Latest reviews

Helen Moore reviewed: Woodworking drop in workshop sessions - Tuesdays/Wednesday AM at Dukeries Community Workshop, Ollerton

"My 1st day at the woodwork class. Extremely friendly people running and attending the course. Lots of equipment explained. Shown around lots of books and craft magazines. Help making a bird house. Used drill etc. not used before. Tried whittling a spoon then. Really enjoyed my day and hope to go most weeks. Thank you! "

Dukeries Community Workshop responded:

"Hi Helen, very pleased to meet you and that we were able to help you start you way into the world of wood skills. We are open 5 days a week so please do come to see us again, the kettle is always on, regards Alan"

John Fishburn reviewed: Introduction to spooncarving at Hill End

"As a complete beginner to such things I found it a great experience and thoroughly engaging day with excellent tuition, support and plenty of supporting materials to follow up on."

David Knight Woodland Crafts responded:

"Thanks so much for your review, John and your good idea about the way I could use the follow-up materials. May the grain be with you!"

Gill reviewed: Cyanotype/Sun Printing workshop

"My sister and I spent a really lovely morning with Val trying our hand at cyanotype. Val is very knowledgable and very patient explaining how the process works. She supplied everything we needed and had lots of examples on display. We were spoilt with a lovely cake made by Daisy! I highly recommend this course. "

little blue hodgepig responded:

"Thank you both! It was lovely to meet you and share some cyanotype magic with you. I’m so pleased you enjoyed the course (and the cake!)"

Mahsa reviewed: Beginner's Candle Making Private Workshop - Marlow, Buckinghamshire

"I really enjoyed this course. Sarah was very organised, extremely knowledgeable, and an amazing teacher. You won't be disappointed and I would love to join again when I can. I am definitely inspired to make candles at home and I've already ordered some equipment. Thanks so much, Sarah."

Candle by Events responded:

"Thank you Mahsa for your kind words, really pleased you enjoyed the workshop. Kind regards Sarah"

Andrei M reviewed: Beginners Woodworking: Make a Bread Board

"Really good introduction into woodworking and using power tools. Richard is a very passionate woodworker and a great teacher."

Chris Nicholl reviewed: Bronze casting weekend

"I wanted to get hands-on experience of casting an object from molten bronze - so that I could get a sense of the pitfalls and practicalities. I definitely got that from the 2-day course, all wrapped up with Mark's humour and anecdotes - about bronze casting and everything else! You should expect the weekend to feel a bit rushed at times, but I'm so happy with what I learnt and the little cast bronze I came away with!"

New British Art responded:

"Thank you Chris, it was lovely to meet you and thank you for coming over to us! Fantastic that your cast came out so well too. Best wishes, Mark & Caroline"

James Grainger reviewed: Blacksmithing Introduction courses in Yorkshire and the North East

"A cold wet day but once the forge fires got in to action and a cuppa was on offer, the charisma amongst attendees began to flow. We started off by heating and scrolling metal rod into a key ring which got us used to that initial side of the process. Adrian demonstrated with ease to begin with and soon I realised he was a pure professional, completing this small task in just a few minutes. This task however took us ‘newbies’ most of the morning to complete under Adrian and Andy's guidance. Following a wonderful lunch prepared by Debbie, we returned to work for the afternoon. Our next task was to make a dragon headed coat rail bearing three scrolled hooks. Again, Adrian demonstrated proficiently making the task look simple. The processes from the previous task soon came into play for me, I really felt like I knew what I was doing this time so the guidance in the first task must have been very good! We were heating, hammering, chiselling in order to cut hot metal and using punches to create the detailing, whilst being in charge of our fires, keeping them stoked, that heat was lovely aaah!!! Although the coat rail was a bigger task than the key ring, it seemed to evolve quicker, at that point I began to realise that I was learning fast under their guidance. At the end of the day, I was pleased with the items that I had produced and overall, I can say I had a fantastic experience. The group setting was good, everyone was interested in helping each other and it all flowed very well. Adrian and Andy were happy to show and discuss the creative methods of their current projects and had no problem with people taking photos of tools and equipment inside the forge. A great day delivered by a fantastic team and would recommend that every beginner should attend. James. "

Elle Golding reviewed: Traditional Lampshade Making Workshop

"This is a very great workshop if you’re interested in learning how to make a traditional lampshade. I have completed my first ever shade and I couldn’t be more proud of how it turned out. Prior to the workshop, I had zero sewing skills and never used a sewing machine before. Sarah was so patient and kindly taught me how to do both. I was a new student in the class, the rest were returning students which was a good sign. It was such a very pleasant weekend. I learnt so much. Time went past so quickly. Now I’m looking forward to doing more classes with Sarah. I couldn’t recommend this class enough. If you’re looking for a traditional lampshade making class. This is the one."

Stuart Connick reviewed: Copper wire jewellery Workshop

"We had a wonderful time with Kami making our very own jewellery. She’s a fantastic teacher, helping us to understand the different techniques involved, and giving us complete creative freedom to design our pieces. We were really proud of what we made. She also has lovely cats! Would absolutely recommend!"

