Latest reviews

Kerrie reviewed: Beginners blacksmithing course - 3 days

"I enjoyed seeing my ram's head magically take shape and also being in a working environment where I was supported and encouraged by Peat and others on the course. I thoroughly enjoyed all aspects of the course, Peat's inspiration and great teaching and the sense of achievement on completing the course."

Walter reviewed: Beginners blacksmithing course - 3 days

"I found the course totally absorbing and very satisfying. I can't wait to hit some more hot metal, it's very therapeutic - a good means of stress relief!"

Chris & Mary reviewed: Beginners blacksmithing course - 3 days

"We started blacksmithing within half an hour of arriving. The course was all action and my wife and I still cannot believe how much we achieved in the time and how much we enjoyed the experience. An unbelievably good course."

Seymour reviewed: Beginners blacksmithing course - 3 days

"This is an excellent course for the absolute novice like me. It was a completely new experience with a first class craftsman instructor and a good atmosphere amongst the rest of the group."

Michael reviewed: Beginners blacksmithing course - 3 days

"This is not a course for specialists or 'clever' people, it is for anyone and everyone who would like to explore the hidden world of blacksmithing and to be caught up in an adventure which will go on forever. I was certainly somewhat exhausted when I returned home, but the thrill of producing three most attractive pieces kept me going as I showed off to friends and family. The food, companionship and your stimulating guidance all added up to a marvellous weekend. Many thanks indeed."

D. Siedle reviewed: Beginners blacksmithing course - 3 days

"Excellent hands-on enjoyment and learning - good atmosphere, fantastic! If you are fed up with talk and want to get down to some honest hard work and bags of enjoyment, this is for you. Nothing is too much for Peat - he never gets tired of the 101 questions!"

Mark reviewed: Beginners blacksmithing course - 3 days

"I never imagined that I would produce something that looked and felt so good. I've just arrived home after a 170 mile drive - and all the way, my imagination was working overtime, thinking about the things that I might achieve with what I have learnt in the last three days. My friend was the same and the conversation was largely made up of questions about where we might buy equipment locally and suggestions as to what we might make. Once I've convinced my wife that having a forge in the back garden is a good idea, I'll certainly be darkening Peat's doorstep again for further tuition!"

Lewis reviewed: Beginners blacksmithing course - 3 days

"This is a rare opportunity to learn and appreciate the intricacies and craft of blacksmithing. The satisfaction of shaping, bending, splitting and drawing hot metal is one of the most enjoyable and satisfying experiences a maker can have, regardless of age or experience."

David D reviewed: Beginners blacksmithing course - 3 days

"A short note of thanks for the most enjoyable and creative weekend spent in Stockton. I came away with a real feeling of achievement which is always a sign of a well run and organised course. Your enthusiasm was certainly infectious and your patience in dealing with a bunch of 'greenhorns' was more than appreciated. I will certainly recommend your skills to any other 'wannabe' blacksmiths. I am presently looking around locally for a forge in which to practise. Thank you once again for your hospitality."

Claire A reviewed: Beginners blacksmithing course - 3 days

"I would like to tell you just how much I enjoyed your course. Once again I will tell you what a wonderful teacher you are. The fact that you care for your 'little blacksmiths' really shows and all your effort and preparation goes to bring a truly memorable time. I shall look forward to your next course. I thank you and your wife - the inspiration you have given me shall go forward in my blacksmithing future."

Andrew H reviewed: Beginners blacksmithing course - 3 days

"Thank you for delivering such an interesting course. I must say that I learnt a lot about blacksmithing, but most importantly I enjoyed the three days immensely. I was surprised to be hitting hot metal within 15 minutes of starting, but as you said, it is a very practical activity and there is no substitute for experience. Friends and family cannot believe that I produced all those things in the three days as a beginner, it is a testament to your ability as a teacher. I am looking forward to setting up my own forge in the fullness of time."

Zillah Limbert reviewed: Silver Jewellery Mixed Ability at St Ives Adult Learning and Skills

"Donna, the teacher was really helpful, managing the mixed abilities of the class well. She took time to explain what we were doing and provided the necessary materials - though most of us were bitten by the jewellery making bug and got some of our own supplies & kit. I learnt basic skills that I can now use to continue with jewellery making at home. I feel so proud of myself when I wear the bracelet and ring that I made! I would definitely recommend this course and have really enjoyed it."

Adult and Community Learning responded:

"Thank you for your review Zillah, so glad that you are pleased with the jewellery you made - St Ives Adult Learning"

Nick Harrison reviewed: Brew Your Own Craft Beer with St Ives Adult Learning

"Really enjoyed the class and learnt an awful lot. It has given me the confidence to to start brewing."

