Latest reviews

Joanne Somerville reviewed: Sterling Silver Simple Ring Course (Reading)

"Really enjoyed the ring-making course. Small class, clear instructions, good demonstrations and lots of advice and help!"

La Jade responded:

"Hi Joanne, thank you for taking the time to review the course. I am glad to hear you enjoyed it. "

Monika reviewed: Traditional Lampshade Making Workshop Brighton

"I highly recommend Jo's course to everyone who would like to make their own traditional lampshade. From offering us hot drinks throughout the day, through very patient and clear instructions to each step to cheering us at the very end when our hands (and heads) were giving up a bit :) We ended up with gorgeous pieces that already are used and totally loved the experience. "

Lume Lighting responded:

"Thank you Monika for the lovely review :) Both your lampshades looked amazing and I’m so glad you managed to finish them and they are already being used! x "

Penelope Walker reviewed: Introduction to Woodworking Weekend

"A very thorough introduction to woodwork. Bill was both knowledgeable on the craft as well as being a great teacher. The schedule was thorough with the right amount of detail. I'll be back! Thank you!"

Craven Conservation and Restoration Ltd responded:

"Thank you Penelope for attending and also for taking the time to write a review, much appreciated. I look forward to welcoming you back. "

Neil reviewed: Axe Making Weekend

"Absolutely loved this weekend for my dad's birthday, we both had a great time and Graham & family were entertaining, knowledgeable and very helpful! The axes came out looking absolutely stunning and they're both very practical and sharp, cannot recommend this course enough. "

Clarke Knives responded:

"Thanks Neil - It was a great weekend"

Sam reviewed: Crochet Worshop - All levels at Tandem Crafts, Stourbridge

"Brilliant day with Anne. My sister and I are at different levels but Anne was patient with both of us. Very encouraging. Have continued to practice since. "

Tandem Crafts responded:

"Thank you for this kind review Ann trait enjoyed working with you and looking forward to seeing how you all progess"

Tracey P reviewed: Glass Bauble blowing experience with Chris

"Three of us travelled to blow a glass bauble. Chris was great and an excellent mentor. He was at our side every step of the way but only offered help and guidance when necessary. "

Heather Carberry reviewed: Crafts in the Valley - Beginners glass fusing workshops in Hebden Bridge, West Yorkshire

"What a fabulous day from start to finish! Mel was so warm and welcoming to us complete beginners. She explained everything so clearly and was so positive as she supported us as necessary. By the end we had alll produced some lovely pieces🥰 Delicious treats too! We’ll be back xx"

Helen E reviewed: Antiquarian book repair day

"A fantastic day spent on book repairs. Stephen is clearly very skilled and it was fascinating to work with someone who is so knowledgeable about their work. We covered a wide range of techniques, discussed projects and practised aspects of work on the books that I had brought, plus some other examples that Stephen provided. I gained a lot of valuable insights into how repairs are done in practice and lots of ideas from the books and projects that line the workshop - a great day, I'm looking forward to visiting again to develop my skills!"

Boundbooks responded:

"Thanks Helen it was lovely to meet you and great to work with you. Many thanks 😊 🙏 "

Ailsa reviewed: Women's Woodwork Workshop

"The course was so well organised. Jess had all the equipment required and gave excellent simple instructions that gave us confidence to carry out each stage of our project. From a plank of wood we all produced beautifully items. I am thrilled with my bird box and will be putting up in my garden this week. He’s was so calm and welcoming and the whole day although busy was carried out in an atmosphere of calm. I would love to go again and inspired to try to make more out of wood. I would recommend anyone to have a go and attend a course. Thanks Jess for a fantastic experience. "

Glanmedeni Ltd responded:

"It was lovely to meet you Ailsa, such a lovely day in the sunshine. You did a brilliant job on your birdbox, keep experimenting with making other things and come back and have another go at something here soon! x"

Andrew reviewed: Art Spoon Carving with Giles Newman

"Having never carved a spoon before I was amazed at the Koi carp spoon I had created by the end of the day under Giles patient guidance in his fantastic studio. I could not fault the day. Excellent."

Pete Colledge reviewed: Wood joints class using reclaimed materials

"I had a great day with Tyler learning some joining techniques including mortise and tenon and dovetails. Tyler is incredibly patient and good as a teacher. His attention to detail and focus on learning good technique and safe working is really great and instills excellent practice. I would definitely go back to learn further skills in the future as I know there is a lot more Tyler could teach and the learning atmosphere was nothing short of brilliant. "

Gerard Dunne reviewed: Introduction to Bushcraft

"The course was brilliant. The instructor was friendly, clear and concise with his instructions and obviously passionate about what he wanted to share and his love of nature also. The 'back to nature' way of making drinks etc. was lovely, teas and coffee always tastes better when the water is boiled over an open fire. Thank you and I will be back, with friends and colleagues from work very soon. Highly recommended."

Manor Wood responded:

"Hi Gerard, thank you for the lovely review! Hope to see you at Manor Wood again. Matt"

Ewelina Szczepanska reviewed: Portrait Painting in Oils

"I recently had the pleasure of attending a two-day oil painting portrait course led by Karl Rudziak, and it was nothing short of inspiring. Karl not only proved to be an exceptional instructor with valuable painting methods but also generously provided all the materials needed. This thoughtful preparation allowed us to focus solely on our art without any distractions. The course was well-structured, making it easy for attendees of all levels to follow along and absorb the techniques Karl demonstrated. His approach not only boosted my confidence but also allowed me to complete a portrait that I am truly proud of. For anyone looking to delve into oil painting or refine their portrait skills, I highly recommend Karl Rudziak's course. His expertise and effective teaching style will undoubtedly leave you with a deeper understanding of the art and a beautiful piece of your own to show for it."

