Latest reviews

Liz Maclaren reviewed: Throwing for beginners

"I spent a really enjoyable day on this course. Charlie was a great teacher and showed us step by step how to throw a cylinder and was so knowledgeable and so patient! We all managed to throw pots and it was wonderful learning about the clay and techniques. I would highly recommend it. Thanks Charlie and I’m looking forward to coming back and doing some glazing."

Charlie's Pots responded:

"Hello Liz. Thank you for your lovely comments. It was a pleasure to meet you and I look forward to seeing you for the glazing. Best wishes Charlie"

Esther reviewed: Silver Jewellery making class at Sandra Kerns Jewellery studio, Little Sampford

"We had a great introduction to working with silver, Sandra is a natural teacher and we came away keen to do more!"

Sandra Kerns Jewellery responded:

"Thank you Esther, it was a real pleasure teaching you both."

Andrew Parr reviewed: Blacksmithing Introduction courses in Yorkshire and the North East

"Had a wonderful day in the blacksmith workshop.The staff were great and very support to those with leaning disabilities in particular. Especially loved making the dragon coat hanger."

Miriam reviewed: Three Little Birds - Fused Glass with Crafts in the Valley

"This class is so much fun! Colourful little glass birds that transform like magic in the kiln…what’s not to like?! Melanie is a lovely, fantastically patient teacher and there is a huge choice of designs to play with. Let your inner child run free?. I’ve done several classes at Crafts in the Valley and enjoyed every single one - so much so I just keep booking! This will be another one I’d definitely do again - what better way to spend a morning or afternoon? The class sizes are small, the venue peaceful with a happy, creative vibe, and Covid safety has been considered so everyone can just relax and enjoy some creative escapism! Highly recommended?"

Crafts in the Valley responded:

"Thank you Miriam! It is always such a pleasure having you in the class. You always create such inspiring work. xx"

Miriam reviewed: Crafts in the Valley - Felted Pictures Workshop in Cragg Vale, Hebden Bridge, West Yorkshire

"I’d never tried wet felting before and went along with an idea I thought was a bit ambitious but Melanie is such a fantastic, patient, clear teacher that it seems anything is possible! Was over the moon with the end result but equally importantly the whole day was relaxed and learning the technique fascinating. It’s all so colourful and magic as it comes together. The class sizes are small, the venue peaceful with a lovely creative vibe, and Covid safety has been considered so everyone can just relax and enjoy some creative escapism! I’ve been to several classes here and loved every one. Will definitely book again and can’t recommend Crafts in the Valley highly enough ?"

Miriam reviewed: Crafts in the Valley - Batik textile workshop in Hebden Bridge, West Yorkshire

"I have done this workshop twice now (first time as a complete beginner) and am booking again it’s so good! Melanie is a lovely, relaxed, patient teacher who has a great way of explaining techniques to make it clear and interesting. The class sizes are small and the venue beautifully peaceful with an outlook onto gorgeous countyside and a chilled, creative vibe. All attendees had so much fun on the day and everyone was so happy with their completed art works. I can’t recommend Crafts in the Valley highly enough and have booked on several different courses here - all equally fab. Covid safety has been considered here so everyone can just relax and enjoy a creative escape?"

Violet reviewed: Private or private group silver jewellery making/silversmithing workshop day at Silver Designed Personally

"What a brilliant course! Sara was very friendly, kind and casual and gave us clear and concise instruction, guided us through every step and helped us create some really beautiful pieces of jewellery. Sara was also incredibly helpful with other information about silver working and I feel confident about trying it by myself. The course is set in a lovely area, was very easy to get to and it was wonderful to see so much wildlife too, as well as Misty the gorgeous dog, we felt very welcome and at ease which doesn't happen often. The equipment is great to use, and with guidance it is fun to try a few different methods. Il be happy to rebook and will be recommending to all my friends."

