Latest reviews

Lesley Ali reviewed: Mosaic day workshop with Professional Artist Coralie Turpin- Sheffield, South Yorkshire.

"This was a most fulfilling course that I would recommend to anyone who wants to show themselves a little love. Coralie is friendly and supportive, the space and tools provided are impeccable and just one session is enough to get you hooked. I’ve already booked myself on another day course. I would highly recommend to anyone wanting to discover their inner creativity. The only danger is that you can get seriously hooked! Thank you Coralie for sharing your expertise, patience and creative wisdom. This was the best thing I’ve done for myself in a very long time."

Bev Bacon reviewed: "Sparkle & Shine": beginner mosaic workshops with Joss Hughes, Peacock Mosaics

"Amazing ...such a patient teacher for absolute beginners ! Joss was full of ideas and inspiration. I have been keen to learn mosiac art for a while and Joss certianly provided everything. Set in an beautiful garden the studio was cosy, warm and comfortable and I will certainly be returning ! A great experience day out with The Barn near by serving fabulous lunches !"

Peacock Mosaics responded:

"Glad you had a great time Bev and good luck with your own mosaic ambitions!"

Roger Stiles reviewed: Introduction to Glass Fusing with Enamels - Full Day Workshop

"Had a great day with Steve and ended up leaving with a lot of ideas about how to use, and adapt, the techniques I learnt."

Judith Stevens reviewed: Felt Landscapes and Textured Panels at Cowshed Creative in the Lake District National Park

"Excellent course, really good selection of materials and plenty of examples to help us to design our own pictures. Our tutor was lovely, really encouraging, helpful and patient. I was very impressed with the pictures I managed to produce. The setting is lovely with the most amazing log burner to keep us warm and cosy. The food was all home made and delicious. A truly wonderful experience, I will certainly keep my eye open for future courses here."

Cowshed Creative responded:

"Lovely to meet you Judith and thanks for your lovely comments. Hope to see you again."

nicola daniel reviewed: Architectural homage freehand machine embroidery or drawing with thread workshop

"I have participated in 2 of Stacey's course at the Sands hotel the first "expressive eye " wasn't sure what to expect and never having done a day workshop I was a bit hesitant. Stacy is such a lovely lady, warm and welcoming, explaining about herself and how she came to where she is. Then onto the free motion! Bit worried never having done before. But Stacy was on hand all the time and had all materials to hand, after some expressive music and a bit of drawing we we were off! I thoroughly enjoyed the whole process from letting go and being creative to reigning in the design! My "expressive eye" is framed on my sewing room wall all framed. The second experience the "fireworks " was just as enjoyable using different media, to make super art works which are now hooped in my sewing room! Above all Stacy created a trusting and creative environment and there was lots of laughter too ! I really enjoyed both workshops ! And I am doing my first free motion quilt so I gained confidence too."

Ian Williamson reviewed: Weekend introductory blacksmithing course 'B' at Quinnell School of Blacksmithing

"A great introduction to forging with brilliant instructors made for a really fun weekend. This was a gift from my family and I really enjoyed it, can't wait to do it again!"

Sarah reviewed: Architectural homage freehand machine embroidery or drawing with thread workshop

"I had the pleasure of attending Stacey’s “Expressive Eye” workshop last year. Stacey has a such a warm and friendly personality and was brilliant at helping me come up with different ideas and techniques to achieve my design. I would definitely recommend attending one of her workshops and hope to book another one soon!."

Lawrence Jones reviewed: Fused glass workshops in Cornwall

"Thanks for a good day; course is very good. Good content for beginners. Facilities in a good location."

E Garcia reviewed: Fused glass workshops in Cornwall

"I've really enjoyed the session today. Wendy was very welcoming and it was really nice being in a small group. The techniques were explained really well and we were able to practice before doing our own piece. Great range of materials available and help if you got stuck. Thanks for a great day, we really enjoyed it and look forward to seeing our pieces once they have been fired."

