Latest reviews

Andy Tarpey reviewed: Basic throwing with Jon French

"A very enjoyable 2 days with Jon French, whose relaxed style was very conducive to a great learning experience. There was a range of levels of skill on the course, from people who had been throwing for a while to people who were starting from scratch, and he ensured that everyone made progress. The staff at Potclays were friendly and helpful (as they always are!) and the lunch was fine, providing for gluten-free, vegan etc as required. A few months of steady practice and I'll be looking to book the Intermediate course."

Irene Warden reviewed: The Annie Sloan complete chair makeover Workshop at La Di Da Interiors

"Had a lovely time the last two Saturdays at La di da for Annie Sloan Workshops. Started with the Basics course first and then the following week on the Complete Chair Makeover Course. Steph’s no nonsense, down to earth, friendly approach put us all at ease and made it fun and interesting. Didn’t matter if you were a total novice like me, or had some experience, the excellent tuition meant that every one learnt and took away something worthwhile. The time just flew by! I shall be trying to put into practice the techniques I have learned and then will consider maybe the Advanced Techniques Course later on. Thank you for two very enjoyable Saturdays."

John Latchford reviewed: Introduction to traditional green wood turning course

"I took this pole lathe course on a damp January day so the exercise from treadling the lathe and the tea from the fire kept you warm. Simon is an excellent teacher, breaking down the steps from a billet to creating the final dibber so it was easy to understand and seemed like the right pace; certainly with only two students you get plenty of attention. You need good technique to turn on a pole lathe and it was great way to learn to turn."

Mike & Julie Roberts reviewed: Introduction to Leather Craft

"Brilliant weekend with a truly knowledgeable and passionate instructor. The subject is vast but Bill was able to impart a little of what he has learnt over his many years working leather in a succinct understandable way. We came home with 2 finished bags of different designs using different skills, which we are very proud of, and a desire to carry on and try to develop our skills from the excellent starter course. We would not hesitate to go on another course with Bill."

Donna Holland reviewed: Introduction to stone setting 2 day course

"This is the second course i have completed with Jonathan, and again it was a comprehensive and exciting course. Jonathan runs small classes so you always feel like you have one to one time and whatever your ability he always boosts your confidence. I have hopefully made some new friends and we defiantly had fun over the two day course. I cannot recommend these courses highly enough to anyone who wants to learn a new skill set. Thanks Jonathan and Helen for another warm welcome."

Beverley Bruce reviewed: The Annie Sloan complete chair makeover Workshop at La Di Da Interiors

"Had a great time. Steph is a good teacher and I was very pleased with the end result - a lovely chair to take home and show off!"

Audrey Caine reviewed: Natural (cold process) soap making workshop with afternoon tea

"This course was a birthday gift from my daughter and I wasn't sure what to expect but was pleasantly surprised by the relaxed and friendly greeting I received from both Julie the tutor and everybody who attended . It was a lovely day full of information and practical advice. Julie is very knowledgable and eager to share her skills. The afternoon tea was a lovely touch so everyone could have a good chat over a lovely spread of sandwiches tea and cake. The soaps we made we took home and has given me lots of room for thought and ideas. Can't wait for the candle course now. Would recommend these courses to anyone who wished to start a business or just for fun. Thank you Julie and Co."

Shantel reviewed: Candlemaking for Beginners

"Such an amazing day! Everyone really enjoyed themselves! A Very hands on and informative session. Rob is great, and shared lots knowledge and tips for candle making! Great for beginners. I made loads of notes so I feel that I now have a good head start on moving forward in candle making."

The Wax Studio responded:

"Hi Shantel - Thank you for your kind review. It was a pleasure to have you on the course and I hope your future candle making endeavours go well. All the best, Rob"

Matt & Jess reviewed: Creative Vibe - Glassblowing Sessions

"We arrived on the day with little expectations, but were blown (no pun intended) away by Ricky’s course! Ricky is a natural teacher, he clearly knows his stuff and we created some amazing pieces. He showed us a variety of different techniques and skills, patiently guided us through the process and even sat to have lunch with us. I thought it would be much less hands on, but the day was all about us and we created everything ourselves. Without a doubt, we will be back for another go!"

