Latest reviews

Marie reviewed: Beginners Soap Making Course

"This was an absolutely amazing class. I learnt so much and had the best time. Came away with 8 beautiful soaps which smell divine and I cannot wait to use them after they have cured! Paula is so friendly, professional and knowledgeable and she even provides a delicious afternoon tea, where she made some awesome vegan scones :) I cannot wait to use my new knowledge to start making my own soaps at home. I recommend this course to anyone looking to make soaps for fun, for friends/family or even for a business! Thank you Paula ?"

Old Bexley Soap & Candle Co. responded:

"Thank you very much for the review. Your soaps looked beautiful, so glad you enjoyed the course. Paula"

Tina B reviewed: Kate Morrell willow sculpture courses

"I have had such a lovely day today learning to willow weave a barn owl in flight, well worth driving from Suffolk for. Dave and Kate have been fantastic hosts welcoming me warmly even though I arrived early. Kate is a brilliant teacher, guiding, inspiring and helping as and when needed, and generous with her time. I had to leave on time as a long drive home but my owl is very nearly complete and Kate gave me enough rods and confidence to finish it at leisure tomorrow myself at home. I will definitely return for another workshop. It was also lovely to see the other sculptures taking shape today, a really cute lop eared rabbit and very elegant flamingo. Great lunch and plenty of drinks, and loved Bertie the cat who appeared at my feet now and then. My plan is to hang my owl from a high ceiling in my hallway."

Shirley Vance reviewed: Candle and soap making with afternoon tea

"We couldn't attend any of the dates advertised and so Tracey put on a workshop around our availability. I attended with my sister as we are thinking of starting our own business and from the moment we walked through the door we were made to feel like part of the family. Tracey is a very patient teacher who promised us that we would walk out of the workshop with products we would be happy to buy from a shop and we weren't disappointed. I can't recommend this course enough whether you are looking to do something different just for the day or to take further and start your own business. It is refreshing to find someone who is willing to impart their knowledge and help you avoid the pitfalls. Thank you Tracey"

Adelle reviewed: 10- week Introduction to Soft Pastels online zoom art course with live tuition. Suitable for complete beginners and people with some experience in Art.

"Raya is a fantastic teacher. I went from an absolute beginner to her class and now feel confident to have a go at things, for a pleasing (not perfect!) result. Encouraging and relaxing. Thanks x"

Moira Brown reviewed: Silk Scarf Painting with Fiona Setchell

"A really relaxing, enjoyable day with a difference. The environment was very inspiring with all the different colours and designs around. Fiona guided us through the various stages at a pace that suited us. The refreshments were lovely giving us a chance to take a short break. If you want to forget about the world for a little while this will certainly take you into another world. Great sence of achievement when you go home with your scarf....."

Megan Braide reviewed: Explore your camera part 1 - Get off Auto

"I really enjoyed 'getting off auto' with Sid. The class was kept small and Sid was very patient, taking time to answer our questions and spending time with each of us to explain how to use our cameras to their potential. There was a good mix of theory and practical. Can't wait for day 2!"

Going Digital Devon and Cornwall responded:

"Thank you Megan, it was a real pleasure to meet and work with you today, your positive words mean a lot to me, thanks. I also look forward to day 2...!"

Ali Procter Miller reviewed: Explore your camera part 1 - Get off Auto

"A fantastic day delivered by Sid, the key to actually using my camera has now been unlocked! Can’t wait to complete more of these courses and enjoy exploring photography. Sids passion for photography makes him an excellent teacher and what better surroundings can you get than the Dartington estate!"

Going Digital Devon and Cornwall responded:

"Thank you so much Ali, your kind words are greatly appreciated. I too, look forward to sharing more time with you on future workshops..."

Doreen reviewed: Basic blacksmithing course

"Can't praise Gary enough, the day was fantastic, felt at ease straight away and he's a great teacher. Got finished the two projects i wanted to make, cooking tripod and fire steel, still had time left over to make a toasting fork. I will certainly be back to do the knife making course in the future and hopefully more."

