Penlan Crafts

Contact name: Stef Palazzi

43
Total bookings

Rating

(39)

over 4 years
with CraftCourses

Courses, kits & gifts

gold award

Craft kit

AT HOME Automata Kit

4 items left

£100.00

gold award

Bristol

Kids Automata making course

4 hours

Next date: 18th Aug 2025

(2)

£100.00

gold award

Bristol

Wooden mechanical toy (automata) making

7 hours

Next date: 18th Aug 2025

(30)

£150.00

Recent reviews

All maker's reviews

26 Jun 25'

Anastasia Towers reviewed: Wooden mechanical toy (automata) making

"I found this course by chance and was intrigued by the idea, so booked it. What a marvellous day I had. I had trouble finding the place and was late, but Stef was very kind and understanding. We set about starting the day and Stef had everything organised with clear instructions ready to go. I wanted to make a toy for my granddaughter and chose 'The Fishing Cat'. I had let Stef know that I would like the toy to make some noise as my granddaughter is still a baby and likes noises. He came up with an idea to add a bell to the mechanism that rings when we turn the handle to move the fish. He is happy to adapt the toys to what a customer wants and that is really wonderful. I had a brilliant day, using the various machines, cutting, sanding and painting all the pieces. Stef was brilliant at instructing and guiding you through all the processes and the day passed quickly. We finished in good time and the toy looks fabulous and works really well with the bell ringing. I can't wait to give this to my granddaughter. Thank you Stef for a wonderful day and great experience."

Penlan Crafts responded:

"Dear Anastasia, thank you so much for the detailed and enthusiastic review! I'm so happy you love your Fishing Cat, and I'm sure that your granddaughter will love it too, a beautiful present that will stay with her for a long time :) Warm regards, Stef"

20 Mar 25'

Pauline reviewed: Wooden mechanical toy (automata) making

"I had a fantastic time in Stef's workshop making the fishing cat. I enjoyed learning how to use the machinery for the various parts and came home with a lovely toy. A great experience."

Penlan Crafts responded:

"Hi Pauline, thank you for your review! I'm very happy that you enjoyed the course... it was a pleasure hosting you in my studio. All the best, Stef"

12 Mar 25'

Conor reviewed: Wooden mechanical toy (automata) making

"I recently had the pleasure of attending Stef's wooden mechanical automata workshop and couldn't be happier with the experience. Stef is a wonderful teacher. He masterfully guided me through each technique, patiently answered my countless questions, and built my confidence step-by-step until I fully understood the craftsmanship behind what we were creating. Throughout the day, he demonstrated the precise techniques required to assemble the toy, making sure I understood why we were making each piece and the best way of achieving it based on his years of experience, which I then took onboard to go and do all the actual cutting, sanding, and assembling myself. By the end of the day, I had crafted a beautiful wooden toy that my son absolutely adores. The well-equipped workshop, relaxed atmosphere, and hands-on approach made this experience truly exceptional. Whether you're a woodworking enthusiast or a complete beginner like I was, I can't recommend this workshop strongly enough. Easily one of the best creative experiences I've ever had!"

Penlan Crafts responded:

"Wow Conor, thank you so much! You have been an excellent "student", quick to learn and to develop your own skills... and the lovely toy you built (and beautifully painted) is the best possible evidence of it! Thank you, it was a pleasure to host you in my studio. All the best to you and your family, Stef"

9 Feb 25'

David reviewed: Wooden mechanical toy (automata) making

"Stef is not only an exceptional craftsman, but consistently went above and beyond to make the day a success. I wanted to make something much more complicated than usual and Stef kindly adapted the course at short notice to enable me to make something special. Stef’s attention to detail and patient instruction made the learning fun. I highly recommend this course for anyone looking to make something unique that will last the test of time. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ "

Penlan Crafts responded:

"Dear David, thank you so much for your enthusiastic review! I’m very, very happy that the course met your expectations… your project, although definitely challenging, is lovely, and what you created is nothing short of brilliant and charming. It was great working with you! "