Latest reviews

24 Jun 13'

Annie Gill reviewed: A one day spoon carving course

"Last year I learnt to carve spoons with Sharif Adams and even though I was a complete beginner, his clear instructions made me feel able to use the carving tools with confidence. Sharif's teaching really has opened up a new interest in my life. I went on to carve in my own time, even on Christmas day! I've made a spoon for a friend from a branch in her garden and my sister had an apple-wood spoon for her birthday. Sharif's gentle enthusiasm for his craft has enabled me to get to know different woods and how they look, feel and carve. I think everyone should carve at least one spoon in their lives...and Sharif is the man to help you do it!"

17 Jun 13'

Edwin Mitchell-Finch reviewed: A one day spoon carving course

"I attended a spoon carving course held by Sharif in October 2012 and I am now totally addicted! Sharif is a natural teacher, very patient and clear in his instruction. He's very knowledgeable about the subject of green wood carving and you can't help but be infected by his enthusiasm. Just looking at the spoons and bowls he his produced will inspire you to give it a go. The day was paced to suit everyone in the group with regular breaks to explain techniques and safety precautions - the tools are of course very sharp - before we set about each stage in the carving process. Everyone had a great day - and we all came a away with our first hand-carved spoon. Not long after the course I bought my own axe and knives, so keen was I to practice what I had learned that day. I've carved many spoons since then and I look forward to carving many more. Maybe one day I might be able to carve as well as Sharif!"

17 Jun 13'

Nicky Walker reviewed: PickOne weekend weaving course

"This was an excellent weekend learning a great craft in a great place. James is a fantastic tutor, very patient and enthusiastic...and he makes a wicked cuppa! It was great to learn something new and also very rewarding to produce something beautiful and unique for the end result. Looking forward to heading back later this year!"

17 Jun 13'

Fern Slater-Walters reviewed: PickOne weekend weaving course

"I really enjoyed this two day course of weaving not only have I enjoyed learning about bit I have enjoyed watching James teach his passion. Can't wait for the next session :)"

17 Jun 13'

Rosemarie Eastham reviewed: Full day fused glass course

"Having been a fan of Hot Fusion Glass I was delighted to find out that they now run classes. My expectation was simple: to enjoy a day 'playing' around with coloured glass. An intimate class of three eager students supported by two equally enthusiastic tutors began with a delightful breakfast/get to know you session. I came away feeling both pampered (refreshments were fabulous) and amazed at what I had achieved (with help!). My creations include earrings which will be gifts and a unique item which I hope will delight the recipients. Thank you both so very much for making this a special day. If you'll have me, I'd do it again!!"

16 Jun 13'

Kirstie Shearer reviewed: Tapestry weaving workshop for beginners

"I arrived to a warm welcome of coffee scenting the air and Graham in pinny already preparing lunch! Jane's wonderfully light and airy studio was full of marvellous things to look at and admire. I had looked forward to my day enormously and wasn't disappointed. From setting the frame to the final tapestry I took home and feeling distinctly proud of myself I can't wait to find a space in my busy life to go back and enjoy it all once again and more! I highly recommend Jane and her talent and my day spent happily and productively on this course. Kirstie Shearer 26th April 2013"

16 Jun 13'

Kathleen Mackintosh reviewed: Tapestry weaving workshop for beginners

"What a fantastic fun day in a wonderfull setting . Thoroughly enjoyed the workshop , with excellent facilities a huge choice of material and reference books, every stage was clearly explained and demonstraited . Jane and Graham have really put a huge amount of work into the preparation making sure you are made to feel completely at ease , and always on hand to help out . With the most delicious lunch and coffee and cake to help the creative juices flowing ! ;-)"

16 Jun 13'

Morven Mulgrew reviewed: Tapestry weaving workshop for beginners

"I cant recommend this course enough. I arrived cockily thinking I would recreate the bayeux tapestry- its only after trying it for a day you realise how talented she is! Its very tricky but jane eases you in gently, she gives you just the right amount of information for a beginner, so you can come away with something you are proud of. On top of all that, the homemade biscuits and coffee at the beginning, followed by the best lunch I have ever had in a workshop, meant that it was a brilliant day. Fantastic!"

15 Jun 13'

Alison Innes reviewed: Tapestry weaving workshop for beginners

"what a super day I had today - and I weaved a face! excellent friendly instruction, great company and a nice lunch! my work has been heavily complimented this evening - my son thinks it is beautiful (particularly for a beginner). I am going back for the next course in August and would highly recommend! thank you Jane."

14 Jun 13'

Martin Docherty reviewed: A stool making day

"Learning to make a stool with your own hands, from selecting the timber to knocking in the last wedge is a hugely rewarding experience that leaves you with a beautiful and very comfortable piece of work at the end of the day! Eoin's tuition is first class and his appreciation of our native woodland inspiring. The landscaped courtyard you work in provides a very relaxing environment too."

12 Jun 13'

Rebecca reviewed: Beginners' Metal Jewellery Design

"I've been wanting to do a jewellery course for years now and I'm so glad I've eventually got round to it!! Lisa is a pro - not only is she a super talented jeweller, she is patient, very clear with her explanations and has created a fun and friendly workshop. I've learnt so much already and am now hooked! I'm definitely booking a second course and then another one after that! It's great value for money and I can't recommend it highly enough!"

