Latest reviews

Angharad Lescott reviewed: Residential two day monoprinting and collagraph print workshop

"I really can’t rate this course highly enough. It was a jam packed programme with the chance to try many different printmaking techniques in Ruth’s lovely garden studio. Ruth was patient and full of enthusiasm, giving us direction and assistance when we needed it, whilst letting us develop our own ideas. We were astonished at how much work we managed to do. Lunch was delicious and even involved some home grown produce and we stayed in Ruth’s lovely house overnight as we aren’t local. Far and away the best value creative course I’ve ever done."

Lynn Alexander reviewed: Weekend upholstery courses - Oxfordshire & Berkshire Borders

"I absolutely loved this course. Philip is not only incredibly skilled but also a brilliant teacher, able to impart his knowledge and advice in a way that encourages confidence even in complete beginners. It was a small, friendly group which meant there was lots of time to talk to Philip and it was really interesting to learn from other projects. I finished the weekend with a completed chair and the confidence to take on other projects. I am hoping to join another of Philip's classes, with a more challenging project, in the near future. I have no hesitation in recommending this course, you won't be disappointed!"

Rachel Read reviewed: Silver Jewellery making class at Sandra Kerns Jewellery studio, Little Sampford

"My daughter has just turned 21 & I struggled to find any jewellery in the shops that was 'just right'! I booked this course as a surprise for her & with Sandra's help, she made herself 3 beautiful rings. I created a silver bangle for her & we both came away with copper heart pendants to remind us of our day together. We're delighted with our creations & really enjoyed Sandra's company, encouragement & knowledge."

Lindsey Clark reviewed: Introduction to copper foiling workshop

"I have always loved stained glass and had seen this workshop online...finally treated myself and booked. I am so glad i did! Sharon is fantastic and today was so enjoyable with her teaching us all the skills we needed to make a wonderful stained glass sun catcher. I am so proud of my creation. I wouldnt hesitate to book again!"

Manchester Stained Glass responded:

"Thank you so much for your lovely review. I'm very glad you enjoyed the workshop, and hope you suncatcher is proudly hanging up for all to see. Thank you for coming onto the workshop :) Sharon"

Caron reviewed: One day stained glass course

"Delighted with the leaded stained glass panel Cheryl supported me to make during one of her day courses in July 2019, which is now proudly on view in my front room window. A fun and full on day guided by Cheryl’s can do approach. Cheryl is very generous with her time and expertise and warmly welcomed the whole class into her studio, garden and home. Thank you so much."

Pippa Hunter reviewed: Introduction to copper foiling workshop

"Amazing day well worth the money and time spent creating something unique and super special with skills I will use for future projects. Sharon was extremely helpful and friendly and the day was great. 5 stars *****"

Manchester Stained Glass responded:

"Thank you so much for your kind words Pippa, very glad you enjoyed the workshop. It was a very lovely original piece you made using the painted glass. I wish you much luck with your future projects :) Sharon"

Jude Mac reviewed: Gelli Plate Printing Workshop by Clare Cosens

"I enjoyed the workshop very much. Claire made it look quite easy, but I soon realised that although the technique is simple there are lots of ways to experiment to get different results. It was very inspiring and I’m going to buy a gelli plate to carry on practicing at home."

Alice reviewed: Silver clay jewellery making

"Absolutely loved every second of this course! Attended today with my Mum and made to feel so very welcome and at home, Yolanda and John are wonderful people and I am so so pleased with our creations today! Cannot wait to return; thank you :)"

Angela & Jacob reviewed: Half day glass fusing workshop

"Myself and my 12 year old son had an amazing afternoon with Amanda while on our holiday in Cornwall. My son is just starting to show an interest in 'art' but can lack confidence with new skills. Amanda was absolutely amazing with him. She was simple, clear and supportive with her explanations of how to work with glass (and did not mind going over things again!) He had a wonderful time and is also thrilled with the outcome of his efforts. Thank you so much for your time, expertise and care!"

Gary Street reviewed: Two person 'Have a Bash' at Blacksmithing course in Shropshire

"This experience was bought for me as a surprise for my birthday by my wife. After a lovely drive out through the Shropshire countryside we arrived at the forge. Both my son and I took part. Jake is an excellent teacher and host, very friendly and he knew his stuff. The day was well paced and plenty of support is at hand. Jake keeps the numbers low so is always available to help out. The facilities are everything you need for the day. Who knew that metal bashing could be such fun. I am now the proud owner of an excellent poker and letter opener. Highly recommended, go and do it!"

