Latest reviews

Lisa Empson reviewed: Letter carving in East Yorkshire at the Northern Sculpture Studios

"What an excellent course. Extremely well taught, amiable and professional tuition in a great venue! It was a total surprise for my partner. Both of us novices. Love our finished pieces and can’t wait to book our next course. Thanks guys!"

Susan koszak reviewed: Beginners Pottery Day Course

"Spending a day learning how to throw a pot with Matthew was brilliant.I shared the day with my daughter and we were amazed how many different items we made.Matthew guided us through each stage of the process in his wonderful pottery workshop.Its definitely inspired us both to do more with clay. Many thanks?"

Virginie Daniau reviewed: Nigel Hobbins wood carving and tool care classes

"My daughter attended a workshop with Nigel and was thrilled. She created a stunning carved fish that she is very pleased about. Nigel was very attentive and helpful guiding my daughter step by step. Both Christine and Nigel were extremely welcoming. I thoroughly recommend the workshop."

Jemma reviewed: One-to-One Jewellery making course including wire work (beginners)

"I had a great day work in one to one with Jolene. She's very friendly and knowledgable. I had some ideas of what I wanted to make and she helped me work out the best way to make the earrings and bangle I made. Excellent workshop - do not hesitate to book on! The workshop is quirky with lots of things on display...including jolene's lovely jewellery! Thank you Jolene!"

Andrew reviewed: Beginning Your Beekeeping - Two Day Beginners Course

"After considering beekeeping for a few years I decided to take the leap and attend a beginners course. The information gained helped me greatly from general knowledge to understanding costs and time needed. Such a commitment needs someone like Mantel Farm to guide you through the process. The course itself was well run by an expert beekeeper, with useful notes, and we got to inspect a real live hive. Food provided was great, overall a wonderful experience."

Lynn Booth reviewed: Felting and natural dyeing craft holiday in the Highlands of Scotland

"This course exceeded expectations. The instruction and felting was well planned, with a good amount of learning and work with a nice amount of breaks. The setting is breathtaking so hiking and walking were superb. The food was fantastic! Rosie was a wonderful host who was super responsive to requests and suggestions. And she was knowledgable about the subject and the area, so I learned a great deal. I would return."

Chris Powell reviewed: Wood turning courses in the Midlands

"Part of my 60th birthday present was two excellent days with Mark. As a novice Mark gave me plenty of hands on guidance. A well balanced mix of instruction and actually doing some turning myself. Must have found the hardest piece of oak for my bowl which meant I got plenty of practise sharpening too. Mark has a very sensible approach which cuts through a lot of the jargon and demystifies the subject. Comprehensive set of notes and great guidance on what to buy and where. Fully intended to go back for a further day when I have advanced a bit."

Angela Mann reviewed: Two day dry stone walling course for beginners in association with Dry Stone Walling Association of Great Britain

"What a satisfying way to spend the weekend. Felt like I was doing something worthwhile and totally enjoyed the process. All I thought about whilst I was there was building that wall. I shall be joining the DSWA, buying my own hammer and spending a day a month absorbed in my new hobby. The team were great and the teaching excellent."

Louise reviewed: A General Leatherwork Skill Day

"Learning from Nigel is a privilege. He passes on his extensive knowledge and skill with passion and patience and is very inspiring to spend time with. This is my second visit and I am already looking forward to my next one. Thank you."

Wendy Bell reviewed: Surface Techniques in Glass with the Cheshire School of Glass

"Thank you for a great two days. I enjoyed all of it. My only criticism would be that I think this course should have been 3 days long. By the time I had realised the potential of the techniques sandblasting and enamel layering, I was in to the next day. But I suppose that is the nature of the beast - using a kiln and waiting to see the results the next day. Very good course though."

Karen Turnball reviewed: Introduction to glass fusing at the Cheshire School of Glass

"I have done this course. It was really good. I've got a10% off voucher for the next course, so I am doing the same one again as I just want to do more of the same."

Su Mose reviewed: Introduction to candle-making as a business

"Had a brilliant day today with Jo. The course was everything and more than could be wished for! We enjoyed every moment, learnt so much, whilst having fun! Jo is fantastic...and I’d advise anyone to go to her workshops...you won’t be disappointed!"

Alan reviewed: Fused glass workshops in Cumbria

"Such a great day learning new skills! I created pieces of glass that symbolised key things to me which made the day interesting and special! Highly recommend spending a day being creative and productive!"

Lakes Glass-Cumbria responded:

"Hi Alan, Thank you for your response. I also really enjoyed the day, everyone made such amazing pieces! Your finished dish was very impressive. I'm looking forward to seeing what you make next! Thanks Ali"

Cath Spencer reviewed: Marvellous Mosaic one day workshop

"The best therapy for a stress head like me, ever! From the minute I arrived until the moment I left, Lindsay packed the day with information, techniques, tips and the most valuable part, insight. I was fortunate enough to be able to discuss my pending project with her from start to finish and Lindsay took the time to walk me through the whole prep. procedure which was the information I was missing. I learned how to nip tiles, about the difference between old pottery and new tile and how they cut, how to make something from even the 'waste' scraps. I made a coaster and developed an eye for a pattern I had no idea I had! For me, the most important thing I took away from my day on this course, was a quiet confidence that I could now tackle my 'go big or go home' project. I had a brilliant time, the whole day! Oh, and as a single footnote, Lindsay's Mum makes the absolute best Bara Brith cake! A fabulous day spent with an absolutely fabulously talented lady and teacher! Thank you, Lindsay!"

Lindsey Kennedy Portfolio responded:

"Thank you Cath for the wonderful review. It was an absolute pleasure working with you on your ‘big’ project and getting just as excited! I’m really looking forward to hearing updates and seeing photos as it progresses. P.S. I’ll pass your comments regarding the cake to my Mum, thank you!"

