Latest reviews

13 Nov 17'

John Nixon reviewed: Make your very own clutch bag/small tablet device case/sleeve

"Richard gave clear and succinct instructions and demonstrations at every juncture in the making of the project. With his help I transformed a piece of raw leather into a useful and very professional looking iPad device case. I’d highly recommend this course."

12 Nov 17'

Julianna Nigo reviewed: Make your very own clutch bag/small tablet device case/sleeve

"I made a pouch on my very first leather workshop. I didn’t think it’s possible, but Richard explained step by step and showed me how to make it. I love what I made, and people compliment me on it all the time."

12 Nov 17'

Chris and Gill Hartley reviewed: One day blacksmithing course

"My husband bought me a blacksmithing course for our 6th wedding anniversary (iron) and it was fabulous. We both loved it. Julian is a very knowledgeable and passionate chap and this is forged into each piece of work. My husband and I would utterly recommend the course, it is dirty work, physically tiring but very much rewarding. My husband is disabled and Julian accommodated this with ease. Fabulous day."

12 Nov 17'

Marie Perrin reviewed: Make a silver ring or bangle

"As a novice jewellery maker I spent a challenging and fun day with Lucy in her studio creating a beautiful silver pendant. With her expertise, knowledge and guidance we worked through many processes including annealing, soldering, wire wrapping and much more. In her well- equipped studio I was able to learn a range of skills which will enable me to embark upon my own future jewellery projects: the handouts and photographic record will provide an excellent reference. Throughout the day we chatted about many other creative ideas and processes which opened up a world of possibilities!"

12 Nov 17'

Graham Johnson. reviewed: Blacksmithing, bladesmithing and metal craft

"Just had 2 great days { 10/11th November} Plenty of hands on experience. Nigel was very helpful with loads of knowledge which he was happy to share. Plenty of banter with lots of hard work. Worked with some really great people on both days. Made a poker, BBQ shovel, an acorn key ring, a leaf pendant and my pride and joy a 5x poppy display made ready for remembrance Sunday. I would highly recommend this course for anyone who likes to get their hands dirty and not afraid of hard work. Lots to take home and show your family. A special thank you to Nigel. Cheers buddy!"

12 Nov 17'

SUe Brewer reviewed: Introduction to Frame Loom Weaving

"I went on Alice's workshop last weekend in Gunwarfe Quay. I really really enjoyed the day. I actually managed to use 3 colours which I haven't done before. I would love to do another day in Alice's own studio. I would recommend this relaxing but informative workshop to anyone interested in textiles."

12 Nov 17'

Ian Webber reviewed: Wood turning courses

"What a great couple of days with George at His workshop in Burnham on Sea. Having been turning for about 3 years, self taught, with second hand tools, I thought it was about time to get some tuition. George tailored the days to suit my requirements, theory, safety, correct use of tools and their profiles all discussed in depth. The first day we completed a Cedar of Lebanon bowl, with a better finish than I have achieved in 3 years! All down to sharp and correct tools (not sanding) Day two we went through various spindle turning techniques, coves, beads, v.cuts etc. Then George suggested that I complete one of his bowls, again the interior of the bowl had a good finish. The two days were interspersed with lunch and tea breaks provided by Georges wife Susan. All in all, I had two great days, filled with good advice, plenty of tips and tricks and good humour from George. I now feel more confident, l that I learnt more in these two days, than I have in three years (being self taught!) Hopefully I will be back. Thanks George and Susan."

12 Nov 17'

Sarah Tinkler reviewed: Marvellous Mosaic one day workshop

"I absolutely loved my one day workshop with Lindsey. I had no prior experience at all but had always fancied trying my hand at mosaic. Lindsey was the perfect tutor, explaining everything I needed to know but encouraging me to learn practically by making my own piece under her guidance. I am so happy with the piece I made and my family can't believe it. I feel confident enough to have a go on my own at some basic pieces and will definitely go back to Lindsey for another workshop as I progress and become more ambitious!"