Barbara Saunders reviewed: Bookbinding using leather and marbled paper, Frome - Somerset. Private Tuition

"I spent a day with Stephen creating a book with a leather binding. I had done a little bit of bookbinding before so was hoping to consolidate things I’d already learned how to do and learn some new skills. It was a very easy-going atmosphere in the studio and I liked that I could just ask whatever, whenever but then be a little bit left to get on with it - always feel awkward and liable to mess up when being observed. I appreciated the chance to learn a slightly different approach, not just slightly different method but a more positive and serendipitous way of working, learning from mistakes etc. I really enjoyed the day, 7 hours flew by and I was very happy with my book!"

Sarah Mills reviewed: Blacksmithing Introduction courses in Yorkshire and the North East

"This is a fantastic day. It was so much fun learning what to do and having a go at all the techniques. It gives you such a sense of achievement to take away what you have made. Lunch was great too. All in all a thoroughly enjoyable day."

Sonja and Lenny reviewed: A fabulous introduction to fused glass - one day course

"Second visit to this fantastic studio to take part in the glass fusion course. I have done many different courses over the years but this is definitely the most fun and the most rewarding. Siobhan is such a entertaining teacher, you cannot fail to enjoy the day. This is the best present you could ever get for anybody. Looking forward to visit number three !!"

Phil martin reviewed: Blacksmith Experience Day - Anvil Forge

"I cannot recommend this day enough!! My fiancée bought this for me as a present and from the moment I stepped in the door, John and the guys made us all feel at home and ‘part of the team’. The course was professionally run and their wealth of experience and expert guidance ensured not only an impressive project completed in a little over an afternoon, but an informative and fun working environment."

Anthony Ofoegbu reviewed: Make your very own clutch bag/small tablet device case/sleeve

"Richard Williamson is a master of his craft, considerate and thorough as a teacher with assured encouragement and patience, allowing one to feel creative and dextrous on top of which you come away with a piece of leatherwork that is and feels natural and just right, embodying a sense of longevity. I have to say I have fulfilled a dream and sated my passion in one day and can look at my work and feel truly proud and accomplished. I would recommend anyone to spend a day with Richard and fashion their dream. This is a marvellous course."

Imogen reviewed: Sculpture, ceramics, painting at Lucky Studio - London

"Love love love my ceramic classes with Lucky! Wonderful space overlooking Alexander Palace and is my time each week to practice mindfulness while being creative with clay. It clears my head and gives me a well needed break from modern demands. Highly recommend for adults as well as kids, Lucky is a wonderful teacher."

Lucky studio responded:

"Thank you so much for your kind words. You are a pleasure to teach. Cheers Lucky"

Selina reviewed: Glass painting with Virginia

"I had a great time attending Virginia's glass painting workshop. As a complete beginner, I was so happy to come away with a completed glass votive and hanging leaded glass piece. Being able to chose the design, you end up with a bespoke handmade creation - hopefully the first of many, as this craft is very addictive! Thank you again Virginia (and Pauline)"

Denise reviewed: A fabulous introduction to fused glass - one day course

"Never having worked with glass before, I wasn't sure how I would get on but I needn't have worried. Siobhan is a great teacher & so enthusiastic about all things glass. I picked up my finished pieces yesterday (2 decorative coasters & a largish abstract piece in shades of blue) & am thrilled with the results of my efforts. The day begins with an introduction about different types of glass, techniques & tools followed by free reign to design your own pieces with Siobhan always on hand to guide & provide tips to ensure you won't be disappointed. Loads of refreshments available all day & a lovely lunch too. I couldn't believe how fast the time went - 4.30 came all too soon. A really fun filled productive day. I hope to book on another course sometime & see what else I can produce!"

Sandra reviewed: Machine embroidery - stitch doodling with Julie Brand at Tigley Textiles in Worcester

"An very enjoyable day spent learning machine embroidery. Julie is an inspiration and guides and encourages you through all the different stages. One of the best courses I have attended and in such a relaxed and comfortable setting, I went on my own and was made to feel very welcome and met such lovely people it didn't matter. Great cakes/biscuits and lots of tea. Will be returning soon to learn some other techniques. Thank you Julie."

Gareth Thomas reviewed: Woodturning courses in Hampshire - Beginners and improvers wood turning courses - Turn British, all British lathes!!

