Latest reviews

28 Nov 17'

Sue reviewed: Upholstery and upcycling furniture and interiors

"A fabulous day learning to upholster dining chairs in a beautiful, relaxed setting. Lucy is a super teacher - warm, supportive and encouraging. So kind going the extra mile to lend me her tools so I can finish off at home -much appreciated! As mentioned in other reviews, the coffee, cake and such are amazing and really add to a great experience. Will definitely be back with another project."

28 Nov 17'

Steve Maund reviewed: An introduction to spoon carving with JoJo Wood

"The reason for attending this course was to improve my safe cutting techniques and learn how to carve efficiently. Very enjoyable time carving in a relaxed atmosphere with a small group of like minded people. Great venue and food, I would recommend spoon carving to anyone."

28 Nov 17'

David Marks reviewed: Introduction to traditional green wood turning course

"I had never used a lathe in my life before but have always been fascinated when seeing one used. The course was most enjoyable from learning about trees and wood to the use of tools and equipment including safety. Not only was Simon a good teacher but an enjoyable person to be with and at the end of the day I came away with a dibber that I had made and an enormous amount of new knowledge. I only wish that I had gone on the course when I had first retired as the cost of setting up is quite small compared to say, golf. I am now 79 years old and think it is too late to take it up further as an enjoyable pastime. Don't leave it too late to learn this new skill. However I really enjoyed my day in the woods and meeting Simon."

28 Nov 17'

Alison reviewed: Fabulous felt picture 2 day masterclass near York

"Brilliant course. Bridgette is a very patient teacher and knows how to mix and match colours and textures. Will definitely be booking another course."

28 Nov 17'

Jenny banks reviewed: Free-machine Embroidery Workshop with Dawn Ireland

"What a fantastic day, I learnt such a lot in lovely environment with really nice people. Oh and a amazing Chocolate Cake, I’ve signed up for another course too with Dawn"

28 Nov 17'

Eileen Hall reviewed: Quilling for Mother's Day with Learn to be Crafty

"I highly recommend this very informative and helpful course. The instructors Fiona and Helen are knowledgeable and very friendly. The courses they are offering are varied and there will be something for everyone regardless of experience. The cakes are scrumptious too!"

28 Nov 17'

Sam reviewed: Willow Christmas reindeer

"A great day out with my best friend who had invited me along to make use of a voucher she had from last Christmas. Despite my impatience and perfectionism at times undoubtedly making me a frustrating student, Victoria was patient and encouraging. She was quite right too when she said that when I got my reindeer home I'd realise what a good job I'd done! I agree now. I really enjoyed the course and the end product. I have been spreading the word too about the Willow Barn!"

28 Nov 17'

Kristina Carr reviewed: Stone Carving 2 day Introduction Courses at Northern Sculpture

"An excellent introduction to stone carving - I'm hooked! I had a thoroughly enjoyable weekend learning the basics of the craft. Alan skilfully demonstrated the use of the tools and after choosing a pattern for our relief we were soon onto creating our own piece. As an absolute beginner I was surprised at what I managed to achieve by the end of the weekend. Throughout Alan gave encouraging tuition and positive feedback with supportive input from Tracey. Alan and Tracey have created a learning space which combines gallery and teaching workshop most effectively. They have a warm, relaxed style and are impart their evident knowledge and artistic skills in a gentle manner. Ample refreshment was provided throughout the day. I highly recommend Northern Sculpture and I'm very keen to return!"

28 Nov 17'

Laura Butler reviewed: Introduction to Frame Loom Weaving

"What a lovely way to spend a day. In no time at all we were making our weaves and experimenting with different wool, textures and techniques. Alice is a great teacher and so talented. Working in her studio was really inspiring as we got to be surrounded by her amazing work. The location at the Hot Walls was also great- creating a perfect opportunity to scour the beach for driftwood afterwards!! I bought a loom from Alice to experiment at home and I'm addicted. Thanks so much- see you soon!!!"

27 Nov 17'

Claire and Helen Slater reviewed: Full day fused glass course

"Thank you SO much to Sharon and Kim for introducing me to this amazing craft. I loved it so much that I have been on a second course (4 weeks after the first one). The day is all geared towards learning and being looked after. From the amazing bacon butties and pastries for breakfast, to the teaching of basic techniques and help when needed, lots of encouragement, delicious lunch and afternoon tea. I came away feeling really positive and with a sense of achievement that I had created a unique piece of art work which now has pride on place in my window. On my second course with my daughter, I made some Christmas tree decorations and a couple of cabuchons. Helen made some Harry Potter inspired coasters: Slytherin Snake and a Hufflepuff badger. At all stages of the day, Kim and Sharon provided help and guidance in their specially built studio. I am sure these wonderful ladies will be seeing me again on an annual basis!!"

27 Nov 17'

Lois reviewed: Basket making in Norfolk

"A lovely day learning a traditional craft! It was very satisfying to build our baskets from scratch and to understand through hands-on, excellent step-by-step tuition how basketmaking works. Julie's knowledge, enthusiasm and wonderful skill made this a very enriching day. Highly recommended."

