Latest reviews

Mary Jenkins reviewed: "Sparkle & Shine": beginner mosaic workshops with Joss Hughes, Peacock Mosaics

"Well organised and safe. Could work individually with help and support. Knowledge was given freely, a thoroughly enjoyable course."

Peacock Mosaics responded:

"Thank you Mary. Hope to see you again sometime. Joss"

Debbie Waterworth reviewed: Kate Morrell willow sculpture courses

"I enjoyed a great workshop with Kate this week. Kate offers a choice of sculpture you would like to make which is rare in this kind of workshop along with just the right amount of guidance in a relaxed environment. Lunch and refreshments are provided throughout the day and at the end you take home a fabulous sculpture. I would highly recommend."

Beth Trew reviewed: Beginners 1-day 1-2-1 pottery / ceramics workshop for 1 person

"I had a brilliant day with Louise. Not only did I learn how to throw, centre, cone up and down, open and pull a pot on the wheel but I also had a go at a slab vase and a pinch pot. I did the 1/2 day course and I wish I'd booked a full day as I could have stayed longer. Louise is a very talented potter and her work is all around her studio and inspires you to do better. She is encouraging, friendly, kind, patient, easy going and knowledgable. I would highly recommend doing this course. I am definitely going to re-book for some more tuition. Thanks Louise and Simon...for the tea!"

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

"Hi Beth, What a lovely review! Thank you so much :-). Massively pleased you found the workshop inspiring - and I had a funny feeling you'd enjoy the slab work just as much as the throwing ;-). Look forward to seeing you again - we can focus a little more on the whole "cylinder" thing then ;-). I'll let you know when your pots are ready to collect :-). Take care Louise"

Barbara Davies reviewed: Pottery wheel throwing & glass fusing 1-day course

"This day was shared with my husband and me, both being complete novices. Sarah provided a very positive day for me. She clearly explained the techniques and options available for my project and was always on hand supporting (but in an inobtrusive way) so I could try my own creative ideas whenever possible. I was amazed that I was able to make a range of items beyond what I had anticipated, and can't wait to collect the fired items in a few weeks. Would recommend this day course to anyone who wants to bring out their inner artisan. Barbara. I opted for a complete day of pottery with Chris. Obviously very experienced in running courses, he began with the necessary health and safety briefing. After a short demonstration, it was straight into throwing pots, which was just great. He gave just the right balance of advice and intervention and I completed numerous examples refining the shapes and gaining confidence during the morning. There was a chance to reflect over lunch and a much-needed coffee break. The afternoon was spent finalising each pot and decorating with liquid slip. I found the whole day both therapeutic and incredibly rewarding. I'm looking forward to seeing the finished products. Very much recommended. Mike"

Sarah Greening Glass responded:

"Thank you so much to you both for leaving such a comprehensive and glowing review! Very much appreciated - we'll be in touch as soon as your pieces are finished. Sarah & Chris"

Jane R reviewed: Beginner's Patchwork and Quilting Course

"I learnt so much on this course. I had always wanted to make a quilt but didn't know where to start. Jen explains things in such an easy to understand manner. I really enjoyed the course and I am now making quilts for all of my grandchildren!"

Sew Forest of Dean responded:

"Thank you Jane, it was a pleasure to get you started on your quilting journey :-)"

Abbie reviewed: Learn to Love your Sewing Machine

"Jen is a superb teacher with so many ideas and I have really enjoyed this workshop. I now feel confident to use my machine and can't wait to get started. The studio is a gorgeous place to spend the day. Thank you."

Sew Forest of Dean responded:

"Thank you Abbie, and thank you for booking on another workshop! I'll see you again soon :-)"

Claire Moffett reviewed: Creative Writing Course, one-to-one tuition, via Zoom.

"I have been doing Deana's courses for more than two years now on an ongoing basis. She is talented, funny and gives great feedback, both constructive and useful. My writing has developed enormously by doing her classes. Although the classes are only an hour long, absolutely no time is wasted and every class, no matter what the topic, is really useful and enjoyable. I have done longer courses (2.5 hours per class) through other organisations and I must say that Deana's have remained my favourite. Every class is different, covering a variety of aspects of writing and how to write different genres and even if one of the classes isn't where your interests lie, it doesn't matter because you pick up valuable tips and learn how to apply different tools which can be applied across any type of writing. The way the classes are structured means that you don't have to attend every week which is really flexible. I would highly recommend Deana's classes. Overall, the classes are fun, great value for money, professional and consistently great and would suit people of all levels."

Deana Luchia responded:

"Claire, thank you so much. I'm so happy you're still enjoying the course. I always like reading your homework. You create really arresting characters and interesting stories."

Sarah Whatman reviewed: French Polishing & Woodcare - 2 Day Beginners/Intermediate Workshop

"I thoroughly enjoyed this course and was really pleased with what I achieved and learnt over the two days. Ollie is a patient instructor and gave lots of handy hints and advice while I was restoring a bistro chair. Even though I am a complete novice, I found it easy to follow the different steps and am now keen to apply what I learnt to another small project. Thank you Ollie for an enjoyable couple of days!"

