Latest reviews

13 Oct 16'

Robert Hillyer reviewed: Woodturning courses in Hampshire - Beginners and improvers wood turning courses - Turn British, all British lathes!!

"My son recently bought me a days wood turning course with Andy as a birthday present. Like my son I have always had a strong desire to be able to work with wood and design my own creations. At long last I had the opportunity to spend the day with a wood turning expert. Andy's wood turning skills are quite staggering. His very own turned creations are simply amazing. I even turned a small bowl myself with Andy's help which I could never have done before the course. Andy is a great teacher and has such a relaxed manner you will really enjoy the experience. A top birthday present! Many thanks Andy!"

13 Oct 16'

Philip D reviewed: Furniture making course: Fundamentals of Furniture Making Part 1 (beginner)

"I attended Aiden's 2 day course in October and it is first class. You do not have to have any prior experience to do this course. All you need is the interest. Aiden explains everything carefully, is a good teacher, demonstrates well, is patient and you will get hands on experience very early on the first day. He spends time with each person on the course and keeps an eye on each person's progress. He is also generous with his time. As another reviewer has said he really is a lovely guy. He clearly is very skilled and has an infectious enthusiasm for his subject. I was amazed that with his teaching I could produce a smooth square piece of work to very fine tolerances. I was also amazed that I could do all this using only a hand plane and be given the confidence in using this tool to produce a beautiful finish. I learned a massive amount over the two days; not only about the techniques of using a hand plane, dismantling and reassembling it, sharpening the blade and adjusting it, but also about the differences of different timbers, how it is cut, and moisture levels. If you want a useful introduction to this craft, this is the course to go on."

13 Oct 16'

Phil reviewed: Wood turning courses

"Just wanted to let you know that I had a great day on Tuesday. It was very informative and has given me lots of ideas on where to go with my equipment and methods of turning. Having started my wood turning path without any experience it was good to meet with a master turner. My wife loved the bowl and xmas tree decoration. I would certainly recommend anyone who is just starting out or wishes to further their expertise to go for a day."

13 Oct 16'

Daniel Eaton reviewed: Furniture making course: Fundamentals of Furniture Making Part 1 (beginner)

"The fundamentals course really covers the basics of working with a hand plane and other hand tools. Aidan teaches the techniques required to make a piece of wood flat, square and straight. This is all achieved only using hand tools and it is brilliant for anyone hoping to make furniture who doesn't have the knowledge or an extensive workshop. I've finished the course with the confidence and basic skills to be able to attempt more complicated projects. The thorough use, sharpening and application of the plane really leaves you feeling comfortable with it Aidan's knowledge is extensive and he is happy to share everything he knows. We picked his brain throughout the course. You leave with a smart chopping board that tests and demonstrates all the skills you have learnt. A great course and thoroughly recommended!"

13 Oct 16'

L. Jordan-Kay reviewed: Ceramic Studio Experience - Sunday Clay Day - Full Day Tutor Interactive Workshop

"Sue and Geri are fabulous. My husband and I first went to fired thoughts to make ceramic tiles for our new house I was soon addicted and wanted to learn to throw. I went back to fired thoughts and cannot express how brilliant they both are. The course became like a little sanctuary for my week. The studio is lovely and well thought out with lots of resources to help you learn. Both Geri and Sue are very knowledgeable and amazing artists in their own right, who strive to continue learning in their own field and that obviously extends into thier teaching. They are patient teachers who nurture and encourage you even if your bowl looks like a plate!"

13 Oct 16'

Brian Duffy reviewed: Creative Vibe - Glassblowing Sessions

"What a fantastic experience. I took my wife for her 30th birthday as she had wanted to try glass blowing since she was really young. Ricky was a great teacher and took us through the whole process at a good pace. We learned lots of new skills and ended up with four pieces of work each to take away . They will look great in our new home. I would recommend the course to anyone who wants to try something different and to share an experience with someone close to them."

12 Oct 16'

Samantha Howard reviewed: One day Traditional Lead Stained Glass Course

"Thank you so much .we had the best day, loved it Also thank you for the pictures Samantha & James"

12 Oct 16'

Alison pooler reviewed: Hand spinning for beginners at Cartmel Handspun

"Fabulous day. Fabulous host and teacher. I learnt so much on all aspects of fleeces, wool carding, spinning. Would really recommend you go along to this course."

