Latest reviews

Vanessa reviewed: Table Loom Weaving Workshop - Dobby & Rose

"I contacted Rebecca prior to booking as I have some additional needs. Rebecca was welcoming and friendly and I made my booking with confidence. On the day her tuition was first class; she is knowledgeable and very enthusiastic about weaving and this comes through from the moment you step into her workshop. A thoroughly enjoyable couple of hours which left me wanting to learn much more about this fascinating craft."

Nicola reviewed: Transparent enamels and recycled silver

"We had a lovely afternoon making enamelled jewellery as a family activity with teenagers. I would definitely recommend this course."

Sara Reeve reviewed: Life drawing in red Conté

"I attended this course recently as a complete beginner to using red conte. The tutor Lance was incredible - he went through everything really clearly and thoroughly, giving us lots of techniques and approaches to make our own work. We had a fantastic model and plenty of time to really give it a go - I absolutely loved it and was really pleased with the results. I've put a lot of what we learnt into practise since and have seen a real improvement in my own work. I highly recommend it!"

Connie reviewed: Nuno felt a silk scarf in fine merino wools and silks with Judi Binks

"Judi showed our group how to Nuno Felt which we hadn't done before. I designed my own scarf. Friendly relaxed session with loads of materials and inspiration."

justine gillan reviewed: Life Drawing in Ink: Line and Wash

"This course really is suitable for established artists or complete beginners. Lance has the gift of being very inclusive,and being a excellent teacher. He explains all the ink techniques and tools very clearly, and then when we start experimenting he gives individual tuition if required. There is delicious coffee provided in the breaks and the general atmosphere of the class is warm and friendly. I found the day really useful, and there are even explanatory notes to take home...."

Lyn Glover reviewed: Nuno felt a silk scarf in fine merino wools and silks with Judi Binks

"What a wonderful day. I knew nothing about felting before but Judi explained everything so well that very quickly she had me engrossed in making a sample ‘wet felt’ panel of three different designs and colourways, to familiarise me with the technique. With that under my belt, Judi moved me on to working on a delicate Nuno felted panel, which I’m going to make into a small scarf, and I’m thrilled with the way everything turned out. The day was long enough to create the design, apply all the beautiful silky Merino threads and make a good start on turning it into the finished item, but we did run out of time (it’s a long process!) so I’ve brought it home to apply more elbow-grease and finish it off. Judi is a great teacher, very relaxed and friendly, and she supplied me with tea, cookies and a delicious lunch (cooked by her lovely husband) and I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend this workshop to anyone who enjoys crafting. Ten out of ten."

Felting in Devon responded:

"Dear Lyn, Thank you for your lovely review. I think about you and your scarf often. It was marvellous to watch your act of creation and to witness nuno! You're a seriously good artist and crafter. Do keep in touch as I'm looking forward to inky sensation! Judi x"

malcolm sutton reviewed: Woodturning in Devon with Colin Simpson

"I was given a one day course with Colin with no idea what to expect and with no wood turning knowledge. I was greeted with great enthusiasm, but had no need to worry Colin had great skills and patience.The day  just whizzed by.I managed to make a lovely bowl and egg cup, will be booking another session .Well I think it was a great bowl.Thank you Colin."

Devon Wood Crafts responded:

"Thanks Malcolm. I had a great day too."

Lara Perez reviewed: Kitchen Lithography: Drawing with Chocolate

"I loved this workshop. I am usually quite self-conscious about my drawings, even more when it comes to printing, and this technique was perfect for me to gain freedom and experiment with fun materials like chocolate. So I ended up playing around freely with different compositions and textures and eating some of the chocolate..."

Matthew Keogh reviewed: Creative Vibe - Glassblowing Sessions

"I booked this course for my wifes birthday as she had said for a while she would like try glass blowing. After looking at available options, the course being offered by Ricky looked like the best value for the amount of objects we would produce. Ricky's facilities were perfect for the group size, 3 adults. We started with an induction and run down of the day so we knew how things would run and then got straight to collecting glass. Ricky guided us through the whole process each time we made something different as well as encouraging us to work together and help each other. My wife and I each made 4 items which we are very pleased with. Ricky was able to give us finishing options after we left and send images of the finished sculptures before they were couriered to us. From pre booking to after delivery, communication with Ricky was quick and clear, and Ricky was highly professional, knowledgeable and passionate about sharing his craft with others. I would highly recommend this course and Ricky as an artist and tutor."

Diana Mulliner reviewed: Silk Scarf Painting with Fiona Setchell

"Fiona is very friendly & everyone who attends her course gets a warm welcome. The course is held in a warm art studio & all materials are provided with a choice of designs and verbal instructions & tips from Fiona which are easy to understand. Drinks & snacks are provided throughout the day & a light lunch is also included. I would recommend this course as it is fun and at the end of the day you have a lovely silk scarf to wear that has your own unique design."