Silver Designed Personally responded:

"Violet - thank you so much for taking the time to write me a wonderful review, it's very much appreciated. You did really well and I wish you good luck with working on things at home .... I look forward to seeing some of your new pieces and to maybe seeing you again some time :-). Sara"

Eloise reviewed: Rings and Things - Soldering for beginners at Simply Amazing Jewellery School

"Really great day - Viv was so informative and we learnt so much. I produced 5 rings and I am really happy with how they turned out, I was a complete novice so definitely recommend to anyone wanting to give it a try"

Simply Amazing Jewellery School responded:

"Hi Eloise - thank you so much for this lovely review, you and your mum were both amazing - it's a huge learning curve - you took it all in your stride and never lost your smile even when you had a few hiccups! Thank you for coming to the workshop and bringing your mum, it was lovely to meet you both :)"

Tina & Ian Grinsell reviewed: Beginners 1-day pairs woodturning workshop

"What a fantastic day from start to finish. Louise met us with a warm friendly smile. We then met Harry an adorable big soft as anything Alsatian. Simon was already in the workshop, he also gave us a very warm welcome. Ian my husband has worked with wood for years and loves to make things and has a lot of knowledge. However he was very new to wood turning, I was worried he may not enjoy the day. It turns out he had a fabulous time and learnt lots of new techniques. Simon is an outstanding teacher, he has the ability to explain things in the most simple way, without making you feel silly. He also has the patience of a saint. One last thing Louise presented the most wonderful lunch just perfect for us. Highly recommend to both novice or experienced people, you will not find a better tutor. Thanks once again Simon, Louise and Harry Look forward to seeing you both again soon. X"

Blended Monkey - pottery - woodturning - green woodworking - pole lathe - throwing responded:

"Hi Tina & Ian, Thank you for such a lovely review - it was great to meet you both and spend the day getting covered in shavings. We're glad you both enjoyed it and, if you have any questions, please just get in touch. Kind Regards, Simon & Louise"

Caroline reviewed: One-to-one 5 day lampshade making masterclass with Moji Designs

"I thoroughly enjoyed the course – although quite intensive, it's a great ‘escape’ from everyday life. It’s amazing how the hours just fly by when you’re absorbed in something creative! I really appreciated Moji's take on seeing lampshade-making as a craft to do with patience and to take time to enjoy each step and the skills involved – it is definitely not something that can be rushed. I will need to remind myself of this when I do my own projects. The true test of the course success is that I can't wait to start on my own projects. Thank you Moji !"

Janis Baggott reviewed: Watercolour for All 4 week Online Course Monday Morning Via Zoom

"I would rate my experience as excellent. The sessions are always interesting and I have learnt so much. Everyone is welcomed regardless of if you are a beginner or someone who just wants to improve. The sessions are friendly and so much fun. I would recommend these sessions to everyone."

Liz reviewed: Hare Sculpture workshop with Jo Garden Art in beautiful Norfolk/Suffolk

"What a fantastic day! I absolutely loved the whole workshop, from start to finish. The setting is beautiful, Jo is a superb teacher, and I found the process totally absorbing and relaxing - and fun, too. I'm not particularly artistic, but I was delighted with the result and am more than happy to have 'Hercules' on display at home. I was even disappointed when we had finished, but I'm looking forward to getting the tin foil out to see if I can do anything vaguely successful with the kit I've brought home with me. Thanks also to Andy who played his part in making it a great day."

Jo Garden Art responded:

"Thank you Liz ;-) Really pleased you have Hercules on display at home! Have fun with making your dog out of the kit you took home - please do not hesitate to make contact if you have any questions at all! Jo x"

Sally reviewed: Hare Sculpture workshop with Jo Garden Art in beautiful Norfolk/Suffolk

"Am amazing day. I am rubbish at these sorts of things - but with Jo's help I made a leaping hare and really enjoyed the whole process. The day was very well organised, in a beautiful setting and run by a very patient, kind and skilled teacher."

Jo Garden Art responded:

"Thank you Sally! Really glad you enjoyed the day and I hope your leaping hare is settled at home . Lovely meeting you, Jo x"

Lillian denson reviewed: Stonecarving Weekend, Gloucestershire Cotswolds

"Beautiful views, friendly instructor. Lovely course to go on as an introduction to stone carving or to develop your skills further"

Sonya reviewed: Mosaics Summer Course with Roz Wates

"Doing mosaics without Roz now would be almost inconceivable. The combination of the Studio, its surroundings, fellow mosaicists, and Roz, has an extraordinary dynamism. Attending a course at the Phoenix Studio is to have a somewhat Zen like experience; and what drives each individual is the subtle and often humorous way which Roz supports and enhances the desire to make interesting and beautiful mosaics. For its regulars and frequent attendees, the mosaic courses have become a family, with newcomers feeling instantly at home; where 'cake o'clock' and lunch are the focal points of the day, before the click of nippers at work resumes. If you're thinking to try a mosaic course, I'd say "don't hesitate"

Joanna Gent reviewed: Mosaics Summer Weekend with Roz Wates

"Mosaicing is a fascinating past-time and Roz provides not only an excellent introduction to the age-old skill but also encouragement and development for those who’ve been making mosaics for longer. Add to that the delightful and creative environment on offer at Phoenix Studios and a splendid weekend is guaranteed. Thoroughly recommended."

