Latest reviews

Alice Milner-Watt reviewed: Creating a Viking knife an introduction to forging and knife making at Bearded Pig Forge

"My husband and I did a one day course on Saturday to make a knife each. Spike was fantastic - clearly passionate and a fantastic teacher! We left very happy and very tired. Would definitely recommend for anyone interested in forging."

Tom Taylor reviewed: Green wood chair making in Suffolk

"A wonderful way to spend a week learning a new craft under the masterful tutelage of Stuart and his easy to follow methods. The setting is idyllic, the workshop well equipped with everything you need, lunches and refreshments delicious and the company delightful. I had previously done quite a lot of cabinet-making but learned a whole new skill set. If that wasn’t enough Stuart’s friendly dogs are just so cute! Highly recommended."

Frankie Francis reviewed: Candle making class & bubbly in Brighton & Hove

"This workshop was incredible! Charlie is a fantastic host, and it was a friendly and fun time all round! I actually booked as a lone person rather than as a pair or group booking, and despite my anxieties, it was absolutely amazing! After entering the studio and becoming acquainted, we all donned our aprons, and Charlie clearly explained exactly what we would be doing and or end goal. She was very attentive to any questions within the group, and it was a lovely and relaxing experience. We all got to choose our desired glass or teacup/saucer, and we chose our own scents and colours (or none at all if we wanted!) Everything was wonderfully explained, and Charlie guided us through the entire process, while still allowing us creative freedom! At the end, we were all supplied with an easy to follow instruction sheet for making our own candles at home, and we were able to note down our email address where Charlie then sent information on where to find the ingredients. I was actually looking at learning how to make my own candles to sell and gift, and I have come away from this workshop with all the basics and extra knowledge too! It was a thoroughly enjoyable experience, and I can’t wait to get creating!! Highly recommend, for anyone looking to learn this craft, or even just for anyone wanting a little bit of fun!"

Vicki reviewed: The Drawing Circus comes to Towersey

"What a treat this was, an incredible day. Everything I hoped for and more. Full on but relaxed. They were all beautiful models to draw in fabulous costumes, amazing at holding the poses and making them interesting. The music made it magical. I would love a recording if you have one. I was glad to go on the second day with cooler weather. Although I bet it was fun in the sun too. Delicious cakes. I can't wait to come again next year. Thank-you"

Terese reviewed: Introduction to screen printing

"Rai is such a lovely person and a great teacher. I had a top day and learnt so much and I got to take my designs home on a tote bag. She was great at explaining every process and recommend materials/ supplies Ilto buy from. We had lots of fun and I’d definitely go again. Top class, definitely recommend!"

Avril James reviewed: A 2 day throwing and handbuilding weekend at an established pottery in the New Forest.

"Fabulous potting course. In 10 years I have never been able to master throwing, but believe the tips Jo has given me will mean I have conquered the basics at last. The location is beautiful and the food AMAZING. Thanks Jo and Sophie x"

Diane Johnson reviewed: Curtain Making - Hobbycraft - 1 Day Course to make Lined Professional Bespoke Curtains.

"Very good course, thoroughly enjoyed it. Very friendly and informative. Learned how to make lined curtains and got some good tips about some extra equipment which some of the other students were using which would come in handy. It was a good day."

Tim Aitken reviewed: A Dry Stone Walling Workshop Bedfordshire

"Really enjoyed this course as I had seen a few things on TV about dry stone walls and there importance. John was excellent at demonstrating the batters, ratio of wall depths and thicknesses in proportion to the height. Had a great time chipping the stones, introducing the shims and the through and through stones to give rigidity. I would like to do more of this and hopefully will get an opportunity soon. I feel confident in placing the foundation stones to the best advantage and following the lines of the batter to make a complete wall. A friend has bought a farm house in wales with lots of walls that need fixing so this will come in useful. Many thanks Tim Aitken"

London School of Dry Stone Walling responded:

"Thank you for your feedback Tim. I am pleased you recalled some of the terms used and do hope you will be able to continue the practice of DSW in Wales - that's just great news. Don't rush it !! Take care and I wish you well for the future - John"

Trudi Handy reviewed: One Day Small Leather Goods Workshop

"An excellent day, Sarah was brilliant, patient and very skilled. I came away with a bag that I will use and treasure."

Bev Saunders reviewed: Lino printing in the Ironbridge Gorge with Amanda Hillier

"I really enjoyed my day doing this. Very focused; great results; lovely lunch and beautiful surroundings. Amanda was calm and encouraging and made it easy to create a piece of work I was really pleased with! Well worth it!!"

Derek Allan reviewed: A stool making day

"Eoin - a brilliant day! Never thought building my wee stool would have been so much fun. Both yourself and Gail were great company, as were the others....and so helpful, informative, encouraging, humorous and patient. I’m glad my kids got me this - I have said they should go to try it, it’s such good fun. Oh, and thanks very much too for the canine company, my wife now wants a dog!!!!!!"

Kate reviewed: Candle making course (advanced) - in the heart of the Ashdown Forest, Sussex

"Simon was a really great teacher, sharing his craft and knowledge in a relaxed environment making learning very enjoyable. It was hands on from the start which made it fun and easy to understand. I learnt such a lot and would highly recommend this workshop for anyone interested in candle making and wanting to find out more about the industry. A very insightful and inspiring day with lovely people."

