!"

Penny Judge reviewed: Machine embroidery - stitch doodling with Julie Brand at Tigley Textiles in Worcester

"I have had a really lovely day. I have learnt so much. You have also been very kind and encouraging."

Paulette reviewed: Machine embroidery - stitch doodling with Julie Brand at Tigley Textiles in Worcester

"Brilliant! Really enjoyable and "art" to take away!"

Diane Lloyd reviewed: Machine embroidery - stitch doodling with Julie Brand at Tigley Textiles in Worcester

"Today has been a real treat. I have learned so much from Julie and am excited about trying out the skills and techniques at home. I would love to attend another one of your courses in the future."

Maxine reviewed: Machine embroidery - stitch doodling with Julie Brand at Tigley Textiles in Worcester

"I have had the most brilliant day. The pace was perfect and every stage explained and demonstrated. I am so chuffed to be taking home a finished piece of work. Brilliant teacher. I would love to come back for more courses, thank you so much."

lesley from Worcestershire reviewed: Machine embroidery - stitch doodling with Julie Brand at Tigley Textiles in Worcester

"Completely absorbing and so much fun- I'll be back! Thank you Julie"

Sue from Worcester reviewed: Machine embroidery - stitch doodling with Julie Brand at Tigley Textiles in Worcester

"I had the most wonderful, enriching, lovely day. Although I have never done machine embroidery before, I am thrilled to say that I came away with something I am pleased to show my friends and family. Thank you Julie for a most distracting and absorbing day."

Carole Sidman reviewed: Introduction to Leather Craft

"Just an amazing weekend. Bill is a wonderful teacher, informative, intuitive and extraordinarily talented. The weekend was a wonderful mix of lighthearted easygoing fun with lots of information and skill sharing from Bill. He was very generous with his equipment and time. We worked hard and I know he certainly did but it was immense fun. I would certainly recommend this course as, even though I knew absolutely nothing about leather craft, Bill helped us all to craft amazing works. I think this is a testament to a great teacher. Thank you Bill."

Susan Howe reviewed: Getting Started with Stained Glass - two day workshop

"I enjoyed the class and learned/achieved what I wanted. I love what I made and also did a recce at Reading Stained Glass a week later. Sadly I also discovered the processes and some of the materials were very harsh on my hands; probably should have worn disposable gloves and/or used barrier cream. I am really looking forward to doing the glass painting course."

Jan Simpson Studio Glass t/a Koru Arts responded:

"Thank you for your review Susan and I am sorry your poor hands suffered. We are looking forward to seeing you for the painting course and glad that you had a great day. We will be putting on a few new special courses this summer with some very talented artists that you might enjoy."

Cath Moore reviewed: Alternative firing - Introduction to Naked Clay Workshop - West Sussex

"John delivered an informative and fun course, expertly covering a variety of naked clay techniques. I am very happy with the results I produced as a complete novice and much enjoyed appraising the work of my fellow attendees. The lunch, both days, was delicious, and it was lovely to chat to such an interesting bunch of potters and our hosts John, Janet & Tom. Thanks for the advice and encouragement, I'll be back! All the best, Cath"

Holly reviewed: Make a live-edge bench or table

"Fantastic way to spend a weekday evening. Ben is a great teacher, providing step by step instructions tailored to the type of bench each person wants to make. I’m very happy with my bench!"

Aisha reviewed: Photoshop or illustrator skills - group booking

"After graduating in textile design, this was my first time in a professional design studio as a new designer. Even though I was taught photoshop and design skills, I still learnt so much from Mary and the team who have so much experience in all things design. This is a course tailored to suit each individual and their design needs, definitely recommend!"

Mary Jones Design responded:

"Thank you Aisha!"

Maureen Frost reviewed: Shibori Felting: A Felt Sampling Day - Ripples, Waves & Spikes

"A brilliant day, resulting in three different examples of shibori felting. Emma is an excellent teacher and guided us through all stages of the process, enabling us to felt with confidence! Thank you!"

Carol Evans reviewed: Kate Morrell willow sculpture courses

"What a wonderful day. Kate and David made me feel very welcome along with Boris the family dog. Kate is a very talented artist and sculptor. Lots of enthusiasm and patience ensuring we all had an equal amount of her time . I had a wonderful day and came away with a great lop eared bunny , cant wait for the next workshop . Many thanks to you both"