Latest reviews

14 Jan 17'

Bobbie reviewed: Beginners sewing classes on one to one basis

"Fantastic class, I really look forward to this class every month! I have learnt such a lot, and have been able to make so many hand made gifts because of this class!! We always have such a laugh too, lovely tutors!! Just brilliant!! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐"

14 Jan 17'

Andrew Mirza reviewed: One day stained glass classes by Le Breton Traditional

"Matt is an excellent tutor. Within the first hour, after the safety training, I was cutting glass confidently. The size of the class is small so this means Matt can attend to each person individually, providing guidance and a helping hand as needed. Lending his knowledge and expertise he has helped me realise my stain glass design. This included the choice of colours for the glass, technical aspects to achieve the desired effect, e.g., acid etching and glass staining for the written text. An important consideration for me is that the venue for the class is nearby and the time is convenient being a day at the weekend. The cost included access to all tools, materials, and safety ware. The only thing I brought to the class was my design, although Matt does say he can provide designs that can be achieved within the day. I have had two sessions so far because my stain glass design while not complex is tricky to make, there being lots of small circles. All the pieces are cut and ready. So I look forward to my next session, and with Matt's help, assemble my stain glass plaque. Matt's class is a great way to spend a day in an out of the ordinary activity. No prior experience needed just a willingness to learn. You will be fully engaged in activity and be surprised at how the time passes. It is interesting to see the stained glass designs that other attendees are making. At the final day's end, you leave with an object and a story of an experience which you can show and tell to family and friends. Each time you catch a glimpse of your stain glass feature you can say ‘I made that.’"

14 Jan 17'

Sally Tait reviewed: Learn to Crochet at The Quercus Rooms, Carmarthen

"I have just attended this peg loom course and had a wonderful day. Helen was very helpful and clear with her instructions and made the whole experience most enjoyable. The museum was a really good venue too. Can you believe I had to travel 208 miles from Lancaster to find a peg loom course but it was absolutely worth every inch. Thank you Helen."

14 Jan 17'

Susie J. Gray reviewed: Willow sculpture weaving hares courses at Greenwood Days

"I had planned another very short visit to my beloved England this past Autumn, and was thrilled to be able to attend Tom Hares willow sculpture course at Greenwood Days. Since I was traveling from the US, and using only public transport in the UK, I needed assistance in getting to the woodland. Peter was a very gracious host, in helping me make plans, in collecting me from a nearby bus stop, and in providing a lovely woodland classroom environment and delicious hot soup and bread for lunch each day! A willow weaver myself, I have been an admirer of Toms work since 2011 when I first visited Wakehurst Place. To say I was thrilled to attend is an understatement. It was a dream come true. I found Tom to be very generous tutor, answering all my questions thoroughly, offering encouragement and sharing the specific details and methods for the very unique weaving style he has developed in his sculptural work over the years. I learned so much and am now attempting to incorporate what I learned in my own practice here in Vermont, USA. My classmates were three very lovely ladies about my age. I enjoyed their company immensely, the cups of tea and cake, a tour of the local area and a heaping dose of good conversation and laughter. I hope we are all able to follow thru on having a reunion for another course at Greenwood Days in a year or two! My experience at Greenwood Days was first rate, in every way. I highly recommend this venue to anyone considering attending a course"

14 Jan 17'

Andi reviewed: Drawing Course for Complete Beginners

"The first class was a revelation: I learned why it's so difficult to get started and how to get over the intimidation of the blank page. Looking forward so much to the next class!"

14 Jan 17'

Claire Shelley reviewed: Creative Vibe - Glassblowing Sessions

"I booked this course as a surprise for my mum's birthday. We had such fun. Ricky was a great teacher and we learnt so much. We can't wait to see our finished pieces. Thanks again for an amazing day."

13 Jan 17'

Angie Morris reviewed: Upholstery classes at Sandra Fryer's Workshops

"Sandra's classes are superb - first class teaching in small groups, so you receive lots of attention. From being a complete novice in September, under Sandra's tuition and with her encouragement, I have learnt several techniques and completed projects in a friendly and informal atmosphere. Sandra is expert in all types of upholstery and so enthusiastic. Going along to her classes, sharing ideas and learning a new skill has been hugely enjoyable. Highly recommended!"

