Latest reviews

Helena Holland reviewed: Make Your Own Footstool Workshop

"Excellent course. Had a lot of fun and learned a new skill"

From Loft to Loved Workshops CIC responded:

"Thank you so much for your review Helena, it was an absolute pleasure. Any questions, do not hesitate to reach out. Sarah and Kim"

Cindy reviewed: Textile landscape workshop in Dorset

"Imogen is a very talented artist and teacher. She has a gentle and patient approach which filled everyone in the workshop with confidence. I have taught art myself for 30 years so I know a good teacher when I see one. I particularly valued her extensive range of materials which she provided. I was also grateful for the choice of images she offered us for inspiration. A lovely day I highly recommend and will be doing another one during the course of the coming year. (Great cake too!) "

Mary reviewed: Collage workshop with Helen Norman

"Just wanted to thank you and Helen for a great morning. I thoroughly enjoyed it and will definitely be giving it a go at home. Your hospitality was first class and the setting perfect. Helen was attentive and supported us with her positivity. I will certainly recommend the craft to friends."

Hen House Studio responded:

"Thank you so much for your kind comments, it was good to meet you and I'm so pleased you enjoyed the workshop. We were most impressed with all the collages on this workshop and I hope you will make another when you feel inspired. Many thanks for coming, and we do appreciate you receommending us."

Louisa Chapman reviewed: Sea Glass Framed Art Workshop (Eve)

"Fabulous course in lovely surroundings. Karen was lovely. Will definitely do again"

Shore things by Karen responded:

"So lovely to meet you both and look forward to seeing you again soon. Your pictures were beautiful "

Claire reviewed: 2-Day Introduction to Wood Carving

"I am a self-taught whittler and have also done some slightly bigger carving projects in my garage, but I am self-taught and recognised that my technique would benefit from some proper instruction. I was absolutely right. There were 6 of us and I learned so much from Tom who was patient, flexible and adapted to the needs of every individual on the course, many of whom had no experience of carving wood up to that point. You can bring your own design or use carvings that Tom provided to inspire your design and because you have 2 days, you have enough time (just) to produce a significant and completed piece of work to take home with you. Tom gave us all so many useful tips. He spent significant time with each of us throughout both days, guiding and helping us individually on what actions to take next on our pieces as well as demonstrating how to correct mistakes that will inevitably occur whether you are a beginner or and intermediate carver. The workshop itself is just that - it's lovely and atmospheric but there isn't any heating so you need to wear layers. You also need to be in comfortable and appropriate shoes as you will be on your feet for the 2 days, standing and moving around your station all the time. There are a few stools so you can take a break, but because you are focused on your carving, you kind of forget! The added bonus is that the onsite cafe does really good food and drink - I can personally recommend the cinnamon bun but everything else looked delicious too. "

Maria reviewed: Embroidered Cyanotypes with Emily Mackey

"A fantastic workshop! I had never done Cyanotype Printing before but Emily was brilliant at explaining the process, provided plenty of inspiration and lots material to use. We embroidered some of our prints in the afternoon, and again Emily explained the process and gave lots of hints and tips. The embroidery gives it another dimension – so inspirational! Thank you Emily, it was a perfect day - great company, lovely lunch and a beautiful setting. Thank you also for the samples, I can’t wait to do some more prints and make the cushions for my garden. I would thoroughly recommend this Course to anyone interested in Cyanotype."

Charlotte Solan reviewed: Loom Weaving Taster Workshop

"I thoroughly enjoyed the Loom weaving taster workshop, Lou Wood Designs. Louise is friendly and approachable. Everything had been set up ready for our arrival, with multiple threads to use. Each of us were given a pack with all the information and instructions. Louise was really knowledgeable about weaving and everything connected to it. "

Lou Woo Designs responded:

"Thank you so much for your kind words – I’m really pleased you enjoyed the loom weaving taster workshop! It was a pleasure to have you there, and I’m so glad you felt everything was well prepared. Weaving is such a joy to share, and it means a lot to hear you found the session informative and welcoming. Hope to see you again soon!"