Karl Rudziak Artist responded:

"Thank you, Ewelina, it was a joy having you in the workshop. "

Amanda reviewed: Free Motion Quilting for the Terrified!

"Very informative. Lots of practical advice and opportunities to learn new skills."

Sew Forest of Dean responded:

"Hi Amanda, thank you for taking the time to leave a review. You did a great job with all the techniques and it was lovely to see everyone's confidence and skills improve as the day progressed. Have fun practicing! Best wishes, Jennifer"

PamC reviewed: Crafts in the Valley - Beginners glass fusing workshops in Hebden Bridge, West Yorkshire

"Thoroughly enjoyed the beginners course and made a variety of fused glass objects. Was well explained and I enjoyed learning a new craft. Would thoroughly recommend."

Luke reviewed: Creative Vibe - Glassblowing Sessions

"What a great way to learn glassblowing , Ricky was great at teaching and hands on when needed but also allowed me to do most of the work"

Paul and Imogen reviewed: One day welding course for two people

"Myself and my wife travelled down from Scotland for this course. Julian is a fantastic teacher and person, his warmth and enthusiasm is infectious. He really took his time to explain to us the theory that underpinned mig welding followed by loads of hands on learning. Felt like we learned so much in one day and came away feeling confident we could have a go at doing some repairs on our old van. Julian also took the time to instruct us on getting our own welder set up that we brought along with us which was really invaluable. Would highly recommend doing a course with Julian. Thank you for a great day. "

Julian Wadsworth - Artist Blacksmith responded:

"Hi Paul and Imogen, it was a great day and you both got to grips with the welding process. I know you will be able to tackle the van. Keep the fusion good and enjoy,all the best, regards, Julian"

Caitlin reviewed: Weave a Willow Gathering Basket

"What a gorgeous day of learning and community! Lisa was so kind and welcoming to us as newbies to basket making, and our little class of three had a lovely time learning and putting the world to rights around a log fire. Lisa is a really patient teacher, and her hands-on approach to teaching really worked for me. She talked us through the different kinds of willow, and showed us different weaving styles as we gradually developed a basket of our own. I didn't expect to leave with such a beautiful basket for my first time making one, but I'm now showing it off to everyone who comes round! Highly recommend coming to a class."

Lisa Dear Basketry responded:

"Thank you Caitlin! I'm really glad you and Eliot enjoyed the day and that you're so pleased with your first basket. It was a real pleasure to teach you both. Many thanks. "

Elaine reviewed: Textile Portraits - Free-motion Machine Embroidery POCKLINGTON

"This was a great day, lots to learn and very well planned. Everything was supplied and there was a great choice of fabrics and threads. The machines were lovely and easy to use. Holly was the best Course Leader, she was inspiring and helpful, busy and on top of everything, including moments when we required assistance. We didn't have to wait for any extra guidance as she showed us quickly and efficiently how to sort out our glitches but included the group too so that we all learnt. She gave clear concise instructions at each stage and produced a useful guide for each attendee to refer to and to take home. A very busy but relaxing day."

Becky reviewed: Glass Bead Making Workshop - One to One

"I had a really lovely afternoon learning how to make glass beads. Julia was the perfect teacher- knowledgeable, relaxed and friendly. The process is quite mesmerising. I don't know if my beads will turn out well but I'm glad I did the course as I enjoyed the process so much."

Ian Pestridge reviewed: Blacksmithing for Beginners - Full Day Forging for Two

"My son and I had an amazing and memorable day with Chris attending his blacksmith course. Chris is a fantastic teacher and person, explaining his craft as he took us through the process step by step. By the end of the day we each crafted a Viking style letter opener which now sits proudly on display at home. I highly recommend it."

Henry reviewed: Introduction to Green Wood Furniture Making - 2 Day Course in South Devon

"This is something I've been wanting to try ages and this course provided the perfect starting point. Peter and Toby were very knowledgeable and encouraging and their guidance combined with access to a wide range of top quality tools and materials meant we all left with unique pieces we could all be proud of (even complete beginners like me!)"

Peter Lanyon Furniture responded:

"Thanks Henry, a pleasure to meet you. "

Kate reviewed: Introduction to traditional stained glass (1 day) in Sheffield, South Yorkshire

"Great experience! Learnt lots of techniques and about different types of glass. Martin was really helpful and explained everything clearly. The cafe next door was fab for lunch as well. Really pleased with piece and will be going back for more classes. "

Martin McAssey Glass responded:

"Thank you for the review."

Francis Whatley reviewed: Mig Welding For Beginners Introductory Day Course.

"Very enjoyable course. From never having tried MIG welding before I was able to complete a simple weld by the end of the day. Highly recommended for any beginner"

Newport Wrought Ironwork responded:

"Thank you Francis for your review, it is very much appreciated. Regards Tony "

Rosina Tubb reviewed: Gilding on Glass

"One of my favourite workshops because it is unique and great fun and Estitxu is charming and welcoming. My Husband and I enjoyed learning various techniques with and without stencils. Estitxu is very experienced and is able to impart her knowledge with great patience and able adapt to each individual giving her full attention to each of us. I brought some stencils from my craft stash to use in some of my designs and experimented with both metal and plastic ones, although she has loads of plastic ones in the studio. Be prepared to get messy and enjoy yourself. We were given refreshments and well looked after. She gave me materials to take home to finish my fabulous artwork. "