Mya Designs responded:

"What a nice birthday surprise workshop you arranged. I'm so glad to hear you enjoyed it and you guys really got stuck into it. I love the jewellery you made, both very different in technique and style. Thanks so much for a lovely review and hope you get to enjoy lots of different crafts in the coming year. Take care guys :)"

Georgina reviewed: Clay Animal Modelling, Chorley

"This was a taster session booked as a gift for my husband. He made a wonderful fairy house and enjoyed the experience so much he's booked on a follow up session! I also enjoyed some retail therapy at Heskin Shopping Village whilst my husband played with clay! Would highly recommend. Thank you."

The Crafty potter responded:

"Thank you for your lovely review, he did an amazing job-its drying out nicely. See you soon Sharon"

Colette and Leslie Redmond reviewed: Hare Sculpture workshop with Jo Garden Art in beautiful Norfolk/Suffolk

"we both had a fabulous enjoyable time on this course Jo is an excellent teacher and was encouraging and helpful throughout the whole process. Still cannot believe we created these sculptures in a single day - and managed to get them back home in one piece! We totally recommend this course it's fun and we learned a new skill which has given us the confidence to tackle a bigger project next time - we will be returning!!"

Jo Garden Art responded:

"Thank you Colette & Leslie 🙌 You made a lovely leaping hare (Colette) and large hare (Leslie) - so glad your journey home went smoothly 🤗. Would be wonderful to have you back for an even larger project! Jo x"

Simon reviewed: Stonecarving Weekend, Gloucestershire Cotswolds

"I attended the stone carving course in November, we were lucky with the weather, relatively mild so we were able to work outside. I appreciated Sebastian’s gentle approach, with just the right level of involvement and plenty of encouragement , the stone talked to me and a creation appeared! The studio is in a lovely rural setting , the two days whizzed by, I would thoroughly recommend the course to anyone. I am sure I will buy some tools and find a piece of stone to work on at home."

Ian reviewed: Glass painting taster day

"Just wanted to thank you so much for a fantastic day on Saturday. The whole experience was a real thrill for me. Thoroughly enjoyed the Workshop and getting a feel for the art of leading, and I really look forward to getting the few extra tools and materials I need to start a few other small projects, to gain experience and develop my skills. Just wish I had started many years ago!! I would certainly love the opportunity to be included in any additional workshops that you may hold in 2023, and shall watch out for any announcement. Sooner rather than later, eh??"

Derek Hunt Artist responded:

"Hi Ian, Thank you so much for your great review, and so pleased you enjoyed the course."

John reviewed: Glass painting taster day

""I feel both fortunate and privileged to have been able to attend a Glass Painting Taster Day at the end of October and a Leaded Glass Taster day last week-end, both of which were superbly structured with demonstrations and tutoring. These are both vast areas of learning and I know that we only touched the surface, but the amount of knowledge relayed to us, is entirely down to Derek`s ability as a natural tutor, his patience and his own enthusiasm and love for the work that he does, a passion which he transfers to his students in an infectious manner. From the outset, Derek, Derek`s wife and Jura (their dog, who was allowed into the workshop to say hello) made us feel completely at ease and most welcome. Derek would undertake part demonstrations to a certain stage for you to follow on your own work and would assist if needed and was willing to answer all questions along the way. The next stage would then be demonstrated leading to production of the final piece of work from yourselves. Derek would explain the traditional methods which are in the main still used today. The Taster days were extremely informative and rewarding in that not only had you learnt new skills, you left with a reminder of the day, with the item that you had worked on. I would highly recommend Derek`s courses which are a fantastic experience""

Derek Hunt Artist responded:

"Thank you so much for your great review, and so pleased you enjoyed the course."

Nigel Clews reviewed: The First Cut - lino cutting for beginners & rusty printmakers

"An enjoyable day with Liz, re-learning the art of Linocut, last practiced 50 years ago. The Slipper Studio is a light, airy and informal workplace, and Liz an excellent tutor encouraging you to go beyond any self imposed limitations, but with an eye on time, progress and leaving with decent prints. It was pleasant to share the Course with another participant, and Liz kept us topped up with tea, coffee and chocolate biscuits. I recommend this course highly to those thinking of giving linocut a go. "

Liz Wellby - Artist, Teacher & Maker responded:

"Hi Nigel, Good to hear from you and thank you for letting me know about your time at The Slipper Studio. It was a pleasure working with you, seeing you engage with a process you clearly admire and are very interested in. It’s a great process and I’m sure you’ll enjoy developing your skills in the near future. You clearly have a good eye for composition and have some great designs to translate into lino prints. Happy cutting and printing. Best wishes Liz Wellby"

Mark Harrison reviewed: Welding with confidence

"Excellent opportunity to get some experience of MiG welding, after initial H&S talk, Nigel was keen for everyone to just get hands on and start. During the course, Nigel provided instruction on what next to attempt having demonstrated what to do and again left you to it. At the end of the day I had learnt enough to take away skills for basic MiG welding and learnt about the different machines available and their capabilities."