13 Jan 17'

Cat Anson reviewed: Hide camp - deer skin into buckskin

"Attended this incredible course last year. The venue was stunning and I felt so immersed in nature. The tutors managed the group needs with finesse, giving everyone the time and attention they needed. I was overwhelmed by the knowledge of our tutors and got more than my monies worth from them. Highly recommend this course regardless of level of experience. Even if you've tanned before there's so much you can learn. So good I'm considering doing it again just for the sheer enjoyment of being around these talented and knowledgeable ladies."

13 Jan 17'

Peter Roper reviewed: Wood turning courses

"Firstly I must thank George and his wife for making me so welcome to their home and for providing a lovely luncheon and copious cups of coffee. I have to admit that initially I was a little hesitant in getting to grips with handling the gouge. However, Georg's patience, watchful eye and guiding hand enabled me to make what I felt was a reasonable start. (It was over 50 years ago that I last did any woodturning!) The afternoon session progressed well and I felt much more at ease with the tool handling. Not so many ‘white knuckle’ moments! With a more relaxed hold things progressed well. With the final process of sanding completed and the application of a sealer finish I had made (with assistance at critical points) a unique memento of the day. I now have a lot to think about and have quite a few decisions to make. Selling my motorbike to make some space being the most difficult for me. Before I jump in with both feet I will take some more of Georg's professional advice so that I don’t end up with unsuitable equipment. It’s all down to me now. Thank you again George for your patience and skill at imparting some knowledge into my brain."

13 Jan 17'

Andrew Eldred reviewed: Blacksmithing courses

"What a great day! Hands on experience in a small group. Lovely atmosphere and down to earth guidance from Lucille. I would encourage everyone to give the course a go."

13 Jan 17'

Jane reviewed: Friday mosaic making

"I had such a lovely time at this workshop. Audrey is extremely welcoming and on hand for any queries that I had. She's very knowledgeable about mosaic art and will direct you when you're not quite sure where to go next. I wasn't quite sure what I was going to do when I first arrived but I'm so happy with what I came away with. There was such a wide range of tiles to choose from, it was like being in a sweetie shop, I loved it and will definitely be back!"

13 Jan 17'

susie gilbert reviewed: Make a silver ring or bangle

"I have had the pleasure of attending one of Lucys' Jewellery Workshops this week. I had a wonderful day.Lucy discussed just what I would like to get out of the day and she delivered. The teaching was first class.I can't believe how much we covered in one day.I am over the moon with the bracelet I made with loads of help.I will be attending more workshops in the future Lucy has so much expertise and experience through a lifetime of jewellery making.Would recommend this workshop for anyone from a beginner to a jewellery maker who wants to take their jewellery up a notch."

13 Jan 17'

Edwina and Duncan Finn reviewed: Full day leather craft workshop

"We were given a one day leather workshop as a Christmas gift and had an amazing day! Rosanna is a delightful and talented teacher. She put us at our ease and made us very welcome in her studio. She showed us a wide selection of useful and beautiful items that we could make in a choice of leathers and gave us time to consider which ones we might like to make. I chose a very soft blue leather and with Rosanna's guidance and patience made a lined, zipped pencil case with a tassel and a matching sketchbook cover. I also made a hand stitched card case and a double sided vanity tray, embossed with a friends name, which will make a unique gift for a special birthday. My husband made a card holder, a notebook cover and a hand stitched spectacles case which he embossed with his initials. We're both so thrilled with what we've made and they'll be put to use with pride. Thank you so much Rosanna - we really have had a wonderful day and we'll definitely be booking again. Edwina Finn"

13 Jan 17'

Juliet Luffman reviewed: Introduction to candle-making as a business

"I attended Jo's candle making day on 10/01/17. It was a great way to start the year! Jo lives in a beautiful home set in the countryside, overlooking a field of highland cows. I explained my goal of setting up my own candle business and Jo was extremely supportive and the course materials included lots of useful information and lists of suppliers etc. The day was very well structured and I went home with a variety of scented candles. I highly recommend Jo's course to anyone who wants a fun day out or is looking to set up a business of their own. Excellent value for money and lunch was lovely. Great Experience!"

12 Jan 17'

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

"Signing on this two day course was a result of pure curiosity, as to what goes into building the miles of dry stone walls that lace the landscape. The course indeed satisfied my curiosity to some tune, thanks to the great atmosphere that the guys running the course create and the relaxed way they pass on their skills. It was a really positive and enthusiastic experience that you couldn't fail to enjoy learning in. You couldn't move for phones being drawn to capture our own sections of the completed wall at the end of the day on a photo. What a great sense of achievement! As you have probably gathered I would strongly recommend this course to anyone. And though I have satisfied the curiosity, I have kept on walling."