Abigail T reviewed: Silverclay beginners jewellery workshop in Newcastle upon Tyne

"Claire was brilliant. Very welcoming and friendly. I came to the course clueless and came away feeling like I had learnt a lot! She answered every question I had in detail. Claire is fantastic at guiding you with the appropriate resources to enable and ecorage you to do silver clay making independently. Highly recommended her course!"

ToDot Handcrafted Goods responded:

"Thank you so much Abigail! It was a fun afternoon and I look forward to seeing what you make in the future when you take the plunge! Claire"

Jane Millar reviewed: Intensive Life Drawing Weekend: Shape & Structure

"I have absolutely no hesitation in recommending this life drawing course to everybody, whether you’re a complete beginner, a professional artist, on somewhere in-between. All you need to bring is your willingness to have a go! Don’t be put off by the word ‘intensive’: this course is good fun! It’s also great value for money! It is rare to have the opportunity to be taught by a leader in the field of life drawing. As such, Jake Spicer is not only a master of his craft but also a gifted and generous teacher. He is very down to earth and has an informal, approachable teaching style. He also possesses an extraordinary ability to translate technical content into information that everyone can understand and use. The course is expertly structured. I’d worried that I might be overwhelmed but each new piece of information was broken down into easy to understand pieces. There were plenty of examples and drawing exercises designed to encourage you to experiment and develop your skills. Successive ‘bites’ of information built towards a progressively in-depth understanding of life drawing. I, for one, exceeded my expectations of what I was capable of as a result of this course. I came away buzzing with new ideas and inspired to continue my artistic journey at Draw."

Lorna Thomas reviewed: Green wood tables workshop at Lambside Farm - Week 1 (6 Days) Week 2 (3days)

"I can't recommend this course enough. Having been on the stool making course three years ago I knew I wanted to make a larger piece and the table making course was appealing. Peter was very accommodating of my idea to make a console table rather than a more traditional table. He was always good humoured and patient, and managed me well to overcome my laissez-faire / quick and dirty approach. I am delighted with the end result which is now standing pride of place in my hall. It's not just about a piece of furniture I am proud to say I made, but the process of making it was really special. And the coastal walks nearby the workshop are pretty special too."

Lori Hodges reviewed: Intensive Life Drawing Weekend

"I am so pleased that DRAW are running this course again. Shelley is a marvellous tutor with a great emphasis on having fun while you learn. There were a range of abilities from beginners to more experienced artists and everyone came away inspired with a sense of achievement. I have continued to draw since doing the course and can't wait to do it again."

Louise reviewed: Silk Scarf Painting with Fiona Setchell

"Fiona is very friendly and welcoming and gives clear instructions and helpful tips. She provides a relaxed atmosphere, in a comfortable setting with plentiful tasty food and drinks. There was a choice of designs and a good variety of colours to choose from or a chance to use your own design and mix colours. The scarves are ready hemmed so you will go home with a completed and very wearable unique silk scarf. An excellent day, great value for money."

Tim Catherall reviewed: Figure drawing from imagination: 5-week evening course

"Really enjoyed the course. Lance is an excellent and engaging teacher. I would recommend the course and think it would be suitable for all levels - I'm at intermediate level and it helped me think about shape and perspective etc and refresh/rediscover techniques. Certainly suitable for beginners and Lance is very helpful and gives individual attention to everyone."

Margaret Walker reviewed: Fused Glass Half Day

"I and a friend have attended 2 of Julie’s workshops and we are extremely keen to book a third! Everything about the workshops is tip top - very supportive without being not overly prescriptive. Julie’s enthusiasm and knowledge shine through. An all round excellent experience which I highly recommend."

Myra Mannering reviewed: Craft Bookbinding (1 day) in the Peak District

"I really enjoyed our day in this creative haven near Wirksworth. The studio is well lit with plenty of natural light and the size of the course was a nice surprise, [small]. We soon became engrossed under Holly's expert tuition and I was very impressed by our output. Holly provided a good range of paper for our covers. The lunch and cake was of a lovely home baked standard. I so enjoyed my day."

Megan Snyders reviewed: Life Drawing in Monoprint

"I loved this workshop! I found the Monoprinting process to be instantly satisfying and such an amazing way to loosen up my drawings! Shelley's teaching was fantastic, and I was amazed at how much work I had produced by the end of the day. I would recommend this course to people of all abilities. It is a great way to loosen up and to play with line, colour and mark-making."

Sue Hutch reviewed: Nuno felt a silk scarf in fine merino wools and silks with Judi Binks

"Fantastic! I knew nothing when I arrived but by the end of the day I'd nuno felted an awesome silk scarf. Love it! Judi is a great teacher with endless ideas and resources. Interested to do landscape felting some time in future when I've made a few more scarves at home."

