Latest reviews

Maddy Norman reviewed: Lino Printing Day with Oxford Linocut Workshops

"I have been on a lot of creative workshops and courses recently, and Claire's was undoubtedly the best. She is an excellent teacher-- really clear, patient and encouraging, and her studio is beautiful. She goes above and beyond to accommodate different artistic ambitions, and is just a lovely, warm person. If you're even 3% interested in lino printing, go to one of Claire's workshops and your enthusiasm will flourish!"

Lydia reviewed: Traditional Leather Workshop (small leather goods)

"Kingsley’s workshop is brilliant. He’s a great teacher, and I felt like I learnt a lot. Would definitely recommend."

KingsleyWalters Studio responded:

"Hi Lydia, Thanks you, I am super happy you enjoyed the workshop."

Greg Butler reviewed: One day silver jewellery making in Worcestershire.

"A great day out. A relaxed yet challenging day led by an excellent and relaxing host in a unique setting. We both made some great copper wiring and unique silver rings which we will treasure. Highly recommended."

Angela White reviewed: Fabric printing & lampshade making workshop

"We had a lovely day with Ria in her beautiful studio. She was very patient and full of ideas. We had a great time."

John Byles reviewed: French Polishing & Woodcare - Beginners Course - 1 Day

"I found the course extremely informative and hands-on. Oliver is extremely knowledgeable and was able to explain in detail the numerous processes. He was readily available and regularly ensured that I was doing everything correctly. I would have no hesitation in recommending this course. I was able to restore a piece of furniture which has significant sentimental value, that prior to going on the course I would have had no idea. You Tube videos are great for some things but this is a must attend course for anyone wishing to have expert tuition."

Vanessa reviewed: Childrens Doll making course with Dalston Dolls (ONLINE)

"The course was great and I love my doll (she exceeded my expectations). My daughter absolutely loves her too even though she's not a 'dolly' sort of girl. Mopsa is an excellent and very patient teacher and loves what she does. I can highly recommend."

Allison James reviewed: Thread illustrations: stitch masterclasses, Janome HQ Stockport, nr. Manchester

"Dionne is always an inspiration! I always learn something new from her courses and come away feeling re-energised for developing my own artistic practice."

Ellen Fairfull reviewed: Thread illustrations: stitch masterclasses, Janome HQ Stockport, nr. Manchester

"Dionne is an excellent tutor and an accomplished textile designer. She is supportive, encouraging and skilled at managing a group with a mixed levels of ability. I have no hesitation in strongly recommending her."

Annette Bruton reviewed: Thread illustrations: stitch masterclasses, Janome HQ Stockport, nr. Manchester

"I’ve taken a number of Dionne’s courses and they are always excellent. Professional first class teaching combined with the inspiration you get from her own practice."

Joanne Smith reviewed: Christmas Pudding - needle felting workshop with The Lady Moth

"I attended the improvers owl making workshop with Zenia. All I can say is wow! We were made to feel welcome from the very start and given all the resources needed. There was even a little bonus if you used your own needles. The tuition was pitch just right. We were encouraged to ask for help if needed but were also left to carry on when happy to do so. The step by step instructions were timed to perfection and no pressure was placed on us to all be at the same stage at the same time. We were also given licence to be creative which meant that although we all followed the same instructions all the owls were unique. The other ladies in the group were fun, supportive and just a great bunch of personalities. What’s more to be said than I will definitely be doing more courses with Zenia, and highly recommend that others do to."

Fraser reviewed: Alien spoon carving

"Really great day. Was taught about all the techniques and tools needed to carve a spoon, and by the end of day had great wee spoon. There was lots of inspiration form books and spoons Allan had made. Plenty of breaks to keep you focused and the cake and soup were excellent. Most enjoyable."

Tina reviewed: Online Build a Creative Wellbeing Journaling Habit in 6 Weeks

"I had a wonderful morning creating my own Wellbeing Journal. I created lots of attractive and unique backgrounds using paint, collage and doodles and learnt about the benefits of creative journaling. Now each week I'll note what I'm grateful for, inspirations, little victories and positive quotes and thoughts! I'm looking forward to completing the journal through the week!"

Jake Underwood reviewed: Silver jewellery stacking ring workshop with WyeMade

"From start to finish Ann made this an amazing afternoon of craft. The rings themselves are really lovely and I am so happy with them. I would highly recommend this to anyone, it is a thoroughly delightful course!"

WyeMade responded:

"Thank you Jake"

Annie Bruch reviewed: Wet felting expressive landscapes in wools and silks

"Fantastic course. Inspirational and instructive. I learned new ways of felting in a gentle way like using brush strokes. Judi is a great teacher and is there every step of the way."

COURBET VANESSA reviewed: One day bangle/ring workshop

"An all girls family day activity. We had a lovely day at Jolene's, for my part for the first time and as a « non manual » person it was a real hands on experience and I made a fabulous copper and silver bangle! Jolene made us feel at home and relaxed, no pressure so we learnt a lot and enjoyed every minute ! Can thoroughly recommend 100 %"

Janet Ratcliff reviewed: Christmas Pudding - needle felting workshop with The Lady Moth

"I booked a full day ‘Improvers’ group workshop with Zenia on 7/12/2019 & we made an owl. Booking was straight forward & full details of the venue & course arrangements were sent in good time. All the necessary materials & equipment were provided & were of the highest quality. Zenia’s instructions & demonstrations were all clearly explained, with lots of encouragement & ‘hands-on’ guidance as required. She is a patient & observant teacher & all the owls were superb - a credit to Zenia’s excellent tuition. Drinks, snacks & a lovely lunch were all included, dietary needs catered for & the venue was spacious & had good light - perfect for needlefelting. The parking was an added bonus, especially in Cambridge! I have no hesitation in recommending Zenia’s workshops & I have every confidence that you will enjoy yourself as much as I did."

