Latest reviews

Jess Fox reviewed: Upholstery and soft furnishings 2 day course

"Angie's 2 day course was absolutely wonderful. From the moment I stepped through the doors I felt extremely welcome and at home. I brought two very similar chairs with me and we managed to do both, one with modern and one with traditional techniques. The class size is perfect, you are never left waiting long for some advice or next step and she encourages you to come and watch your fellow upholsterers whilst she helps them so you are constantly learning. Angie is an excellent tutor, with a fantastic workshop (includes a little stove for warmth!) in an amazing location. She also keeps you well fed with brilliant home made cakes! Thank you Angie!"

Helly W reviewed: Table Loom Weaving Workshop - Dobby & Rose

"Rebecca's approach for a beginners workshop was perfect & absolutely what I had hoped for. She provided just enough detail regarding the how of weaving to bring me to the loom understanding, in a very satisfying way, the basics to give it a go. I genuinely felt Rebecca wanted to share both her knowledge and her love of weaving with me. What could be better in a teacher. Loved it. Want to do more. Without hesitation recommend Dobby & Rose beginners workshop and thank Rebecca for such a lovely experience."

Carol Cotter reviewed: Free-Machine Embroidery 2 Day Workshops with Joanne Frankel Contemporary Textile Artist

"A brilliant two days. Well worth the journey down from Anglesey. Studio was well equipped and lovely and warm. From the initial design through to the completion of various samples there was plenty of guidance and clear instructions given throughout, whilst allowing for your own ideas and interpretation."

Jade reviewed: Beaded jewellery workshop - suitable for all abilities - Worcestershire with Teresa Kent

"I have attempted to make some amateur jewellery for myself in the past, and this course really helped me to improve my knowledge and skills! There is a lovely atmosphere in the Lappelli Studio due to the wonderful teacher, Teresa, who was very friendly and patient as I clumsily scattered beads all over the table!! Thank you Teresa!"

Jade reviewed: Try Enamel workshop - suitable for all abilities

"Fantastic taster session yesterday with Teresa: I decided to have a go as I knew nothing about enamelling previously, now I think I'm hooked! Teresa was very knowledgeable, friendly, and patient, which made the experience even better. I now have a unique dragonfly pendant to show off! Can't recommend this session and Teresa enough :)"

Lucy and Pete McCormick reviewed: Introduction to Green Wood Furniture Making - 2 Day Course in South Devon

"We both loved this course. It was delivered in stunning surroundings and with great knowledge and a really friendly atmosphere. It is done in easy steps with demonstrations and help all the way so that you really get to understand the tasks and learn how to use the tools correctly. Do it, you won't regret it!!"

Andrew Hilton reviewed: Blacksmithing - one to one - Hammer Skills

"I had an enjoyable and instructive day with Bob. He takes you through the fundamentals, with a concentration on getting the basic techniques right, which is an essential foundation for everything that follows. Then in the afternoon we made a couple of pairs of Blacksmith's tongs to take home. Everything is explained well, with a demonstration followed by putting it into practice yourself. I really recommend this day, either to try Blacksmithing out, or to enhance your techniques. There are plentiful cups of tea and Bob is a really nice bloke. What more could you want !"

Claire Ash reviewed: Hedgerow basketmaking holiday

"I enjoyed a fantastic course with Jane.... excellent tuition with amazing patience. As an absolute beginner I was amazed at my results!! Would certainly do another course."

Tim Porter reviewed: Two Day Stone carving course, Gloucestershire (Cotswolds)

"A great way of being absorbed in the moment! And producing something at the end of it. Light touch tuition from Dave worked really well with timely nudges to keep me (and my creation) on track. Worked on a lump of Cotswold stone which transformed from a sleeping dog to a squashed squirrel? to finish as an abstract piece I've called "twins". Great hospitality throughout from Kaye with mid morning/afternoon coffee and cake stops in addition to two delicious mid day meals. A fab way to spend two creative days. Thanks."