Lynda reviewed: Mini cactus leather plant pot

"I really enjoyed this course! Fantastic teaching with a very light and friendly atmosphere. Karen is so patient and ensures that everyone has a fun and productive experience. I would recommend Karmarell’s courses to anyone looking to learn something new and have a great day!"

Shelagh Ball reviewed: Introduction to Glass Fusing with Enamels - Full Day Workshop

"I came to this one day course having seen and fallen for Steve's work up in St Davids. I have no artistic flair and am terrified by a piece of blank paper or sheet of glass ... but Steve has a light guiding touch as he teaches the basic techniques and encourages you to explore and just 'have a go'. It was a day of good company, intense concentration, good pub lunch, and it left me with a great feeling of having achieved something way outside my comfort zone. Thank you so much Steve and Hannah. Shelagh"

John Lyons reviewed: Blacksmithing - one to one - Hammer Skills

"Had a great day with Bob, on his Hammer Skills course. I am not a physically strong person and am recovering from long-term illness, personally I didn't expect to be able to cope with holding a hammer for a day. However, Bob was aware of my needs and abilities. He gently guided me through a series of skills, gradually improving skill-on-skill through the day. I wanted to know if I could take up blacksmithing as a hobby to make garden furniture/sculptures and came away knowing that "yes" I can do this! Thanks Bob...much appreciated! I am very happy to recommend your course to my friends, family and business associates! (Just so long as you don't get too busy to be able to take me back for more training!!!)"

William Darrall reviewed: Kate Morrell willow sculpture courses

"Just arrived home after what can only be described as a fantastic day! Kate was so welcoming and such a great tutor to have showing us the skills involved in making such brilliant pieces of work, Dave what can we say.. the lunch was amazing, and what great guys you are! would highly rate this activity Course to anyone enty level or advanced, we came home sith two amazing finished work of arts, this really was a birthday to remember.. thanks again"

Steve Woodbridge reviewed: The Drawing Circus comes to Towersey

"What a fantastic day. Interesting settings both outdoor and indoors. Great poses and a very relaxed and friendly atmosphere created by Phoenix Studio and the Drawing Circus. Together with lovely music. What more could one want. Thank You"

Donna Borthwick reviewed: Upholstery & upcycling, Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday 8 week courses

"Excellent tuition from Victoria. Friendly and welcoming environment."

Amber Threapleton reviewed: Glass Fusing with Enamels Taster Class - Make a Tealight Curve

"Great from start to finish . Really enjoyed being able to try something new and being taken through it step by step. Steve was really encouraging , patient and enthusiastic which meant we came away with a lovely creation of our own. I learnt so much in such a short space of time"

Debra Beebee reviewed: The Drawing Circus comes to Towersey

"We had a lovely morning. The right amount of guidance and then lots of short opportunities to go and draw. We had never drawn before and the morning was fun and gave us confidence to keep drawing. It is a lovely environment and James and his family at the Phoenix Studio really make you feel comfortable and welcome."

Matt reviewed: Blacksmithing, bladesmithing and metal craft

"I don't know what I can say that hasn't already been said. I really enjoyed my one day course. Came home with a nice bbq spatular, a poker and a knife! I will 100% be returning to fransham forge most likely for a 2 day course next time as I've left wanting so much more time in front of the anvil. Nigel is a great teacher and a clear master at what he does. He's clearly led a full life and shared many of his interesting stories. All in all, it was everything I was hoping my first blacksmithing experience would be. Highly recommended."

kit Ealea reviewed: Silk painting workshops

"A great day for a really good birthday present . Bridget is very warm and friendly. She gives you lots of supports and tips to get you started on your piece of work. A delicious home cooked lunch ( soup and cake). Her partner is a chef."

Bridget Arnold responded:

"Thank you Kit for the lovely review !"

Jan Jacob reviewed: Beginners Weaving with the Rigid Heddle Loom - at All in a Spin

"Just returned from a 2 day beginners & improvers rigid heddle weaving course; it was fantastic - Dunja is an excellent tutor, patient, knowledgeable and inspiring. A perfect 2 day break (lovely overnight accommodation, too)! Thank you so much, Dunja x"

Mark Jones reviewed: Green wood creative seating course (6 Days)

"A great learning experience! 6 people from very different backgrounds, with little in common. Some of us new nothing , some of us new something. Some had detailed ideas on paper, some had a vague idea or no idea at all. The things we all have in common now are beautiful, unique pieces of furniture thanks to Peters great knowledge, expertise and patience. Peters workshop is a well equipped and inspiring space with a good amount of room both inside and out. Highly recommended!"

Elizabeth Farrington reviewed: Introduction to candle-making as a business

"I have just got home after an amazing day with Jo. I can’t stop smelling my candles , they smell so good. Jo was so helpful with everything. I have a disability and Jo went out of her way to help. Even walked out to the car with me when it was hammering down with rain and carry my candles for me. Jo’s knowledge is excellent even thou I make wax melts I learnt so much and had so much fun. The day went so fast. Highly recommend this course 11 out 10 . Even had a lovely lunch well worth the hour and twenty minutes drive . Can’t wait to make more candles now. Thank you ?"

The White Candle Company responded:

"Thank you for this lovely review Elizabeth. It was great to meet you and interesting to learn a bit about what you do too. I'm searching that "Mulled Wine" as we speak! Take care and keep in touch. Good luck with everything. x"