Graham Thompson reviewed: 2 Day Leather Practical Skills Workshop

"I have just completed the two day Leather craft practical workshop. And I must say not only did I really enjoy the course but I have come away with a lot more information and knowledge than I expected to. The course explains the whole process from the tannery to selling goods online. Richard explained the use of each and every tool and answered any questions I had, at the end of the first day I had made a card holder and a key fob (both a lot better than I expected). On the second day we started the day with more information that Richard went through with us step by step. I then spent the rest of the day making two belts, one for me and one for my girlfriend both of which came out amazing. I even had time to make a sleeve for my iPhone. Thank you Richard and to anyone reading this review if you want a head start in making leather goods or just want to go home with some cool handmade goods this is the course for you. Graham Thompson"

Olivia reviewed: Candle making with afternoon tea

"I recently attended a candle making course with Tracey which was both informative and enjoyable. Tracey was exceptionally knowledgeable and the food location and pace of the course were perfect. I would highly recommend to anyone interest in picking up a new skill or looking for a fun day out."

Lisa reviewed: Candle making with afternoon tea

"What a fantastic workshop. Great fun, lovely people and delicious food. Really good value and Tracy was very knowledgeable. Relaxed atmosphere and nothing was too much trouble. Looking forward to the lamp making workshop. Thank you!"

Zoe Collar reviewed: Gelli Plate Printing Workshop by Clare Cosens

"A fab little workshop, everything explained really clearly before hand and then we were allowed to jump right in and create our own prints, with Clare on hand to support with tips and advice. I learnt so much on the day and really enjoyed it, if you are thinking of giving it a go I can highly recommend this course, great value and super fun."

Anne Kingston reviewed: Furniture Painting Workshop (levels 1&2 techniques covered) in Preston, Lancashire

"Attended a Furniture Painting workshop with Joanne on Sat 27 July 2019 at Cuerden Valley Park. Lovely relaxed but informative workshop with the delightful Joanne who goes out of her way to help individuals as well as supplying lots of general information on how to get the best effects. The location for this workshop is ideal, comfortable and set in a lovely park and the lunch was plentiful and delicious. All in all a really wonderful way to spend a day. Highly recommended and good value for money too! Thanks Joanne, can't wait for the next one."

The Boho Shed responded:

"I'm so pleased you enjoyed the workshop Anne, it was great to finally meet you and I look forward to seeing you at the upholstery one in Aug."

Dave Wescott reviewed: Blacksmithing Beginners day courses in Yorkshire and the North East

"This was a birthday gift from my partner and I attended the course two weeks ago. Having done many things in my life, I have to say this was definitely one of the best things I have ever done. Adrian and Andy are excellent hosts and storytellers as well as being very skilled at what they do - they produce some genuinely imaginative things. They are most welcoming and there is no messing about - straight into heating and bashing hot steel from the off. The instruction is more gentle guidance and everybody there on the day got along well because of the way it was presented. The day was supported by the great food produced by Debbie and if you are considering being a vegetarian, then she will certainly give you food for thought. A most wonderful experience and if you are considering attending a course then stop considering and book yourself a place."

Nancy Sexton reviewed: Gelli Plate Printing Workshop by Clare Cosens

"The instructions were clear and concise. The space was perfect for this size class. The materials provided were adequate and the hints about finding further art supplies were helpful. Clare is a good teacher and the course is fun. Nice to walk away with pieces of art that can be improved upon or used in other ways."

Rachel Davies reviewed: Gelli Plate Printing Workshop by Clare Cosens

"Well this was my 3rd time on the gelli printing! That's because I think its a perfect gift, and I brought my Mum in law for her 80th and then brought my sister for her 50th. We've all enjoyed it so much in her pretty studio.Two hours is just right, with constant tea and buiscuits.You don't need to be able to draw, its all really easy, but Clare shows you how to lay things out and mix colours that look amazing.I've now got loads of papers for collaging with, stuff to make tags and birthday cards with and I've framed my best one! Thankyou Clare."

Laura Sturrock reviewed: Pole Lathe Bowl Turning - Your First Bowl

"Ade is an excellent teacher. I learnt a lot during the day and always felt confident that he would guide me through making my first bowl. It is very much a first attempt and I can see how it could be improved but I am delighted with what I have achieved. I certainly recommend Ade's course."