Sandy clayson reviewed: Lino Printing Day with Oxford Linocut Workshops

"I enjoyed a happy and constructive day in comfortable and interesting surroundings. Claire was a great tutor and very generous with information. I will look forward to repeating the experience and have already recommended the day to others, as well as coming home with satisfying prints, many thanks Sandy"

Jan Vandevelde reviewed: Lino Printing Day with Oxford Linocut Workshops

"This was an excellent workshop. The setting was delightful. Claire has prepared a well-organised programme, with good examples; step-by-step content geared to complete beginners and more experienced lino-cutters and printers; very good facilities and equipment; attention to safety; great advice and encouragement; plus the added bonus of drinks and cake! The day flew by. Recommended."

Denise reviewed: Architectural homage freehand machine embroidery or drawing with thread workshop

"Stacey came along to the shop and put on a brilliant workshop for 8 ladies and did we have a fantastic day! Stacey put us all at ease wit the most beautiful happy smile. We learnt so much! so many ideas, tips and techniques that made the learning process a joy. I think each and every one of us were rather chuffed with what we had accomplished. We will be doing another workshop with you in the near future, and thank-you."

Philip Roskelly reviewed: Beginners Sewing - Day course - Get to know your sewing machine

"A great beginners' course. None of the projects was too ambitious but they were challenging enough to give a real sense of satisfaction when completed. We had an experienced tutor who actually said very little but was always ready to assist us when guidance was needed. Definitely recommended."

Pauline Vickers reviewed: 1 Day Fused Glass for beginners workshop at The Silver Zebra studio Cheshire - Est 2004

"Very much enjoyed the workshop and produced some lovely items and learnt a lot. Deborah was very supportive, is a great teacher and very knowledgeable about glass. Very much enjoyed my workshop. Would absolutely like to join another course soon. Also we were well looked after, supplied with tea and coffee and a lovely lunch. Would highly recommend."

Karen Shepherd reviewed: Christmas willow wreath workshop Hemel Hempstead

"I attended this course in December 2018 and throughly enjoyed making my own wreath from naturally sources components, rather than buying something from a shop that has been glued, sprayed and contains plastics. Helen Reeley was very good with her instructions / demonstration of how to work the willow to make the foundation of the wreath and then to give ideas on how to decorate and finalise your work. The range of Willow and other foliage that was available was extensive providing plenty of choice to create a unique wreath. I was really surprised and pleased with what I was able to produce under Helen's patient guidance, especially as I was a complete beginner. A really lovely way to spend a morning and create something that became a talking point between friends. Highly recommended."

Helen Reeley Gardens responded:

"Hi Karen, thank you for your review. Hope to see you again at another workshop in the future. Best wishes-Helen"

Fiona White reviewed: Introduction to Glass Fusing with Enamels - Full Day Workshop

"In August, we happened to stay in a holiday cottage in Devon which had some of Steve's work on display. In amongst the leaflets, we found information about the day workshops and booked a day of 'free style'. My 16 year old son, who does have some artistic ability, and myself, who doesn't, had a fantastic experience. Even as complete novices, we came away with a range of pieces art work we could be proud of. On our course, the 'students' had a range of abilities, knowledge and experiences from none (us) to a craftsperson who was experienced in glass crafting & wanted to try out a new technique. Steve was able to adapt his teaching to effectively provide each of us with the level of teaching and support that we needed. Lunch was excellent & was at a local restaurant which catered easily for our dietary requirements (gluten & dairy free). Steve even provided gf df biscuits for coffee breaks. Overall, an excellent experience. If we lived closer, we would love to return to further develop our skills."

Lee Horwood reviewed: One to one, One day, blacksmith course

"My wife bought me this 1 day experience as a Christmas present last year. I wanted a specific Saturday in Oct so my wife could come along and watch, which was accommodated. I came up with my own design for a wild camping pot hanger which we managed to produce and it was better than my original expectations. Alex is a very knowledgeable blacksmith with a lot of patience. The location is just perfect in Amberley working museum with adults and children popping their heads over the door to see what you are up to. I would highly recommend this experience and will probably book another in the future. :-) Thank again Alex"

Chalk Pit Forge responded:

"Hi Lee, Glad to hear you enjoyed your self and are happy with what you made. Perhaps see you again on your next project. Alex"

Elaine Brown reviewed: Photography Days

"Had a day out with Sue and Richard, went up Ullswater. It was a brilliant day worth every penny. I learned a lot from 1 day, they showed me how to use my camera to get the best out of it, advised on composition and how to edit my photos to get the best out of them. They are so helpful and knowledgeable it was great to spend time with them, they made you feel comfortable and at home and explained everything to you. At the end of the day you also gets notes to come away with. I would recommend this to anyone who wants to learn about their camera."

