Latest reviews

Caroline Haydock reviewed: Take raw fleece to finished fibre 2-day spinning workshop

"Amazing weekend spent with Elaine in the new studio. As a knitter I knew little about the preparation and production of the yarn I buy and use. As the course title suggests Elaine took us from the preparation of a raw fleece through washing, carding and on to spinning in a friendly and informative fashion. There was plenty of time to develop and practise new skills and I came away with a skein of yarn which I was quite proud of - enough to knit a hat. I now want to search out my own wheel and develop the ideas buzzing round my head. Lunch was delicious."

Cartmel Handspun Spinning School responded:

"Thanks Caroline. So pleased you enjoyed yourself and found the course worthwhile. It was a privilege to teach you . Elaine"

Jackie Epps reviewed: Introduction to Table Loom Weaving (Two-Day) Workshop, Seeded, Southsea

"Ellie Fisher's introduction to frame loom weaving was first class. She covered all the basics of getting the loom ready for weaving, introduced some different techniques and had an amazing array of fibres for us to experiment with. She also demonstrated that it is possible to enjoy simple weaving without a big cash outlay - using a fork as a beater, for example. Most of the class managed to finish a small wall hanging or table mat in the day, which was very satisfying and it was interesting to see how different each piece of work turned out. Ellie's passion for weaving shone through and it was a thoroughly enjoyable day."

Elka responded:

"Hi Jackie, thank you so much for the lovely review and thank you for coming on the workshop. It was great to meet you. I'm so glad you had a good day. Best wishes, Ellie"

Frances reviewed: Wet felt flowers

"A really fun session! Tuition was excellent, with a lovely selection of resources for making our flowers. I came away with a beautiful finished product and lots of ideas. I thoroughly recommend felt flower making with Cath!"

Beechwood Crafts responded:

"Thanks Frances I really enjoy making and teaching about felt flowers. You were such a fun group Thanks Cath"

Ron Eden reviewed: Whittling course

"The whittling course was held in a little cottage in the pretty Village of Great Barton. And it had the envy of all men - a man shed/studio. Martin greeted the four of us with coffee and tea and a display of handmade spoons, his speciality, plus a collection of completed whittling projects to inspire us to bigger things. The morning started with a display of the knives available to a Whittler. He also demonstrated the do’s and don’ts when handling knives. Each equipped with a very sharp knife and a sack full of one-inch diameter hazel sticks we then practiced several knife and material hold techniques to achieve the bulk removal of material, pairing, controlled chest cuts and thumb pairing. Recognising the safety aspects of each and the avoidance self-induced wounds. Our morning project was to make a butter knife. This was performed in stages with Martin starting to create this item, we then followed stage by stage using the holds we had been shown. With four people in the class it was possible for Martin to give individual advice and encouragement as the project progressed. A lunch of soup and Martin’s home-made bread was consumed swift and lively. The afternoon session started with the talk on the type of wood that could be used for whittling and where it can be found. We then proceeded to project number two, a fork, with more confidence. Martin has a very relaxed way in imparting information and very inspiring with his skills. The day was wound up with a demonstration of sharpening a Mora 120 knife. Where did the day go? Very enjoyable, I thoroughly recommend this course. I have spent the last couple of days reworking each project piece so that they now resemble what they were supposed to be and loved every minute."

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

"A lovely and interesting day in Sara's workshop to make a silver pendant. The setting is superb, so tranquil. Sara was very friendly and patient with us. An enjoyable day that my friend and I will share memories of in the future."

Jayne Newman reviewed: Make a shave horse at Sallerton Wood

"This was an amazing course, fantastic setting, run by a friendly knowledgeable trainer, Andy. I have gone from knowing nothing to having the confidence to use a shave horse to shape wood, a pole lathe to finish the wood and shape to the correct size, splitting logs and using an axe, and then fixing it all together to make a shave horse of my own. Brilliant fun. Would recommend this course to everyone Also have to say the food provided was so lovely."

Sallerton Wood responded:

"Thanks very much, Jayne, for your review and recommendation. We're very pleased that you enjoyed the course, and the provided lunches. We hope that you have lots of fun using your new shave horse for making your own greenwood items."

Amanda Humphries reviewed: Make a shave horse at Sallerton Wood

"An amazing two day course making a shave horse. This was one of the most enjoyable courses I have done, and I have done many!! Andy was friendly and attentive in looking after us and making sure we had the help and guidance we needed the whole time. The venue, Sallerton Wood, was just the best setting bringing a wonderful tranquility and relaxation to the course. A beautiful setting. I learnt a lot on this course and will be looking to book another!! Thank you."