Colin Butt reviewed: Bandsaw box making day

"An excellent day's one-to-one training that was also great value for money. Ted is an excellent tutor and I have come away from the course far more confident in using my bandsaw. Many thanks Ted for the excellent training and tips provided throughout a very enjoyable day - 5 stars from me."

Teds Woodworking/ instrument making Courses responded:

"Kind words indeed Colin 👍 hope that you're woodwork journey brings more happiness in the future and you are welcome to come again my friend. 😎👍👍"

Judy reviewed: Willow Basket Weaving at Manor Wood

"I had an absolute blast learning willow weaving with Olinda! She's a gifted instructor who breaks down complex techniques into meditative, easy-to-follow steps. The peaceful setting of Matt's woodland was the perfect backdrop for this creative journey. Olinda's patience and expertise made me feel confident and inspired – I couldn't recommend this course more!"

Manor Wood responded:

"Hi Judy, thanks for taking the time to review! So glad you enjoyed the course, hope to see you at Manor Wood again! Matt"

Pete G reviewed: Introduction to glass painting (1 day) in Sheffield, South Yorkshire

"I had been looking for a glass painting course for a while. The course was exactly what I was looking for, clear hands on introduction to the range of glass painting techniques. Good mix of demonstrations and own time to try out the techniques in the morning and one to one support in developing own pieces in the afternoon. Recommended."

Martin McAssey Glass responded:

"So glad you enjoyed the workshop, thank you for the great review."

Shiv reviewed: Candle making workshops for beginners - St Albans, Hertfordshire

"Anne was brilliant and so knowledgeable. I really enjoyed the course and have messaged her a few times afterwards to ask questions. She has been so helpful! Highly recommended course! "

Mike Greenfield reviewed: 2 day knife making course

"Great weekend on the 2 day knife making course. The guys where first class at showing and explaining everything. A good choice of blades that could be made and an easy going atmosphere throughout. I occasionally have issues with my hip and this weekend happened to be one. Gary was quick to adapt things so I could carry on with my knife and made it clear I was to take as long as was needed. Overall, an excellent experience which I purchased as a 21st birthday present for my God son to do with me, and I would highly recommend Friargate Forge."

Biddy reviewed: Loom Weaving Taster Workshop

"This course was great. Excellent value and Louise is very knowledgeable and helpful. The time passed too quickly and I will be signing up for Louise's three day course in August."

Lou Woo Designs responded:

"Thank you so much – I’m really glad you enjoyed the course! It’s lovely to hear that you found it good value and that the time flew by. I’m delighted you’ll be joining the three-day course in August – I’m already looking forward to it!"

Lee Draper reviewed: Two day dry stone walling course at Pensychnant, near Conwy North Wales.

"Great course. Therapeutic, technical, hard graft, sense of achievement and bonding. Iolo, Paul and Julian were brilliant. Pensychnant Conservation Centre Is great place and will be taking the family soon to support the charity’s cause. "

Dry Stone Walling Association North Wales Branch responded:

"Thanks Lee. It was a great weekend and we were very impressed with you. You were well up for it. Regards Paul "

Sue Adams reviewed: Soap Candle & Bath Treats

"Oh my goodness, what a fantastic day. Sarah is so passionate about her products and you can see she is always thinking of new ideas to try (when she has time!). I really enjoyed hearing about her business journey, as well as her generous knowledge of all things soap, candle and bath smellies. I went home with beautiful soap, a gorgeous candle and several bath products. I had the best time, and am already looking at what I can do next. A truly inspirational woman. Thank you."

