Latest reviews

Heather Higgins reviewed: Irresistible mosaic ornaments - for gardens year round

"As a complete beginner I was unsure I would be able to create anything worthwhile but I thoroughly enjoyed Anne's class and am so pleased I went on the course. In fact I returned to two more classes to continue with my A4 project which I have now completed at home. I was very impressed with seeing the work others in the Friday class were doing and am keen to start another project. My grandchildren aged 4 and 7 both want me to help them make a mosaic for them so I guess that will be the next project. Thanks Anne."

Emma reviewed: Paper marbling with tea & cake

"The paint pouring workshop taken by Dina, who is a competent instructor, was very new to me. I thoroughly enjoyed the afternoon session, from watching Dina demonstrate the technique, to mixing paint, pouring paint and then watching it become a work of art. I was very satisfied with the outcome of my efforts. Dina and her mum were very helpful throughout the process and gave lots of tips and instruction. Two very nice ladies, who not only pay attention to detail but also to making you feel welcome. A great way to spend a Sunday afternoon."

George Searl reviewed: 2 Day forged chef's knife course.

"I went for my one day knife making course today and can’t express enough thanks to Steve for making the day so great. He is just so massively knowledgable and passionate about what he does. This is shown through how much care and effort he puts into every aspect of the day. I’m so happy I made the trip down and now have a one of a kind blade to show for it. I will 100% be booking in another course this year and look forward to having another opportunity to make an amazing knife. Thank you Steve, you are master of your craft."

White Tiger Knives responded:

"Hi George Thank you very much for your kind words. I really do appreciate every student taking the time to review their course experience with me and it is very gratifying to know how much you enjoyed your day. Let's not forget how hard you worked and the effort you put in to produce such a lovely knife in a day. I look forward to our next outing in the shop. ATB Steve"

Anne Marie Gardner reviewed: Making a mosaic with slate

"This was a very enjoyable three hour workshop. Rachel is a very welcoming and supportive tutor, providing information inspiration and support. There was an abundance of various types of slate and glass to allow us to create our own piece of slate mosaic work."

Fergus reviewed: Blacksmithing - one to one - Hammer Skills

"Had a great day. Bob's an excellent teacher, a good brew maker (I had black coffee) and I will definitely be going back to improve my skills."

Sheila S reviewed: Wet Felt a beautiful neck warmer for Spring- in fine Merino wools and silks

"Sheila just wants to add her comments to Denise's review below: "I would just like to add that I thoroughly enjoyed the course - I'm delighted with my garment - and we both very much enjoyed your company too; being the absolutely perfect person for the venture you're running.""

Jane Thomas reviewed: Needle felted framed picture

"I am an absolute beginner. I found the course at the appropriate pace and challenge. Lorraine supported me and gave me plenty of opportunities to try to be creative. What a surprise! My work once in the frame looked professional!! I will be trying this again at home. I would recommend the session."

Dru Haigh reviewed: Needle felted framed picture

"Clear and confident instruction and demonstrations. Lorraine is an excellent teacher and enables her clients to achieve results they are proud of."

Lorraine Moone reviewed: Needle felted framed picture

"Lorraine was an excellent teacher, very encouraging and patient. Really enjoyed the workshop and came away with a lovely picture. Thank you."

sandra walker reviewed: Needle felted framed picture

"Very informative and patient with learners like me. Finished picture to take home and hang - brilliant"

Clive Hickman reviewed: Five day woodwork course - tools

"The quality of tuition was exceptional Along with the practical work there is a 30minute lecture at lunchtime which was really informative and gave great guidance on the best tools and what to avoid. I made a spinning stool which far exceeded my expectations on what I would be able to do. Lots of practice on a particular technique before attempting on the stool, and given guidance but not interference. No question too trivial and very supportive."

Debra Pike reviewed: Mannequin Upcycling Workshops

"Just over a week ago I took a one-to-one course with Dale for a one day workshop. I can honestly say it was so inspiring and informative, and very enjoyable. I transformed 3 separate pieces of very average looking items into something I'm so proud of. Dale covered all the basic techniques in the morning and then we moved on to the advanced techniques in the afternoon. I'm soon to enrol on one of the mannequin workshops too, so I can highly recommend Mernpunk workshops."

Alan reviewed: Two person 'Have a Bash' at Blacksmithing course in Shropshire

"This was a Christmas present which initially seemed a little 'random' but on close reading of the itinerary looked very enjoyable. The reality was that is was a great day which I shared with 2 of my sons, we had fun whilst doing our utmost to closely follow Jake's detailed instructions. The results, whilst differing from each others and Jake's, were great and we left with a poker and letter opener each which we were all very pleased with. Jake was engaging, informative and his instruction was clear and easy to follow, it was just the putting it into practise we struggled with. When we did 'stray' from the plan Jake stepped in and put things right without making us feel either foolish or helpless, he was very patient and approachable, there was a degree of banter between us all which added to the day. I would highly recommend this to anyone looking for a fun day, remember to pack a lunch and wear old clothes because the forge can get dusty! Jake provided tea, coffee and bottled water which would be needed on a hot day. A great day - many thanks Jake."