Felting in Devon responded:

"Thank you, Sue. That's really heart warming. Keep up the good work. Look forward to seeing you at a landscape workshop. Judi"

Shirley Duncalf reviewed: Weekly Saturday morning art classes in Stockton Brook with Louise Adams

"Lovely art workshop with interesting and varied attendees from all walks of life. Everyone is encouraging and friendly. It’s a great social event each week. The art tutor, Louise provides inspiration and support when it’s needed but allows each artist to develop their own talents. It’s a wonderful session, to make friends, enhance artistic skills and relax. I’m glad I joined"

Stockton Brook Studios responded:

"Thanks Shirley! I really love all your individual styles and talents .... you all bring so much to the Tuesday class."

Kassy reviewed: Traditional Leather Workshop (small leather goods)

"It’s really rewarding getting to use my new leather wallet every day and admiring it. I am very happy that I did the class and learning this skill was fun and exciting for me. Kingsley helped me feel comfortable with his positivity and encouragement. With 2 other people in my group it meant we had enough support and time to ask questions but could also look at each others work and learn different skills. The location was awesome. We had a break and went to Brick Lane Market around the corner.It is located in a shop with great coffee and a very cool set up. Would highly recommend."

Jeanette Kendall reviewed: Introduction to Blacksmithing in North York Moors National Park

"We bought our 15 year old son a day blacksmithing with David and it literally ignited a flame with him to begin working with metal. When he returned home he said he knew he would enjoy the day but didn't realise how much he'd enjoy it. David has totally inspired him and we are at the moment getting inundated with homemade keyrings, pokers and other creative objects all forged using the skills he learnt on the day. David was calm, methodical and inspiring in his approach to teaching and we would thoroughly recommend the course to anyone. Thank you David, you've helped to make our son's mind up that working with metal is what he wants to do when leaving school this summer."

Emily Grace Williams reviewed: Stained glass leading for beginners

"I am very glad that I decided to come to Jamal’s workshop for a 4-Day intensive stained glass course. I needed to use up my holiday in 2019 and decided on learning a craft in this time. Myself and my mother came across this course and I went with it! I have always found the stained glass in buildings one of my most favourite aspects of it, so learning in the flesh the process of their crafting was fabulous. We received a bit of a history of both stained glass making and also of Jamal’s working time at the Hardman studios. Both of these factors was a great introduction to our time! We had to bring a design to make on the course, I had made one but also had created a tile design a while back from inspiration in the Jackfield Tile Museum in Ironbridge in the Arts and Crafts Morris style which he spotted and recommended doing as my first piece. I am very glad he did as it brought to life a concept I had made! It was a very effective design and also challenging! We learnt various things on the course ranging from cutting of the coloured pieces of glass to fit into the blocked out ‘panes’, to ensuring these were the correct size for leading. We also learnt using browns and blacks painting to both shade and block out some of the painted designs on our works. Mine had lots of naturalistic shapes including leaves and a squash on it where I successfully made it shaded so it looked 3D which I was amazed at by the guidance of Jamal. We also finally did the leading of the piece, which the other two had done previously on a 1-day course and practiced at home with own pieces between times. Jamal was very useful in guiding me on this, so I completed getting my 21 glass pieces together with few issues including successfully teaching me soldering and cementing techniques which I hadn’t done before either ever in my life. It was fabulous also to see Jamal’s work as inspiration including a commissioned piece for someone’s private collection of Sikh devotional items. It was a beautiful sight in the flesh! I am currently working on some designs of pieces to create before I venture into buying kit to make it with, I think it may become an addictive pastime! I would like to thank both Jamal and his wife Somia for making us welcome in their home alongside the rest of their family including on the weekend with plenty of cups of tea! As I typed to Jamal after the course “Tumhara duniya ek rangeela duniya hai! Bohat shukran ke liye meri duniya bohat rang bana, aur nahin andhera!” meaning “Your world is very colourful. Lots of thanks for making my world more colourful and not dark!” This has been fabulous in a difficult year for me, a good hopeful end to 2019 and a start of new colourful hobby for 2020! Thank you very much Jamal and family!"

Stained Glassic responded:

"Hi Emily, This is one of the most detailed and longest review I have ever received! Thanks so very much. I am so humbled. Thank you for writing in-depth details of the course. It will help many others to know what to expect before choosing a course. Thanks again for booking a course with me and for coming all the way. Cheers. Lots of love and all the best for your new hobby and for 2020!"

Bev Evans reviewed: Botanical Ecoprinting: the Secrets of Spring Leaves

"Although I do my own botanical printing, I wanted the chance to learn the processes properly as well as being within a friendly 'group' environment. I was also interested to find out how tannin works with iron to produce a range of effects. Maggie covers all the details, using her own examples that you can view first hand, plus she talks in detail about the methods used and also gives plenty of chance for any questions that you might want to ask. It was a totally fascinating workshop and I learned so much. I made a beautiful scarf (which I have worn a lot!), I managed to use some of the leaves that I brought with me to the workshop, and, I also got to see how everyone else's work turned out, which was really helpful. A very enjoyable and useful workshop! :D"

By Maggie .. Naturally responded:

"Thanks very much Bev. I’m really glad that you felt you gained so much from the course, given your prior experience, and that it was a good experience. I look forward to seeing your future scarves. Maggie ☺️"