Latest reviews

John Siddall reviewed: Glass Fusing with Enamels - Two Day Course

"It's hard to add anything further to the glowing accounts from previous course attenders. We had a great time, Steve and Hannah made us so welcome and the technical assistance from Steve was first class. He is such a talent and generous in sharing his skill and artistry. Would love to do more!"

Alastair Barclay reviewed: French Polishing & Woodcare - Beginners Course - 1 Day

"I found the course held at Ardington interesting and rewarding. Although it was only one day I came away with a good insight into various techniques which I hope to build on in the future."

Lucy Williams reviewed: French Polishing & Woodcare - Beginners Course - 1 Day

"I recently attended a French Polishing course run by Ollie and it was by far the best and most informative course I have been on. I was given one to one tuition which meant that I learnt in one day what probably would have taken a week in a full class. Ollie tailored the course specifically for the type of furniture I wanted to work with, so instead of learning lots of things that weren't necessary, it was all relevant to me. Ollie was patient and very knowledgeable and encouraged me to ask questions if something wasn't clear. It was hugely practical and I have gone on to use what I learnt in this course on a daily basis as I now restore and sell furniture. I am so happy that I chose this course from all the many others that are out there."

Denise Goode reviewed: French Polishing & Woodcare - Beginners Course - 1 Day

"I recently attended a two day, Renovation & French polishing course with Ollie. He took the time before the course to find out what I wanted to get out of the time and I brought along two good, mid-century pieces of furniture that looked ‘wrecked’. Ollie is a brilliant tutor, he really listens, explains thoroughly, demonstrates and then encourages you to try it out. I couldn’t have enjoyed the days more! I got everything I wanted out of the course (and more) and have already started putting my new found skills to use. And as far as the ‘wrecked’ furniture is concerned I could not believe how they were transformed. Thank you Ollie for such a good course and looking forward to the next one."

Christina Pinel reviewed: Resist Felting - A Felt sampling Day: Cracked Mud, Nuno Resists & Felt Trapunto

"A great day of felting led by an excellent tutor. Workshop well organised with plenty of resources and materials so that students could learn new skills and complete three different wet felt samples."

Emma Jackson (Silversoles - Felted Textiles) responded:

"Dear Christina Many thanks for your review - I hope you are enjoying using your new felting skills. Best wishes Emma"

Ros reviewed: Hand-Spinning & Natural Dyeing Retreat, Highlands, Scotland

"Highly recommended whether you are a beginner in fibre crafts or already experienced. All the activities were well organised and fascinating, with brilliant end products for the participants to share. Most importantly, Rosie organised it really well and took everyone's needs into consideration – nothing was too much trouble for her. Accommodation in the Old Stables was excellent and very comfortable. Rosie worked hard all day and all evening, not just organising the activities, but also cooking wonderful wholesome, mainly organic meals, including home-made bread every day."

Annette Booth reviewed: Upholstery and soft furnishings 2 day course

"I have been going to evening classes with Angie for a few years now and absolutely love them. They are fun, creative and allow me to escape for a few hours each week I have learnt so much, upholstery, curtain and blind making, loose covers etc etc Thank you Angie, you are a star ⭐️"

Caryn Paladina reviewed: French Polishing & Woodcare - Beginners Course - 1 Day

"The two day course run by Ollie which I recently attended was tremendously enjoyable and informative. It was very well planned and executed and we all benefited from a lot of patient individual attention, with everything being carefully explained and demonstrated. Can't recommend Ollie highly enough and I'm very much looking forward to my next furniture renovation course."

O Harley reviewed: Contemporary Furniture Refinishing & Upcycling with Woodcare - 1 Day Beginners

"I spent two very interesting and informative days with Ollie for a French polishing workshop. He is very patient and the atmosphere is both relaxed and industrious. He was very generous with his time and his knowledge, and I have contacted him since to ask his advice. Ollie clearly loves what he does and I felt lucky to be learning so much from him. I am sure I shall return to learn more."

Julie Sarahs reviewed: Contemporary Furniture Refinishing & Upcycling with Woodcare - 1 Day Beginners

"French polishing & wood care course. I took my own piece of furniture to work on. Felt very welcome & comfortable in Ollie's workshop. We worked way over the planned times to which I am very grateful. Ollie is very patient, generous with his knowledge & time. I have learnt loads, have a shopping list of tools & materials I need. Have workshop envy!!!!!"

Martin Stanhope reviewed: Contemporary Furniture Refinishing & Upcycling with Woodcare - 1 Day Beginners

"This course is a superb introduction into woodcare and furniture upcycling. Ollie will show you how to take a piece of furniture that's very much an 'ugly duckling' and turn it into a swan!"

Vickie Whitelaw reviewed: Wire wrap ring making workshop at Sheila Kerr Jewellery, Irvine, Ayrshire

"We had a lovely time for our first wedding anniversary doing our wire ring wrapping. Sheila is clearly very talented not just as a jewellery maker but also as a teacher. I have received so many compliments on the ring i made which makes it even more special."

Sheila Kerr Jewellery responded:

"Hi Thank you for taking the time to review my workshop. It was really enjoyable showing you both how to create the ring and particularly as it was your first wedding anniversary. I’m also very pleased that you are wearing your ring. Thanks again. Regards Sheila"

Ingrid keary reviewed: French Polishing & Woodcare - Beginners Course - 1 Day

"Loved the style and pace that Ollie brings to his course. He brings a wealth of knowledge and guides you through to create a beautiful finished piece. Highly recommended"

Natural Dyeing and Spinning Retreat reviewed: Hand-Spinning & Natural Dyeing Retreat, Highlands, Scotland

"This was an awesome natural wool retreat! From the foraging for plants to use for dyes, to dyeing over fires, to Eco printing on silk, to spinning, it was the most fun fiber learning experience ever. Everything was accomplished at a seamless and easy pace. The accommodations in the refurbished "Old Stables" (in the rural pastoral countryside) were comfortable, spacious, and homelike. It was next to a bird sanctuary and offered lots of places to walk. The accommodations provided for both privacy and a place for the group to visit, eat meals, and get to know each other. The meals were delicious and nutritious. Loved the day of hiking in Glen Affric too. Rosie is an amazing facilitator, instructor, and cook who pulls everything together with ease!"