Sallerton Wood responded:

"Many thanks, Amanda, for your review, and we're delighted that you enjoyed the course and the woodland environment at Sallerton Wood. We look forward to welcoming you back at Sallerton Wood on another course, and don't forget to ask for a Return Booking discount which currently stands at 15%."

Kes reviewed: Kiln fired enamelling on copper taster (morning)

"I did the enamelling taster course and thoroughly enjoyed myself. I hadn't done any work with copper before and Gen was a great teacher, providing us with an array of different materials to work with. We each left with 3 pieces to take home and I would love to do it again."

Wicked Gen Crafts responded:

"I am really pleased you had a good afternoon. It is always fun teaching an enamelling course as the process is so immediate and it is exciting working with a hot kiln."

Jo White reviewed: Introduction to Table Loom Weaving (Two-Day) Workshop, Seeded, Southsea

"A well organised day, with good quality equipment and an interesting assortment of yarns. Ellie made learning a new skill, interesting and enjoyable. Whitchurch Silk Mill was a beautiful place and it was lovely to see the silk looms still weaving beautiful fabrics."

Elka responded:

"Lovely to meet you Jo and thank you so much for the review. I'm very glad you had a good day. Best wishes, Ellie"

Deborah reviewed: Introduction to beekeeping near Bishops Waltham

"I highly recommend this course! It’s suitable for a complete beginner as well as someone just starting out with bees or someone wanting to learn something new. It was professionally delivered throughout, the course content was detailed, educational and thoroughly enjoyable! Louise and her husband were exceptional hosts, both welcoming and engaging. I learnt so much within a short time. The handouts covered all aspects of bee keeping, as well as hive products and honey tasting - a book's worth of information! There were lots of items to look at and pass round, books available for viewing as well as the actual hives to learn how to put together etc. I have since joined the association, where there is a strong emphasis on education. I’m so glad I found this course, I would advise anyone thinking about attending to go and book now!"

Gill Guest reviewed: Two person 'Have a Bash' at Blacksmithing course in Shropshire

"I had a brilliant day ‘Having a Bash’ at Blacksmithing. Jake was a wonderful teacher - very friendly, encouraging and patient. His clear instructions and ‘how to’ demonstrations quickly made me feel more confident about handling hot metal and hitting it with hammers. I was amazed to make anything in a day, let alone to manage a passable poker with twirly bits and fancy twists, as well as a useable knife with a scrolled handle. An amazing day, I highly recommend it."

Wendy reviewed: maltese limestone carving at mount pleasant gardens

"Just wanted to say how much I enjoyed the stone carving course last week. Andrew’s patience, encouragement and instruction were excellent and I was so pleased with what I achieved over the two days. It was such a lovely venue to learn something new as well, the gardens at Mount Pleasant are stunning. I would definitely like to return for another course."

Eva Stacey reviewed: Hand-Spinning & Natural Dyeing Retreat, Highlands, Scotland

"Having never ventured on a week spent together with complete strangers before, I’m happy to say that Rosie made the whole experience really relaxed, calm and very enjoyable indeed. I learnt so much about both dyeing and spinning, and within such a lovely and peaceful environment. Everything was well organised but never felt too disciplined or restricted and we could all work and develop our skills at our own pace. Ele’s singing brought something extra to the experience and it is a credit to her that we all joined in! Thank you so much for a lovely time spent in a beautiful part of the world!"

Wild Rose Escapes responded:

"I'm so glad you enjoyed your time with us Eva- it was lovely to have met you, i'm so glad you found it relaxing and enjoyable. Many thanks! Rosie"

Steve Mortimer reviewed: Make a shave horse at Sallerton Wood

"I've just returned from the Shave Horse course and I can't thank Andy enough, his style of tutoring is brilliant with a good mix of humuor and guidance. We had a group of seven with mixed experience and his patience with us all was greatly received. The course is quite demanding to complete your own Shave Horse on time, but with Andy's help we all achieved it. You could not wish for a better location to learn new skills, even though we didn't have the best weather we were well sheltered and kept dry at all times. Lunch was provided and was very good especially the quiche. I can't wait to go back next year and try another course. I would not hesitate to recommend Sallerton Wood for your green woodworking courses. Once again thanks Andy for a brilliant couple of days."

