Latest reviews

Jayne Knight reviewed: Furniture upcycling workshop - 1 day

"Hannah is a lovely teacher and goes at a comfortable pace. I really enjoyed the day and to have a finished up cycled piece of furniture at the end, is fantastic. The course was full of tips and Hannah answered any questions. It was great to try a different type of furniture paint too. I would highly recommend Hannah’s work shop for anyone who is interested in up cycling, you won’t be disappointed. She is a lovely person and the group was small so meant that Hannah could spend time with each person. The venue is easy to find and there’s a vintage shop and cafe within the old building. Thank you Hannah for an enjoyable day."

Tread Softly responded:

"Hi Jayne, Thank you so much for taking the time to leave me a lovely review. I'm so pleased you enjoyed the day :) It was great getting to upcycle with you! Your piece looked great with the wood contrasting against the green. Can't wait to see what you so next..."

Gail West reviewed: One day stained glass classes by Le Breton Traditional

"What a wonderful day! Matt is extremely personable and very clear in his instruction. All COVID distancing and sanitising guidelines were followed as well as well as safety guidelines for the course. Every one of us on the day came away with a piece of work we were pleased with and could be proud of. I was very nervous to begin with but once we got going, and with Matts guidance, we were soon working independently. I would highly recommend this course."

Michael West reviewed: Guitar Strumstick Dulcimer 3 strings instrument

"This course was hands down one of the best days I have had this year. Ted is so knowledgeable and such a fantastic chap! You will no doubt learn loads on this course and you will end up with a fantastic and fun instrument at the end of it. The workshop is very comfortable and well equipped, also very pleasant and interesting conversation was to be had in the periods of waiting for glue to set up and breaks. I strongly recommend anyone interested to take this course you will not regret it. Thank you Ted for such a fantastic day, you have inspired me to look into setting up my own workshop and I'm sure I'll be joining you again in the future for another course Mike"

Teds Woodworking/ instrument making Courses responded:

"I have to say Mike completed his instrument in good time and he really knows many things including woodwork terminology. I was not surprised when his work turned out great. I know we will meet again and speak about music very soon. Well done Mike"

Nicky Farrell reviewed: Pyrography workshop

"I only booked up this workshop yesterday and attended today. Quite a drive for me but well worth every minute. As I had recently purchased a pyrography kit I wanted to gain a better understanding of this craft and this 3 hour workshop did just that. I didn't actually complete either of my 2 projects but only because they both needed different lessons and Rob provided these through demonstrations and on-going support. Brilliant workshop, totally recommend it. Many thanks Rob"

Mike Braham reviewed: Blacksmithing Introduction courses in Yorkshire and the North East

"Hi, what can I say about the day, there was some serious hammering done, the whole day was excellent from start to finish with a cup of tea/coffee on arrival, lunch was very good and the cup etc before leaving for home. Everyone was made welcome and after a safety talk we got down to some serious hammering. This is my second time blacksmiths and will be back again Regards Mike"

Clare reviewed: Silver jewellery making class for beginners

"A lovely day for me and my sister. Jonathan was very informative. I learned a lot of techniques. Well watered and cake for break times. I look forward to returning to learn further skills."

Trudi reviewed: Hare Sculpture workshop with Jo Garden Art in beautiful Norfolk/Suffolk

"Well what a day, what a course!! Absolutely delighted (and amazed) with my sculpture. Not being a particularly arty type, the whole process was a revelation. Lovely fun bunch of 5 other ladies and what a talented teacher Jo is. She started by describing the process, then demonstrated. We had a ‘go’ under her watchful eye and could ask for direction & help at any stage. Jo is....endlessly helpful, patient, kind and great fun. Who wouldn’t enjoy a workshop like this, highly recommended and going again next month for a two day course ??"

Jo Garden Art responded:

"Thank you so much Trudi! I can't wait to see what you create on the two day workshop ;-) Plus you will have time to make a human sculpture on the second day! Really looking forward to seeing you back here, Jo x"

Christine reviewed: Silver jewellery making class for beginners

"A lovely day and lots of information into jewellery making with my sister with help and encouragement from Jonathan. Cups of tea and cake, end result - a beautiful bangle. Thank you so much"

Dan Atkinson reviewed: Spoon carving at Walderchain Wood, Canterbury

"Beautiful setting, clear excellent instruction, tasty lunch AND you walk away with a spoon and all your fingers. That's about as good it gets, isn't it? Thank you Mark."

