Latest reviews

Jane Powell reviewed: Training course in upcycling with pallets for beginners in Somerset: two days

"I had the best couple of days on the pallet up cycling course. I absolutely loved it. Scott was so friendly and helpful, sharing so much of his knowledge for so many things. Amazing cake homemade by Scott’s lovely wife Sue who taught us how to transfer pictures onto wood as well as sharing her knowledge for many other techniques. We were made to feel so at home , just trying to decide what course I do with then next ! Amazing fun ,knowledge , cake , laughs and brilliant value , thank you again so much. Now looking at buying a sliding mitre saw while husband rolls his eyes !!! ;) Jane x"

Black Paw upcycle project responded:

"Hi Jane Thank you for such a lovely review. It was a pleasure to have you on the course and im so grad you had an amazing time and definitely get your own sliding mitre saw Scott"

Matt Frederick reviewed: English longbow making weekend in the heart of Nailsworth Gloucestershire

"This was a very well thought-out and carefully planned course and yet had a relaxing sense of informality that put everyone at ease. The pacing of the course was spot on, keeping everyone busy, enabling the faster ones to work to a higher level of detail whilst the instructors were quick to pick up on and support those who were falling behind. The level of knowledge imparted was carefully balanced so that you didn't just learn the techniques but also some of the history, reasoning and context behind the craft, without being overwhelmed in information. Gavin was ably assisted by Tom and they are both clearly very experienced, not only with the craft of longbow making but also as teachers. They kept the atmosphere light and welcoming and kept everyone plied with cups of tea. The workshop was well equipped, with plenty of space to work and yet had an eccentric charm that suited the course perfectly. I would strongly recommend this course to anyone, archer or otherwise, who fancies making a beautiful hand-made item that they will treasure for years."

Lou reviewed: Crafty Basketry's Hedgerow Basket Making for Beginners/Improvers - Day Course at Cowshed Workshop, Tenterden

"Brilliant course, beautiful location and a very patient Marianne! So pleased to have made my first ever basket and looking forward to the next one :-)"

Hannah Porter reviewed: English longbow making weekend in the heart of Nailsworth Gloucestershire

"From the moment we entered the Workshop, we were met with a very warm welcome and made to feel at ease immediately. Gavin and Tom (the instructors) are extremely knowledgeable and skilled at what they do, their subject knowledge is immense. They have a unique way of identifying the needs of the individual and use their expertise to guide participants through this very busy, hands-on course! The end result; an amazing handmade and bespoke Longbow which you get to keep! Also, they make a decent cuppa!"

Nikki Doherty reviewed: Introduction to candle-making as a business

"This is my second course with Jo, absolutely brilliant. I needed to reinstate my confidence in my product and my understanding of the business side. Jo has a wealth of knowledge and experience. The icing on the cake; it’s a brilliant day out. I had so much fun!! Thank you Jo."

Katy Pearson reviewed: Silver Rose Earrings & Ring Workshop with Lindsay Forbes

"Fabulous morning making rings and earrings. Loved learning the techniques and the unique pieces I came away with"

Bench Box responded:

"Thanks for coming along Katy and making some fab pieces, I'm glad you enjoyed it!"

Jane & Malcolm reviewed: Glass blowing course - taster

"We did a taster course with Chris and both of us thoroughly enjoyed the whole experience and would highly recommend. Chris made the morning informative and fun, he is also very patient and let us do as much as we could but would step in to rescue our attempts when needed, this meant we were able to bring home some lovely pieces. The experience has made a lasting memory we will be talking about for years to come."

Chew Valley HandMade Glass responded:

"Thank you for your kind review, its great knowing that you enjoyed your time spent with Chris. Regards The team at chew valley handmade glass"

Jane Dean reviewed: Weave a scarf in a day - handloom weaving

"What a lovely, relaxing day spent learning how to weave a simple scarf on a rigid heddle loom. You choose two balls of yarn from a vast array available in the wool shop to the front of the craft room and then you are ready to begin. At every stage of the process Anne tells you what to do, using both sample work and real time demonstrations. Anne then keeps a watchful eye on what you are doing and speaks to you, either to offer praise or to explain and correct mistakes. By the end of the day you have created a scarf which is very satisfying. Anne is an outstanding teacher - a clear communicator, an accomplished and knowledgeable craftsperson with a gentle manner and an eye for detail. She quickly builds a rapport with the group and you feel at ease throughout the day. I would recommend this experience without reservation."