Katie Smith reviewed: Contemporary Furniture Refinishing & Upcycling with Woodcare - 1 Day Beginners

"Ollie is passionate about wood. His two day course was packed full of detailed information and tips to up cycle old furniture. The take away contact and hints sheets were particularly useful after the event as there are so many skills to take on board over two days. His kind, calm, unassuming manner makes you feel less of a novice from the start. He takes time to talk through your ideas and will demonstrate different techniques whilst your working piece is drying. He has exacting skills, and enjoys modern design as well as treasuring the history of cherished furniture. I would willingly spend time under his tutorage again as his knowledge is vast and his stress free way of working suited me well. Thank you."

Janet McNeill reviewed: French Polishing & Woodcare - Beginners Course - 1 Day

"I thoroughly enjoyed the two day French polishing course. Ollie is a perfectionist, and an excellent and very patient tutor. At every stage Ollie explained what needed to be done, showed how to do it, and then encouraged me to do it myself to a high standard. I am now the proud owner of two beautiful inherited antique chests of drawers, rather than just neglected heirlooms!"

Tim Matthews reviewed: Two person 'Have a Bash' at Blacksmithing course in Shropshire

"Very much enjoyed the day. It was a great introduction to blacksmithing. Jake familiarised me with the key equipment that I’d be using and gave a clear demonstration of how to make various items. Jake articulated every step of the process which helped me thoroughly understand the procedure of producing each piece. The workshop is great, it’s authentic. There’s no computers, no air conditioning; just metal, fire and dripping sweat . An exceptional day and would recommend to anyone who is looking for an good personal introduction to blacksmithing. Many thanks Jake."

Lampshade Making reviewed: Fabric printing & lampshade making workshop

"Ria is a very patient and knowledgeable teacher. We both came away with lampshades we are going to use - mine is going to be a Wedding present for someone and I'm really happy with the result. The setting is lovely and we also enjoyed lunch from the cafe. I've recommended to a friend already! Ria gives enough input so that you get a fantastic results but still feel that you designed and made it - a perfect balance!"

Vinny Cain reviewed: Intermediate woodworking course

"I knew I was going to enjoy this course . What I didn't know was how much I would enjoy it. Ciarán seemed to have time for everybody and has the patience of a saint. Lunchtime came round too quickly and so did finishing time each day because I was so engrossed and enjoying it. I can't recommend Ciarán and this course too much it is excellent. Thanks Ciarán."

Oliver Piepereit - OP Woodcraft reviewed: Wood turning courses in the Midlands

"Being a flat worker (As Mark called me) I thought it time to learn the art of wood turning. Mark was a great tutor who has a wealth of knowledge and experience not to mention a great eye for design. I did two days learning numerous techniques which i'll take forward into the world of sculpture. Mark was really patient, could see I was a little nervous and by the end of the tuition I felt really comfortable at the lathe. I'll be back for more tuition without a doubt. Keep up the good work!!"

Alex Sullivan reviewed: Custom Leather Working Course

"After deciding to increase my skill level and expand my knowledge base, I paid a visit to Nigel. He took me back to basics and helped me to solidify my leather working techniques. Nigel is a great teacher - as seen in his Vimeo channels - and explains even difficult procedures in simplified terms to help you understand. I will certainly be back for another lesson. 10/10 would recommend"

Alyson Ward reviewed: Stained glass weekly classes in Sheffield (South Yorkshire)

"I cannot rate this course highly enough. Martin is an excellent and patient teacher, allowing each class member to work at their own pace. He is always encouraging and happily shares of his many years of experience in this craft, allowing us to learn from what has gone well for him. The facilities at the workshop are also excellent. There is never any waiting around for equipment to become free, every class member has exactly the tools needed. He is always very aware of our safety and teaches us best practice with regards to health and safety. It is also very helpful to be able to purchase some items from Martin which he supplies at very competitive prices. I have met some lovely people on Martin's course and look forward to returning."

Deborah Williams reviewed: Stained glass weekly classes in Sheffield (South Yorkshire)

"This is an excellent course! As a beginner, Martin will show you both the traditional way of making leaded stained glass and also the Tiffany method, you will then have a chance to produce a piece of your choice using either of these new skills. Martin is a patient, well organised teacher with a wealth of knowledge and ideas and the classroom is well set out with all the equipment easy to find. I thoroughly recommend this course."

Don sangster reviewed: Wood turning courses in the Midlands

"Book two days with Mark, what a wonderful experience I had. Mark was very patience knowledgable teacher no doubt very talented man my confidence grew and grew as the time went bye. I would definitely be recommending Mark to anyone interested in all aspects of woodturning. I’ve taking away so many tips and tricks wonderful two days. Money will spend."

Esther Taylor-Head reviewed: Watercolour painting afternoon workshop - birds, animals & nature - with artist Laura Andrew

"Thoroughly enjoyed every minute of this course. Laura is a very accomplished and talented artist who managed to guide me through my work with ease to produce pieces that I didn’t think I was capable of. Couldn’t recommend this day any more!"