Latest reviews

15 Sep 16'

Helen Lowe reviewed: Basic throwing with Jon French

"It’s always refreshing to be taught by a tutor whose love of his subject is instantly apparent. In the clean, well organised and spacious studio our tutor, Kevin, began day one with cylinder making. After balling up the clay into perfect spheres he gave a very concise and well paced demonstration of centring, leaving us in no doubt of the importance of that particular skill. We all went off to give it a go and Kevin thoughtfully divided his attention equally between each person in our group of 10. On day two we made bowls and in the afternoon had the opportunity to either turn them or to carry on practising to throw. Throughout the course encouragement , enthusiasm and good humour never waned ... Kevin’s knowledge of ceramics, which he seemed delighted to impart, added a never ending supply of interest. Lunch was fresh, tasty and well considered and another bonus was a brief history of Potclays talk and tour of the factory. I left the friendly atmosphere with a real desire to get practising and return. I would very much recommend this course to a complete beginner or any person who has tried to self teach with out progress."

15 Sep 16'

Helen Wilkinson reviewed: Basic throwing with Jon French

"This was a fantastic course. There were 10 of us working on Shimpo wheels in a pleasant studio over 2 days. Kevin was just amazing - he demonstrated techniques and then we had a go. He then came round and gave us individual help. This meant that although we were a mixed ability group from complete novice to reasonably competent we all got to make good progress. On the first day we learnt to throw cylinder shapes and on the second we learnt bowls and turning. Kevin was a mine of information and full of anecdotes - we tried to to get him so spill the beans on the next series of 'Throwdown' - but he wouldn't tell..... An excellent lunch was provided and special diets catered for. We also had a very informative tour of the Potclays factory. A bonus was the ability to purchase from the Potclays well stocked shop at a discount. We we well taught and it was fun and good value - a great beginners course."

15 Sep 16'

Maxine Gibbs reviewed: Crochet for Beginners (Adults) in Putney

"I had an amazing afternoon with Sowmya yesterday. She is a fantastic teacher and a wonderful host. I have struggled to crochet for years, I had tried friends teaching me and video tutorials and books but just could not grasp it...I am was amazed to be able to make a flower and crochet a granny square within the space of 3 hours. Sowmya has a marvellous and holistic style of teaching and she tailored the whole afternoon around my needs and pace. I cannot recommend a class with her strongly enough. I am working on my newly learned skills and plan to book another class at a later date to improve my skills once I have fully mastered the basics."

15 Sep 16'

Karen Lintott-Moss reviewed: Calligraphy workshop - half day

"Gaynor is a very patient and supportive teacher who has very precise attention to detail, often making the slightest adjustments to the way you work, which would have been impossible to pick up through online tutorials and are so invaluable to improving your calligraphy. The workshops have an informal and friendly atmosphere, with students of all levels attending. I always leave the sessions feeling full of inspiration and motivation!"

15 Sep 16'

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

"Thoroughly enjoyable day. Friendly welcome, excellent tuition for a total novice with no previous art/craft experience + those with experience. Well structured, great pace. I am totally amazed by what can be created in such short time. Thank you!"

15 Sep 16'

Kay Jenkins reviewed: Introduction to Glass Fusing with Enamels - Full Day Workshop

"The workshop on Saturday was made both enjoyable and instructive by Steve's patience and good humour throughout the day. I was surprised at how much we learned and improved during the day and thrilled at the quality and number of pieces of glass we brought home. Definitely one to be repeated in the future"

14 Sep 16'

Kellie Mason reviewed: Pottery making party in lovely seaside studio

"Fantastic Pottery Day Myself and my sister booked up with Jenny at epple bay ceramics to celebrate my mums 70th birthday in August. Jenny made my mums birthday very special from start to finish, when we arrived the sun was shining, Happy Birthday bunting had been hung around the studio and a lovely handmade surprise gift for the birthday girl were such thoughtful touches. Jenny is an amazing Potter & teacher she is very calm helpful and explains things very clearly. We all made several different items and was not limited with clay like other courses. We all had the most amazing day and have returned again last Saturday for a full day of pottery fun and now I'm been treated for my birthday in November. Five"

14 Sep 16'

Holly reviewed: Make a silver ring or bangle

"I have admired Lucy's work for many years and after visiting the workshop last year I was so inspired and excited at the idea of trying jewellery making myself. The workshop completely exceeded my expectations. I had such an amazing weekend, first day just attending to watch my sisters - and on the second day getting stuck in myself. Lucy's knowledge of techniques, teaching methods and enthusiasm we're fantastic. I'm a complete beginner and can't believe how professional both my sisters and my finished piece of jewellery is thanks to Lucy's guidance and support. Would 100% recommend to anyone and really hope to return one day in the future myself!"