9 Jun 13'

Ian Sinclair reviewed: A stool making day

"I spent a great day learning how to make a stool, using only hand tools. A canny instructor, great craic, and like minded folk made learning new skills a real pleasure. I have not stopped talking about the course since I got home."

7 Jun 13'

Paul Lattimore reviewed: Carve a Rocking Horse Head Course

"What a great way to spend 3 days! It was with some trepidation that I arrived at The Rocking Horse Shop to become a student at the 'Carve a Head' course. I had minimal experience with woodwork having made some small wooden toys, but had never tried my hand at carving. The first thing to be said is how friendly everyone was, only 2 mins after entering the premises I had a cup of coffee in my hand. The teaching technique of Anthony Dew was second to none. You were never rushed, everything from carving techniques to use of special power tools was very well explained. All 5 students ended up with rocking horse heads that we could be proud of. We had learned the basics of a great craft and had some fun along the way. I have the rest of the timber pack and am now looking forward to completing the whole rocking horse. If you have ever considered trying your hand at carving or making a complete rocking horse, then put it off no longer, this is the course for you. I can't recommend it highly enough."

5 Jun 13'

sarah bradley reviewed: Fabulous Felt

"The course was first class. A wonderful teacher full of knowledge but totally approachable, patient and kind. Fantastic materials supplied, a wonderful lunch laid out, fabulous company and best of all, lots of felt making which was decent enough to be framed for my lounge despite never doing it before."

4 Jun 13'

Denise upton reviewed: Fascinators workshop

"I thought I must just write to you to say what a wonderful experience your Fascinator Workshop was for me. I should explain that I am the most unlikely of candidates to make anything - I am not what you would describe as a "craft person" but I so enjoyed your workshop and at the end of it I had successfully made a professional, beautifully made Fascinator, a work of art that I am indescribably proud of and all thanks to your superb tuition. My friends have been truly amazed when I have shown it to them and I just cannot believe that I was able to do such a beautiful thing. I cannot thank you enough for a very entertaining and informative morning, the three hours just flew by and the delicious cakes, biscuits and coffee that you provided were very much appreciated. You are a natural teacher Amanda and I felt that I learnt so much in that three hours. I cannot wait to try another one for your workshops."

4 Jun 13'

Matt Estlea reviewed: Introduction to traditional green wood turning course

"Highly recommend this course to anyone no matter what their previous experiences are. Brilliant teacher, interesting to talk to, welcoming, and skilled at what he does. After spending two days with Simon, Ive started looking up plans to make my own pole lathe for the back garden, despite what my parents say, so that I can start some of my own projects in my free time. Cheers Simon!"

2 Jun 13'

Mary Crease reviewed: Stained Glass Taster Day with Christian Ryan

"What a great day. Christian is a brilliant teacher. We all made a panel to take home. I'm looking forward to the Christmas decoration class."

2 Jun 13'

Jon Crease reviewed: Stained Glass Taster Day with Christian Ryan

"Brilliant."

1 Jun 13'

Ann Bartlett reviewed: Two Day Stained Glass Course with Christian Ryan

"I had a most enjoyable weekend and was delighted with the result. The studio is light and very well equipped and was a joy to work in. Christian is a very relaxed and patient tutor and made me feel able despite my mistakes. I'm looking forward to evening courses.5"

1 Jun 13'

Jeni Watkins reviewed: Two Day Stained Glass Course with Christian Ryan

"I was a little nervous going on the weekend glass painting course as I hadn't attempted anything like this for a long while. As soon as I arrived I was made welcome and the atmosphere was laid back. Christian is a very innovative and marvellous glass artist with a wealth of knowledge and experience. Passing on his knowledge and allowing everyone one to be as creative and or technical in their approach. I would thoroughly recommend this course to anyone whether you are a student, someone who has never embarked on a creative activity or like myself trying to awaken that creative spark you feel you once had. Hugely beneficial and totally enjoyable and all in a friendly and relaxed atmosphere. Don't think about it...DO IT!!!!! Loved it!"

1 Jun 13'

Gill Short reviewed: Pottery throwing course in the South Downs National Park (one day - one-to-one)

"Lovely workshop, making pots and then raku firing in the garden Good tutor learnt a lot will do more"

1 Jun 13'

Liz Blackwell reviewed: Stained Glass Taster Day with Christian Ryan

"I went along not knowing what to expect and was delighted with the whole process. We made a stained glass panel in a day having not done anything like it previously. The standard of teaching is superb and you are encouraged at every stage. I loved it!"

1 Jun 13'

Liz Blackwell reviewed: Two Day Stained Glass Course with Christian Ryan

"I really enjoyed that whole process of making my own panel and would recommend anyone to go along. The whole experience fills you with enthusiasm to learn more- I also will be going to the evening classes and next steps."

31 May 13'

Debbie Thomas reviewed: Two Day Stained Glass Course with Christian Ryan

"So glad I went on this weekend. Christian is an excellent tutor with lots of patience. Didnt want the weekend to end. Hoping that the evening classes do start up as I will be signing up for that!! Would recommend to everyone"

31 May 13'

Barbara reviewed: Two Day Stained Glass Course with Christian Ryan

"A thoroughly enjoyable weekend. The small class size makes a big difference for such a practical course and Christian had loads of helpful tips and advice. Looking forward to the 'Next Steps' weekend course."