Julia reviewed: 💜 The Suffolk Silk Scarf Painting Workshops 💜 For FOUR People at The Arty Silkworm, Green Farm, Suffolk ~ Fabulously Creative

"Had an amazing day! I’m not very arty, very much a beginner. Found whole experience so therapeutic and relaxing. Just being mindful and clearing your mind felt good. Beats usual mad rushing about supermarket Saturday - highly recommend! Ruth amazing teacher - full of encouragement. Will definitely go again!"

The Arty Silkworm responded:

"Ahh So glad you loved it. The de-stressing thing happens when you are deep in creation... a bonus! Hope to see you soon. Best Wishes Ruth x"

Rob Bell reviewed: Stone carving 1 day introduction course in East Yorkshire at Micklethwaite Studios

"My wife booked me on this course as a surprise as I’d expressed a vague interest in carving. What a day!!! Tracey and Alan are really friendly and his relaxed teaching method is perfect. I carved a Yorkshire rose by following his very clear instructions. Friends and family can’t believe what I’ve done. If you fancy a go at stone carving, and there are lots of designs a beginner can try, then I would really recommend you get in touch with Tracey and Alan. Thank you so much for a great day."

Micklethwaite Studios responded:

"Hi Rob, Thank you for you great review! It is lovely to hear you really enjoyed your day with us, and I'm not surprised your friends and family are so impressed by what you have achieved - you did a fantastic job of carving your Yorkshire Rose. It was lovely to meet you, and we will hope to see you again in the future. Best wishes, Tracey"

Andy Hoccom reviewed: 'Art of Stained Glass' - Oldbury, Birmingham

"Booked a one day leading workshop and didn't leave disappointed. Great day and much fun had by all. Jamal is patient and very informative, taking you through all the processes of stained glass required for you to leave with a final product you'll be happy to hang in your home. Tea and coffee on tap too which is an added bonus. Great value for money."

John Hunt reviewed: Contemporary stool making weekend course

"An amazing weekend. Ambrose is a brilliant teacher, always ready to give advice, but equally comfortable to give you space to get your own feel for your project, all delivered with a humorous, laid back, relaxed, friendly approach. I have learnt a huge amount, and discovered I want to learn more. I will definitely consider more of Ambrose’s courses in the future. In addition to great tuition and friendly atmosphere, the course location is beautiful, and the delicious al fresco lunches and cakes cooked by Ambrose’s sister Emily are worth a journey in their own right. Best soup I’ve ever eaten!"

Lesley reviewed: Mosaic and Glass Art 2 day Course

"Maggie runs a fantastic workshop for beginners in mosaics. She is patient, supportive and motivational. Lovely garden showing lots of Maggie's work which has given me ideas for my next project. It was great to be able to bring home my own completed mosaic which I will display; thought I'd have so little skill the project would end up in the bin...but not at all, thanks to Maggie's great teaching style. Great cake and soup is an added bonus. I would definitely recommend Maggie's course to anyone who is keen to have some fun whilst having a go. My only suggestion relates to signage. I got thrown off course by a sign at the nearby farm which indicates that only authorised personnel can go beyond that point but in fact Pretty Rubbish Mosaics is just beyond that sign. It would be great to have a lovely mosaic sign showing that the studio is beyond that farm sign. Thank you Maggie"

Les & Lynn reviewed: Painting & Sailing ART retreat holiday in Greece for beginners and improvers inc flights & 7 nights B&B ATOL protected

"We had a great time in Greece this year and met some lovely new friends. Both Vicky and Beth were very patient and great company so much so we have booked for next year. Thank you both."

Simon reviewed: Antique silver spoon ring making class in the heart of the Jewellery Quarter.

"Thank you! This workshop is absolutely brilliant. The tutors are knowledgeable and patient. I was encouraged to develop my ring as I wanted through a really organic process. I learnt an enormous amount during the 4 hours as the ratio of students to tutors is superb. I made a unique ring and pendant from a 1932 silver spoon."