12 Oct 16'

Claire Crombie reviewed: One day mosaic workshop - Lincolnshire

"Well what can I say - what a fantastic fun day of mosaics with Caron. I was so impressed with the range of ideas to choose from and so very happy with my final creation. I enjoyed learning a new craft and Caron skillfully taught me a plethora of techniques to help me complete my chosen project. I can highly recommend this mosaic course."

12 Oct 16'

Sarah Browne reviewed: Silver clay beginners course - Lori Ridgway

"A really interesting and relaxing day, a great introduction to silver clay."

12 Oct 16'

Janet Lloyd reviewed: Needle felting course with FURZIE at Trumpet Corner Tea Rooms, Ledbury, Herefordshire

"I had a wonderful day with Michelle - felt like I had been on holiday. Excellent tuition and attentiveness. Would like to attend another course and maybe make a hare although the Border Terrier I made was just so good that I may have to make another one so I have a pair!! Excellent value and food was superb."

12 Oct 16'

Jayne Baker reviewed: Needle felting course with FURZIE at Trumpet Corner Tea Rooms, Ledbury, Herefordshire

"I attended a course with Michelle without a clue of what felting was. I was apprehensive that my skills wouldn't be good enough to create anything like the beautiful creations on her website. How wrong was I!! Michelle arrived with all her prepping for the class already done. Everyone was given a bag containing all the materials they would need to create their chosen animal and Michelle had even printed out a large A4 picture of the the animal so that you have a guide to work to. Her friendly approach soon had the class of 8 relaxed and ready to spend a day crafting. Felting really is the most satisfying absorbing thing to do. The animals built really quickly and everyone felt so pleased with their creations. They were just fab!! Michelle was always at hand assisting where required and was totally approachable. The venue at the Trumpet Tea Rooms was perfect with morning coffee, lunch and a slice of cake with another drink in the afternoon. I felt the course offered excellent value for money and would really recommend it to anyone."

12 Oct 16'

Christine Henderson reviewed: Silver clay beginners course - Lori Ridgway

"Brilliant! I enjoyed the introduction to silver clay course - Lori's explanations of each step made it easy for us all to progress, from working the clay, rolling it out, texturing it and cutting the shapes before the drying, filing and firing. We all worked at our own designs and Lori gave us good timely advice - a thoroughly absorbing and inspiring 3 hours, with a very pleasing first attempt at silver clay jewellery."

12 Oct 16'

Karen reviewed: Silver Jewellery Day Workshop at Studio Budgie Galore, Sheffield

"I find the jewellery making classes totally absorbing and enjoyable, a great therapy for a busy life. The studio is a lovely place to be and Jules is a brilliant and patient teacher."

12 Oct 16'

Manjulaa reviewed: Beginner’s Soapmaking Workshop in Salisbury

"This is a great workshop and excellent value for money. It is informative with lots of detail and top tips presented in a very user friendly format: notes to take away, an introduction to the various ingredients and a demo to show the full soap making process. and fantastic to be able to take away so much soap (with clever cutting, I think I can get about 18 small bars) in two different batches. Catherine ia very calm and a supportive teacher once it comes to the part where you make your own soap. She provides a wide range of supplies and recipes meaning everyone is able to make exactly what they want - which resulted in a wide variety of end products. I really enjoyed the session and am very happy with what I was able to make and take away - two different types of soap which (with clever cutting) I think I can get about 18 small bars from. Lots of great presents!"

12 Oct 16'

sue jensen reviewed: One day leather work course - small leather goods

"Brilliant, enjoyed every minute of it. I do a lot of craft work, sewing, upholstery and my hands are screwed on the right way round, but never worked in leather . Learnt such a lot. Jason was very good at explaining, easy pace but lots of information. It was a very intense 2 day course and I have come back home to denmark and started on small leather goods straight away. My friend (from UK) and I had a great girlfriend weekend. We stayed in a local airbnb and walked to and from the mill (12min) every day along the scenic canal path. Local cosy wine bar was a must on the way home too. We will definately be back to do another course at some time. Our bags are great and we have learnt new skills, met new people and had a great weekend together. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED."