Cath Stock reviewed: Abstract Architecture: mixed media: Peak District, Derbyshire

"I am from an art background myself, having completed my Foundation Course and as an Art specialist B.Ed (Hons) then then teaching Art in primary schools. I found Pam to be extremely skilled as a fascillitator of a group of adults of different ages, backgrounds and experiences. She took her time to explain, by demonstrating various different ways to achieve a background for our work and then encouraged us to explore, find our own ways, have fun and don’t worry about the outcome. I enjoyed using media I haven’t used for a while or never tried. The quality of resources was excellent, varied and we were able to use photos to guide us and original pieces to give us ideas. Although I have had a lot of training, I found the drawing quite challenging, trying to get the dragonfly in proportion and the right shape. Pam had showed us different ways to make it easier. She enabled me to do the best I could and when I got a bit “stuck” I asked her for some assistance to tweak the last bit so I was happy with it. She demonstrated ways to achieve the details in different ways that we were able to do to the best of our ability and take a personal response to doing the work. I was thrilled with my piece, so much so I am using it for my business artwork as a symbol of transformation. It’s not perfect and that’s ok. Pam is a very calm, professional and positive teacher, with a nice sense of humour and her studio space and hospitality are outstanding. I regularly share and promote her work, exhibitions etc and I highly recommend connecting and working with her."

Pam Smart Studio responded:

"Hi Cath I really appreciate you taking the time to write such a detailed review. Thank you so much for all your positive and generous comments and I’m very pleased that you enjoyed the day. I hope to see you again soon. Best wishes Pam Smart"

Karl Robinson reviewed: Painting and drawing course at Castle Park Arts Centre, Cheshire: Abstract Architecture

"I hadn’t done any art for many years and after doing the exploring drawing course with Pam I was really inspired to buy some materials and start doing some drawing at home. The structure of the day and explanation of the activities was really clear and helped me to make progress through the day. It really gave me my confidence back. I particularly enjoyed the large scale drawing with oil pastels. Everything was provided and a great lunch too. I will definitely be going back."

Pam Smart Studio responded:

"Hi Karl Thank you for such lovely comments. I’m delighted to hear that you have bought some materials and are drawing at home. I hope to see you again on another workshop. Best wishes Pam"

June Adams reviewed: Beginners sewing classes on one to one basis

"Another lovely morning with Bridget and Karen making a thread catcher bag. Easy to follow instructions and both ladies are full of hints and tips. It's a chatty informal class and a lot of fun. I will definitely be back! Thank you ladies ?"

Sew-b-It responded:

"Thank you June you bring fun to our workshops .So pleased you enjoyed making Thread Carcher See you soon at your amazing Cardinal Cards workshops Bridget & Karen"

Bev. reviewed: Beginners sewing classes on one to one basis

"Bridget and Karen always make each session fun. I always come away extremely pleased with what I have made and even though I've been going on and off for a few years, I am still learning new things. Everyone is friendly and made to feel welcome and part of the group. It doesn't matter what level of experience you have you will still make amazing things with both Bridget and Karen who will guide you through."

Sew-b-It responded:

"Bev just so lovely seeing you today and pleased you enjoyed workshop. Hoefully see you for our next workshop . Good luck with your degree - clever girl Bridget & Karen"

Bridget Davis reviewed: Mug making workshop

"Thanks to Carla I have made 2 excellent mugs which are in regular use. They look attractive and it gives me a buzz to think I'm drinking out of something I made myself! Carla's preparation for the course meant that everything could be achieved in the time. The small group allows for 1 to 1 tuition and the other ladies were lovely."

Alan reviewed: Introduction to Stone Lithography

"A thoroughly enjoyable course and excellent value for money, the course is suitable for an absolute beginner and also someone looking to hone their stone lithography skills. It’s well-structured but you have the flexibility to veer off into your own worlds of lithography experimentation if you want, all supported by the wonderful Scarlett who knows rather a lot about the whole subject! And as an added bonus it was a good laugh, so sign up and see what stones can do for you!"

Faye reviewed: Introduction to candle-making as a business

"Since discovering Jo’s candles i have not purchased any other brand as i just love everything about hers. They burn fab and smell devine! The course was such fun and jo kindly purchased extra oils of a scent she no longer makes just for me and my friend. Fab course, lovely lunch and want to do it all again!"

Kathy reviewed: Mosaic day workshop with Professional Artist Coralie Turpin- Sheffield, South Yorkshire.

"I started with a one day workshop and am now a dedicated mosaic enthusiast! Coralie provides a wide range of tiles and other materials (it’s like being in a sweetie shop!) and shares her many years of experience to help you move your idea into reality. The studio is light and airy and is well equipped with plenty of the necessary tools. Would highly recommend."

Coralie Turpin Artist responded:

"Ahh thank you so much Kathy, it’s been a pleasure getting to know you over the past year or two."

