Latest reviews

Yvonne Robbins reviewed: Needle felting workshop - Create your own woodland creature

"I was so excited to receive the gift of a day learning a new craft. The day without exception was brilliant from start to finish. Denise gudies you through expertly. The atmosphere is relaxing and the workshop's displays inspire you to create. I couldn't believe how professional my hare looked at the end. Her homemade treats were delicious . Will be saving my pennies for a return visit. A huge thankyou Denise , If you have have ever been interested in needle felting, book this day course now."

LOUISA reviewed: Introduction to traditional Calligraphy - foundational hand

"Sunita’s course was excellent, the pace was just right and she was a great teacher, very patient and most importantly knows her subject inside out and back to front but she able to share this well with us rather than leave us behind. I’ve now hopefully found a new hobby, thank you."

Loreta reviewed: Traditional Leather Workshop (small leather goods)

"I had a great day with Kingsley making my very own belt. He listened to my ideas and we were able to incorporate most of them in the design. I enjoyed being creative and learning a new skill. Would definitely recommend!"

Sam Davey reviewed: One day bangle/ring workshop

"What a great day! Jolene is a great teacher of huge experience. My partner bought me a voucher, and Jolene was very helpful when booking. I was with a couple of others and made a fibula-type brooch and complex ring and she was there to help, advising, never taking over. Couldn't recommend her cosy studio more! X"

Catrin Williams reviewed: Wet-felting workshop with Fabulous Feltings

"Had a fantastic day with Jane at her felting workshop. Lovely relaxed day with great ideas and teaching, especially being a non creative, Jane put us at ease and had lots of materials and resources (and patience!) got us to get stuck in with. The day flew by! Wonderful riverside location, great for us coming from both West, South West and South Wales. Beautiful lunch too! Great value for money, great day out and with wonderful company! I have also bought my wedding wrap from Jane for my forthcoming winter wedding and I cannot wait to show it off."

Fabulous Feltings responded:

"Dear Catrin It was lovely to bring out your artistic side - you produced some lovely samplers. Everyone has the abilty to be creative and working with wool seems to be the perfect medium for us to draw out and explore hidden talents. I also feel very priveleged that one of my wraps will be part of your very special day. Thank you, Jane"

Nigel Haresign reviewed: Blacksmithing Introduction courses in Yorkshire and the North East

"A fantastic course and great day was had by all, Ade and the team could of not made us all more welcome, I would wholeheartedly recommend this taster course and it makes a great gift. The course ran at a good pace and after a brief introduction to health and safety we were straight to our anvils and hammering hit steel. Many thanks to all, really enjoyed the day, and the food and refreshments were excellent!"

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

"My wife bought this course with Jake for my Christmas present after we met him at the Ironbridge Xmas fayre. My son in law Ryan joined me for the day and we had a fantastic time making our fire pokers and letter knives. Jake is a great teacher and an expert in his field. He really took time to help us learn some blacksmithing techniques something I had always wanted to do. I would really recommend spending some time with Jake at Hedge Forge. Superb day and thanks Jake. Let me know when you start the axe making workshop and I will be booking."

Claire Denney-Price reviewed: Wet-felting workshop with Fabulous Feltings

"My daughter and I attended a course with Jane for the day to gain an insight into wet felting, and what an amazing day we had! Jane was so welcoming, knowledgeable and patient in teaching us this incredible art form. We came away with 3 different wet felting pieces that we had created independently under the guide and expertise of Jane. As if learning this was not enough, Jane also provided us with a yummy lunch and treats throughout the day. I would highly recommend Jane's courses and would attend in the future again."

Fabulous Feltings responded:

"Thank you Claire I loved having you both here to celebrate your daughter's birthday - it was fascinating and a privelege to be part of her home-schooling programme. I'm so glad you liked lunch too - my 'pea stew' is getting quite a reputation! I would love to see yo here again for further felting adventures! All the best, Jane"

Karen Mee reviewed: Wet-felting workshop with Fabulous Feltings

"My daughter and I went on Jane's course in September to celebrate my birthday and what a huge success the day turned out to be. The setting is glorious, the food delicious and Jane was a warm, friendly and inspiring teacher. In fact we have both taken up felting with enthusiasm and have had some successful results! On the day itself we made three pieces of work under Jane's guidance and unlike other craft courses I've attended we took home things to feel proud of. The inevitable 'mishaps' that all beginners have were rectified in a way that didn't make you feel like an idiot and contributed to the relaxed atmosphere. All in all I would recommend this course for those who are looking to find a new craft skill or just want a fun day that offers a sense of well being. We intend to take another course later this year to further our new skills."

Fabulous Feltings responded:

"Dear Karen Thank you so much - it was a delight to spend time with you and your daughter and we were truely blessed with some wonderful weather! It never fails to surprise me how everyone creates such individual and different pieces from the same 'bundle of supplies' I look forward to welcoming you both again, Jane"

Vicki reviewed: Beginner’s Soapmaking Workshop in Salisbury

"I really enjoyed the course, Catherine was a brilliant host and teacher, was very helpful with giving directions to get there. Had everything we needed prepared for us and was very informative and even made us all tea :)"

Herbal Harmony responded:

"Thank you for your review Vicki! I'm so glad you found the class enjoyable and informative! Have fun making more soaps at home!"