14 Sep 16'

J Venter reviewed: Calligraphy: four-lesson correspondence and/or zoom courses with Gaynor Goffe

"Unlike many experts, Gaynor does not have a rigid and inflexible approach to teaching her art. She manages a class of all abilities and interests, giving sufficient attention to each. It always amazes me how she manages to switch instantly between scripts for individual demonstrations. I came to her after a frustrating series of lessons elsewhere in which I was never allowed to progress beyond two pencils strapped together. Gaynor quickly had me practising with a dip pen in several different scripts and does not insist on perfection before moving on to something new. She is always happy to go with ones interests, rather than teaching to a strict order of attainment, which is very refreshing."

13 Sep 16'

Mrs Elizabeth Bond reviewed: Spoon carving (Two Day)

"I had never worked with wood before and thoroughly enjoyed this course. We made a butter knife on day one and a spoon on day two. Martin's teaching is very patient, thorough and clear, especially on health and safety and good tool technique. I feel really pleased with my spoon and feel confident to have a go at the techniques I have learnt at home. I would recommend this course+++"

13 Sep 16'

Ghislaine Tibbs reviewed: Calligraphy workshop - half day

"Informal classes with one of the country's leading calligraphers. Students are encouraged to work on their own projects, whether it is wedding invitations or CLAS qualifications. It is possible to work on many different scripts as Gaynor is happy to tailor the workshop to your individual needs."

13 Sep 16'

Helen and Allan Thomas reviewed: Blacksmithing Beginners day courses in Yorkshire and the North East

"An excellent day! We were given a warm welcome by Debbie, Adrian and Andy on arrival and after a nice cup of coffee and homemade biscuits, Adrian gave us a demonstration of the key ring we would be making. I did have a moment of "wow, I'll never be able to do that" but, with the excellent Andy and Adrian on hand to advise, we both surprised ourselves and were really proud of our creations. In the afternoon we made dragon coatracks, which again, we couldn't believe how well they turned out. It was a lot of fun, quite hard work, but also a really positive experience of feeling like we'd achieved something. As an added bonus, the home cooked lunch provided by Debbie was exceptionally good. The homemade cake at tea time was equally as delicious. We will definitely be back for more courses. Would recommend to anyone looking to do something a little bit different."

13 Sep 16'

Gerry F reviewed: A Practical Dry Stone Walling Workshop Central London

"Went with our daughter and her partner in a small group of 4. Had a very enjoyable and productive day. Amazed what we all managed between us to achieve, namely 2 substantial , sturdy, and attractive walls with coping stones on top and a seat to rest on. John Holt was thrilled to share all his passion for the walls and we all sat down for a nice lunch together I the sun. Would recommend as a complete step out from what we all usually do. Great fun and satisfying when you find the right piece which matches. The jigsaw analogy fits well. Hand-outs were clear and helpful. One day I will build a raised bed with seats as a project. shame we could not bring them home. Oh, and the history of the site was intriguing, too, with a lovely carved wood canopy gateway."

13 Sep 16'

Sandra Broadfoot reviewed: Fabulous felt picture 2 day masterclass near York

"This course was absolutley brilliant! We were a small and intimate group which afforded maximum one to one tuition and allowed all attendees to get to know one another and become friends. The materials provided were of the highest quality and meant that our finished work really reflected the photographs they were portraying. The venue was lovely; bright and airy with good facilities and in a quiet, peacefull and accessible location. Last but not least, our tutor, Bridget, was first class! She not only taught us how to make felt pictures but also shared her knowledge, skills, tecniques and tips in a very empowering manner. I Loved the whole experience and would count it as one of the best £110 I've ever spent!! Thank you Bridget xx"

13 Sep 16'

Frances Fothergill reviewed: Container candlemaking course and wax melts with afternoon tea

"Took my mum and sister on this course and we absolutely loved it! It was really informative and enjoyable. Learnt lots and can now start making at home for friends and family! Lovely tutors, lovely candles and a lovely afternoon tea to finish on! Perfect Saturday morning!"

