Latest reviews

Sam Harwood reviewed: Paper Marbling Class Full Day at Portsmouth Museum

"I really enjoyed my workshop with James. I'd had some experience with marbling before but it was fascinating learning about Ebru and trying it myself under the friendly and enthusiastic guidance of James. I love the fact that this is something you can do without having very much artistic talent and you can still get reasonable results. Of course, the master artists spend years trying to achieve perfection in their art and that's another story entirely. The location of the studio is wonderful and it's a great atmosphere. A real pleasure to spend the day here and I wouldn't hesitate to recommend to anybody."

James Mouland Ebru Studio responded:

"Thank you for your kind words Sam, it was lovely to meet you and share the marbling experience, I hope you make wonderful progress back home! James"

Allison Strivens reviewed: Raku, Saggar, Barrel, Copper Matte & Horsehair Firing Weekend Workshops 2025

"Results were amazing. Another day of fun, good food, great company and expert instruction. I’m already thinking about a return visit."

Wendy Moir reviewed: Advanced Cold Process Soap Making

"What a fabulous day. A full day that just went too quickly. Sarah and her husband are very generous with their time and expertise. Lots of support provided. Plus lunch and fabulous homemade cake was a bonus. I've come away buzzing and will definitely be back for more. I've been on a few soap making courses and this is by far the best. Would highly recommend this course to anyone."

Louise Allen Roberts reviewed: Fascinator making in Wellsborough nr Nuneaton

"Rachel was amazing; explained everything perfectly, made everything very easy to understand. I highly recommend to anybody. Rachel has to be one of the best teachers, totally lovely person and amazing class, thank you very much Rachel."

Pam Neaves reviewed: Raku, Saggar, Barrel, Copper Matte & Horsehair Firing Weekend Workshops 2025

"What a busy, fun packed weekend we've had! Lovely setting and great guidance in the techniques of Saggar, Barrel and Raku firing. It was amazing to learn, experience and reveal the effects from the different firings and be surrounded by lovely people sharing a love of ceramics. Wonderful food, beautiful surroundings and knowledgable fun hosts too! Highly recommended if you're visiting Devon or a local pottery enthusiast, don't just take my word for it...book your place now!"

Claire Fraser reviewed: Kiln fused glass taster day

"Absolutely loved this course. Don’t consider myself to be artistic but ready pleased with what I made. Want to sign up for the full weekly course, just need to find the time! Highly recommended."

Matthew Richardson reviewed: Blacksmithing Introduction courses in Yorkshire and the North East

"Brilliant weekend doing the design and make course. Adrian and Andy are excellent teachers providing as much guidance as you need whilst allowing you to do your own work under their excellent tuition. The food included with the course made by Debbie is always fantastic and as always I left the course feeling I'd achieved a good amount and eager to do more."

Sam and Mari reviewed: Colourful stained glass panel making course

"We had a really enjoyable one day course learning how to cut glass and construct a multi-coloured stained glass window in a lead frame. Under Jo’s very friendly and expert guidance we were both able to get to grips with cutting the glass and soldering it in place and with a wide range of designs, colours and textures of glass to choose from we were able to be creative and individual in the look and feel of the final product. We thoroughly enjoyed our day and came away with a real sense of achievement and a couple of pieces of art we are both rather proud of! Many thanks to Jo for providing such an enjoyable experience!"

Jo Snowdon Stained Glass responded:

"Thanks for the lovely review Sam and Mari, really glad you enjoyed the course! Best wishes, Jo :-)"

Mary Turvey reviewed: Cloth and clay: Japanese themed craft day

"What a wonderful day and delicious sushi lunch. Both crafts were well taught and were so inspirational. Can’t wait to see my Japanese plate in two weeks and wow our napkins and scarves were all amazing, with instant gratification! Keep me informed of any other courses you are planning please Sara and Stephanie x"

Stephanie Le Cocq Studios responded:

"Thank you Mary!!! We so loved having you!!! We were seriously so impressed with all your results, so good to see you all getting so creative! ...going to frame your lovely review now and pin it on my wall! :) We will keep you posted of future classes! Steph & Sara"

Julie Norris reviewed: Glass Fusing and Slumping for Beginners and Improvers

"Just arrived home after my second time with Jean and Janet. The tutors are both friendly and professional and have a wealth of knowledge, the teacher to student ratio is a maximum of 1:4 so there is always help available! I learnt some skills in the morning and completed 4 coasters, each using a different method, and in the afternoon, I completed a fruit bowl and a wall plaque. The lunch was superb !! A choice of 2 home made soups, with a choice of home made bread, and a selection of cakes. I am looking forward to returning to pick up my pieces, and will definitely be booking to come again . I recommend this workshop to everyone - you won’t be disappointed !"