Fran reviewed: Introduction to Frame Loom Weaving, Crawley Village Hall, Hampshire

"Absolutely brilliant courses led by Ellie. I would definitely recommend them to anyone who has an interest in or is curious about weaving. Her yarns are wonderful and the setting is lovely. Well taught in a relaxed atmosphere and questions are welcome!! All in all a thoroughly fantastic experience ?"

Elka responded:

"Thank you so much for the lovely review Fran! Great to see you again and I’m so glad you enjoyed the day. Can’t wait to see your weaving :)"

Helen Newton reviewed: Ecodyeing - a full day introduction to leaves, rust, heat and fabric alchemy!

"Judy's day workshop was so full of exciting things. There was such a lot to learn and Judy had so much information to impart that the day went by very quickly. We had lots of fun and every minute was filled so we really got our money's worth. After foraging in Judy's garden for a variety of leaves and twigs we started working on silk samples, and the ones that we produced were all different but pleasingly successful for a first attempt. After a delicious lunch of home made soup and bread we then went on to print on silk scarves which was great fun. I was very happy with the pieces that I made and can't wait until Spring, when I can try to use these techniques at home. Thank you Judy for giving me the bug."

Judy P. dye - print - weave responded:

"Thanks for your review Helen, and I'm glad you enjoyed the experience. It was indeed a busy day. You produced some lovely work as did the other students, and I do hope that you set up at home in the spring. I would love to know how you get on."

Vickie Irwin reviewed: Christmas Pudding - needle felting workshop with The Lady Moth

"I have attended several of Zenia’s workshops, but this was my first full-day one as well as my first workshop at improvers’ level. As always, Zenia was wonderfully kind and helpful. She also structured the day so that from the outset it was obvious that we would all finish on time without rush. The project (a barn owl) was fascinating in itself, and I was so pleased with the result. I never imagined I would be able to produce such a lovely object. The catering during the day was excellent, and the venue was great too."

Michelle Jackson reviewed: Felting fun workshop Nordic gnome decorations with Frankie and Sidney

"It was an excellent course really good for beginners and the more experienced so something for everyone and very clear instructions. Brilliant course."

Frankie and Sidney responded:

"Thank you Michelle, it was a pleasure to meet you x"

Gael reviewed: 2 Day Leather Practical Skills Course

"Excellent 2 days' workshop for anyone willing to start working leather. I am a furniture maker and wanted to learn about leather in order to incorporate some in my work. The course is well structured and Richard takes the time to explain everything. The format of the course with only 2 people with Richard makes it very personal as you can ask as many question as you like. During my two days I learned about the tools, the different types of leather, saddle stitching, I made a couple of key fobs, a card holder and a belt. Following the course I have started to buy the necessary tools following Richard's advice and I can't wait to start my own projects! Thank you very much Richard!"

Lindsay Harbert reviewed: Christmas cupcake decorating

"The whole experience was excellent. I was made to feel extremely welcome. Jane had prepared the activity extremely well. Although I was new to cup cake decorating Jane was extremely patient and we all developed our skills quickly. The morning was very relaxing and we all left with a box of cakes which would have held their own on any professional stand. Thanks Jane and Paul for your hospitality."

Tara House Bakery responded:

"Hi Lindsey, Many thanks for your very positive feedback. I am so pleased you enjoyed the morning and hope to see you again soon at future classes. Kind regards, Jane"

Julia reviewed: Online Build a Creative Wellbeing Journaling Habit in 6 Weeks

"Great workshop, highly recommend! Supported by Bettie you make your own wellbeing journal and I can’t wait to start using mine during my (long) commute to keep track of the positives in my life. Thanks Bettie :-)"

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

"I bought this for myself to make some personal gifts for Christmas. I booked the half day bangle session. I would throughly recommend this. Sara was friendly and welcoming from the start and was patient and supportive throughout making me feel confident by modelling the techniques and guiding me through each part. I’ve done a couple of silver courses before but this was far superior and completely bespoke to me. Sara was an amazing tutor who made the session so enjoyable and made me feel super confident and we actually made a ring as well as a bangle during the session. They turned out so beautifully that I’m keeping them instead of giving them away for Christmas!! I will definitely be going back to make some more items and can’t recommend this session highly enough. 5 stars - thank you Sara!!"

Silver Designed Personally responded:

"Jacqueline - thank you so very much for your amazing review, I loved our time as well and what you made was just perfect! You have some great skills and I can't wait to see you again to make some more!!"

Carol Hughes reviewed: Box making weekend in Cumbria

"This Box Making course was a great treat. I have never done anything before which would count as woodwork. However, even as a complete novice I was encouraged through every stage and by the end of the 2 days had made a beautiful and unique box. There were 4 students with Mark and Richard as teachers. Whilst we started with making a basic oak box, we all asserted our individual styles in choosing the wood for the lids, whether it should be a mitre or a dovetail joint, what type of hinge would best suit and whether a lining for the inside would enhance the final box. We progressed at our own pace, but never felt rushed. There seemed plenty of time to ask questions and to be shown how to do things or solve a problem. There were breaks for coffee and lunch. If you are looking to try something new or different I would highly recommend this course."