Terry Reeves reviewed: Sculpture workshop two days with Jo Garden Art in beautiful rural Norfolk/Suffolk border setting

"Having done a one day workshop with Jo I teamed up with another student & came back to do a 2 day course this week. Jo encourages and helps with whatever ideas you have; with this, two of us made Giacometti style figures that are as tall as we are and Helen made a delightful goat that was finished in clay. We even had time to model a small clay hare to take home. The studio is a relaxing place that encourages creativity & the freedom to explore your own talents. I am already considering what to sculpt on my next visit. Oh, and there is still as much chocolate available as in there is on the 1 day workshop. Superb tutor & environment. Excellent welding skills from Andy too who prepared our armatures!"

Jo Garden Art responded:

"Thank you Terry! Your Giacometti inspired man will make a big statement in your garden ;-) Andy enjoyed the welding challenge of getting the body positioned just right. Looking forward to seeing you with the next challenge!!! Jo x"

Mimi Power reviewed: Glass fusing private class - fun taster class for beginners

"My daughter has recently picked up the beautiful pieces of glass art work she created after a full morning session spent with Sarah. She is especially delighted with her main piece and is hopeful she will be able to include this in her Art GCSE portfolio next year. Sarah explained everything clearly and there were opportunities to practice certain techniques so that my daughter was able to create her piece entirely independently. Thank you Sarah for a lovely morning and a great introduction into the world of glass fusing! Whilst I didn’t actually produce anything I thoroughly enjoyed learning about the process and looking at all of Sarah’s beautiful creations. I am now also the proud owner of two of her gorgeous jewellery pieces!!"

Sarah Greening Glass responded:

"Em should be rightly proud of her main piece! She listened and had practice at the different techniques. A pleasure to teach her and hope she does really well in her exams next year."

Chris reviewed: Blacksmith Experience Day - Anvil Forge

"Unique experience, learnt new skills. Tutor to pupil ratio good. The guys were very helpful, patient and informative. A good day well spent. Thank you Anvil Forge. 1 tiny criticism, signage could be better!"

Anvil Forge responded:

"Hi Chris thanks for feedback , I am pleased you enjoyed the day . I must admit yes signage not great but waiting on some new signs being produced! thanks John"

Sally reviewed: Sculpture workshop two days with Jo Garden Art in beautiful rural Norfolk/Suffolk border setting

"I had a fantastic two days and am thrilled with my handstand man. I can’t wait to find the right place in my garden for him. Join a relaxed and excellent tutor, everything was well organised and supportive and the group I was with were great fun. I’ll be back many thanks."

Jo Garden Art responded:

"Thank you Sally ;-) - I loved your bronze version of 'Balance' - thank goodness you had a long vehicle to accommodate 7 feet 3 inches! I hope you enjoy seeing him in your garden & would love to work with you again in the future, Jo x"

Shirley Sampson reviewed: Introduction to Furniture Restoration - Cambridgeshire

"Just spent a fantastic three days learning how to restore furniture with Bill. I took along two chairs which I had rescued and then not had the skills to restore. Thanks to Bill, I feel like a now have a thorough grounding in the correct and ethical ways of restoring furniture, with skills such as stripping upholstery, re-gluing joints, using fillers, reviving shellac finishes, and refinishing bare timber. It's been really enlightening, thanks to Bill's clear and patient teaching. I love dusty old junk, but it has been wonderful to see my 'orrible old chairs slowly regaining their beauty and dignity beneath my hands. Bill is great company, and seems to have lived several lives in one! Looking forward to returning to pick up more skills once my chairs are finished!"

Siobhan Moore reviewed: ColourWheel Art Class, Stockport

"I started this course last September with the intention of just doing a term. I had hoped I might be able to improve my drawing skills but I actually learnt so much more. I had never really done much painting but by Christmas had a selection of pictures that showed steady progress and had painted a portrait in acrylics that I was incredibly proud of. I had learnt about watercolour, mixing colours, composition, charcoal and negative space, to name but a few. The teaching is friendly and accessible and the class also learn a lot from one another. When lockdown happened, the organiser sent us online projects, set up a WhatsApp group, made zoom classes available and has just been incredible. In under a year I have made new friends, learnt new skills and have a range of art works that I am extremely proud of. I simply cannot recommend this course enough."

ColourWheel Stockport responded:

"Thank you so much, Siobhan. your skills have progressed so much, and it's wonderful to have you on the course!"

Elizabeth Snee reviewed: Handmade cards in Hampshire

"Just had my first course yesterday. Had a fab time! June is a lovely lady and I learnt such a lot. Will definitely be booking again. Can’t wait to go back!"

Cardinal Cards responded:

"Hi Elizabeth and thank you for your review. I'm so glad you enjoyed the class and it will be a pleasure to welcome you back. Hope to see you soon!"