Adult and Community Learning responded:

"Thank you for your review Nick. We are glad you enjoyed the course - St Ives Adult Learning"

Lauren Quigley reviewed: Blacksmith Experience Day - Anvil Forge

"My Dad and I had an absolutely fantastic blacksmith experience day and we couldn't be prouder of what was accomplished with the help of John and his team. My dad made a beautiful mushroom and dragonfly ornament with my mum in mind and I managed to make a dragon clawed door knocker! Thank you so much for your patience and the opportunity to learn a little of your craft, we'll definitely be back for more courses in the future :)"

Vivien reviewed: Needle felting workshop - Create your own woodland creature

"This was an excellent course in a great environment. I am still amazed I was able to produce such a fantastic looking animal at the end of the process. The pace was just right and I went home armed with enough info and stuff to be able to have a go myself at home. That said because of the range of other things I could make and the great company I would consider doing it again."

Crafty Gal responded:

"Thank you Vivian for posting such a lovely review. Your hare was amazing, you flew through the process and it was a joy to spend the day with you needle felting. I'm so excited you want to do more, can't wait to see pics OR work with you again on another woodland creature."

Jane Hanson reviewed: Hand spinning for Beginners Level 1 accredited course at All in a Spin

"Dunja is the most fantastic teacher. The weekend course was so engaging, all materials were really well prepared, we wanted for nothing. Dunja was very giving of her time, and every question was answered. All in A Spin is a lovely craft barn environment - a spinner's paradise, complete with log fire. I couldn't recommend this course highly enough - I hope you enjoy!"

Greg reviewed: Wood turning tuition, New Forest, Hampshire (1 day) (2 people)

"Graham is a very good teacher, who took us methodically through the process of making a bowl, which turned out far better than I had expected. There was plenty of tea and coffee, a great home-cooked light lunch, and a warm workshop on a cold day. I learned a lot, and Graham was extremely patient, taking a genuine interest in the people on the course, and giving us beginners good advice for getting set up as woodturners ourselves. A very enjoyable and productive day."

Carol reviewed: Fused Glass Workshops in Tavistock Devon

"This was my first attempt at glass fusing. I must admit I am not particularly artistic but interested in trying a new skill. Wendy helped us formulate a "do-able" piece of work, guided us through making a design, then choosing and cutting the glass and constructing it ready for the final fusing which Wendy does later on our behalf. I am thrilled with my unique piece of work am certainly looking to do another course in 2018."

Mark Saich reviewed: Nigel Hobbins wood carving and tool care classes

"Great class in a lovely place. Nigel is calm, patient and accommodating. His tuition is relaxed, encouraging and tailored to suit the individual."

Caroline Stead reviewed: Two day leather work course - bag making

"I booked onto the course after a taster session run by Jason where I’d really enjoyed the saddle stitch and wanted to take those skills further. I booked the two day course which was a hands on immersive experience at making every bit of the bag. Jason is passionate and knowledgeable about the subject and he and Louise were excellent and attentive tutors. I left at the end of the 2 days with a beautiful bag that genuinely looks hand crafted."

Jayne cooke reviewed: Painting and Drawing one day workshop for adults with Penny Mason, Birmingham (NO CLASSES UNTIL MARCH 2021)

"Had a wonderful day at Penny's warm and inviting workshop. Penny has a natural talent to teach drawing and painting techniques that not only enhances your creativity but pushes you beyond the Boundaries. Clearly, her dedication and knowledge in the arts is a credit to her. We are privileged to be taught by this former foundation teacher on this auspicious occasion and would highly recommend the course to every creative soul. Freedom to laugh, have fun to create, enjoy warm soup, bread and cake are a must and worth the trip alone."

Kate reviewed: Free-machine Embroidery Workshop with Dawn Ireland

"Another fantastic day sewing with Dawn who is really helpful and supportive. This time the workshop was dedicated to making Christmas decorations and cards. Using free-machine embroidery with access to Dawn's stash of fabric, card, sequins, ribbons & trims, a small mountain of threads and much more some great crafty, creative time was spent. I'd definitely recommend this workshop to anyone!"

Sandy Andrews reviewed: Blacksmithing for beginners - one day taster

"What a fantastic day!! A very relaxed atmosphere and Aaron is so knowledgeable about so many things. Masses of hands-on 'doing' and it was surprising how little strength was needed to form the metal into something pretty. I can't believe I came home with such professional-looking and useful items - brilliant! Highly recommended. :-)"

James Dewes reviewed: Blacksmithing Beginners day courses in Yorkshire and the North East

"It was a full and busy day with quick demos and then getting stuck in for ourselves. You very quickly learn different techniques in steps that you build on over the day, gaining confidence in working with metal. Adrian & Andy help you learn and share interesting stories of their time blacksmithing. I am not in the least bit artistic, so I was amazed to go home with work that I am proud of. It is clear that a lot of thought and effort has gone into both the format of the day and the things we made. I would recommend this course to anyone who wants to try something practical and satisfying."

Paul Shardlow reviewed: Beginners Candlemaking for Two - Anglesey, Wales

"My girlfriend and I made some Christmas tree and beeswax candles with Anita. The course was great fun and informative, Anita is an excellent host with a amazing knowledge of everything candles!"