Steward & Mclean responded:

"Very pleased you enjoyed your experience Simon. Thank you for your lovely review."

Emma Braid-Taylor reviewed: Garden mosaic workshop

"I have just completed a one-day mosaic workshop with Lynda and I have come away with renewed confidence and delight at having covered a large terracotta pot with beautiful mosaic. I was a complete beginner and Lynda guided me every step of the way with expert tips and clear experience. She shows you the wide variety of what is possible to make, using her own designs and creations for inspiration, as well as lots of illustrations of other people's work worldwide. She is very knowledgeable and inspires a can-do attitude but, even better, she imparts her knowledge in a very accessible and generous way. The day was great fun, very relaxed, but at the same time full of invaluable information, so that I came away with a sense of great achievement and wellbeing. I will be definitely booking another course with Lynda and cannot recommend her workshop highly enough."

Creating Mosaics responded:

"Emma thank you for such lovely comments. You were a joy to share the day with and to see you grow in confidence from that person who arrived with initial trepidation to someone who left with such joy and enthusiasm and belief in your abilities. You have a natural artistic ability - keep believing it - I do!!. xxx"

Ruth Williams reviewed: Make a silver ring or bangle

"I had an excellent day learning to make a gold bangle. Excellent tuition from start to finish and I now have a much better understanding of what I should be doing. Lucy is extremely helpful and friendly. Her suggestions and support really helped me to complete my project and I now have the most amazing gift to give my mother. I highly recommend these days and Lucy is so helpful In helping you prepare for the day."

Vera Greensmyth reviewed: Mosaic and Glass Art 2 day Course

"I attended a weekend course at the beginning of the month with some friends. Really enjoyed it Maggie was very informative helpful and enthusiastic , providing ideas and lots off great materials ensureing we were all able to complete a piece to bring home. She also provided plenty of tea coffee and cake as well as some tasty soup for our lunch on the Saturday which we were able to enjoy in her amazing garden. Would certainly recommend it to others. Thanks Maggie."

Private reviewed: Lined Curtains - Soft Furnishings Workshop

"Great course.."

Michele Broom reviewed: Natural soap and skincare workshop

"I did the full day course and I'm so glad I did! there is so much crammed in to one day plus a delicious lunch . I learnt loads as Nicola was so organised and passionate about her subject that it was easy to take it all in . I would highly recommend this course and came home with lots of ideas for Christmas makes!"

Alison Scott reviewed: Pole Lathe Bowl Turning - Your First Bowl

"An excellent day starting with wood selection right through to a completed bowl. Each step was clearly explained and demonstrated. Advice and help were available whenever needed. Ade is a skilled, thorough, engaging instructor, perceptive of individual skills and progress throughout the day. The regular food and drink breaks were most welcome, homemade soup and cakes a lovely treat. Once my muscles have recovered I can't wait to try and make another!"

Muriel reviewed: Mosaic and Glass Art 2 day Course

"Just back from 2 days with Maggie. Really enjoyed the course, learned loads and completed a pretty good mosaic to boot. Wonderful teacher with loads of patience and full of ideas. Definitely recommend this course"

Muriel reviewed: Mosaic and Glass Art 2 day Course

"Just back from 2 days with Maggie. Really enjoyed the course, learned loads and completed a pretty good mosaic to boot. Wonderful teacher with loads of patience and full of ideas. Definitely recommend this course"

Julie Curran reviewed: Hedgerow basketmaking holiday

"Attending Jane's recent hedgerow basketry course was a fantastic experience. As a complete beginner, I proudly finished a beautiful log basket at the end of the three days with the expert, patient, knowledgeable and entertaining guidance of Jane. We were made to feel very much at home by Clare and Olivia, who provided wonderful home baking and lunches. I can't praise the course highly enough and would wholeheartedly recommend it. I look forward to doing similar courses with Special Branch in the future."