Aline Shand reviewed: Two day wood carving course at Chillington Hall

"I am not at all arty or crafty so I both looked forward to and dreaded the course. Geraint is a fabulous teacher and is determined to get you to leave with your own completed work, having learnt about wood, tools, and carving techniques. The atmosphere in the room was superbe with a sense of hard work and accomplishment. A very enjoyable and memorable 2 days! Thank you."

Amerton Arts Studio responded:

"Thank you for your review Aline, glad you enjoyed it."

Richard Catchpowle reviewed: Two day stone carving course at Chillington Hall

"Great course. Really enjoyed the experience. The instructions were very detailed so was very happy to produce something of quality with no previous experience."

Amerton Arts Studio responded:

"Thank you for your review Richard, glad you enjoyed it."

Craig Hutchinson reviewed: Bladesmithing Experience Day

"I wasn't quite sure what to expect, well I can honestly say that it was an experience of a lifetime. Every member of the team always make you feel at home,despite the fact that I hadn't ever done anything like this before The whole experience really helped me believe that I have just started a whole new direction and can't wait to make more knives"

Clarke Knives responded:

"Looking forward to seeing you again Craig ??"

Craig Hutchinson reviewed: ** SPECIAL OFFER ** 10% off - Bladesmithing Experience Day - Wiltshire

"I wasn't quite sure what to expect, well I can honestly say that it was an experience of a lifetime. Every member of the team always make you feel at home,despite the fact that I hadn't ever done anything like this before The whole experience really helped me believe that I have just started a whole new direction and can't wait to make more knives"

Clarke Knives responded:

"Looking forward to seeing you again Craig ??"

Louise reviewed: Introduction to Lino Printing in Cambridgeshire

"My sister and I had a wonderful day in a comfortable studio and relaxed atmosphere. Learning a great new craft, Judith is so welcoming and clear with instructions. It was very inspiring and we left feeling really happy with what we had been able to create. We had great support and were guided through the process at a steady and enjoyable pace. Would definitely recommend this experience."

Steph reviewed: Creative Fused Glass for beginners and improvers

"I had never done glass craft before this class. Nadine explained a bit of the science behind glass fusion, gave us some basic glass cutting lessons and then let us use our imaginations to create our four pieces of art. Nadine gave us gentle pointers as to what would work best in an idea but let us all do our own thing. I thoroughly enjoyed the class and meeting Nadine and the other attendees and would love to have another go at glass fusion."

Richard and Jenny Bunn reviewed: Introduction to Leather Craft

"Thank you Bill for a fantastic couple of days. We arrived as complete novices and emerged with beautiful pieces that we can genuinely say we designed and made ourselves. In between Bill shared his wealth of skills, wisdom and knowledge with enthusiasm, patience and humour. Great setting for the course in his workshop full of tools, leathers, widgets ...and teabags, leaving an understanding and respect for the craftsman's art too. Highly recommended."

Bespoke Leather responded:

"Thanks Jenny and Richard for a very enjoyable weekend and great review. You both were great and picked up the necessary skills very quickly. Cheers Bill"

Kate Fiddes reviewed: Container candlemaking course and wax melts with afternoon tea

"Wow ! What an absolutely fabulous Saturday. Julie was an amazing hostess, talented and extremely knowledgeable. I went wanting a little insight to the candle making business and have come away very excited . The morning and afternoon was fun and relaxing and very therapeutic! Afternoon tea was a delight and was presented so beautifully. This course was not only informative it was an absolute bargain as you get take take home all your goodies . It was such a pleasure meeting all the wonderful ladies who were also on the course . I will definitely be back . Thanks again to Julie and her team ."

Miep Golabi reviewed: One day stained glass workshop London for beginners and enthusiasts

"I had a wonderful day with Tejal teaching me how to create a beautiful piece of stained glass. I had always admired this craft but realised that you really need to be shown the stages before you could start this as a hobby. I was lucky to have Tejal all to myself and by bringing lunch and refreshments with me I managed to use all the hours we had to create a piece I can be proud of. I can highly recommend this workshop."

Kevan McCaig reviewed: Beginners 1-day 1-2-1 woodturning workshop for 1 person

"It was a great woodturning course that encompassed everything and more. Simon is a patient teacher and thoroughly understands his craft in detail. The day was very relaxed with coffee and lunch provided by Louise. I made a honey wand a bowl out of a really nice piece of wood. I enjoyed learning about the finishing products and process. The next day I turned 2 bowls at home thanks to Simons tuition. I would highly recommend Simon (Blended Monkey) to anyone wishing to get off to a god start in Woodturning. I’ll be back!!"