Ilona reviewed: Mosaic taster session @ White Stones Studios

"Thoroughly enjoyed 1-2-1 mosaic making course with David! I looked for help with making small mosaic sculptures. David took on the challenge and delivered a two-day workshop tailored to my needs. David was a very supportive tutor and the course was very well led with a good mix of theory and practice. He explained everything very clearly and made it very easy to remember.  He took me through each stage of the project with great patience and allowed lots of room for the experimentation which I valued most!  The location is easy to find and the drive to Portland on sunny days was an extra bonus. I cannot recommend this course highly enough. At White Stones Studio days just fly by!"

David Nicholls Art responded:

"Dear IIona, Thank you for your kind review. It was a pleasure to teach you over the two days. I’m glad you gained from it and had an enjoyable time doing it. Good luck with all your future projects. Best wishes David"

Rebecca Oxenham reviewed: Sea-glass pendant workshop

"Another fantastic class from Jo Tinley. Jo always takes the time to really explain everything. I am so pleased with what I made."

Frances reviewed: Introduction to glass painting (1 day) in Sheffield, South Yorkshire

"Totally absorbing day. Very clear instruction. Will be returning for sure."

Ellen Bowers reviewed: Silver clay 2 day course for beginners - Lori Ridgway

"I have just spent a wonderful 2 days on Lori's beginners silver clay course. Having never done jewellery making before I had no expectations of being able to make anything I would be proud of but how wrong I was. Lori is very patient and helpful, explains all the processes clearly and gives you confidence. Her workshop is very well equipped and organised and Lori times it all so well that you never feel rushed at any stage. At the end of the course I left with pieces I am delighted with and had met some other lovely like minded ladies who were equally as happy with their efforts. I intend to go back and do further courses with Lori and I would urge anyone who is thinking about giving this a try to go to Lori - I can highly recommend her."

Sonia reviewed: Silver jewellery beginners' class - one day

"Thoroughly enjoyed my day spent with the very lovely Louise. Outstanding and I’m over the moon with the beautiful pieces I made. I highly recommend the Course."

Paul Munslow reviewed: Pottery Throwing (Group Discounts Available) Lessons in Worcester

"Really fun introduction into pottery. Chris was incredibly helpful in showing us how to get started and guiding us throughout the day. Will be going back again. 10/10 from all of us on the day."

Chris Greening Pottery responded:

"Many thanks Paul - it was a really good session. Your artistic flair definitely shone through! Cheers, Chris."

Jacqui reviewed: Well Being Workshop

"This course provides some good techniques to overcome states of anxiety or stress and help build resilience and confidence- I will definitely be able to apply to my own life situations - I recommend."

ESTHER GREIG reviewed: One day mosaic workshop - Lincolnshire

"I took a friend with me to do this session on Mosaic's with Caron. Neither of us started out with any ideas about what we would do, nor how we would achieve it. Though Caron did ask if we had ideas or had come with an image we wanted to produce...and she was open to clients having their own preconceived ideas of what was possible to achieve in the time allotted. In our case, Caron helped us to make our minds up as to design, without making me feel I was being pressured into anything at all. And then she patiently helped us choose from the myriad of choices of stones, colours glass and beads she had in store, to achieve our desired mosaic. Caron is a very patient and encouraging teacher. We had a lovely peaceful, creative day together with her in the studio - and came home with 2 beautiful mosaic mirrors to enjoy for years to come and remind us of our experience. This new skill we have acquired will enable us to branch out into new forms of creativity. All thanks to Caron!"

Mayfly Mosaics responded:

"Thank you Esther I’m so glad you both enjoyed it, it was lovely to meet you both and I do hope you go on to many more beautiful mosaics."

Wend reviewed: Silver Ring Stack - 3 Rings in a Day

"My one to one class with Rachel was just what I wanted and needed. I have done a course with Rachel before. Rachel has a nice way about her which makes you comfortable with your ability, always encouraging and helping you achieve your goals . This one to one was an extension of the course I did at Halton Mill. The things I had picked up in those classes really helped me. I am pretty much a beginner and I am making bracelets, earrings and rings. My next project will be an inlaid ring. One of best things with one to one tutoring, is you pick up so much. It went so fast, which was a shame because I was enjoying it so much , hopefully I will be booking another soon.?"

Rachel Hearne Jewellery School responded:

"Wendy I am so pleased you found it useful. We really did cover a lot and I could see how fast you were absorbing it. I think you will find that with a little more practice you will be flying! I look forward to seeing you again soon but until then happy smithing."

Niall reviewed: Alien spoon carving

"A great day working from log to spoon in a relaxed environment with fantastic food. Alan takes you through axe and knife work alongside safety advice and even stretches to keep your body working, and all the while giving glimpses of what more is possible with practice and exploration. All the way through he very patiently explains and encourages and I left satisfied with a productive day, and keen to continue."

Mair reviewed: Needle felted framed picture

"Excellent day, good fun and a finished picture to go home. Good to have a free choice of subject. Hope to do another course at Christmas."

Sarah Yeomans reviewed: Felt Lampshades at Silversoles Studio, Birmingham

"The felted lampshade workshop was just great. I think Emma is a very good teacher....patient, attentive, helpful and gives clear instructions. The photos she took as we worked will be a useful reminder of the techniques involved. Her enthusiasm for all things felting is infectious and I look forward to attending another felting day in the future. Thanks Emma!"