Latest reviews

Anthony Gerrard reviewed: Antique and modern furniture upholstery

"I was most impressed with the premises, an old primary school, just the right place for more tuition. Richard gave me a good grounding in the materials and techniques used in automotive upholstery as well as books, suitable sewing machines and suppliers of materials. Excellent course. Tony Gerrard."

The Specialist Upholstery Company responded:

"Thank you Tony good luck with your work in France"

Tia reviewed: Traditional Leather Workshop (small leather goods)

"A man with true passion for his craft! An amazing course if you want to learn the art of making leather goods as a beginner. Highly recommend!"

Kelly reviewed: Traditional Leather Workshop (small leather goods)

"This workshop is amazing ! Me and my friend had such a good day . We learnt so much about the leather and how to craft it. Kingsley is a laid back and super knowledgeable guy, he is also very attentive and helped me create the perfect leather card holder. Thanks again!"

Carole H reviewed: Make a silver ring or bangle

"Just before Christmas for my last visit of the year to Lucy. The focus was a lot of soldering to join the three main parts of my bangle in readiness for stone setting in the new year The day was full-on but we took time out to chat about Christmas. I admired the wreaths Lucy had made, and some beautiful baubles found on a recent visit to Chester Cathedral that seemed designed by a jeweller! Lucy also showed me pictures of the amazing Knife Angel statue she had seen there. If you are interested in jewellery making at any level don't hesitate to book a day with Lucy."

Jane Beresford-Smith reviewed: One-to-One Private workshop

"I was a complete novice, but Gigha put me at ease. Her passion and enthusiasm was catching! She was very patient and attentive. The workshop was a lovely space to work in and as this was early December there was a festive feel! I came away with some lovely Christmasy light catchers. I will definitely be booking to attend another course."

Joshua Breckman reviewed: One Day Pottery Throwing Course, including lunch - Hampshire

"Booked a one day private session for Parent's 60th and was fantastic. Brilliant way to spend a day with people of all ages and abilities and Jack is a brilliantly patient, skilled and fun tutor! Would recommend to anyone!"

Janine Ebling reviewed: Table Loom Weaving Workshop - Dobby & Rose

"Fabulous beginner's weaving workshop with Rebecca. She very kindly fitted a workshop in for us in the limited timeframe my brother was here in UK. My brother and my daughter did the workshop together, and found Rebecca very warm, relaxed and friendly and she had a good teaching style that was informative of the whole process involved, and not patronising in any way. They both produced a beautiful piece of woven fabric, and thoroughly enjoyed the session. Highly recommended!"

Susan Davies reviewed: Fine Silver Keepsake Business Course

"Amanda is such a professional and knowledgable lady. Her course was well planned with copious notes especially on using computer software to produce negatives. I had never used silver clay before but Amanda’s excellent tuition enabled me to produce pieces of a professional standard. I now have the confidence to begin my own business and I already have my first commission."

Jane Thakker reviewed: An Introduction to Glass Fusing

"A fascinating day. Dorothy was an excellent teacher and I loved playing around with the various types of glass and the different colours. I’m delighted with the end product! My glassware turned out far better than I expected it to. Can thoroughly recommend this course. Dorothy makes you feel very welcome and takes you through all the necessary steps very carefully until you feel happy enough to start your own pieces. I am, in fact, very tempted to try this again."

All Things Glass responded:

"Really pleased you were happy with your glass Jane, would love to have you again and thanks for the great review. Dorothy...."

Rosie Edridge reviewed: Private jewellery tuition with Joanne Tinley Jewellery

"After extensive research, I chose Joanne to have my private lesson for several reasons. Firstly, I felt very comfortable talking with her. She took her time and asked many questions to enable her to tailor the lesson specifically to my needs. On the day she was welcoming, warm and open. Her knowledge is exceptional and she approaches everything in a very logical way. Her years as a Teacher certainly make a huge difference. Jo is infinitely patient and works with you all the way through, ensuring everything you do is correct, even down to your posture to prevent injuries! She is an exceptional teacher who works really hard, filling you with confidence in your abilities to go out there, have fun and create."

elaine Micheal reviewed: Beginners Hand Embroidery with Chloe Savage Embroidery

"Outstanding class. I couldn't have enjoyed it more. My embroidery has improved no end."

Matt Mason reviewed: Beginners Hand Embroidery with Chloe Savage Embroidery

"I had a wonderful time on this course. Learned so much from a consummate professional. Had to book for next term too, to take my embroidery further."

Ellie Murray reviewed: Beginners Hand Embroidery with Chloe Savage Embroidery

"Excellent class, everything was clearly explained. Superb teacher happy to walk me through every stage.Wwould highly recommend"

Jennifer Oldham reviewed: Half-day pottery with Marina -for two

"Lovely garden studio ceramics experience. So much to learn and made seemingly achievable in short sessions with Marina’s thoughtful and positive guidance. I would love to do more and hope to soon - thank you!"

Hayley reviewed: Half-day pottery with Marina -for two

"We had a fantastic time. Marina was an amazing teacher and the time went so quickly. We could have stayed there all day we were enjoying it so much! We enjoyed chatting to Marina and the lovely coffees and biscuits were also a nice addition. We would definitely recommend a pottery session with Marina!"