12 Nov 17'

Steph reviewed: Mosaic (2 days) in the Peak District

"This is the third weekend mosaics course that I have attended at Zantium Studios. They have all been superb courses with excellent tuition and individual support from Peter and wonderful home made lunch and snacks from Alison. The studio has a lot of light, plenty of room to work in and good choice of mosaic tiles. Good relaxing weekend. Highly recommend this course."

12 Nov 17'

Lynda Conroy reviewed: Glass Fusing and Slumping for Beginners and Improvers

"I was an absolute beginner, the teachers were extremely patient and encouraged me to try and do things that I thought might be beyond my capabilities. I have made 7 items from a simple coaster to cutting petals and making a 'Poppy Bowl'. As the class was on 'Remembrance Sunday' I will always look at this and remember a really wonderful, but tiring day with other like minded friendly people.5"

12 Nov 17'

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

"I undertook the 2 day beginners course with the Lancashire Branch and thoroughly enjoyed myself. The tutors were extremely knowledgeable and friendly and made everyone feel welcome and relaxed. It felt amazing to have contributed towards the building of a drystone wall which will now be standing for far longer than I will. I still have a quick look at it whenever I walk by and still feel that tingle of pride."

12 Nov 17'

Carole reviewed: Needle Felting Workshop Owl Brooch

"I attended this workshop & was very impressed. Milly is a very patient & friendly teacher allowing the group to feel at ease & not be afraid to ask questions, I was amazed how quickly the 3 hour session went. A true transformation took place from batts of wool to a wonderful little Santa, I now feel I have the basic skills to complete more needle felting projects. Would thoroughly recommend."

12 Nov 17'

Kimmy reviewed: Needle Felting Workshop Owl Brooch

"I did this three hour workshop. Everyone was made to feel totally at ease doing something completely new and we all enjoyed every minute. We all came away with a lovely handmade Santa Gnome. We all said we will definitely be back to do another workshop. Thank you Milly for your time and patience"

12 Nov 17'

Learn to make glasd beads reviewed: Learn to Make Glass Beads - Lampwork Taster Sessions in Kings Langley

"I spent a fantastic Friday with Kristy learning some of the basics of lampwork to make glass beads. Kristy is an excellent tutor, and clearly has lots of experience and amazing enthusiasm. After the introduction and basic (common sense) safety information, we began with a demo, followed by straight into my first bead. The day progressed with interspersed demos of new techniques, and chances to try them out. regular breaks were important, as it requires very intense concentration. I finished the day by making some to my own design, based on the techniques I had learned. I had a brilliant time, learnt some new skills, and am considering getting some basic equipment to carry on at home. Would thoroughly recommend this course and tutor :)"

12 Nov 17'

Christine Howard reviewed: Beginners Weaving with the Rigid Heddle Loom - at All in a Spin

"Brilliant course! The workshop facilities are excellent and Dunja's teaching is well paced, very informative, clear and friendly. It was a relaxed day with lovely people, fiendly chat and the satisfaction that comes with learning a new skill. As a complete weaving novice I was pleasantly surprised how simple the rigid heddle looms are to set up and get weaving fast and delighted to come away with a useable scarf. We did the improvers weaving course the day after and couldn't wait to get started! Thanks to Dunja being very accomodating we were able to have three days of tution to learn weaving and spinning whilst staying the the fabulous Weaver's Cottage just next to the workshop. The cottage is very well set up, as fabulous views and it was lovely to settle in for an evening in front of the log burner after a very enjoyable days learning."