Andrew Nicholls reviewed: Stone carving for beginners - Weymouth

"If hestitating please book onto this excellant class. I was a complete beginner to stone carving and without any real artistic experience but the host soon put me at ease with their calm manner. They were attentive when needed...which was quite a few times...with a great overall knowledge which they were happy to pass on. The setting was perfect which helped to inspire what creativity I had in me. Class size was ideal enabling everyone to engage with each other and who were all very supportive. I would have no hesitation in recommending this class and host."

Sculptor John Davey responded:

"Thank you Andrew for your kind words. I had a really enjoyable day with you all. Great group dynamic and energy. So glad you had an inspiring day. Take care John."

Alison Redman reviewed: Shave horse, English style, making course

"We thoroughly enjoyed our two day course in a beautiful woodland setting. With a small number of participants, there was plenty of help to hand from Jaqui and Pete. There was also as much tea/coffee as we wanted. Shaping pieces of wood using a shave horse and pole lathe was totally absorbing and satisfying. We came home with two lovely traditional shave horses, new skills and a taste to do more."

Lucy Kirby reviewed: Create with a gel printing plate in Derbyshire

"I would definitely recommend this workshop on gel plate mono printing. The demonstrations & practice were well planned & there was enough time Tom carry out tasks & reflect on them + little extras about ways to continue with particular pieces. Liz sent clear instructions prior to the course about what to bring & I liked the fact I didn’t have to bring any art equipment or come with images of what I wanted to do. The venue & studio is beautiful & functional & provided plenty of working space."

Liz Wellby - Artist, Teacher & Maker responded:

"Hi Lucy, Thanks for taking the time to review your day and I’m really pleased that you would recommend a workshop at The Slipper Studio. Gel plate printing is a great process and I am sure that you will find it a really useful way to continue your creative work, with a particular focus on a mixed media approach. Happy printing. Best wishes Liz Wellby"

Mary reviewed: Online Drawing Still Life Course 1

"I have just finished this course, and loved it! Ann was quick, constructive and positive with her feed back. She came across so friendly and put me at ease. I hadn’t touched on my drawing skills in years and wanted something to help me start again. This course is suitable for any level. Ann explains everything and was just an email away!"

The Studio @ Greenacres responded:

"Oh thank you Mary for this lovely review. So glad that you enjoyed the course - your work is fab. Happy drawing in the future ??⭐️"

Jacqui reviewed: Log to Stool with Gedwood

"Booked the stool making workshop as a family group. Ged gave great instruction, and we made some lovely stools. Highly recommended, will definately book again."

Gedwood responded:

"Thanks Jacqui, hope to see you and the family again on a course Ged"

Judith Byrne reviewed: Book binding - Zoom Saturday Morning Workshop

"A fantastic workshop that I would highly recommend. From the point of booking the workshop all the way through to completing it I was impressed with the communication, the kit and Lorna's wonderful patient and easy to understand style of teaching. Lorna encouraged questions to be asked and set the pace of the workshop perfectly for all doing it so no one was ever left behind or struggled. I love the hand bound notebook I made and am already planning on making more."

Crumps Barn Studio responded:

"Thank you so much - it was such a lovely workshop, glad you enjoyed it too. Thank you for joining us ~ Crumps Barn Studio"

Richard Fuggle reviewed: Owl Carving at Hanwell Wine Estate

"Really enjoyed the evening with Martin, very informative person with a good sense of humour. My owl may need a bit to be desired, as he has a crooked beak; just means we have to help him get on with life. Good venue Worth going to,"

Maureen Brown reviewed: Mosaic Craft Kit - Unicorn

"Not started this yet but it looks great."

Jan Erskine-Power reviewed: 1-Day Taster Leaded Stained Glass Course with Karl Percival at Creative with Nature Todmorden West Yorkshire

"A thoroughly enjoyable day trying a new craft. Clear information and instructions. Very relaxed atmosphere and setting. Sandra was lovely, enthusiastic and helpful. I was so pleased with the result am already looking at the 2 day courses."

Creative with Nature Ltd responded:

"hi jan, thanks so much for the review: ) i'll let sandra know she'll be very happy. warm regards, joe gregory. xx"