Art by Camera responded:

"It was a very nice day for us, too. So glad you also found your DSLR when you got home, Richard was pleased to run through it with you today. Don't forget to protect the lens with a daylight/UV filter."

Katherine Watts reviewed: 'Bag in a Day' Practical Leather Course - Tote Bag

"I had a wonderful time & came away with a fantastic bag. Georgie was very patient & great at explaining each step we took. Bag looks so good that none of my friends will believe that I made it - am delighted with the whole day"

Hands of Tym responded:

"Thanks for the comments, it was ovely to meet you and you made such a beautiful bag. I hope you enjoy it! Well done!XX"

kerry wheatley reviewed: "Sparkle & Shine": beginner mosaic workshops with Joss Hughes, Peacock Mosaics

"Absolutely fantastic! Joss made us feel very welcome in her fully equipped studio which looked out to a beautiful garden where you can let your imagination run wild with guidance and support from Joss. Excellent value for money, I recommend this for anyone wanting to learn a new skill or for a day out with a difference. I will definitely be returning."

Peacock Mosaics responded:

"Thank you Kerry! I love it when friends come for a morning out to learn a new skill and relax and have fun together. Glad you could finish off your day with a fabulous lunch at Kimbridge Barn and an afternoon at the Sir Harold Hillier Gardens and Arboretum. Of course also very nearby is Mottisfont Abbey National Trust.......next time!! Cant wait to see your grouted mosaics. Joss"

Peter Ferguson reviewed: Blacksmith experience day in Sheffield

"Thank you David, for a very enjoyable experience in smithing. I thought I might enjoy it, but my wife called my bluff and booked the day as a birthday present. I really, really enjoyed it. A large part of that is due to David’s very low key style. It’s a bit daunting grabbing hold of a metal bar glowing red or orange hot at the other end, and then taking a hammer to it. After the first time it quickly becomes normal and the challenging part is just to absorb new skills. David makes that happen, and before you know it you’ve made your first piece. A great instructor. On the drive back to Manchester I was already wanting to do it again / do more. Highly recommended."

Lynn & Hayley reviewed: Natural soap & cosmetic products workshop

"From walking through the door. I knew we we going to have a great day. Julie is so knowledgeable, funny and very welcoming. I had already been making candles, but the information given and the ideas were very useful. The afternoon tea was delicious. The people who we met on the day made it a brilliant day. I will definitely be booking on some more courses. Thanks Julie"

Jane Brunning reviewed: Shaped and 3D tapestry weaving masterclass

"I thought Barbara was fun, interesting and spent time with everyone. I learnt more from the course than I thought I would. I thoroughly enjoyed it."

Tracey reviewed: Introduction to leatherwork – Belt making workshop

"5 stars are not enough! Wendy and Clive are fantastic tutors, the knowledge and skill they past on during this course was brilliant. I'm a complete novice in leather work, yet came away with a belt that looks amazing, looking forward to making more. The beautiful surroundings also helped make this a memorable day. Would definitely recommend, and look forward to booking more courses with them. Thank you for such a great day,"

Evancliffe Leathercraft responded:

"Thank you for the reveiw. It is great to hear that you enjoyed the workshop. New 2020 workshop dates for tbe first quater are up on Craft Courses and our own website. Hope there is one there to suit you!"

Jo Q reviewed: Mosaic day workshop with Professional Artist Coralie Turpin- Sheffield, South Yorkshire.

"I was bought a voucher for my 50th birthday to do a craft course and I didn’t know what to do, as I don’t think I am that creative. I chose Coralie’s mosaics due to the location of the course and based on previous good comments. I was not disappointed. I attended a full day initially and have continued to attend evening sessions too and I am now thinking about my second piece. Coralie was lovely and welcoming and very supportive in her approach to teaching. You are not lectured in any way but encouraged to do things and she will make suggestions and guide but ultimately it’s what you feel is right for the piece you want to create. I would thoroughly recommend Coralie as a teacher and mosaic as a hobby it’s very therapeutic and rewarding."