Blended Monkey - pottery - woodturning - green woodworking - pole lathe - throwing responded:

"Hi Kevan, Thanks for the great review. It was great having you in the workshop and I'm so glad you managed to put the teaching into practice - very nice bowls! -- Simon & Louise"

Lesley reviewed: Woodturning for beginners: 2 day course

"Both my husband and myself really enjoyed our recent 2 day course with Stuart. Being beginners he was extremely patient and encouraging, spending all the time necessary for us to grasp the basic woodturning techniques. We were totally absorbed and the time seemed to fly by. With Stuart's help we managed to leave with some beautiful creations. A particular concern for us was how to sharpen and use our own toolset which we brought along for the course. Stuart explained and demonstrated how to do this giving us confidence going forward. Many thanks again Stuart . I would thoroughly recommend the course which will be tailored to the student's level of skill and needs. Stuart was a great teacher."

The Scottish Woodturner responded:

"Glad you both enjoyed it and I look forward to seeing some photos of the pieces you make. Happy turning. Stuart."

Rob reviewed: Kitchen Knife Course

"A brilliant experience. Dave is an excellent teacher who has carefully planned the day to develop his students' confidence with different techniques that build on the last activity. His teaching method of explaining the right way to do things and then pointing out barriers to success really worked well for me. It was a real pleasure spending the day in the workshop, relaxed but safe every step of the way. I'm really pleased with the kitchen knife I made under Dave's supervision and guidance. Thank you Dave, Rob"

Hand forged Yorkshire responded:

"I really appreciate your kind comments and review Rob, thank you very much. Brilliant to hear you enjoyed the day and you're happy with your knife, it was fantastic having you in the forge and you did a cracking job. Kindest regards Dave"

Inger reviewed: Basket making for beginners using traditional willow basketry techniques

"Thoroughly enjoyed the day making baskets with Jonny and Becky. I mentioned that I had done a little bit of basketry many years previously and they were able to make my experience slightly more advanced, differentiating my basket on the spot. Keep an ear out for Jonny's jokes, they are lost if you are not tuned in ! It was great to meet people on the same wavelength and swap stories around crafting in general. Lunch was fabulous. A slice of quiche, luxury salad box and two choices of cake ! Great views of the surrounding countryside. I would completely recommend this as a creative and entertaining day out."

Philipa Kohly reviewed: Potter's wheel pottery - half day course Siramik

"I would definitely recommend the half-day class to both beginners and experienced potters. I came to the class with previous experience (I had in the past made pottery and even thrown pots on the potters wheel) and all I wanted was a reminder of how it's done - correctly. Being a professional potter Yoka was great as she gave every consideration to how a beginner may feel working on the wheel for the first time, while also giving me the attention I was after. Her instructions were very clear and I was amazed to see that every student made at least one pot very successfully by the end of the 3 hr session. I was encouraged to pay attention to my posture in order not to put strain onto my shoulders, back, arms, hands and wrists - unnecessarily. Old habits die hard (even after 10 Years!) but I came away with exactly what I was hoping for - a reintroduction to throwing in the correct manner. Thank you Yoka."

Siramik responded:

"Hello Philipa, thank you for your kind words. The participants and you made at least 5 good pots during the 4 hour session from 9.30am till 1.30pm. It was lovely to see your experience with the clay already and you progressed well. Now it is waiting for those lovely pots!"

Dot Clarke reviewed: Multi Colour Lino printing course

"A very enjoyable class with good tuition. It was good to be in a small group so that you experienced one-to-one tuition when needed and it was easy to ask questions or ask for clarification."

Printmaking with Evelyn Polk responded:

"Thank you for the review Dot, was a pleasure meeting you and I'm glad you enjoyed the class. All the best, Evelyn"

Liz reviewed: One day stained glass workshop London for beginners and enthusiasts

"What an amazing day we had and what a lovely teacher we had too. Tejal was lovely and extremely knowledgeable with all things stained glass. Everyone should go!"

Amy reviewed: One day stained glass workshop London for beginners and enthusiasts

"Had an amazing day on Saturday learning from Tejal. Course was relaxed and very informative. Left with a beautiful piece and a new stain glass obsession book on this course you will not be disappointed."