Latest reviews

Barbara Williamson reviewed: Tapestry weaving workshop for beginners

"This was my first ever workshop and I'm so glad I signed up! After my first booking was cancelled earlier in the year, I was eager not to miss this one! I thoroughly enjoyed the whole day, from being greeted warmly at the door to leaving a few hours later with my tapestry tucked under my arm! Jane is a great teacher and has lots of suggestions on the various types of weave. She has a bundle of patience and chats along with you while you work! Her attic space creates a great environment for creativity! Thank you Jane (and Graham!)"

Sarah Callaghan reviewed: Bespoke candle making workshop - Edinburgh

"I had a great morning learning all about the art of candle making. A good opportunity to meet new people in a fun and relaxed atmosphere. Anyone who is interested in learning a new hobby or perhaps a new business venture should head along to this candle making course. Our host Kerry made us feel most welcome in her beautiful kitchen workshop."

Lynne reviewed: Zarzo Baskets

"I so enjoyed this Zarzo basket making course last Saturday and I came away with two wonderful baskets. I would not have believed that I could manage to make two in one day but I did - it was well organised and thought through, and everything was prepared for us. We worked in pairs which was great because it meant that between the two of us we were sure to understand or remember the process, and what one of us could not remember the other could. It made for a friendly session too. Nicki and her assistant-husband were so expert at their craft and were always on hand to help. The village hall was easy to find and there was plenty of parking too. One of the best bits: I have an absolutely lovely Zarzo basket .... and I was a complete beginner. Thank you, both of you!"

Jane Rankine reviewed: Introduction to Off-Loom Weaving Workshop, Crawley, Hampshire

"Ellie is a lovely and enthusiastic tutor and I really enjoyed the workshop. My only suggestion would be perhaps not to offer drinks straight away so that she is on hand to welcome everyone and find out what made people want to come to the class and find out names. Once everyone got started there was a natural break to go and make teas etc. The choice of materials was excellent as was the equipment provided. I'm sure anyone wishing to learn a bit about weaving would benefit from this workshop."

Elka responded:

"Hi Jane thank you very much for the review. Apologies for being on tea duty when you arrived. I like to offer everyone refreshments on arrival as some have traveled several hours to get there. I have taken your comments on board and will make sure everyone has been introduced properly moving forwards. It was great to meet you and I'm glad you enjoyed working with all the materials."

Christine Stainer reviewed: Firebird Forge Blacksmithing School

"I was given a day of blacksmithing for my 40th birthday. I’d been wanting to give it a go for ages. There was only one other on the course with me which meant we got lots of personal tuition. I arrived with an idea of what I wanted to make and actually went home with it! I made a plant stand. We learnt the techniques that were used on our individual projects as we were going along. There were lots of demonstrations, advice and hands on help from Mort but you really felt like you had made the piece at the end of the day. A day later my arm is still aching! Thanks for a great day Mort and sharing some of your knowledge."

Jess reviewed: ‘Winter dream ' wool painting face-to-face textile art course in Worcestershire

"Raya is a very gentle, patient and inspirational teacher. She creates a lovely relaxing atmosphere to work in and you never feel rushed."

Caron reviewed: Introductory soap making workshop

"I booked onto this course last minute this weekend. I can thoroughly recommend it such an informative and fun introduction to soap making. Nicola and Ben are true gems and very knowledgeable and helpful. I gained so much from this workshop had I done research at home and with books it would have taken me forever. I have the bug for it now and cannot wait to do the skincare products course, only downside I now have to wait till next year as they are very busy. Beautiful location and a homely place to learn."

claudine cullimore reviewed: Introduction to Off-Loom Weaving Workshop, Crawley, Hampshire

"It was a wonderful evening workshop. Both informative and enjoyable. We learned the basics of weaving and had enough time to create our own small wall hanging choosing from a great selection of materials provided by Ellie. I would definitely do more workshops."

Elka responded:

"Hi Claudie, thank you so much for the review. It was great to meet you and i'm very glad you enjoyed the workshop."

Louise Pople reviewed: Introductory course covering wet felting and Nuno techniques in the beautiful Forest of Dean

"What a great day. Christine was a patient, helpful inspiring teacher with a lovely approach to her craft and pupils. Well equipped studio, plentiful cups of coffee, wonderful soup for lunch and a view to die for. The process of making the felt was interesting and absorbing, all the slippers that we made were very individual and creative. I shall look forward very much to wearing mine this winter. I would thoroughly recommend Christine's courses."