Rachel Wolffsohn reviewed: One day bangle/ring workshop

"Had a fantastic day with Jolene. I bought this course for my mum and me as a Christmas present and we made a bangle each and a shawl pin. It was a lovely day with only 3 people in the group. Lots of flexibility as to what you could do and a range of techniques covered at the level needed to make your preferred piece. Many thanks for a great experience."

Olwyn Hughes reviewed: Wet-felting workshop with Fabulous Feltings

"What a fabulous day spent learning a new skill and unleashing my creative side. Jane’s patience, enthusiasm and wonderful use of colour are inspiring and, because the groups are small, you get lots of individual attention too. The riverside studio is in such a perfect setting and we enjoyed a very tasty lunch in the garden whilst our first pieces of finished samples dried on the line. Jane has lots of her work on display around her home which just inspires me to learn more and continue with this particular pastime. I highly recommend her workshops as a day very well spent indeed. Thank you ?"

Fabulous Feltings responded:

"Dear Olwyn, thank you so much for your lovely words. It was a pleasure to host you and your friend - you both produced some stunning samplers and I'm glad that I was able to share with you the magic of wet-felting. I do hope to see you again for further felting adventures! Keep creating! Jane"

Jonathan reviewed: Glass fusing workshop - 1 day

"The two of us went for a day session, very unsure of what to expect. Jill was quick to destroy all nervousness with her warming friendly personality. She gave alot of useful information, tips and tricks whilst we were busy creating our pieces. After a lovely lunch (perfectly catered to our dietary needs!) we were amazed and thrilled to of completed several pieces. Within a few days of eagerly waiting to see the finished product, Jill had done an amazing job adding finishing touches such as shaping jewellery, finishing edges. We had an amazing day, thoroughly recommend having a go!"

Fired Glass responded:

"Thank you Jonathan for your review of your day with us. We are so pleased that you and Alison enjoyed your day and it met, if not exceeded, your expectations. You made some beautiful pieces between you, plus you have the honour of making the studio's first dinosaur inspired piece!"

Hayley Geary-Andrews reviewed: Glass fusing workshop - 1 day

"What an amazing day! I really enjoyed learning about glass fusion. I created a picture of my dogs, a pendant, cuff links, a bowl and a light catcher. Jill was very patient and kind and made us a lovely lunch. I would thoroughly recommend a day course and will definitely be doing it again."

Fired Glass responded:

"Hi Hayley, thank you for your review of your day. We are so pleased that you enjoyed your day and you created a wonderful array of items during your day. I'm sure you will treasure them all and the memories from the day for a long time to come. We would be delighted to see you again in the future. Regards John and Jill"

Debbie Terry reviewed: Enamelling - Flowers and Hearts

"Thank you Rachel, a most amazing day, I enjoyed every moment, and I’m very pleased with the pieces I made and excited to start wearing them. Having never experienced enamelling before you had plenty of patience and I really learnt loads, I will love to come back one day and do more. A lovely relaxed atmosphere. I would highly recommend this enamelling workshop and great value for money. Thanks again Debbie"

2 Inspire You responded:

"Thank you so much. You are very kind. It was a lovely day with everyone really keen to experiment. I learnt more as well and it is great to watch your excitement as you take pieces out of the kiln! I will order some shim ready for your return visit. Best wishes Rach"

Sue Perdue reviewed: Needle Felting Workshop - landscape pictures

"My friend and I had a great morning with Pip and would definitely recommend it. Everything was explained thoroughly and there was no pressure at all. My husband was very impressed with my pictures so the course has inspired me to do more."

Pippaluk Crafts responded:

"That's great thank you so much"

Paul Judge reviewed: Woodcarving for beginners - two day course in Suffolk

"This was my first experience with woodcarving, and I found Gerry to be an excellent and supportive teacher. His choice of projects was clearly based on lots of experience of teaching, alongside his own finely honed skills. He gave detailed instruction and demonstration of each stage, gradually introducing us to a number of tools, and how to use them effectively. The first day we all carved a scallop shell, and the second day worked on individual projects. Throughout, he was able to pass on helpful tips based on his many years of professional experience carving wood. He also gave us detailed instruction on sharpening, and by the end we had all tried sharpening gouges to the exacting standards needed for fine work. He gave us a very useful list of recommended 'essential' tools to go forward with woodcarving, and some pointers to the best sources for purchasing them. It was a very enjoyable and instructive weekend; I learnt a lot, will definitely continue woodcarving (when time permits!) and definitely recommend Gerry's courses."