13 Sep 16'

Joan Waddington reviewed: CERTIFICATE : Making Natural Luxury Anti-ageing skincare products (Toner, Serum, and Face Cream)

"workshop was a bargain and was fun too. Learned loads and made a lovely moisturiser and body butter."

13 Sep 16'

Heather reviewed: Make a silver ring or bangle

"I thoroughly enjoyed my day workshop with Lucy; she has excellent attention to detail, impressive knowledge and an infectious passion for her work. Learning new techniques, and seeing the work take shape was fascinating. Having no previous experience, I was really quite amazed to have produced such a stunning, beautifully finished, unique pendant by the end of the day. When I see it catch the light, I know how much careful filing was needed for that!"

13 Sep 16'

Owenna reviewed: Introduction to Glass Fusing with Enamels - Full Day Workshop

"What a wonderful experience! I am so proud of the work produced. A complete novice in the field of art, especially painting on glass, Steve was a fantastic tutor. He guided, supported and encouraged us all but also allowed us to be creative in our own way. Thank you."

13 Sep 16'

Becky Wilson reviewed: Inspirational course covering wet felting and Nuno techniques in the beautiful Forest of Dean

"I was just emailing to say what a lovely time I had on Saturday! It's always nerve wracking going somewhere new, but you made me feel comfortable and confident and I will take away the knowledge you taught me and have a go at home myself. I would highly recommend to anybody that they should come on your courses, I loved the small group and you had plenty of time to help everybody. It was a pleasure to spend the day at your home and I will definitely look at arranging a small group to come and spend the day with you in the future. Last but not least, the food you provided was amazing so please thank your husband for getting it all together for us."

13 Sep 16'

Jane Karen reviewed: Inspirational course covering wet felting and Nuno techniques in the beautiful Forest of Dean

"Had a really good day at the experimental felting workshop Saturday. The surroundings are so relaxing you can't help but become absorbed in the creative process. The studio is well stocked with colourful wool, good books and her own works of art that you can't fail to Become inspired. Chris is also very patient and accepting of individuals own ideas. All this and it's Topped off with a lovely home cooked lunch... I would very much like to return again. Thanks. Karen"

12 Sep 16'

Sian Lorimer reviewed: Introduction to Glass Fusing with Enamels - 3 Hour Taster Workshop

"Steve is a great teacher - gave gentle guidance and support throughout the day. It was a fun day and I love the pieces that I made. I very much hope to do a two day course next year."

12 Sep 16'

Jodi Rudrum reviewed: Upholstery weekly classes

"Totally addicted!! Been coming for over 6 months, Karen is absolutely fantastic. She is attentive, flexible and ready to share her ideas and experience. As well as her invaluable knowledge of upholstery she has created a fun, welcoming and comfortable environment in which to complete your project/projects!! Can't recommend highly enough."

12 Sep 16'

Brian Goodey reviewed: Spoon carving (Two Day)

"Morning after Martin's spoon making course, coping with upper body aches so it must have been good exercise. Never too old to learn to do something properly what I wanted from Martin's course was a safe introduction to the effective use of axe and knife for shaping and carving techniques previously assembled at random. The course provided exactly what Martin advertised in a small group (4) workshop situation. Everything and especially hands on advice were good, though inevitably time ran out Martin is a committed creative craftsman who leaves you with new knowledge and respect for edges, and evidence of your work to amaze relatives who wondered what you were doing. A full value weekend ... the Clarksonesque observations are worth waiting for."

12 Sep 16'

Janet Harper reviewed: Wild basket making

"Jo is a supportive and inspiring teacher. It was a enjoyable weekend and it was great to come away with a lovely basket, too."

12 Sep 16'

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

"Excellent workshop! Well structured and informative. At the end of the great day you got to take home what you made which was a great idea. The workshop was held is an art studio which was warm and comfortable. The day went too quickly. Well Done!"