Christine Waygood. Contemporary Textiles. responded:

"Thank you . It would be lovely to have a photo when you've added the finishing touches. Hope to see you again. Chris"

Alice Thompson reviewed: Wedding Calligraphy Workshop for Beginners

"I had a good time while practicing an amazing skill! Hope I'll be done with my wedding calligraphy until the big day! Amalia is truly passionate about her work and she shared so many secrets of her job! The class was very well structured, so that in only 2 hours we learned so much!"

Ethan reviewed: Copperplate Essentials – Beginners Class

"Good teaching and easy to follow! So much useful information."

Edith Worobjeff reviewed: Christmas calligraphy - beginners modern calligraphy workshop

"Very friendly, creative and inspiring workshop! :)"

Amanda Allan reviewed: Bespoke candle making workshop - Edinburgh

"Had a great morning at Kerry's candle workshop. She is very organised and friendly and is very knowledgeable on all aspects of candles. I now know how to burn a candle correctly! Would highly recommend to friends. Thank you Kerry."

Kay Aitch reviewed: Two day axe and felling course

"I thoroughly enjoyed the course - the tutor was very knowledgeable and the learning environment was friendly and relaxed while at the same time I was helped to feel safe using the tools. As the tutor was assisted by capable volunteers there was always someone on hand for guidance - and I was amply supplied with cups of tea! During the course I developed more confidence using axes and billhooks in particular. I now have an understanding of the process for felling a tree, the tools to use and the safety issues to be aware of. I was able to improve my skill working with an axe to shape wood to prepare it for craft use - I also learnt more about sharpening and maintaining my axe. The weather is always bound to play a part in outdoor courses and over the weekend we had both windy and rainy conditions however as there is indoor space to use and a covered craft area we were able to keep busy and learning - I'm glad that we were able to go out and do the hands on work though, felling trees then dealing with them on the ground, sawing, chopping and snedding."

Rebecca Pitt reviewed: Introduction to Off-Loom Weaving Workshop, Crawley, Hampshire

"Great introduction to weaving. Ellie was a really friendly teacher, and the venue was beautiful. The yarns that Ellie supplied were really varied and beautiful, which made it easy to be creative. I'd recommend this course!"

Elka responded:

"Hi Rebecca, I'm so glad you enjoyed the workshop. I loved your weaving! Thank you for the lovely review :)"

Chris Curwen reviewed: Four day intensive beginners woodwork course

"I've just completed the intensive four-day beginners course and can't recommend it highly enough. I'd last done a bit of woodwork at school (now a LONG time ago) and really wanted to get back into it with a view to a hobby or possibly making pieces to sell. Ciaran is a great teacher and a smashing bloke (who also makes a mean cup of tea/coffee). The atmosphere is relaxed and very friendly and Ciaran taught us a wide range of woodworking skills, but also including tool selection and refurbishing, and some really good insights on choice and prices of wood. There were six of us on the course and we were all absolutely delighted with the beautiful ash and walnut display tables we made during the final two intensive days of the course - we didn't know if we'd be capable of it, but with Ciaran's expert tuition we were! Everyone should do this course!"

Maggie harris reviewed: Felted spring wreaths or garlands.

"Excellent tuition ,friendly group. Rachal and Rihanna do an excellent team work,regarding a broad range of ideas,on work you wish to do. Always ready to help, if you get creative brain drain ? I’ve been myself 5 times,and always get excited about going back . Highly recommend great day out .....happy felting"

2 Inspire You responded:

"Thank you Maggie, It was a pleasure as usual and your bottle stopper was amazing. Take care of yourself and I look forward to seeing you on the 25th. Dont forget some photos for inspiration"

steven beck reviewed: Introduction to Green Wood Furniture Making - 2 Day Course in South Devon

"I was brought this as a gift which I thought was a joke as my past woodwork experience has left me with nothing more than a big pile of shavings . However, The whole experience was excellent and I really enjoyed myself. I surprised myself and my family when I returned home with a piece of furniture ( a table) which my wife wants to keep in the house :) . On the course we went from tree stumps to some amazing furniture within just two days and the techniques we learnt will allow everyone of us to do this in my leisure time at home . The whole group produced some fantastic work and the relaxed atmosphere meant everyone got on and pulled together . Overall it was a great experience and Peter and Joe looked after us all brilliantly . So no matter what your skill level I recommend this as a course for you and/or your loved ones ."