"What a thoroughly enjoyable day. Andy is a very knowledgeable teacher and puts things across in a very easy way to understand and put into practice. First time wood turning in over 20 years and made a quite a few mistakes, but Andy was right there to advise how to fix it. If it was not something I was able to fix he was able to work his magic and have it fixed in no time. With all the hints and tips I got through out the day I know I am well on my way to becoming a wood turner. Andy and his wife were so welcoming and lovely to spend time with. Nothing was to much trouble through out the whole day. If you have the option of what to have for lunch I would highly recommend the lasagne (top notch lunch) :) I will definitely be getting some more lessons and can highly recommend going to Andy for lessons."

Lesley Stewart reviewed: Felt Lampshades at Silversoles Studio, Birmingham

"It really is a privilege to be part of a workshop with Emma. This was no exception and benefited from being held over 2 mornings. Although I have previous experience of feltmaking I did not expect to come away with such a stunning piece of art! Emma's teaching is clear,precise and focussed,expertly timed (there is a lot to do!), and she is both highly skilled and exceptionally knowledgeable about her art.Fabulous examples of finished products gave inspiration, excellent workshop environment, detailed handouts, and hands on support all made for inspiring and challenging learning.I am delighted with the outcomes and inspired to continue! Thanks so much."

Gill shennan reviewed: Taster Pottery Session

"A fantastic afternoon, I needed help with 'throwing' on the wheel, Joan was fab , very patient and a great teacher. I came away feeling much more confident. Joan is very passionate about pottery and she has loads of knowledge and is so willing to share and help. Highly recommend her teaching ??"

jccermaics responded:

"It was lovely to see your enthusiasm and determination to pursue the hardest course in pottery THROWING! ?Keep going and here if you need help"

Jane reviewed: Felt Lampshades at Silversoles Studio, Birmingham

"What a joyful way to spend a Saturday morning (or two in this case!) Emma hits a perfect balance between teaching - and her practice is excellent - and a lovely informal social session. I learnt new skills and have come away equipped to carry on this amazing craft on my own. Clear, accurate notes were provided and a list of suppliers too! Would definitely recommend! Thanks Emma!"

M.A King reviewed: Plaster mould making for slip cast ceramics with Ed Bentley

"I did a 3 day plaster mould making course with Ed at the beginning of January and even from the booking stage, I knew I'd made the right choice. I cannot recommend this course enough. Ed was on-hand to look at the objects I wanted to cast (via email), made suggestions and once in Stoke- even picked me up in the mornings! He tailored the tuition to suit my previous experience with mould making and goes above and beyond what is expected of a tutor. The studio is a wonderful place, with the walls used as a place to draw up ideas to demonstrate seam-lines (which I found so helpful- and hilarious). The dedication he has to his craft, professional standing and insider knowledge are only a few of the multitude of reasons I would recommend Ed's course. I would absolutely work with Ed again and would send someone of any level or experience to his studio, as his easy going nature makes learning (and re-learning) so easy."

Natasha reviewed: Couples blacksmithing experience: three hours in the forge

"We had a fabulous day at the Forge! We both made very different types of knives and had a lot of fun doing so. The instructors are great at explaining and demonstrating what to do. They also gave me courage to play, because even when I got it wrong, they always had a way to fix the problem. The lunch was tasty and much appreciated after a morning of hard work - and was very generous! We had so much fun we want to try to make our own forge at home! But want to go back to Oldfield Forge to learn more. Highly recommend this experience!"

Paul Newton reviewed: Introduction to leatherwork with Armitage Leather

"An excellent course and great value for money. I had three months full-time experience of leatherwork and had watched about fifty hours of video tutorials before attending a two-day course with Nigel. I decided to attend a face-to-face course because I felt that my progress had stalled. Nigel gave me his undivided attention for sixteen hours and answered every question I had, including some crucial information about materials and suppliers that I could not have found anywhere else. The course covered everything from pattern making to construction and finishing. I learned a tremendous amount during the course and the quality of the pieces I’m making has improved markedly. I think that while online learning is useful, there are many things that you really need to be shown to fully appreciate. I have just booked another course with Nigel. Highly recommended!"