12 Oct 16'

Rachel Lumsden reviewed: Hand spinning for beginners at Cartmel Handspun

"Just a quick thank you for yesterday. I thoroughly enjoyed it! An ideal combination of information and hands on. Thank you also (and your husband) for a good convivial lunch. A lovely day all round. Rachel"

12 Oct 16'

Jillian Edwards reviewed: ‘Winter dream ' wool painting face-to-face textile art course in Worcestershire

"I have never thought that felt making was so easy and enjoyable! I loved your workshop Raya. Felt making is so therapeutic and I am totally addicted to it now. I am planning to attend a lot more workshops at Magic Wool Studio. Thank you!"

12 Oct 16'

Angela Moore reviewed: 4-week online flower arranging class with Julie Davies Flower Workshops

"I have so enjoyed this online course. It is set at a pace that fits around your lifestyle, however busy that may be. The videos and pictorial guides take you through each floral arrangement step by step. The course contains lots of clever hints and tips on how to get the most of your flowers before you even start arranging them. It is not just about flowers in a vase either, you will discover new ways to present your favourite blooms. I found the Facebook group friendly, supportive and easy to use, a chance for everyone on the course to share their creations. Julie gave helpful, creative feedback to help develop your skills. I have new skills that I can continue to use for many years, allowing me to get more from the flowers and foliage in my garden or a bouquet of flowers from a shop. The perfect course for someone who wants to be more creative, and would make an ideal gift."

12 Oct 16'

Pat Barker reviewed: Needle felting course with Furzie at Saltisford Canal Trust, Warwick

"Once again at Lapstones, I had a lovely day with Michelle's expertise & great company. Michelle is so good at making you at ease & making a difficult problem so easy to do with her help. Every one of us went home fulfilled with our hares finished & full of motivation for the project. Looking forward to the next time Pat Barker"

11 Oct 16'

Anne reviewed: Silver Jewellery Day Workshop at Studio Budgie Galore, Sheffield

"I have really enjoyed all the classes I have done and now have lots of beautiful jewellery to wear. Jules is a great tutor and is very patient and encouraging. She helps everyone to design their own pieces and provides just the right guidance to ensure the projects are a success."

11 Oct 16'

Lisa reviewed: Silver Jewellery Day Workshop at Studio Budgie Galore, Sheffield

"Jules is a fantastic tutor and I wouldn't hesitate in recommending this class to anyone. I had no experience in jewellery making but have already made some earrings and a beautiful silver and amethyst ring (I supplied my own gemstone for my particular preference). The workshop is well stocked with lots of equipment, bright and airy and in a lovely setting. I particularly enjoy learning to solder and there are lots of different techniques to learn. Having suffered with severe anxiety, Jules encouraged me to join, after a few false starts on my part, and I am so glad that she did. She is friendly, warm and patient and the people in the group are lovely. I go home with a great sense of achievement and my mood has lifted considerably. For anyone that practices mindfulness, this class gives you an opportunity to make a piece that is meaningful to you and you focus on the here and now. Perfect practice! Plus you go home with something really nice. I am definitely signing up for the next workshop."

11 Oct 16'

Sheila Saxelby reviewed: Silver Jewellery Day Workshop at Studio Budgie Galore, Sheffield

"The class is so very relaxed and comfortable, it makes me want to learn more and more it is so very interesting and Julie is so encouraging with every aspect of jewellery making. You are made to feel a worthwhile member of the class and are made to feel that you can attempt any project & adequately succeeding."

11 Oct 16'

Camellia Wood reviewed: Crochet for Beginners (Adults) in Putney

"Really enjoyed my lesson. Left feeling confident just need to practice the skills I learnt. Looking forward to going back to learn more techniques."

11 Oct 16'

ROD HILLYER reviewed: Woodturning courses in Hampshire - Beginners and improvers wood turning courses - Turn British, all British lathes!!

"I recently completed a day's 'woodturning for beginners' course with Andy at his workshop in the delightful Hampshire countryside... I was a total novice to woodturning before and was slightly nervous about how well I would handle the tools/ machinery but Andy's calm and very patient nature put me at ease straight away. This really helped me relax and enjoy the day to the full. I learnt an incredible amount over the day and can definitely recommend it to anybody out there wanting to learn the amazing skill of woodturning. I was so impressed I bought another full day's course with Andy for my father as a birthday present! The added bonus are the stunning rural surroundings where Andy is based. You won't find a more desirable and idyllic location to spend a day woodturning, anywhere! A great day indeed - many thanks Andy!"