JJ Fused Glass responded:

"Thank you Julie for your kind review. It was good to see you again. We’re pleased you enjoyed your second visit and hope it helped to cement some of the techniques involved. We are always as excited as you to see the results of your labours. Kind regards Janice"

Linda Duckworth reviewed: Glass Fusing and Slumping for Beginners and Improvers

"A very enjoyable day as a beginner. The time just flew by with Jean and Janice providing their expertise, help and guidance whilst letting the students do their own thing. Learned numerous techniques in the morning which you could put into practice with your own ideas in the afternoon. Lunch in the garden was lovely. Had a laugh trying to test the tin in the cupboard ?. Maximum of 8 on the course so the tutors can provide as much time as you need. Will be returning."

JJ Fused Glass responded:

"Many thanks for your review Linda. We’re pleased you enjoyed the day and the way we teach. It’s always good when the weather is nice enough for lunch in the garden. Time in the Harry Potter cupboard looking for the tin side can be a challenge ? Kind regards Janice"

Zoe Taylor reviewed: Realistic and Adorable Needle Felt Animals & Pets

"Having never touched a needle before I was quite nervous about attending but I needn’t have been. Sophie was a pro at getting me settled and on task. Never overbearing but always there when you needed her to be. Sophie’s expertise shines through. The course was fabulous and so were the other ladies who attended. Food amazing too. I have already recommended this course to others who are looking. I was delighted and quite proud of coming away with something that actually resembled my dog. I don’t think anyone attending would fail to get something from it. I loved it and can’t wait until August for the next one."

All Things Felt & Beautiful responded:

"Thanks so much Zoe, that's really nice to read. I'm so pleased that as a beginner it was the right pace. You did so well and are clearly artistic - well done x Sophie"

Sharon reviewed: Beginners candle making workshop - London

"I had always wanted to do a candle making course and I am so glad I attended Sarah's course. I can thoroughly recommend it. Sarah made the course fun and engaging. She is really clear with her instructions, made candle making look easy. Thanks Sarah."

Candle by Events responded:

"Thank you Sharon, really pleased you enjoyed the workshop"

Gabrielle Read reviewed: Green Man! 1 Day Sculpture Workshop Using Pal Tiya Premium

"This is the 2nd course I've attended at the workshop. Brilliant day. I'm not very experienced in sculpture, but thoroughly enjoy it and find the course very confidence building. Always meet interesting people and get to work in a peaceful setting. Definitely recommend these workshops."

Sarah Wallis reviewed: Modern calligraphy workshop for beginners

"This was such a fantastic course, I got such a lot out of it and had so many questions explained. Jessica was a really patient teacher and the lesson was really well thought out. I also got to take home the most lovely personalised starter kit which was such a bonus. Would definitely recommend!!"

Katie Smith reviewed: Freestyle stitching with Harriet Riddell

"Thank you for such an informative, hands-on free motion sewing course in the beautiful serene setting of Phoenix Studios in Oxfordshire. I was a complete novice and was made to feel relaxed and welcome, in spite of a personal lack of confidence. The course emphasised some drawing techniques to apply to your stitched piece. I liked the chance to experiment to music, to learn from each other and to have some individual help when needed. I learnt so much and was amazed at what could be done in such a short time. Harriet is a warm, kind teacher with a natural passion for her unique work which enthuses out of her. I thoroughly enjoyed the weekend and for me an extra treat to be a part of the whole Phoenix Studios experience. James Ort himself sat down and tried his hand at the stitching course which was a compliment in itself. Thank you for a wonderful weekend. It was a real privilege to attend."

Susan reviewed: Lucy Churchill's Stone Carving Workshops

"I came back across the Atlantic for my third course in May. The stone carving course continues to be an amazing experience, with a tremendous amount of learning balanced with wonderful food and camaraderie. Lucy is a gifted and patient teacher who brings out the best in all her students. She is there when needed, but encouraged independence and creativity. It is an incredibly fun way to spend three days!"

