Latest reviews

29 Aug 17'

Fiona Cradduck reviewed: Wire & mixed media sculpture courses with James Ort

"I thoroughly enjoyed the wire and mixed media course last week and I thought we were a great creative group. Phoenix studio is in a beautiful setting and James is a very good, encouraging teacher. James showed us how to use the wire and helped everyone with their individual needs, so by the end of the two days I had learnt a great deal and achieved a pleasing sculpture. I can not think of any way the course can be improved . For me personally I was pleased that the course was mid-week rather than during a weekend so maybe keep one course a year mid-week. A wonderful course, thank you Fiona"

29 Aug 17'

Peter Franklin reviewed: Wood turning courses in the Midlands

"I recently completed a one-day workshop with Mark. I’ve enjoyed carpentry for years and really wanted to give woodturning a go but had never previously had the opportunity. The day with Mark was a birthday present – as I’ve started looking ahead to potentially retiring in the next few years, I’ve had a fledgling idea for a while now that I’d perhaps like to set up a small workshop with a lathe. The day with Mark was an ideal time to learn more about what’s involved in woodturning. I learned loads during the day, which was hugely informative. We covered different types of turning, machine tool selection, tool grinding and many other things, and it was great to have the chance to work on a small project of my own – a small bowl that I took away with me at the end of the course. Mark is highly personable and very easy to get along with. He is also extremely knowledgeable and incredibly generous with his time – I not only learned a great deal during the day but also had a lot of fun. I came away armed with a massive amount of information. Mark has prepared lots and lots of notes encompassing everything we covered (so that I didn’t need to worry about remembering everything or frantically scribbling my own notes) – including good advice and useful leads on buying tools, what traps to avoid, etc. These will be really useful in setting up a workshop of my own. I would definitely recommend this course for anyone seeking an introduction to woodturning. Many thanks Mark!"

29 Aug 17'

Anne Corbridge reviewed: Landscapes in Fleece

"Today was my fourth course with Sally Ann so I think I am hooked ..... 3 willow products and a felt hare . All have pride of place my Stag is happily decorated in the garden at Christmas and the basket will have bulbs growing in it come the new year my friend has hung the light holders in her concervatory and won't give them back, the hares are used when I make the Easter trail for the grandchildren and are loved! I am a proud crafter with a thirst for more craft days THANK YOU SallyAnn hope to see you soon."

29 Aug 17'

Nahla reviewed: Two day leather work course - bag making

"Dear Jason, I can't thank you and Louis enough for all your help and supporting me during the past two days. I really enjoyed the course it's very helpful you were both Amazing Teachers.5"

29 Aug 17'

Gareth Thomas Roberts reviewed: Axe making course

"Had a phenomenal day doing the axe making course that Andy offers. Andy was helpful, informative and most of all patient throughout the entire process. He made the entire process and enjoyable experience and was supportive throughout the whole time I was there. The most important thing I found was the emphasis Andy had on the enjoyment of the process and it very much came across in how engaging he was when making the axe. Thanks for an awesome day Andy!"

29 Aug 17'

kathie paling reviewed: Full day leather craft workshop

"Had a fab day. Rosanna was so welcoming and taught me many new skills. She was very informative and was very patient with me. Very happy with the three items I made for my first attemlt at this craft. Looking forward to doing another one soon. Cant wait for her book to be published. Thankyou again andunch was great too."

29 Aug 17'

Sylvia Pinner reviewed: Ceramic Studio Experience - Sunday Clay Day - Full Day Tutor Interactive Workshop

"Great introduction to Raku. I would take this again to build upon knowledge learned. Sue and Gerry are great teachers and mentors in all aspects of clay and pots. A truly fun afternoon!"

29 Aug 17'

Janine Woodcock reviewed: Singing / Vocal Lessons

"I have been singing for many years in a 'low-key' kind of way (solos at friends weddings and christenings etc). Now, at the age of nearly fifty a friend of mine asked me to perform a 40 minute set at a festival she is running (up to 200 people - only friends and family). Excited, but slightly nervous I thought I'd better have some vocal coaching for the first time. I found Laura online and chose her as I was impressed by her qualifications. Laura's approach is great. She is gentle and encouraging; very good at giving feedback/improvement suggestions in a motivating way, and her experience and knowledge is well beyond her years. She is clearly passionate about helping people improve in whichever way they want - and that passion has helped with my motivation too. I have gained top tips on moving between head and chest voice, attacking head voice notes in a powerful way and bringing more expression into songs. Laura also helped me with the set-list order, and will be helping me with microphone technique as the festival draws nearer. Laura's sessions are fun, engaging and highly effective. I recommend her to anyone wanting to improve."

29 Aug 17'

Katie reviewed: Introduction to candle-making as a business

"What a great course! Very friendly, informative and enjoyable! Can't recommend Jo and her course enough!"

29 Aug 17'

Nahla reviewed: One day leather work course - small leather goods

"Dear Jason, I can't thank you and Louis enough for all your help and supporting me during the past two days. I really enjoyed the course it's very helpful you were both Amazing Teachers."

29 Aug 17'

Graham P reviewed: Whittling Birds in Wood ... the Woodpecker - with Dave Harter, a 'Quirky Workshop' nr Ullswater & the Lake District

"Had A great day at the whittling yesterday. Dave is a great tutor. The venue is lovely and the food was wonderful. The people were very nice and friendly. Thank you Graham"

29 Aug 17'

Shane Newman reviewed: One day silver jewellery designing and making workshop

"I had a great day with Bridgett. I was a complete novice when it came to silver smithing, every step was explained clearly and enable me to leave with a piece of jewellery that I can wear immediately. Bridgett has a lovely personality and is a wealth of knowledge and useful information regarding her craft, plus so much more. Bridgett is a great designer and teacher and I would highly recommend booking some time to learn a new skill or build on previous knowledge."