Mark. reviewed: Stonecarving Weekend, Gloucestershire Cotswolds

"Wonderful in every way. Cleverly Sebastian guides you to create sculptures you never thought possible. Lovely off grid setting adds to the magic of what was a fabulous weekend. "

Rachel Arnold reviewed: Furniture Painting Workshop (levels 1&2 techniques covered) in Preston, Lancashire

"I had such a great day at the furniture painting workshop. Jo was great at explaining all the different techniques and we had a go on boards to practise which was really helpful. I feel really confident now to have a go at furniture painting and transform some old pieces. I loved the day - great company and refreshments and fun to have a go at something new! "

The Boho Shed responded:

"I'm so pleased you enjoyed the workshop Rachel and that it gave you confidence to continue your own projects at home. Thank you for your lovely review. x"

Gill reviewed: Glass Fusing Workshop, half day

"I'm a beginner at glass fusion and was a little worried but had a good course. Penny was very welcoming and patient. She gave the group ideas and helped with solutions and advice. I'm going back very soon. "

Through the Arch - Fused Glass responded:

"Thank you Gill. I loved the swaddled baby you made for your next granddaughter. Well done! And it will be great to have you back."

Bee reviewed: Bookbinding Class: Unique Copper Repoussé

"What a great experience. I would definitely recommend doing a course with Will Pheonix if you have a free afternoon in Edinburgh. Will generously shared his knowledge and many years of book making experience with the small group of students. Everyone made a book to be proud of."

Phoenix Handmade Books responded:

"It’s was incredibly amazing to meet you on Saturday and you did soooo well Sorry it was a bit rushed I’ve limited numbers to four on that particular lass from here on in , as time just eats up all the many processes ( saying that the designs were also very elaborate tbh) Thanks again if you’ve any questions with the final assembly please call me anytime ok X Wil"

Mark Wightman reviewed: Painting Restoration

"Two great days with Rachael restoring some oil paintings. Rachael is very knowledgeable and enthusiastic about her craft. I would definitely recommend Rachael for all aspects of working on paintings and frames. "

Rachael Milligan at Little Leaf Studio responded:

"Thank you very much Mark. I hope all goes well with future projects. With best wishes, Rachael "

Katy reviewed: Precious Metal Clay - Make your own Silver Jewellery for Beginners

"A fantastic course! Jenny was very knowledgable and brilliant at showing us exactly what to do. I felt I could ask as many questions as I needed to and feel inspired to continue making my own silver clay jewellery. There were plenty of examples to look at, resources to use and all the equipment necessary. I came away with a pair of earrings and large pendant which I’m thrilled with! There were plenty of drinks and biscuits available throughout the afternoon and it didn’t feel at all rushed. I wouldnt hesitate to recommend this course!"

Vitreus Art responded:

"Thank-you for your review Katy - it was a pleasure working with you. KR M&J"

Cindy Lloyd-Evans reviewed: Textile landscape workshop in Dorset

"Imogen is a very talented artist and teacher. She has a gentle and patient approach which filled everyone in the workshop with confidence. I have taught art myself for 30 years so I know a good teacher when I see one. I particularly valued her extensive range of materials which she provided. I was also grateful for the choice of images she offered us for inspiration. A lovely day, I highly recommend and will be doing another one during the course of the coming year. (Great cake too!) "

Imogen Bittner Studio responded:

"Thank you so much Cindy! I had a lovely day with you too- such a positive day! Looking forward to seeing you again and I will try to avoid a solstice 😊 Very best wishes, Imogen"

Viv and Marie reviewed: Fused Glass Half Day

"What a great experience...Julie was a patient, informative tutor especially as we were nervous about the craft.. She put us at ease and guided us through the process. We thoroughly enjoyed our day and recommend it to others"

Julies Handcrafted Glass responded:

"Thank you gad you had a great time "

Fliss Harris reviewed: Teen Art Taster Session (12-16 yrs)

"My 13 year old son attended his first session this week. He really enjoyed it and learnt so much from Julie in just the one session. He will definitely be signing up for future classes."

The White Room Art Studio responded:

"Thank you so much Fliss for your lovely review I’m so pleased your son enjoyed his art class regards Julie "

Andrea reviewed: An Introduction to Upcycling

"A great day with friendly staff - thanks to Tracey for being super helpful and approachable. Would defo recommend for beginners and anyone wanting to learn the right way to upcycle furniture."

Little Gems Interiors responded:

"Hello Andrea, Thank you so much for your kind words and 5 star review. We are so pleased you had an enjoyable day, it was really lovely to meet you and we hope to see you again soon. Best wishes, The Little Gems Interiors Team"