Walderchain Wood responded:

"Well we like to think so - Cheers Dan"

Elaine reviewed: Furniture upcycling workshop - 1 day

"I thoroughly enjoyed this course and felt it was very beneficial and well worth the money. Hannah is an inspirational course leader and the relaxed day, working witha small group of others means you learn not only about your own project but also those of others. I have been upcycling for about a year. I now feel much more confident and have a set of new skills."

Tread Softly responded:

"What a lovely review, thanks Elaine! and thanks so much for coming such a long way to learn with me. I think I was actually inspired by you! Some fab ideas. I can't wait to see your future projects :)"

Helen reviewed: Hare Sculpture workshop with Jo Garden Art in beautiful Norfolk/Suffolk

"What a fantastic day! A friend and I travelled and stayed overnight in order to do this course and it was well worth the overall eight hour drive. You couldn't fail to enjoy spending a day in Jo's wonderful studio. Jo was very welcoming and is such fun. She is also a brilliant teacher and guided us every step of the way. There were a lovely group of ladies and we all came away very proud of our masterpieces. It was so interesting seeing a wire armature turn into a beautiful hare, as none of us could imagine we'd be able to create something like that! There was a completely relaxed atmosphere with plenty of tea, coffee and chocolate on hand and lots of laughs! Would highly recommend this to anyone and would love to return again! Thank you Jo!"

Jo Garden Art responded:

"wow - what a lovely review, thank you Helen! You did an amazing job managing to create your medium sized hare in the same time as the smaller ones - I was really impressed ;-) Thank you for travelling so far and would love to see you back here again. Jo x"

Michelle Edmunds reviewed: 2 Person Linocut & Print Kit

"Superb kit for two. Really nice set of tools, limo, paper, cards and ink. Some clear instructions are included and along with the videos are really informative."

Michelle reviewed: Diploma in Natural Soap Making

"I really enjoyed the course and I have received a lot of guidance on how to make soap. This course is perfect as it is!"

Matt & Riley reviewed: Beginners 1-day 1-2-1 woodturning workshop for 1 person

"I bought this for my 15 yr old son. Neither of us had any previous experience. I spent the day in the workshop as an observer as my son is a minor. Simon took time to explain things to the both of us, keeping my son 'hands-on' while allowing me to try and remember as much as possible. The day was relaxed and offers plenty of time to learn and make some nice pieces. Simon and Louise are welcoming and brilliant hosts. Nothing seemed too much trouble and a great lunch was supplied. Simon has since helped with advice on equipment and instruction. Riley thoroughly enjoyed the day and has had me busy installing a lathe, sorting tools and sharpening equipment. With just this one day of tuition, he is capable of producing some pretty reasonable pieces alone. A complete success. Next, the girls want to try the pottery classes, and I wouldn't be surprised if Riley wants to return to learn some more techniques. Many thanks, and if it isn't obvious, I would highly recommend to anyone, younger or older."

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

"Matt & Riley, Thank you for a lovely review - we’re so glad that you both enjoyed your experience and that Riley is taking it up as a hobby - fantastic! Any help required, please shout and we look forward to you visiting us again. — Simon & Louise"

Donna Dickens reviewed: Introduction to candle-making as a business

"I love candles and was bought this as a present from the hubby. The workshop is set in a beautiful little village. It was absolutely amazing... I loved the day! I just love candles and did not realise there was so much involved... or that I was doing everything wrong from how I burned them to how I extinguished them! Jo is an awesome Tutor and a lovely person. I learned so much from this course.... I will definitely be back."

The White Candle Company responded:

"Thank you so much Donna for a lovely review. Was great to meet you and look forward to your return! Be in touch soon. x"

Tracey Wallis reviewed: Beginners 1-day 1-2-1 pottery / ceramics workshop for 1 person

"I was lucky enough to have a full day pottery workshop voucher given to me for my birthday and thoroughly enjoyed every minute of the day. Louise demonstrated various types of pottery techniques, including wheel throwing, which she made look very easy! It was all very relaxed and Louise made you feel confident enough to be creative with your own designs but guided you when needed. I hope to gain further wheel throwing experience in the future with Louise and would definitely recommend the workshops."