Gabrielle reviewed: Container candlemaking course and wax melts with afternoon tea

"Can I just say I've enjoyed my first candle making experience so much, an absolutely fantastic venue and first class hospitality. But wouldn't expect anything less from Julie and Janet who have a lovely Yorkshire welcome. On the course today we had a giggle and thoroughly great time. Would recommend this course to anyone who is looking to have a great day out and learning the skill of how to make candles. Fantastic value for money . Can't thank Julie and Janet enough , I'll be back on another one of your courses in the very near future x p.s The lunch was very nice too. Gabrielle - 4 hours ago - #22878"

Pip Sandrey reviewed: 2 Day forged chef's knife course.

"Cannot rate this course highly enough. Two professional chefs, spent two fantastic days with Steve, making two beautiful knives. Steve's endless passion, skill and patience made the time so enjoyable and the knives we made are truly unique. If you are considering this course, don't hesitate, you won't regret it. Many thanks Steve and the chances are high that I will see you again soon for another knife adventure!"

White Tiger Knives responded:

"Hi Pip Thank you very much for choosing to come on my two day chefs knife course. Yourself and Dale worked really hard, especially on the last day as we worked right through lunch so we could complete both of your knives. It's not a surprise really as you are both used to working in high pressure environments, given your backgrounds as professional executive chefs. I know your knives will give you a life time of service and it was a pleasure to help you both create them."

Sarah reviewed: Marvellous Mosaic one day workshop

"Just spent the day at Lindsey's studio for a one day mosaic course and what a wonderful time I've had. Lindsey is very welcoming, supportive, passes on her knowledge freely and gives you confidence to complete an amazing piece of art to take home. I now feel able to attempt a mosaic at home and have lots of ideas after seeing the large range of tiles, glass and beads available to use today. I wholly recommend this course and Lindsey's homemade welsh cakes! Thankyou Lindsey for a fabulous day."

Lindsey Kennedy Portfolio responded:

"Thank you Sarah for the fantastic review. I am so pleased that you enjoyed your day so much, your mosaic was beautiful and extremely well executed! Please do send me photos of future projects as I love to see where people take what they learned during the day’s introduction to the craft. It was really lovely to meet you."

Simon Crozier reviewed: Wood turning courses

"Having recently retired I finally have time to pursue wood turning as a hobby. I found George Foweraker's website 'Artistry in Wood' advertised in the Wood Turning magazine and decided to book a 2 day course before choosing a lathe. I am so glad I did that! George was able to advise me on best choice of lathe and also recommend some turning and sharpening tools. The 2 day course is good value as it gives enough time to cover lots of essential information and to allow me to actually try some bowl turning under George's expert tuition and watchful eye. I learnt a great deal and found both George and his wife Sue were excellent hosts with plenty of tea / coffee breaks and lunch was provided! I came way with 3 lovely bowls (impossible without George's knowledge guidance) and great deal of useful information not least of the safe use of the lathe and the tools, but also sanding and finishing which is so important to achieve a good result. I now feel confident enough to get a lathe and begin to practice and hopefully master the art of wood turning. I would thoroughly recommend George's course to anyone thinking of taking up the hobby. Thanks again George and Sue. All the best and hope to see you both again before too long."

Debbie Clarke reviewed: Multi Colour Lino printing course

"Thoroughly enjoyable and engrossing workshop, expertly taught by Evelyn Polk who created a beautiful example of the technique alongside us. In magnificently inspiring surroundings with delicious vegan cake."

Dan and Lizzy reviewed: One to one pottery throwing class in Worksop

"I bought this course as a present for my girlfriend. It was a brilliant joint activity, Harriet really knows her stuff and makes you feel very welcome. Neither of us had any experience on a pottery wheel since school, but we left with two pieces we were very impressed with! I made a mug and my girlfriend made a little bowl that looks as good as the pottery she buys in a shop. My girlfriend is thinking about doing another course with her dad as we both really enjoyed it."

Paul Cook reviewed: The Art of Marbling One-to-One Workshop

"Have just done the marbling course with Simon. He’s a brilliant teacher and I was amazed at the results I could get after his careful tuition. Would recommend this course to anyone who’s interested in learning a new painting skill."

Gabrielle reviewed: Crafters Cottage venue hire

"Can I just say I've enjoyed my first candle making experience so much, an absolutely fantastic venue and first class hospitality. But wouldn't expect anything less from Julie and Janet who have a lovely Yorkshire welcome. There were only two of us on the course today but we had a giggle and thoroughly great time. Would recommend this course to anyone who is looking to have a great day out and learning the skill of how to make candles. Fantastic value for money . Can't thank Julie and Janet enough, I'll be back on another one of your courses in the very near future x. P.S. The lunch was very nice too."