Latest reviews

paul robbins reviewed: Wooden mechanical toy (automata) making

"Well, that was an interesting day. Looking at the picture of what I was to make, my initial thought was that's a tad simplistic. This is based on the fact that I make theatre scenery and props, along with assorted boxes, toys and other wooden items as a hobby. Whilst I admit each part of the process for me was relatively easy the theory and application of each process were what made the day interesting, and educational. Steph is a very methodical tutor ensuring each step is carried out in the relevant order, and able to provide hints and tips on the best way to achieve this. At no point did I feel this course was beneath my ability, despite as I say extensive experience, albeit self-taught. The course was pitched exactly right and given time allowed a single shaft automaton is probably as complicated as a single day will allow, especially when you take into account painting and glue uptime. Equally, if you are a beginner as I am when it comes to painting projects, Steph has the knack to get the information across in a manner that would make you feel proficient enough to undertake this project. So is this suitable for all levels I would say yes? Is this a fun and entertaining insight into the myriad world of automata definitely, would I like to learn more about these and make more complex items definitely. If you are thinking about doing this, just do it I very much doubt you will be disappointed."

Penlan Crafts responded:

"Dear Paul, thank you very much for your enthusiastic review! I’m very happy you enjoyed your birthday present … even more considering that you are an expert woodworking aficionado. It was a pleasure working with you (and thank you for your tips regarding the scroll saw!) and I am glad that I was able to show you the “magic” of automata. Happy Christmas! Stef"

Jeni reviewed: Resin Art Holly and Mistletoe Kit - the perfect Christmas present - everlasting translucent bunches of holly and mistletoe

"Purchased for a friend - with the request that they keep it for Christmas, but they were way too impatient! Delivery was super-quick, and she was delighted with it - and has already sent me photos of the finished product, which she has really enjoyed. Great value. Thank you."

Inion responded:

"Thank you so much - so pleased your friend enjoyed it. What is she going to open on Christmas Day????"

Bruce Day reviewed: A fabulous introduction to fused glass - one day course

"Had a brilliant day with Siobhan. As we already own a couple of her pieces (one of which we commissioned), I was keen to get an insight into how she achieves such marvellous works of art. The day flew by and I have my partner to thank for thinking of such an original present. For anyone who wants to test their artistic abilities, I cannot recommend this course highly enough. Siobhan is a wonderfully warm and encouraging person."

Anna reviewed: Paper Making - Hand Made Recycled Paper

"A beautiful and friendly little crafting studio ... a hidden gem. This course was fun and it is great to be able to take away the mould and inspiration to make more at home."

Jack Goodall reviewed: One day stained glass workshop London for beginners and enthusiasts

"A lot more than we expected. A great intro into the foundation skills, an education in how to expand your knowledge, and a really great product to take home."

Margaret Martin reviewed: Get started with Dot Painting - relaxed, friendly sessions

"This is a brilliant course - I had the best day crafting and enjoyed every minute. Sally was very informative and helpful and encouraged me every step of the way - she has so much patience and is so knowledgeable about her crafts and very skilled. I came away with a lovely piece of art and fully intend to take up this mindfulness and relaxing craft. Thank you Sally for introducing me to Mandala Dot Painting."

Helen Slater reviewed: Personalised Stitch Markers

"The stitch markers are beautiful, Rachel answered my queries straight away and I am delighted with them. They are also so beautifully wrapped. Thank you."

Gifted Crafts Company responded:

"So pleased you like them Helen. Thank you so much for taking the time to review. I really appreciate it. Rach"

Karen reviewed: Natural skincare & wellbeing - make & take parties/workshops

"Debbie's workshop is a really uplifting afternoon. Debbie is warm, welcoming and a great hostess - she prepares so much for you, including handmade chocolates and cake! Her knowledge is very wide-ranging from essential oils to flower essences and reiki. You get to make so many things and learn so much about the natural ingredients used for bath and beauty products. The products you make are all organic and smell divine. I came away feeling spoilt, inspired and laden with lovely goodies to give the family. I highly recommend Debbie's workshop. Thank you so much!"

TimeOut4Me responded:

"Huge thank you Karen For this lovely review. I so enjoyed your company and play date. If I could be cheeky and just ask you to copy onto google review on this link too? Xx Going to email you the reveries write now. Big thanks again x"

Gill Reid reviewed: Resin Art Mistletoe Kit - the perfect Stocking Filler - Beautiful translucent bunch of mistletoe with shiny berries.(Code 123)

"Bought as a gift, so as yet, I don't know how it's turned out. The packaging was lovely and the instructions seem clear and concise."

Inion responded:

"Thank you for your kind comments. I do hope they like the gift."

Sarah Hirst reviewed: Felt Making Pictures (Halifax)

"Really enjoyed the workshop. The studio space is beautiful, with lots of lovely materials to choose from, and completed projects to inspire. Jo gave us a comprehensive introduction on how to wet felt, and the pitfalls to avoid. Feel much more confident in trying this at home now, and inspired to do so."

Lou reviewed: Water colour Chill - Taster - Water colour for beginners.

"I've done a couple of Sarah's courses and sessions and find her approach a relaxed way to learn. Watercolour was quite scary to me but now I love to play with it and feel more confident. Thank you for your patience."