29 Aug 17'

Alastair reviewed: One to one, One day, blacksmith course

"A really amazing experience. Alex is gets the balance just right; he teaches you a technique, and once you've got the idea he lets you carry on with it on your own until you're ready for the next bit. He was very patient and helped me make a piece I am extremely proud of. I recommend the course to any one who will listen!"

28 Aug 17'

Melinda Hopkirk reviewed: 3 Day silver jewellery making course

"I highly recommend the three day course. I was a complete beginner and by the end of the course had made four pieces of jewellery that I absolutely love. Jonathon was both extremely knowledgeable and a great teacher. He was generous with both his time and resources and left me confident that I would be able to pursue jewellery making as a hobby and more on my own. The course was well structured and Jonathon provided all the equipment and materials needed. I was made to feel very welcome and thoroughly enjoyed the experience. I have no hesitation in recommending this course to anyone looking for a comprehensive introduction to jewellery making."

28 Aug 17'

Jaq Stewart reviewed: Mosaic day workshop on Orkney

"Had a fab day out and Catherines a lovely character. Great fun with the opportunity to release those creative juices. I'm pretty sure i'll be booking up for more courses in the future."

28 Aug 17'

David bunce reviewed: One to one, One day, blacksmith course

"Had a fantastic day with Alex, his knowledge and teaching was first class. Really hard work but so much fun, would recommend it to anyone to have a go."

28 Aug 17'

George reviewed: Wood turning courses in the Midlands

"I recently completed a days course given to me as a 20th birthday present from my parents. Despite watching countless online videos, I went into the day a complete beginner and left having found a new hobby. I was guided through all the basics of woodturning at a very easy pace, whilst Mark answered my many questions with great patience. I left many hours later carrying a wooden bowl and a head full of information, thankfully it had all been written down for me as well! As i had noted an interested in becoming a hobbyist, Mark was very helpful in recommending tools and lathes and where to look for maximum value. He also encouraged me to contact him if i had any queries when searching. All that is left is to persuade my parents to let me clear some space in the garage! For anyone with an interest in learning (young or old), I would highly recommend spending a day with Mark."

28 Aug 17'

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

"Having received the beginners weekend course as a Christmas present I was not entirely sure what to expect. Would I enjoy 2 days of hard graft? Would it be fun or a chore? Well I found it addictive! There is something very satisfying about creating a lasting (hopefully!) structure. A great antidote to modern computerised world. The tutors are very friendly and offer very helpful tips and guidance. There was a great team atmosphere and I gained the confidence to tackle basic wall repairs and construction. A really enjoyable couple of days in a beautiful setting. Highly recommended!"

27 Aug 17'

Heather Reid reviewed: Bespoke candle making workshop - Edinburgh

"This is the first course I've been on after a very long term illness. Kerry made me feel very welcome and relaxed. She took into account that I'm hard of hearing and placed me closest to her. She is a wonderful teacher and host. Although I knew some of the information about making candles, Kerry provided so much more during this course. She also gave me the confidence to try to make candles by myself which is a big step for me. She has instilled a passion within me to go and produce candles and that there will be mistakes made but that's ok, all part of the learning. For the first time in many years I feel excited and I can't wait to start poring my own candles in the Highlands. Kerry, you're a wonderful lady and I can't thank you enough x xx"

27 Aug 17'

Penny Mason reviewed: Mosaic one day workshop for adults with Caroline Jariwala, Birmingham

"Absolutely fantastic day! Caroline is a superb teacher and brilliant artist. Just walking through her home is totally inspirational and feeds your own creativity. Highly recommended!"

27 Aug 17'

Claire Stonehouse reviewed: Two-day Silkscreen Printing Course: Design and Print Your Own Fabric £170.00

"Caroline's beautiful home and garden provide the perfect and inspirational setting in which she teaches and encourages artistic endeavours! Her 2 day silkscreen printing course was a very worthwhile and productive experience for me. The teaching is excellent and thorough. It is possible to immerse oneself in the whole process under her patient and knowledgeable guidance, and there is the satisfaction of producing a finished design. In addition, there is enjoyable and wide ranging conversation, and the delicious lunches provided by Caroline's husband! I hope to return to develop other printing techniques."

26 Aug 17'

Sally reviewed: Kate Morrell willow sculpture courses

"An absolutely fantastic day with the very lovely Kate. I am now the proud owner of a beautiful squirrel! Kate is a great teacher, not only in the 'how to' of willow weaving but also in getting the proportions right. A wonderful day that went by really fast! A lovely lunch and refreshments throughout the day (thanks Dave!) and of course the company of Boris! Thanks so much Kate xxx"

26 Aug 17'

Debbie Bent reviewed: Glass blowing for beginners with Jon Lewis

"Amazing experience for my two boys in their twenties and me their mum. Jon was inspiring, calm and encouraging and we got to make marbles, baubles and a glass each. A very hands on few hours but with Jon's gentle support guiding us each step of the way. We loved it. The peaceful location next to the river was a bonus as we walked along and saw pigs next to the swans. We all want to come but this time with my daughter too."

26 Aug 17'

Jane Newson reviewed: One to one photographic tuition London - Online

"Fantastic course. So good to be able to relax and get creative. Richard was very supportive and encouraging and it was definitely something I needed to improve my picture taking. Would highly recommend it to anyone floundering with their photography."

26 Aug 17'

Thomas Pickering reviewed: Blacksmithing, bladesmithing and metal craft

"excellent few days, Nigel was is an excellent tutor and an expert in his field. a real and true craftsman in every sense of the word. i was given free reign to produce whatever i could conceive, (within reason) with nigels help i was able to produce 2 damascus steel knifes. ten out of ten across the board."