Selina Messent reviewed: Botanical Art Workshop - Two-day Course at Sculpture by the Lakes with Julia Trickey

"Good course. I arrived late so it was my fault. I sat at a desk near the door, keeping me a seat. ( thank you). I was near the door and each time it was opened I was very cold. Being glass a draft from under it all the time. One lady hit her head not seeing the glass. Prehaps a sticker ? Lovely people, food good and teaching excellent. Time went too fast!!!!!"

Art & Inspiration at Sculpture by the Lakes responded:

"Dear Selina - Yes we've written to everyone on the course about the draft and we've already got new heaters so everyone stays warm - thanks for the tip about the glass door too! Very glad you enjoyed the workshop despite missing the first half but hope you managed to catch up.... We hope to see you again at the Lakes soon."

Barry reviewed: Full day leather craft workshop

"I must say that the whole one day course was a great pleasure and surprised myself how much I learned in such a short period, not having been involved in leatherwork ever. It has inspired me to buy the essential tools so that I can continue work in this craft. Rosanna was delightful and made for a most pleasurable day. I would advise anyone thinking of being involved in any of the classes to think no more and just do it - you won't be disappointed."

Laura Clifton reviewed: Christmas Pudding - needle felting workshop with The Lady Moth

"I was lucky enough to attend the pumpkin making needle-felting course with my mum and sister - what a simply perfect way to spend three hours on a Saturday!!!! We were all new to this craft and it was a delight to learn from Zenia, she was patient and attentive, offering help when we needed it and being encouraging as we found our ‘groove’ with needle-felting. We came away with a love for a new craft and well equipped with various wool and tools so we could continue at home as we enjoyed what we had done so much. Our workshop was at Sew, Knit, Craft and the room was cosy but ideal for our size group and it was lovely to be surrounded by such craft-loveliness in the form of beautiful fabrics and other craft bits and pieces. We would definitely go back and we would all highly recommend this workshop to anyone considering giving it a try. Thank you Zenia!!!"

Lucy reviewed: The Suffolk Silk Scarf Painting Workshops at The Arty Silkworm - Fabulously Creative

"A wonderful day learning how to literally go with the flow of colour. Lovely setting and great people. Ruth is a fantastic host and always enthusiastic and supportive. The products at the end are truest unique and I can’t wait to attend another day!"

The Arty Silkworm responded:

"Hi Lucy. So glad you had a great day, the results were just lovely. It was a very productive day! I look forward to seeing you again at the December workshop. Best Wishes Ruth x"

TRACEY LOTT reviewed: Introduction to Soft Pastels 10-week face-to-face art course in Kidderminster West Midlands

"WOW! What a fantastic day! Wool Painting…...something I had never come across and which was neither painting on wool or felting!! A wonderful day with Raya learning how to paint with fibres. Initially intrigued by the idea of painting wool I soon realised it was far more. We brought together beautiful coloured wool and silk fibres to “paint” a picture. A relaxing, therapeutic and all immersing craft which produces the effect of watercolour without paint. Raya was informative and knowledgeable with a real flare for imparting her gift to others. A lovely atmosphere resulting in creativity beyond our expectations leaving us desperate for more!"

Magic Wool Art and Craft Studio responded:

"Dear Tracey, Thank you so much for an amazing review! I am so happy that I managed to inspire you and pass on my love of working with natural fibres! Good luck with your future wool paintings and other Art and Craft projects. Raya"

Cath Munn reviewed: Felted spring wreaths or garlands.

"I have been on many workshops, and this has been one of the best. Rachel is very welcoming, she is patient, encouraging and flexible which means that the people taking part in the course can be as creative as they like. Also having 2 teachers meant that everyone got the help they wanted, when they wanted it. Thank you."

2 Inspire You responded:

"Thanks Cath, I am glad you got back safe. Your wreath was amazing and your crocheted flowers you made overnight looked fabulous among the squirrels and snails. I hope your fairies enjoyed the journey and their new home. I will work on making the distance closer."

Julia Ractliffe reviewed: Felted spring wreaths or garlands.

"What a super day with Rachel at her wreath felting workshop. As a complete novice, and with very little creative flair, she, and her lovely assistant, guided me through my options and made gentle suggestions without taking over my creation! The available materials were plentiful, so much so that it took a while to settle on a design as there was so much to chose from! I've learnt a lot and have come away with a desire to do more. Thank you, keep doing what you're doing - great way to jump off the planet and explore your creative side with a bunch of lovely people!"

2 Inspire You responded:

"Thank you Jules, It was great to meet you both on Sunday. I hope you had a good journey home. Your wreath was beautiful and so colourful. I hope the bells jingling bring the reindeers safely to you at Christmas"