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

"Tracey, it was a pleasure to have you in the studio. You made some really lovely pieces and it was a joy chatting to you while we created with clay! Would be lovely to have you back in the studio some time if you fancy honing those throwing skills :-)."

Jean Findley reviewed: Blacksmithing Introduction courses in Yorkshire and the North East

"Fantastic day out creatice and a good workout great comaraderie good to come on your own or with a friend sorry boys but the food was really good thanks Debbie roll on the next course"

Colin McConnell reviewed: Blacksmithing Introduction courses in Yorkshire and the North East

"Great fun learning day with good interaction and a whole new experience of working that takes you right back to "school days" and the joy of making simply things while meeting new people. Lunch was great and the whole day was a new experience that I shall remember for a long time."

Jean Findley reviewed: Blacksmithing Introduction courses in Yorkshire and the North East

"Fantstic day artistic with a good workout great comraderie sorry boys but the food was just fantstic thanks Debbie looking forward to next course"

Heidi reviewed: Hare Sculpture workshop with Jo Garden Art in beautiful Norfolk/Suffolk

"The 'One Day Workshop' was given to me as a gift and what a fabulous gift too! A lovely day, relaxed, great location, lovely surroundings and amazing tuition from Jo. Going home with a hare sculpture that actually resembles a hare and that I will be very happy for others to see, can't wait to show him off. Can definitely recommend and looking forward to going back for the two day workshop next year."

Jo Garden Art responded:

"Thank you Heidi! Saturday was a great day with great people. Looking forward to seeing what you will make on a 2 day workshop!!! Jo x"

Kev Woodcock reviewed: Blacksmithing Introduction courses in Yorkshire and the North East

"Having not done anything like this since school, some 40yrs ago I was a little nervous but eager to get going. Straight away the guys made everyone feel welcome and soon put you at ease. H&S briefing done then straight into it. Within minutes everyone was busy heating, hammering and shaping. Subtle hints and tips given so not to knock anyone’s confidence, with all explanations pitched at the perfect level. The lunch provided was excellent and to choices of breads and cheese was a pleasant surprise. Over all a fantastic day, would I do it again…. Oh yes."

Anna Thomson reviewed: Jewellery making with Precious Metal Silver Clay - Full Day Workshop

"What a wonderful afternoon! I was reluctant at the start as I’m somewhat lacking in creativity, but Charlotte was awesome at supporting the creative process, allowing us freedoms and time to try out all the fantastic resources she had. I’m thrilled with the finished results. Thank you!"

Felix & Reuben Jewellery School responded:

"Hi Anna, I'm so glad you had a wonderful afternoon! You should be very proud of the jewellery you made! Thank you for your lovely review. Regards Charlotte"

Alan Bonner reviewed: Beginners 1-day 1-2-1 woodturning workshop for 1 person

"Like many of the reviews above, the day with Blended Monkey was bought for me as a present. Perhaps because I have made several walking sticks, my sons felt I should probably progress my skills!! The day exceed my expectations. Louise and Simon being the perfect hosts with a genuine welcome to the world of wood turning. Simon was patient, clear and concise with instructions along with his enthusiasm made the day one to remember. I would highly recommend Blended Monkey to novices as well as experienced individuals who want to expand their knowledge of wood turning and have an excellent value for money day out. Thank you Simon and Louise."

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

"Hi Alan, Thank you for a great review! We’re glad you found the day and instructions useful; please get in touch if you decide to pursue the craft and need any extra help. Simon & Louise"

Ursula reviewed: One day stained glass classes by Le Breton Traditional

"A very enjoyable and interesting day. Matt is a clear, concise and intuitive teacher, who had time for each of us. The workshop is bright and airy and, keeping class numbers low, made it a pleasant and stress free environment. I was delighted with my finished piece."

Liz French reviewed: 1-2-1 digital photography for beginners in Oxfordshire

"An amazing course and really enjoyable day. Aimee is a brilliant teacher - really knowledgable and she took the time to understand what I wanted to get out of the day. My photographs have improved so much since this course and I am now much more confident using my DSLR."