Latest reviews

16 Jul 17'

Moira reviewed: Blacksmithing Introduction courses in Yorkshire and the North East

"What a deeply satisfying way to spend a day! Whilst everyone made the same things, they were all unique one-off pieces created with much patient direction, guidance and banter from the resident blacksmiths. Throw in the odd blister and lemon drizzle cake to finish a fabulous day. What could be better."

16 Jul 17'

Fraser Gething reviewed: Willow Piglet workshop

"A really enjoyable day making a willow piglet with Victoria's patient and fun teaching. It was a lovely creative atmosphere with the other course participants. I did not think i could make a good looking piglet, on my way to the course, but i came home with something to proud of, thanks to Victoria's careful direction. It was a very relaxing and therapeutic day, a tonic from life's challenges. The studio is amongst the lovely County Durham countryside"

16 Jul 17'

Davinia Phelan reviewed: Four day intensive beginners woodwork course

"I really recommend Cheshire Woodworking if you want to start getting into Woodworking. The 5 day beginners course was amazing and I always looked forward to it coming around each week. During the course I learnt alot, Ciarán explained everything brilliantly. I had the achievement of producing a piece of furniture at the end which was wonderful. From this experience I now feel ready to continue to give other woodworking items ago with the skills I have gained. In the future I am considering attending the intermediate course which looks great. Ciarán is so dedicated to his students and wants them to succeed in the items they produce. The course was so enjoyable and I met some lovely people, we all also enjoyed our meals at the pub and lovely cake and tea in the workshop. A very big thank you to Ciarán as all the students on the course produced lovely items. A very worthwhile course indeed!"

16 Jul 17'

Carol-Ann mcmanners reviewed: Willow Piglet workshop

"A fab birthday gift thankyou I got this as a birthday pressie, when we arrived, we were greeted like royalty with a lovely coffee/tea waiting for us, followed by a little chat with the other piglet makers (the piglet course was the one I was on) A group of 4 was perfect gave us the one to one time if needed whilst sculpturing the piglet. A fun day with constant laughs throughout. I would recommend this course to anyone, or whether it's for a birthyday /Christmas pressie, you will be surprised of how much fun it is what you can make and the end result you take home ."

16 Jul 17'

ashley allen reviewed: Introduction to Frame Loom Weaving

"LOVED it - we were so inspired! Alice is super patient, and all her help and instructions were really clear. I was so happy with the result, the looms were beautiful, fabulous location, Alice was so kind sharing loads of hints and tips - and my goodness Macrame is now calling! Thank you! x x"

16 Jul 17'

Dafydd Wyn Evans reviewed: Stone Carving with a Master Mason

"I really enjoyed this course and got a good feeling about what stone masonry was about. I also learned a lot about the history and traditions of the guild."

16 Jul 17'

Martin Corrall reviewed: Blacksmithing, bladesmithing and metal craft

"Really enjoyed my one day course - a great introduction to the ancient craft of blacksmithing. Nigel Barnett is an engaging, patient and skilled teacher as well as a Master of his art. The surrounding wood is a fascinating place bedecked with metal creations and the forge is equipped with multiple forges, anvils, endless tools and some seriously big power hammers. I was completely exhausted but went away very happy at the end of this most enjoyable day. Thank you Nigel."

16 Jul 17'

Gary Smith reviewed: Knife Making and Bladesmith Classes: Hand-Forged Viking Knife

"I had a fantastic day from beginning to end- as a big fan of Forged in Fire I was looking forward to learning the skills of how to make my own knife. The team at the forge - John and Steve especially - were very helpful and willing to pass on their skills. A friendly and welcoming team - I look forward to a return visit. I would highly recommend a visit to the forge if this is something you are thinking about trying."

16 Jul 17'

Kate Gamble reviewed: Creative Vibe - Glassblowing Sessions

"Had a fabulous day today. Ricky is very patient and knowledgeable. He explained every process clearly and is an excellent teacher. I had not experienced glassblowing before and was amazed at how the glass behaves and can be worked into wonderful shapes and colours. Looking forward to receiving the finished pieces I made. Highly recommend."

15 Jul 17'

Veronica reviewed: Embroidery for beginners

"Many thanks for a great workshop, so professionally run but more than anything so pleasant and relaxing! Many thanks also for Rosemary's great expertise and for being able to view some of her lovely creative work. What a talent and so diverse. I had a lovely day and I hope to have a follow up session sometime. Regards Veronica"

15 Jul 17'

Abi, David and Peter reviewed: Blacksmithing Introduction courses in Yorkshire and the North East

"Wow! What an amazing day we had. From the moment we arrived to the minute we left we were looked after. Amazingly skilled guys Adrian and Andy, who introduced us to what we were going to be doing, gave plenty of support during the day and awesome tools and materials to use. There was more than enough challenge to really get your teeth into the art of blacksmithing. There is also the bonus of a home cooked lunch to die for (Debbie - YUM!) - had we not had an afternoon of banging metal to be getting on with I think we'd have all had a full-stomach nap. All in all an amazing experience, met some lovely people and we will be back for more. Go on this course, it is fantastic."

15 Jul 17'

Sarah reviewed: Interior design and decor; evening crash course

"Another fabulous day with Lucy Renshaw. This is the second course I have been on, a great introduction to interior design giving you lots to think about and go away and play with colours and design. We were lucky with the weather again, sunny and warm sat outside for a lot of the day. We did loads of painting, as well as putting ideas together using materials. We are all looking forward to a follow-up day in autumn, many thanks"

15 Jul 17'

Mark Bullivant reviewed: Blacksmithing Introduction courses in Yorkshire and the North East

"What a fantastic day, highly recommended. I'll definately be back. Many Thanks"

15 Jul 17'

Greteli reviewed: Chair making course at Sallerton Wood

"This is a superb course! With a well-equipped workshop in a beautiful setting where the materials are sourced from the surrounding woodland and with knowledgeable tuition from Andy who loves every aspect of green woodworking... nothing could be better! I am immensely proud of my chair and longing to return!"