Gary reviewed: Five day woodwork course - tools

"Excellent course! Richard and Mark are easy going, excellent facilitators, teachers and craftsmen who delivered knowledge and experiences at a pace suitable for me. I chose this course as I had a poor woodworking experience early in life and whenever I did some wood work as an adult, always seemed to come out with something less than I had planned. I'll deal with the negatives first before continuing. As someone who is a 'professional sceptic' there were none. The positives don't just end with Richard and Mark, they continue with the setting, the workshop, the range of hand and power tools - all good. The daily sandwich/salad van was excellent too - good prices, straightforward tasty food prepped well. There were well timed tea breaks with a nicely positioned 'midday' informal lecture on e.g. tool sharpening (with practical examples and the chance to do it yourself). What did I get out of it? A really enjoyable, relaxing week - one of the best 'holiday' weeks I've ever had. I also ended up with a piece of functional, pleasing to the eye furniture I made with Richard and Mark's guidance which was beyond what I thought I could achieve in a week. Follow Richard and Mark's principals from measuring and marking out, to cutting, making and finishing and you will achieve something truly beautiful. I know it sounds a bit OTT, but try it. There are other woodwork courses closer to me (about 30mins drive). I chose to drive 2.5hrs, spend additional money on accommodation and didn't regret it. Two days after the course had ended I'd taken up a slot on course 2 which I had no intention of doing as I my main 'wood' interest is wooden boats. I did this because of Richard and Mark's style but I also like the workshop which just seems right. And of course two teachers to four woodworkers is spot on. If you lack confidence in what you think you could do with wood, have some experience but are not sure how good you could be or have never entertained the idea of working with wood - give course 1 a go. I don't think you will regret it."

Tom Phillips reviewed: Highland stool making course - Scottish Highlands

"I had a wonderful two days making a "Highland Stool" in the woods. The course is well structured and covers all the basic information and skills needed to start working with green wood on your own if you want to - but importantly, you go home with a cracking stool too! Adrian delivers the content in a relaxed manner which makes the whole experience easy. I would highly recommend this course to anyone wanting to know about working with green wood or anyone who just wants to spend a relaxing few days in the woods. Very therapeutic........."

Helen reviewed: Marvellous Mosaic one day workshop

"Had a fantastic day with Lindsey yesterday. We were all complete beginners and each brought home a beautiful finished mosaic. She was such a great teacher-I feel sure we will all now have the confidence to start our own projects at home. Can't recommend highly enough."

Lindsey Kennedy Portfolio responded:

"Thank you so much for the lovely review, it is very much appreciated! I am so glad that you feel confident to try this new craft at home and please, do send me photos of your mosaic designs. I love seeing where you take what was experienced during the workshop."

Karen Nanton reviewed: Reiki Healing Introductory Course

"My daughter bought me an introduction to Reiki, half day, with Sally and I have to say best it was my best gift ever. Sally made me feel so welcome and comfortable right from the outset and she is so knowledgable on her subjects. The 4 hours I spent with her went so quick, I wish I had booked an extra half day so that I could have spent the whole day there. I came out feeling fantastic about everything and can’t wait, when I’m back in the UK, to go do the next stage. If you get the opportunity to visit Sally for a course, I can only say, you definitely won’t regret it."

Gay Wales reviewed: Bowl carving - 1 day course at Court Wood

"Our guests loved learning about wood carving at a recent workshop! Adults, both young and old, who were attending our wedding flocked to find out how to carve a large wooden bowl and were delighted to have the chance to try out themselves. Thank you to Andrea for organising this experience for our guests!"

Crucorney Environmental Group CIC responded:

"Thanks Gay. We really enjoyed the day and it looked to be a huge hit with the guests too. Best wishes Andrea x"

Kelly reviewed: Fused Glass workshops at Bere Alston, near Tavistock, Devon

"Just did a one day course with Wendy. We were late as we got lost- this was not with Wendy’s instructions which were more accurate than our sat nav. I had a one to one session with Wendy as the other students had to drop out so I enjoyed learning about a more detailed look at fused glass techniques. It is a beginner’s guide to the craft and you are guided step by step by Wendy. Wendy started at the beginning, having me break practice glass so I knew a range of different methods to break the glass, helped me with my design then helped me cut the glass according to the way it was designed, she showed me all the different options that I could use which is not only glass panels and she helped me put my design in the kiln. She was very patient with me as it took me a while to get to grips with the craft. She offered plenty of cups of tea, it was a lovely location and would definitely do another course with her. With your piece, you have the option of picking it up at her studio or getting it sent to you which cost £4."