12 Jan 17'

Jenny Doyle reviewed: Machine embroidery - stitch doodling with Julie Brand at Tigley Textiles in Worcester

"Had a wonderful day on the machine embroidery course and felt really inspired and empowered. Lovely welcoming environment and Julie is an excellent teacher. Small numbers meant everyone could see the demonstrations easily. It was amazing that we all ended with a piece of work so different from others although we used the same templates and techniques. I shall definitely return to the project sessions. Thank you for sharing your knowledge and talents Julie x"

12 Jan 17'

Nicola Knappe reviewed: All inclusive artisan baking weekend in Devon

"I had a great time and learned a lot, mostly these "little" things which make all the difference when you are setting up your own bakery. The accommodation is lovely and peaceful, just what you need when you have to work hard for two days! Penny and Dragan are the best teachers going and have a real sense of humour which definitely helps. And on top you will enjoy the most delicious dinners prepared by Penny with lots of attention to detail. No need to go the local Michelin star pub. Thanks to Penny and Dragan I am confident in making my loaves now and most important, my customers are very happy with the result. Thank you, Penny and Dragan! Nicola from Ireland"

12 Jan 17'

James Martin reviewed: Furniture making SKILLS WEEK - Essential cabinetmaking hand skills - 5 days in East Sussex

"John is a great teacher and the course content was spot on. Its also a great location for me and the home made cakes are a very nice plus!"

12 Jan 17'

Kerry Kyriacou reviewed: Furniture making SKILLS WEEK - Essential cabinetmaking hand skills - 5 days in East Sussex

"Even with the bar set so high for beginners, the instruction was presented in such well organised and digestible bite size chunks, one was able to absorb and implement the information without feeling overwhelmed or too confused. The course and instruction far exceeded anything I could have reasonably expected"

12 Jan 17'

Stacy Barron reviewed: Furniture making SKILLS WEEK - Essential cabinetmaking hand skills - 5 days in East Sussex

"The knowledge and the way information was put across by John standout but the all round atmosphere was excellent. Please move to Carlisle so you are closer. To be honest it is the best week I have had."

12 Jan 17'

Janet fuchs reviewed: Stained Glass in a Day

"Great course, really interesting, enjoyable and fun. Nice, friendly and helpful people running the course. Would suit all abilities and you go home with a super keepsake! We can highly recommend any of the courses run by Cariad Glass"

12 Jan 17'

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

"I loved this wool painting class. Even though I do not have much art experience Raya was very approachable and helpful. She was awesome! I felt like I had success yet I was challenged."

11 Jan 17'

MARK HAMILTON reviewed: Platinum Palladium Print Making workshop

"I am a professional photographer and took this course last year. Richard was great to work with and I learnt some wonderful tips and techniques on the course related to platinum printing. It was a great thing to see a platinum print come to life for the first time from start to end. I would recommend this course for anyone starting off to professionals, Richard can take you through all the processes and I can guarantee you will enjoy the course and leave with the knowledge to proceed forward in your projects. Now I would even call Richard a friend, as I go forward with my salt and platinum printing and share experiences in this niche world that we are so passionate about producing the ultimate image. Thanks again Richard."

11 Jan 17'

Belle reviewed: Introduction to candle-making as a business

"Jo was very knowledgeable and went through a number of different techniques. She explains in a way that makes it easy to remember and gives you a sheet to take away. She suggests good places to get materials from and the benefits of each, she also offers to help via email after the course has finished. Jo has a huge range of scents to add to the candles and lovely decorative things to add too. For your money you get lunch and a lot of materials too to take away, so it is very good value. Jo's house is lovely and the day would make a lovely gift for anyone. I had never made a candle before and now I am confident that I could. Jo also went through a few common problems and ways to solve them. Thoroughly recommend."

11 Jan 17'

Julie Meakin reviewed: 2 Online Felt Picture Courses - Summer Storm & Raindrops on Roses

"Wow: Bridget is a great artist and fabulous teacher: indefatigable in giving us all so much individual attention . Also creates a warm , supportive atmosphere: I learnt a lot technically and am inspired to do more! Lovely light venue , and great tea choice and biccies!!"