Claire Nicoll reviewed: Wire & mixed media sculpture courses with James Ort

"Three day wire and mixed media course. I spent a couple of months trawling the internet to find a good course to do over the summer holiday, and came across the Phoenix Studios. I booked on to this course and almost immediately an email pinged back with homework! As a teacher this made me smile, as being prepared means a better final outcome, and also shows that it was a quality course. From the start I felt that it was important to James, who ran the workshop, that his students would have a productive and worthwhile experience. Two days before the course started James sent out an email reminding us about the homework! Although it was a three day course the effort and time James put in made it feel longer. I arrived at the Phoenix Studios and was enchanted by the setting, really tranquil and a perfect place for creative minds. When settled with a cup of tea James introduced himself, his work and demonstrated some of the basic skills we were going to use. His manner and gentle sense of humour made everyone relax and his passion for his subject was clear. We all had our own space to create our sculptures and James meandered around us all. As a teacher he was excellent in judging when to support and when to step back, I often heard his words of encouragement, nurturing his students to develop more confidence in their ability, as he pushed their skills further. The days were packed with creativity, cake and shared stories as everyone who attended the course was lovely and added to the whole experience. I have been on many creative courses around the country and would not hesitate in recommending this one as I came away with a lovely sculpture and lots of new skills. Claire (The Hare and the Tortoise)"

The Phoenix Studio responded:

"Thanks for the lovely detailed review Claire! I enjoyed teaching you as much as you seemed to enjoy being taught. It was so inspirational seeing your pieces develop and how you put your own unique twist on them!"

Edna reviewed: Make a silver ring or bangle

"My latest visit to Lucy was one of more inspiration. Whilst she guided me through the completion of my pendant chain we spent the day working through my ideas for my next project. This was time well spent and I have lots of homework for my next visit. Once again Lucy gave me the inspiration and guidance to look at what's achievable in metal and what isn't. Can't wait for our next session"

Jacquine and Johnnie reviewed: Needle felting workshop - Create your own woodland creature

"We had a lovely time at Denise's workshop making hares. It was surprisingly simple to do and very soon these dear little hares, each one different began to appear. It was very satisfying doing the little individual touches that made each one unique. We learnt a number of different techniques along the way. My son aged 10 was completely engaged all day and was very very happy with his hare when we got home. I'd recommend this workshop to anyone. Thanks Denise, I'm sure we'll come again."

Crafty Gal responded:

"Thank you Jacquine, I'm so thrilled you both enjoyed it so much. I look forward to seeing what you both go on to next, and hope to see you again soon, all the best Dx"

Peter Hedley reviewed: Beginners introductory pyrography course in Lincolnshire

"A very informative day which was ‘value for money’. Susan had structured her course so that it was flexible to the needs of the student and delivered it in a way that the skills needed were delivered in a simplistic manner. I fully recommend this course and Susan for anyone who has an interest in this craft / art."

SHaron Geldard reviewed: Basic to advanced knitting workshops in Leeds City Centre

"Just to say thank you for yesterday. It was a great class. I would definitely recommend it and will travel to Leeds to see you again. Thank you! :)"

Leeds Central Faith and Light responded:

"You're welcome, Sharon. Hope your journey back to Scarborough was less fraught than the one to Leeds! I look forward to seeing you again. Kind regards, Ann"

Jo Hepworth reviewed: Basic to advanced knitting workshops in Leeds City Centre

"I had a lovely morning learning to Crochet with Ann, she was very patient and knowledgeable on the subject. Was perfect introduction for someone who didn't have a clue what to do in the beginning."

Leeds Central Faith and Light responded:

"Thank you Jo for your kind words. I'm glad you found the workshop helpful and hope you are putting your newfound skills to good use. Kind regards ann"

Angela Higson reviewed: Hat Making - private tuition Birmingham

"Wow what a fantastic day! I thoroughly enjoyed it and was very pleasantly surprised how I learnt enough skills in one day to make a fascinator that I would actually wear, even through I had never tried anything like this before. It really is a lot easier than you think once you have been shown the correct way to make the different components. Great value for money and we were even given a lovely hat box to take our creation home. I would love to make something else so will definitely be attending another course in the near future. Thanks again Rachel for a fab, fun day. Angela"

carol lloyd reviewed: Wooden Box Making - 1 Day Workshop

"Excellent day with good facilitation of skills to make a special box . Booking was easy. Instructions on how to get there were good Good resources and pacing of the day ."

Kirsten reviewed: Mini cactus leather plant pot

"I went to a half day course recently and decided to make a dog collar. I have no experience at all with leather work but I felt I really achieved something and went home with something I could be proud of! Small group and friendly atmosphere where you can learn a new and interesting skill."

Michelle reviewed: PaperCrafts & Cardmaking Craft Sessions with Stampin Up Demonstrator

"I attend the group that Lindsey runs once a month with a friend. I was a complete novice when I started. I love going. Lindsey has the patience of a saint. Nothing is too much trouble to explain. I come away every time opened mouthed & amazed that I have produced something so exquisite. I would definitely recommend anyone who wants to learn or if you are a seasoned stamper & card maker. To go it's an absolute joy."

Sarah reviewed: Denim jeans - be the designer!

"Just returned after a day with Angela on a one-to-one course to make a pair of jeans. I found it particularly instructive in learning how to cut a pattern from an existing pair of jeans, which will give me confidence to try this at home. I enjoyed working with Angela in sewing it all together. It was a lovely day working in an Aladdin's cave of jeans, denim, other materials and haberdashery and excellent value for money."