12 Nov 17'

Christine Howard reviewed: Beginners Hand spinning - 'From fleece to fibre’ - at All in a Spin

"Thoroughly recommend this course. Dunja makes spinning look so easy! I wasn't a natural but with her excellent tuition and patience I got the hang of it and enjoyed every second. The day is well structured and hands on including all stages of the spinning process from sheep to yarn but also with scope to ask lots of questions. The sense of satisfaction at the end of the day, walking away with your own skein of yarn is amazing, Thoroughly recommend staying in the Weavers Cottage as well - it has been beautifully renovated and the views are truly stunning."

12 Nov 17'

Kate Fitzpatrick reviewed: Pottery Throwing (Group Discounts Available) Lessons in Worcester

"This was a fantastic evening. Chris is a most patient and encouraging teacher, and the individual support he offers really builds your confidence. The joy of being able to get straight into throwing a pot, and the sense of achievement at producing them, with his skilled guidance, made this a most memorable evening. I hadn't thrown a pot for nearly 50years and he made me believe I could do it again. Thankyou Chris."

12 Nov 17'

Rupert reviewed: Highland stool making course - Scottish Highlands

"What a fantastic day of woodwork with Aaron! I'm absolutely delighted with the amazing piece of beautiful furniture that is now my most precious possession in my home. I never thought i'd be able to make something this good! Aaron looked after us all so well. His workshop is set amongst a stunning forest on the Logie estate. I learnt how to use all kinds of tools and techniques and can't wait to try something more ambitious."

12 Nov 17'

jane worthington reviewed: Mosaic (2 days) in the Peak District

"As always well organised, thoroughly enjoyed the course and would always recommend Zantium Studios as a great place for courses to attend."

12 Nov 17'

Ellen Price reviewed: Silver Jewellery making class at Sandra Kerns Jewellery studio, Little Sampford

"Sandra’s patient friendly manner enabled me to have confidence to create beautiful earrings which I had a clear picture of in my imagination but was unable to even draw. I am not artistic with my hands but Sandra demonstrated and then encouraged me to have a go at many different skills to translate my idea into reality. My daughters and I were enabled to transform a flat rectangle of silver using Sandra’s remarkable range of tools and machines. Thank you Sandra you have a lovely studio and are a generous host and skilled teacher. We were inspired by seeing all that you have made."

11 Nov 17'

Lottie Shaw reviewed: Blacksmithing taster course one day

"I first met Pete at an evening course run by Hereford and Ludlow college. I enjoyed the course and Pete’s teaching so much I signed up for a 3 day course at Pete’s Forge in Presteigne and then the BTEC course in Herefordshire. Pete is an excellent teacher with an extensive knowledge of blacksmithing. His short courses are a fantastic introduction to the craft and I’d recommend them to anyone. In his teaching, he demonstrates clearly and guides you through the steps to make some amazing items. I’m so pleased I met Pete and he encouraged me to follow the path I’m now on in blacksmithing. Thanks Pete!"

11 Nov 17'

Matt Carter reviewed: Blacksmith Experience Day - Anvil Forge

"I attended the blacksmiths day at Anvil Forge today and loved it. 5 people in the group with 3 experts on hand every step of the way. Every one did very different projects and the gents from the forge were superb in helping make our dreams a reality. It's great value too as I made fireside tools that I am chuffed to bits with. I would definitely do this again!"

11 Nov 17'

Ian Cochrane reviewed: Blacksmith Experience Day - Anvil Forge

"An absolutely fantastic day. Despite being a complete novice, with John and team’s help, I managed to create a functional and decorative piece (beer holder!). The fact you get down quickly to bashing and moving metal and can experiment to your heart’s content means this is a thoroughly enjoyable experience. Will definitely do this again."

11 Nov 17'

Chris reviewed: Wood turning courses in the Midlands

"The course is excellent. Loads of information, hands on experience and expert advice. I would recommend it to anybody, mark is brilliant and the tools available are great. Its also excellent value for money as it is quite a long day. Thanks for the training Chris"

11 Nov 17'

Penny Miltiadou reviewed: One day needle felting workshop with Celestine and the Hare

"Yet another fantastic workshop!"