Art with Goy - S L Goy Art Inspirations responded:

"Greatly appreciated and happy to hear that you felt relaxed and now more confident."

Lou reviewed: Sketching Chill - Taster hour - Sketching for beginners.

"A great course which made me feel relaxed whilst learning new skills - Thank you"

Art with Goy - S L Goy Art Inspirations responded:

"Thank you so much for your positive comments"

Naomi Bunker reviewed: Bronze casting weekend

"A very enjoyable course. Mark and Caroline made everyone very welcome. I learnt a lot while having fun with a great bunch of creative people. It was a hugely rewarding experience to be part of the pouring and go through the whole process in a relaxed and friendly environment. I would recommend this course to anyone interested in learning about bronze casting or anyone who would enjoy a creatively rewarding weekend."

Jenny F reviewed: No Rules Patchwork

"Loved this course! The informality of Jayne's approach completely appeals to me - Superb video lessons, really well presented and comprehensible, giving me exactly what I needed to free up the idea of what patchwork could be. Since following the course I have completed a number of small projects. Had the best and most engrossing fun, making all sorts of other discoveries along the way and keeping myself boundlessly happy during lockdown. If you're wondering about doing the course, then go go go! I loved it."

Adam reviewed: Creative Fused Glass for beginners and improvers

"I bought this as a gift for my mum, and we both had a wonderful time. Nadine guided us through the whole process and made it all so easy! And the bowls we made are amazing, can't quite believe novice’s like us could make something so fab - It was the perfect gift. I highly recommend it."

Fiona Toms reviewed: Furniture Painting Workshop (levels 1&2 techniques covered) in Warrington, Cheshire

"I had a great day last Saturday at the Level 1 Furniture Painting Workshop at Grappenhall Walled Garden. The course was interesting and I thoroughly enjoyed learning a new skill in such a lovely relaxing environment. Jo is very friendly and a good teacher. Really looking forward to doing the Level 2 painting course next time."

The Boho Shed responded:

"I’m really pleased you enjoyed the workshop Fiona, you were a pleasure to teach and I look forward to seeing you again for Level 2. X"

Bethany reviewed: Beginners Ring Wax Carving Workshop

"Emily was really welcoming and an amazing teacher! She guided me through everything step by step and gave me words of encouragement when I was struggling. I had an amazing time and I can’t wait to go back and make some more!"

The Metalsmith responded:

"Thank you so much for the kind words; I'm so pleased you had such a good time! Looking forward to working on some new pieces with you!"

Nicola Collins reviewed: Fused Glass workshops at Bere Alston, near Tavistock, Devon

"Wendy was a great teacher and taught me all the skills I needed to produce a lovely piece of fused glass work. I had a thoroughly enjoyable time and look forward very much to doing another one very soon!"

Sarah-Jayne Seer reviewed: Lino printing landscapes

"I had a great day in Lee's print studio. The building itself is nostalgic and is a brilliant venue. Very comfortable communal space, has a relaxed atmosphere and has the perfect ambience for inspiration and creativity. Lee was very friendly as well as hospitable and generous. I enjoyed the print room experience very much. Wonderful to be in an artist's working space and to be able to see the pieces in various stages of completion and be around the beautifully finished prints too. Will definitely be returning to learn more."

Bridget reviewed: Fused glass workshop at The Butterfly Effect Studio near Halford

"This course was everything I had hoped for and more. Helen is very patient and gives good advice to ensure you create a beautiful piece of work. The projects made were returned quickly and very professionally packaged. I would recommend this class to anybody wanting to make some very exciting and different gifts for friends and family or keepsakes for yourself. I will definitely be back in 2022."

Butterfly Effect Studio responded:

"Hi Bridget, thank you for taking the time to review my workshop and for your kind words. It was great meeting you and seeing how you expressed your ideas so beautifully in glass. I do hope you enjoy experimenting further with your microwave kiln, I did warn you that it’s addictive! Please don’t hesitate to contact me if you’d like further info or support. I look forward to seeing you again in the new year."

Clare reviewed: Deep buttoned footstool - 1 day workshop

"I enjoyed everything about the workshop - it was all great - the whole experience. I loved the small group and the attention to detail. I would highly recommend the experience to my friends and family."

Victoria reviewed: Deep buttoned footstool - 1 day workshop

"We had a fantastic day, thank you Emma for the professional yet informal workshop & the mince pies too!"

Val reviewed: Deep buttoned footstool - 1 day workshop

"I loved making my footstool it was very therapeutic. Emma is a great teacher. It was also great to meet new people. I would highly recommend the workshop to family and friends."

Angela reviewed: Deep buttoned footstool - 1 day workshop

"I would highly recommend this deep buttoned footstool workshop to friends and family. I loved producing a gorgeous footstool. There is nothing I would change about the day and rate it 5 out of 5."

Sarah Tivnan reviewed: Deep buttoned footstool - 1 day workshop

"“My friend and I attended the deep buttoned footstool workshop and we thoroughly enjoyed it. A totally different experience doing something that we certainly didn’t think we’d be capable of making. Emma is a wonderful teacher, helping and supporting thought out. You get to come home with a gorgeous footstool that is hand made by YOU! The workshop is held in the lovely little chapel, it’s a wonderful experience that everyone should certainly get involved in or give as a present. A very memorable day, we loved it “"