Kathy French reviewed: Introduction to Glass Fusing with Enamels - Full Day Workshop

"Steve explained everything very well (didn't talk down to us) and was very helpful and obliging in assisting each of us achieve our desired result. He's a patient, good teacher. The day was well thought out and busy yet flexible and well paced so that each of us was able to make trial/test pieces before our main project. The advice about having something in mind beforehand was good and Steve even phoned beforehand to help me develop my ideas. A very enjoyable day and I intend to join another class in future."

Sue reviewed: Handmade cards in Hampshire

"After two classes with June I have learnt so much already. So much to learn. Great atmosphere! Can’t wait til the next one!"

Cardinal Cards responded:

"Thanks Sue. Lovely to meet you and I'm looking forward to seeing you again and sharing even more techniques."

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

"I attended this course recently and thoroughly enjoyed the day. Melanie Louise is an excellent tutor and made the techniques very accessible and fun to try. I am by no stretch of the imagination any good at drawing but I was stunned at the way my designs turned out. I had a great experience in a COVID safe environment and can't wait to book again."

John reviewed: Box making weekend in Cumbria

"What a great weekend! After a lack of normal social activities for months due to the Covid-19 lockdown, it was challenge to attend an indoor practical course that required close supervision. However, excellent attention was given to ensure safety in the workshop, with all appropriate PPE provided, and I would have no hesitation whatsoever in returning for another course. Mark was an outstanding teacher with a clear precise style of communication and very good-humoured patience (which was certainly needed for me!). His practical demonstrations were like watching a surgeon at work, amazing. We learned lots of little tips that make all the difference and everyone completed a box with their own choice of woods and design. If you are looking for an interesting workshop that delivers, then this is certainly it - very highly recommended! Thanks again Mark."

Jill Glover reviewed: Floor standing Lamps by ShedLight

"Vanessa was great. She had just done a covid course so the room and safety was set out to protect everyone, she even has visors for each person. The choice of fabric is amazing. I made a tall floor lamp and it's beautiful. So professionally finished off under the tutoring of Vanessa. She was so helpful and full of tips. She is so approachable and friendly. It is easy to find as well as it's just off M54. I can now successfully make my own."

ShedLight responded:

"Thank you Jill ! It was so much fun working with you I really enjoyed the morning and your Floor lamp is fabulous! ?"

Joanna Wilson reviewed: Create your dream business from candle making - One to one session

"I thoroughly enjoyed my time with Jane it wasn't like being on a course at all she was so friendly and approachable right from the start . She was easy to talk to and I felt I could ask her questions, she was so helpful and and at the end I had a clear idea on what to do next in setting up my own business. She has promised to keep in touch to see how I'm getting on and has said I can contact her for further advice. When I left I had the feeling that she genuinely wants me succeed. I would recommend this course especially for the branding legal side of things which she explained so even I could understand them ! Thank you Jane for a brilliant day."

The Candle Coach responded:

"Thank you Jo for such lovely words, it really was a pleasure to spend the day with you. You definitely will go on to have a great business, just take your time! And yes, I’m here if you need me! P.S I’ve emailed you today to make sure you’re working on your day 1 ?"

Sarah reviewed: Beginners 1-day 1-2-1 woodturning workshop for 1 person

"We really enjoyed the wood turning course, it was a lovely day and we are very happy with the pieces we made. Simon is an excellent tutor; very informative, and very patient! Simon and Louise made us feel at home, plenty of refreshments, lunch was lovely. We enjoyed every second! Highly recommend; we will be looking to book another course in the future."

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

"Hi Sarah, hi Robin, Thank you for the really lovely review. We're so pleased you enjoyed your day - it was lovely to have you! Simon says that Robin's a natural! Love to have you back again in the future :-) Take care."

Frances reviewed: Kate Morrell willow sculpture courses

"Spent a great day with Kate learning how to weave willow. I was a complete beginner but came away with an imposing 6 foot heron which I am delighted with and which has already garnered many positive comments. I will definitely be attending another course in the near future"

Kate Morrell willow sculpture responded:

"Hopefully see you at larkswold? Many thanks for a great day and your heron was superb well done!"

Annie reviewed: Kate Morrell willow sculpture courses

"What a rewarding day spent willow weaving with Kate. Fabulous tutor, so patient and encouraging. Lovely group of weavers too making a hare and herons, I made a chicken “Henny Penny”. Lovely to see how we each created our animals. Plenty of refreshments and lovely lunch all included and served by Kate's partner. What a lovely way to spend a very wet Wednesday. Thank you Kate and partner."

Robert Holmwood reviewed: Wood turning courses in the Midlands

"Spent the day with Mark which was very informative and enjoyable. Mark knows his craft and is happy to explain things again if it doesn't sink in the 1st time. He makes it look so easy. Need to practice now!"

Mark Hancock responded:

"Thank you Rob"