Marina Randall Ceramics responded:

"Thanks Hayley for your positive review! Do come and visit us soon again. Your pots are lovely and ready for pick up!"

Emma reviewed: Flamework (Lampwork) - Making glass beads for beginners

"I had a wonderful day with Toni in Colchester. The course was very informative and inspiring, Toni is a brilliant and informative teacher. She has planned the day perfectly, I felt very inspired when I left. I will recommend this course to anyone who wants to try flameworking, would love to do it again!"

Barbara Forbes reviewed: Beginners Pottery Day Course

"I did a 3 day course with Mathew - always wanted to try throwing and wanted a really immersive, creative experience. Having no previous experience I was nervous but needn't have been. Mathew is encouraging, enthusiastic and welcoming - and an excellent teacher. He is gifted at knowing how much to say and when to say it. I really enjoyed the throwing and the painting too. Thanks to his excellent guidance, it all went far better than I could have imagined. I have made 19 pieces, including jugs, plates, a nested set of bowls and even a galleried pot and lid. I have just collected the pots after firing .Overwhelmed doesn't even come close. I will try and put them on Instagram. Totally delighted. Am so pleased to have had this experience. Mathew and Rachel are lovely, friendly people and I highly recommend his course - he is as the saying goes " a safe pair of hands" which I guess is just what you need in a potter! I hope to come back again in the future for a refresher course. Thanks, Barbara."

Dimbleby Ceramics - Studio Pottery Courses responded:

"Hi Barbara, It was lovely to meet you for the workshop and see you produce a fantastic range of pots. It really did give you the opportunity to use many skills, including making lidded vessels. The techniques that you acquired over the three days took you from a beginner and really built your confidence on the wheel. . It always amazes me just how much progress can be made in such a short space of time. It would be great to have you back on the course in the future and progress your skills further. Best wishes Mathew"

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

"I had organised a surprise day for myself, husband and two grown up sons as Christmas presents for everyone. Jake very generously accommodated us on Christmas eve and we had an excellent day of bashing metal. Even I, at only 4' 11'' and ancient, managed to come away with a poker and a knife which I had made (mostly) myself. Dead chuffed. Jake's cheery good humour and professionalism shone through and we ended the day after leaving the forge comparing blisters and our handiwork and being enormously critical of the inferior ironwork in the pub fireplace! Thank you Jake."

Isabelle Dawson reviewed: Introduction to woodturning: one to one

"Bill is a lovely person with years of experience in the trade. His workshop is warm and spacious, and the course comes with hot drinks! I made a small yew dice shaker, and learned a lot about the craft as a whole. I'd definitely go again if given the chance! Thanks Bill for the wonderful day and your expert tutelage, I hope to see you again soon!"

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

"Epic time - thanks Jake! Despite having no experience of being in a forge I walked out with two beautiful and functional bits of kit (in no small part due to Jake's help). I'd definitely recommend this course!"

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

"Tejal is very knowledgeable and helpful. The course was just for two people so it was a luxury to have access to the workshop on nearly one2one basis. I had an amazing experience and created wonderful stained glass sun catcher. We also had great chats in between the lessons. I would recommend this course to everyone who wants to discover a new hobby."

GlassSeasons responded:

"Thanks Katarzyna, your valuable comments are very much appreciated!"

Helen John reviewed: Glass fusing with artist Patricia Lee - as seen on BBC1 Home Is Where The Art Is

"I am not in the least bit artistic or creative and somehow or other I left Patricia's fused glass workshop with pieces I cannot believe I created & which now take pride of place in my house. Patricia is an excellent tutor guiding you through the process clearly but never taking over. I really enjoyed my day with fellow glass fusers which also included a wonderful lunch too. Thank you!"

Wendy reviewed: Private or private group silver jewellery making / silversmithing workshop half-day at Silver Designed Personally

"We had such a great morning making Christmas tree decorations as part of our office day out before breaking up for the holidays. Sara was so helpful in designing a course for us that would accommodate a larger group than normal and that catered for mixed characters and abilities. We all came away with a lovely handmade memento of the day, as well as having spent a fun and relaxing morning. I have no hesitation in recommending the courses at SDP, and I now really want to return at some point to try out some other jewellery-making skills."

Silver Designed Personally responded:

"Wendy, thank you so much for choosing me and your review, it was great fun meeting and working with you all ..... Looking forward to seeing you again some time. Sara"

Natalie Peck reviewed: One day silver jewellery designing and making workshop

"My husband booked me a one to one silversmithing session for my Birthday. I had an absolutely fantastic day. Bridget was so welcoming & patient & nothing was too much trouble. I had a design in mind for the session & Bridget provided guidance, support & encouragement every step of the way. She is extremely skilled & knowledgeable & I gained a wealth of skills, knowledge & tips from the session. Prior to this session I struggled with soldering & Bridget spent some time with me providing advice on the techniques involved & also provided a demonstration of 3 different soldering torches. I now feel more confident as a result of this. I would highly recommend this course to people of all skill levels - from beginners to more experienced silversmithers. Bridget has a wealth of knowledge & skills to share & her workshop has every tool you could possibly need. I will definitely be returning in the new year."

Paul Rumble reviewed: Axe making course

"We had an excellent day making axes. Andy was very friendly and a skilled instructor, as we had never even been in a forge before and still ended up with 3 good looking axes."