Maeva reviewed: 1 day introduction to silver jewellery making

"Jonathan is a great teacher, clearly passionate about his work and also a great person to spend the day with! In addition to learning a lot on silver jewellery making I had a great time and we were well-looked after (including drinks, great biscuits and a lovely lunch!) When I booked the course I was expecting an introductory session, and already thought about booking additional courses if I liked it but I was very pleasantly surprised (I hadn't read the reviews!) by the fact that Jonathan made sure we could continue on our own, not just by showing us the techniques but also providing guidelines and references to buy tools and giving us advice to get started on our own with a minimum investment in money and space. I'm definitely going to get some of the basic tools and start experimenting! I've also convinced my partner to do the same course as I'm sure he'll enjoy it just as much! Thanks again! :)"

Thomas Whitfield reviewed: Turn a wooden bowl on a traditional pole lathe

"I had spent the last 2 years building things out of wood - after watching a wood turning video on YouTube I’d mentioned that I’d like to give it a go. My wife booked me a course with Steve in February 2020 as a Christmas present. After a very nervous and excited drive to Steve’s house I was greeted warmly and he chauffeured me to his workshop which sits neatly in an allotment plot. As soon as you walk in - it is clear that you’re going to be going back to you’re roots the hard way. Everything is covered in the course - from knowing what you’re looking for in a quality piece of greenwood, sawing the log to shape, manually chopping the wood to a shape that somewhat resembles a bowl (with a sharp hatchet) to actually turning the wood. Steve doesn’t stand over you're shoulder and encourages you to get stuck in. Be prepared for hard graft. Wood turning on a treadle lathe is a challenge but very rewarding and with Steve’s help I managed to “turn” out with a Beechwood bowl. Thanks Steve - I’m already looking at adapting my garage to accommodate a lathe. Tom"

Melanie Jones reviewed: Upholstery for Beginners Workshop - in Warrington, Cheshire

"What a fun and Inspiring day I had at Jo’s footstool workshop yesterday along with the other participants. Jo’s straight forward, inclusive teaching manner led to us all leaving thoroughly delighted with our footstool babies and eager to learn more from Jo at one of her other courses. Thanks so much x"

The Boho Shed responded:

"Thanks so much Mel. You did a lovely job on your footstool. I had such a great day with you all and I look forward to seeing you again for some painting! ?"

James reviewed: Blacksmithing Experience Day at Leeds, West Yorkshire

"I had a great day with Jacek in the forge. He explained everything very well and helped me to get the correct techniques. I ended the day with a brooch that I now proudly wear on my cloak. I would highly recommend this course and will be looking to go again in the future."

Peter Richardson reviewed: Pottery wheel throwing and hand building full day

"I just wanted to say what a great Pottery day we had with Richard ealier this month. Both I and my wife Ann are relative novices, but Richard's teaching methods, manner and obvious love of pottery was inspiring, and we improved so much in the hours we spent with him. We're both very keen to return, and I understand that Raku sessions are also available, which would be amazing. Many thanks to Richard - a lovely, patient man, with years of experience and skills to share (he also makes great soup!) Peter and Ann (Irthlingborough, Northants)"

Potterydayz responded:

"Hi Peter and Ann, Thank you! It was a pleasure to have such able and enthusiastic students. You did really well! Richard."

Lisa reviewed: Natural facial skincare for spring

"A lovely few hours with Juliette, tea, cake and a delightful bunch of other students. We learnt how to make shampoo, face cream and lip balm from natural ingredients and took them home at the end. It really was a perfect afternoon. Thank you!"

Hand Made by Juliette responded:

"Thanks for the review Lisa. It was a pleasure to teach you all and I am sure that you will continue to make your own skincare and enjoy both the work involved and the results you will get."

Linda Rosemary Folkard reviewed: One week upholstery courses with Cherry Dobson

"Spent a fascinating week with Cherry at Lilac Barn as a complete beginner. I learnt so much from her and enjoyed her friendly tuition & company of the other students. Wonderful lunches every day in her own home plus home made cakes and tea & coffee throughout the day. Learnt the process of reupholstering a very old family chair and intend to return to learn how to apply the actual covering fabric, buttons and piping once I have obtained the right material. Thank you so much Cherry for a most enjoyable and interesting week!!"

Sue reviewed: Upholstery for Beginners Workshop - in Warrington, Cheshire

"Had a fantastic day today learning to make a footstool with Jo from the boho shed. She is a great teacher -very patient and encouraging and worked at a pace to suit all. I have never done any upholstery before, but Jo walked us through the steps and everyone ended up with a beautiful footstool to be proud of. The day was very inspiring and I met some lovely people and was kept fed and watered with plenty of tea and coffee and Jo’s gorgeous cakes. I can’t wait to attend another of Jo’s courses and would thoroughly recommend this to anyone looking for an enjoyable day learning the basics of upholstery -you won’t be disappointed!"

The Boho Shed responded:

"I had a great day with all of you Sue! You made such a great job of your footstool. Thank you so much for your kind words. Very much appreciated. I look forward to seeing you again."