27 Nov 17'

Helen Archer reviewed: Creative gift wrapping in Derbyshire

"What a fantastic day, fun and informative. Jo is a brilliant teacher, explaining everything clearly and patiently and demonstrating the techniques clearly, even awkward shapes are now not scary any more! No more shop bought gift bags for me from now on, I'm inspired! Horsley Lodge as a venue is easy to find and very welcoming. We were really well looked after with freshly baked biscuits and home made scones at lunch time. All beautifully decorated for Christmas too. Thoroughly recommend this course and Jo as a teacher,"

27 Nov 17'

Diane reviewed: Free-machine Embroidery Workshop with Dawn Ireland

"Another lovely day learning to make cards and Christmas ornaments from fabric and machine embroidery, good company, excellent tutor, warm and friendly atmosphere. I recommend it!"

27 Nov 17'

Geraldine reviewed: Basket making in Norfolk

"Brilliant day, so organised and very patient tuition. Never made to feel a failure even when needing loads of help. Home made cakes provided were wonderful. Thanks so much for such a fun day. I recommend this good value day."

27 Nov 17'

Andrew Lear reviewed: Hedgerow basketmaking holiday

"Jane is a good teacher and has lots of patience! I am very pleased with the resulting fruit basket I made....looking to go on another course with her soon..."

27 Nov 17'

Marion Banks reviewed: One day, one to one stained glass course

"This workshop was given to me for a birthday present. David was a great teacher, friendly and patient and his explanations and guidance given were very clear throughout meaning that I was able to explore my ideas and stretch myself. I am delighted with the finished piece of artwork that I have produced. Overall an excellent and very enjoyable workshop, and I would not hesitate to recommend it."

27 Nov 17'

Sarah McGowan reviewed: Beginners candle making workshop - Marlow, Buckinghamshire

"I attended the beginners workshop and Sarah provided a relaxed and very informative morning. Not being a creative person I was really pleased the results and the knowledge shared. I am hoping to attend another course next Spring. Sarah 27.11.17"

27 Nov 17'

katrina reviewed: Needle felted puffin

"a really fun day with a tutor who is generous in giving her skills and knowledge to help you make something you can be proud of. Thank you!"

27 Nov 17'

Derinne reviewed: Learn to Turn in the Dartmoor National Park

"My sister and I spent a great day with Chris, he is very knowledgeable and extremely patient. We were very proud of the two beautiful bowls we went home with."

27 Nov 17'

Llewellyn John reviewed: Blacksmith experience day in Tilford, Surrey

"Had a really interesting day with Neil and ended up with a poker and coat hook to boot!"

27 Nov 17'

Georgina reviewed: Five day woodwork course - tools

"This course was excellent. I started the week a complete beginner and came away not only more confident but with a wealth of knowledge I didn’t think you could gain in 5 days. I’m also delighted with the coffee table I made which now has pride of place at home. The tutors Richard and Mark are both extremely skilled and great teachers and the ratio of 2 tutors to 4 students means there is always someone on hand to advise and help. I particularly liked the lunchtime lectures which focussed on a different topic each day and which have informed my wish list of kit! I’ve already booked on course 2."

27 Nov 17'

Simon Aston reviewed: Introduction to green wood furniture making - two days

"Really really good couple of days with Peter. Proper hands on course. No classroom stuff just a great style of teaching through years of experience. Peter puts you at ease with the tools and the processes from the word go. I now have a coffee table I'm extremely proud of. Enjoyed it so much I've just booked another course!"

27 Nov 17'

Sophie reviewed: Handmade canes, beads and jewellery from Polymer clay in Bedfordshire.

"Thank you sooo much to Bernadette for a fabulous day making jewellery. I had a brilliant day and was made to feel very welcome. I was a complete beginner so Bernadette guided me through lots of different techniques of making the canes and I produced a beautiful bead necklace with matching earrings. As well as taking home my new jewellery, I was also able to keep the extra canes that I had made as well as a few other little freebies. I would highly recommend this course to anyone interested in jewellery or clay or both! Thanks again Bernadette x"

27 Nov 17'

Alex Ferguson reviewed: Spoon carving (Two Day)

"I cannot recommend this course highly enough. Martin is a fantastic host and teacher who is always willing to work one on one and provide patient advice to coach you though the wonderful craft of spoon carving. With the small group size the sessions feel intimate and relaxed which allows everyone to get a grasp of the fundamentals. If you are considering learning a traditional craft this course covers everything you need to get started, in a warm and welcoming environment. The home cooked lunch is also fantastic!"

27 Nov 17'

Belinda reviewed: Fused Glass Christmas Decorations One Day Workshop : Fun, Creativity and Relaxation

"Two of us went on the three hour Christmas decorations course last Monday, it was a great morning in a lovely relaxing setting and Joy was brilliant at teaching and advising the seven of us who were there. I collected our decorations yesterday and my family are very impressed!"