Sallerton Wood responded:

"Thanks very much, Steve, for posting that enthusiastic review - much appreciated. We look forward to your return next year on another course. Don't forget to ask for a Return Booking discount which currently stands at 15%."

Anon reviewed: Print 'n stitch - one day course

"Wealth of information from tutor, gentle flow allowing time for questions and practice"

Anon reviewed: Print 'n stitch - one day course

"Benefitted from the tutor's knowledge and ideas. Good to be able to have a go and take something home."

Anon reviewed: Print 'n stitch - one day course

"Information and chance to put it into practice. Support from experienced very helpful tutor"

Joe reviewed: Fidget/Spinner Ring: Silver Jewellery Making

"Such a great way to spend an afternoon and so pleased with the fidget ring- as is my wife. Would definitely recommend. Nina is lovely, patient and a good teacher. No question seemed too much and I even left with a sheet of materials and tools I'd need to start this up as a hobby. I'll be seeing you soon Nina- looking forward to the private classes"

Nigel LLoyd reviewed: Woodturning courses in Hampshire - Beginners and improvers wood turning courses - Turn British, all British lathes!!

"A great Day! Had a brilliant day with Andy. After woodturning for 2 years, it was great to spend a day with an expert and sort out all the things I was doing wrong. The day has inspired me to keep practicing and improving and shown me how I can get better. A really worth-while day. Thank you."

Jaimie reviewed: Stylish personalised keyring

"Friendly welcoming atmosphere"

Nicky Lambert reviewed: Hand-Spinning & Natural Dyeing Retreat, Highlands, Scotland

"I loved spending time with Rosie and her team! Everthing was well organised from our pick up, to our departure - I woudnt have changed a thing! The accommodation was spacious and the surroundings lovely. The food was delicious and our activities were varied, interesting and well-chosen. Most of all though, Rosie is calm, patient, endlessly helpful and a joy to be around. I found my time on the course incredibly relaxing and came home rejuvenated. I have since bought a spinning wheel!"

Wild Rose Escapes responded:

"Thank-you for your review Nicky, -that's great you have bought yourself a wheel- just let us know if you need any advice. Happy Spinning- lovely to have met you. Yours Rosie"

Chris Atkey reviewed: Bladesmithing Weekend

"Graham and Dave are great couple of guys who know their business, I came out with a knife and the urge to make my own forge. Will effeminately do it again."

Bill Young reviewed: Bladesmithing Weekend

"Sent on the course by my wife for some bonding with our teenaged son, I was apprehensive as I'd not been in a workshop since middle school woodwork and avoid DIY, both of which I hated. However I was amazed by the product we were all able to produce after the two days thanks to some brilliant encouragement and step-by-step coaching from Graham and David. The pace was just right and broken down into understandable and achievable steps. We were never hanging around waiting for stuff to happen or tools to become free. From hammering hot steel to angle-grinding to using bandsaws and grinders, we were allowed to get on with it with a light touch but a watchful eye from the instructors. There was plenty of refreshment and chances to chat while building some camaraderie over cups of tea. The atmosphere was fun and friendly with a serious undertone of wanting to do a good job. I've been recommending it to all my friends and showing off the best knife I'll ever own ever since I got back. My son and I can't wait for the axe course."

Sue Kirkham reviewed: Heritage teddy bear making - residential

"I had a brilliant weekend attending Kathy's course with my friend. I have made some teddy bears using a sewing machine before but a LONG time ago. Kathy explained everything very clearly and I was delighted with my new smiley bear! The other ladies on the course were very friendly and there was a really nice atmosphere in which to create. The food Kathy provided was excellent and the accommodation was very comfortable. As a dog lover there was an extra bonus when Kathy's two delightful dogs were around! Thank you for a great crafty weekend!"

Crafty Breaks in the Lakes responded:

"I am delighted you both enjoyed your weekend Sue, and thank you for your lovely review. It was a pleasure to welcome you both. All the bears were very individual and your smiley bear indeed looked a very happy-chappy."

Alison Leith reviewed: Abstract Landscape with Award Winning Artist Catherine MacDiarmid at Cowshed Creative in the Lake District

"Absolutely loved the venue - gorgeous Barn with huge logburner. George made us feel very welcome and provided some excellent lunch and a wide variety of dessert and homemade cakes."

Cowshed Creative responded:

"Thanks for such lovely comments. Hope to see you again."