David Harbon reviewed: Pottery Throwing (Group Discounts Available) Lessons in Worcester

"Excellent experience all round. Chris was great, warm and very welcoming. My wife had always wanted to use the potters wheel and she wasn’t disappointed. We have talked about going back in the New Year and doing the longer session. Looking forward to that."

Chris Greening Pottery responded:

"Many thanks for the lovely review David. Great session, interesting chat about all sorts of things. Your pots are drying nicely and should be going into the kiln for the first of their two firings next week. I shall be in touch soon. Best wishes Chris"

Julie Hughes reviewed: Stained glass taster day in Worcestershire

"This was such a fun day from start to finish as we were taken through each step of stain glass making by Vicky and Vic. Both were kind and patient giving us clear and concise guidance of the process and we were able to produce not to shabby decorations to display at home as a great reminder of our day - our friends and family were quite impressed with our masterpieces when we showed them 🙂 The amazing spread at lunchtime was superb too ! We cannot wait to go back to the workshop again to experience one of the other courses on offer and would highly recommend anyone to try it for themselves it was worth every penny Thank you again Vicky and Vic for sharing your knowledge and skills with us x"

Kingcot Gallery responded:

"Julie, it was a most enjoyable day for us as well, just remember to dab and not stroke.......!"

Carl reviewed: Firebird Forge Blacksmithing School

"A great day at the forge. It was great to spend a day with a true master of his craft in such a beautiful location. Mort is brilliant in demonstrating and explaining the skills and techniques and also encouraging you to get stuck in. I enjoyed the day and left with a great appreciation of the skills - and a kitchen knife forged from a plough share! Highly recommended."

Firebird Forge responded:

"Many thanks for the high praise Carl. It was a pleasure to have you in the forge and thanks for the interest and enthusiasm you showed during the day. All the best, Mort. "

Liz Dunn reviewed: Christmas Cracker Workshop (private workshop at your own venue)

"I loved this workshop! It was very festive, a beautiful location, very helpful tuition and a lovely friendly welcoming atmosphere. Thank you very much"

L & S Crafts responded:

"We're really glad you enjoyed the workshop. Have fun finishing off your extra crackers."

Lauren reviewed: Pottery throwing in Huddersfield

"Lovely lesson, very helpful and managed to complete a bowl with guidance Would definitely recommend for someone looking to start pottery or just for someone wanting a fun activity with friends! "

Earth Pig Pottery responded:

"Thanks for the review, Lauren. I’m glad you enjoyed the session."

Barbara W reviewed: An Introduction to Weaving with a Table Loom, Oxford

"I attended the day with my daughter and we both enjoyed the experience immensely. It was exactly what I had been hoping for - a mix of getting some understanding of how weaving works, hands-on experience with equipment that one could duplicate at home, something to take home at the end of the day and a lot of ideas of where it could lead to. Jeremy was very welcoming, patient and enthusiastic about sharing his work. I would sincerely recommend the course to anybody wanting to explore. I came away delighted and with a definite intention to find ways of learning more. "

Jeremy Uden Designer/Handweaver responded:

"Thanks Barbara - I'm really glad you both enjoyed the day. Jem"

Karla Green reviewed: Knitting workshops in Leeds City Centre

"Ann was amazing and very helpful I was very useless so I feel I have learnt a skill, the other ladies in the group absolutely loved her and the session, so much we booked again for the next week."

Leeds Central Faith and Light responded:

"Thank you Karla for this lovely review. I was quite apprehensive about how much help your group would need, but they were all lovely and already had the basics so it was a pleasure to help them. I am looking forward to meeting them again to see how they have got on. Kind regards Ann"

Karen reviewed: Fused Glass for beginners at Rainbow Glass Studios

"I attended the fused glass for beginners class in November. It was excellent. Eleanor is a wonderful teacher who makes the process extremely accessible and has great patience, explaining to, and supporting participants throughout. The class had a lovely atmosphere and there were so many creative possibilities even for those of us who went along, perhaps not feeling we were very good at design ideas at the beginning. I would fully recommend this experience and hope to attend again some time in the future to make more pieces."

Eleanor Designs responded:

"Hello Karen Thank you for coming to my fused glass course, I am so glad you enjoyed it! I’m really looking forward to opening the kiln on your beautiful and carefully made pieces later today. Really well done! I think you’ll be pleased with the results! Look forward to seeing you again! Best wishes Eleanor Rainbow Glass Studios London"

Emma Baxter reviewed: Animal clay sculpture workshops- one day

"Wonderful! Connie is a kind and patient teacher with amazing talent. I really enjoyed my day and would definitely recommend this course. "

Connie Fielder Ceramics and Crafts responded:

"Hello Emma I’m glad you enjoyed your sculpture workshop Your Lion looks fantastic. It was a pleasure teaching you. Connie"