Vanessa reviewed: Table Loom Weaving Workshop - Dobby & Rose

"I contacted Rebecca prior to booking as I have some additional needs. Rebecca was welcoming and friendly and I made my booking with confidence. On the day her tuition was first class; she is knowledgeable and very enthusiastic about weaving and this comes through from the moment you step into her workshop. A thoroughly enjoyable couple of hours which left me wanting to learn much more about this fascinating craft."

Nicola reviewed: Transparent enamels and recycled silver

"We had a lovely afternoon making enamelled jewellery as a family activity with teenagers. I would definitely recommend this course."

Sara Reeve reviewed: Life drawing in red Conté

"I attended this course recently as a complete beginner to using red conte. The tutor Lance was incredible - he went through everything really clearly and thoroughly, giving us lots of techniques and approaches to make our own work. We had a fantastic model and plenty of time to really give it a go - I absolutely loved it and was really pleased with the results. I've put a lot of what we learnt into practise since and have seen a real improvement in my own work. I highly recommend it!"

Connie reviewed: Nuno felt a silk scarf in fine merino wools and silks with Judi Binks

"Judi showed our group how to Nuno Felt which we hadn't done before. I designed my own scarf. Friendly relaxed session with loads of materials and inspiration."

justine gillan reviewed: Life Drawing in Ink: Line and Wash

"This course really is suitable for established artists or complete beginners. Lance has the gift of being very inclusive,and being a excellent teacher. He explains all the ink techniques and tools very clearly, and then when we start experimenting he gives individual tuition if required. There is delicious coffee provided in the breaks and the general atmosphere of the class is warm and friendly. I found the day really useful, and there are even explanatory notes to take home...."

Lyn Glover reviewed: Nuno felt a silk scarf in fine merino wools and silks with Judi Binks

"What a wonderful day. I knew nothing about felting before but Judi explained everything so well that very quickly she had me engrossed in making a sample ‘wet felt’ panel of three different designs and colourways, to familiarise me with the technique. With that under my belt, Judi moved me on to working on a delicate Nuno felted panel, which I’m going to make into a small scarf, and I’m thrilled with the way everything turned out. The day was long enough to create the design, apply all the beautiful silky Merino threads and make a good start on turning it into the finished item, but we did run out of time (it’s a long process!) so I’ve brought it home to apply more elbow-grease and finish it off. Judi is a great teacher, very relaxed and friendly, and she supplied me with tea, cookies and a delicious lunch (cooked by her lovely husband) and I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend this workshop to anyone who enjoys crafting. Ten out of ten."

Felting in Devon responded:

"Dear Lyn, Thank you for your lovely review. I think about you and your scarf often. It was marvellous to watch your act of creation and to witness nuno! You're a seriously good artist and crafter. Do keep in touch as I'm looking forward to inky sensation! Judi x"

malcolm sutton reviewed: Woodturning in Devon with Colin Simpson

"I was given a one day course with Colin with no idea what to expect and with no wood turning knowledge. I was greeted with great enthusiasm, but had no need to worry Colin had great skills and patience.The day  just whizzed by.I managed to make a lovely bowl and egg cup, will be booking another session .Well I think it was a great bowl.Thank you Colin."

Devon Wood Crafts responded:

"Thanks Malcolm. I had a great day too."

Lara Perez reviewed: Kitchen Lithography: Drawing with Chocolate

"I loved this workshop. I am usually quite self-conscious about my drawings, even more when it comes to printing, and this technique was perfect for me to gain freedom and experiment with fun materials like chocolate. So I ended up playing around freely with different compositions and textures and eating some of the chocolate..."

Matthew Keogh reviewed: Creative Vibe - Glassblowing Sessions

"I booked this course for my wifes birthday as she had said for a while she would like try glass blowing. After looking at available options, the course being offered by Ricky looked like the best value for the amount of objects we would produce. Ricky's facilities were perfect for the group size, 3 adults. We started with an induction and run down of the day so we knew how things would run and then got straight to collecting glass. Ricky guided us through the whole process each time we made something different as well as encouraging us to work together and help each other. My wife and I each made 4 items which we are very pleased with. Ricky was able to give us finishing options after we left and send images of the finished sculptures before they were couriered to us. From pre booking to after delivery, communication with Ricky was quick and clear, and Ricky was highly professional, knowledgeable and passionate about sharing his craft with others. I would highly recommend this course and Ricky as an artist and tutor."