15 Jul 17'

Alison & Dion reviewed: Creative Vibe - Glassblowing Sessions

"Unbelievable experience... We attended the beginners class and we were given a health and safety talk before we jumped into the fun part. As the day progressed Ricky gave us a choice on what we could produce next. We created four different pieces each, using a variety of methods. Ultimately this gave us a wide range of things to take away that we now display proudly in our home. The day was fantastic, Ricky was brilliant at explaining everything but also allowing us to really get stuck in and involved. A very knowledgable and great teacher, Ricky made us both feel very comfortable. We would definitely recommend this to anyone who has an interest in glass blowing because its well worth the money and a great experience!"

15 Jul 17'

Margaret Taylor reviewed: Table Loom Weaving Workshop - Dobby & Rose

"A great introduction to weaving. An interesting explanation to the loom and how it is set up and then you have a go! Rebecca answered my numerous questions very patiently. It was great to try out different patterns and to come away with a piece of woven material that I had done. I'll be back to weave another piece again."

15 Jul 17'

Liz birchall reviewed: Beginner's Ceramics | Tile Making | Short Course

"I loved the tile course and coil pottery deinol is a excellent teacher looking forward to doing alot more"

15 Jul 17'

Keith Needham reviewed: Woodturning in Devon with Colin Simpson

"I attended 3 day course with my partner. The course was personalised completely for our requirements - we got exactly what we wanted from the course Colin is undoubtedly a subject matter expert and an excellent tutor and maker of tea! We had a great few days with Colin, learning lots and spending time with a person who clearly loves this creative artform. Go spend some time in beautiful Devon learning and creating beautiful items. Keith."

15 Jul 17'

Sarah Hendrickx reviewed: Woodturning in Devon with Colin Simpson

"I have just spent 3 days learning with Colin and have found it a genuinely enjoyable experience. From having no knowledge of woodturning at all, I am now desperate to get my own lathe and start creating! Colin is not only very experienced and knowledgeable about his subject, but also a good teacher. He was patient, interested and constantly on hand to guide with plenty of positive words about every mishap (or 'design opportunity' as he calls them). I would thoroughly recommend working with Colin."

15 Jul 17'

Mary reviewed: 1 day mosaic workshop South Warwickshire

"An excellent workshop day in Anna's purpose built studio. Lots of ideas and materials to choose . Anna was welcoming, friendly and very knowledgable with boundless patience. A lovely rural setting. Very pleased with my finished birdbath and shall return for my next project. Thank you."

14 Jul 17'

Andrew Walker reviewed: Green Woodwork and Pole Lathe day

"I loved everything about this day. Chris guided us through the process with a wonderful teaching style and real enthusiasm for the craft. I was in no doubt that I was learning from a master. The pace of the day was just right with suitable attention to tea breaks. The conversations with Chris and my fellow student throughout the day enhanced the enjoyment of the course. Best of all, the day reawakened the long dormant enjoyment of lathe craft that I first remember in school woodwork class forty years ago."

14 Jul 17'

Tracey c reviewed: Embroidery for beginners

"Basic Embroidery workshop. Thank you very much it was very helpful. Regards Tracey"

14 Jul 17'

Poppy reviewed: Embroidery for beginners

"I really enjoyed the goldwork embroidery workshop with you. It was so nice to learn a new skill, especially one which I hope to use in my A Levels. Thanks for your patience and it was really nice to meet you."

14 Jul 17'

Marilyn Baker reviewed: Mosaic and Glass Art 2 day Course

"As Director of the Braemar Creative Arts Festival I can confirm that every review I have read from the participants of Maggie's festival classes over the last 3 years has been 5 star. Several of the people consequently signed up for more of Maggie's Magic workshops at her studio. We invite her back to our Festival every year as we know her classes will quickly be fully subscribed...she is truly inspirational."

14 Jul 17'

Carol Hutton reviewed: Mosaic and Glass Art 2 day Course

"I have been to a number of sessions in Maggie's studio and also to all three Braemar Creative Arts Festival Mosaic courses which she attends in support of this community based arts venue. What a gem Maggie is - kind, patient, technically spot on, creatively inspiring of others, exuberant in nature, genuinely caring about her students welfare, and completely in awe of our efforts & the results no matter how odd some of mine have turned out to be :D You may enter a complete novice not knowing one end of a tweezer from the end of a glass cutter, or a Leponitt from a Smalti. When you leave with your first pieces completed you will also take along the self-confidence with a range of manual skills & 'tool familiarity' to tackle anything she throws at you at your next session, and you will truly believe in your own abilities. A BIG part of Maggie's ethos is to use discarded bits and pieces from local charity shops, friends cast-off & broken household 'junque', and her very own "Rubbish Fairy" who is part of the grass-roots recycling movement. OldTown Steading's garden is a showcase of mosaic-ed artworks created from literal rubbish and it is incredibly inspiring to view regardless of the season. It is 2 acres and utterly delightful Madness, Mayhem and Magic. Green Recycling box WELL ticked and who would have thought such beauty rise from the ashes of rubbish ??? She has taught me so much technically about mosaic-ing, and even given me the self confidence set up a small studio space of my own in a spare sheddy, but part of the fun and experience is in being with other like-minded people under Maggie's caring and attentive eye. And she puts on a lovely lunch for us too :) Who could ask for more???"