Latest reviews

4 Jan 14'

Jacob Blackwell reviewed: Introduction to Green Wood Furniture Making - 2 Day Course in South Devon

"This course was not only thoroughly enjoyable, but was also a key factor in my decision making in relation to my future career. I had completed a furniture making course at college but had lost my enthusiasm for woodwork. Peter showed me a different and all together more exciting form of woodworking (green woodworking) and since I completed the course I have had no doubt that my future lies with green woodworking. The course was run in a relaxed but effective manner, and Peter was very approachable if assistance was required. I would recommend this course to anyone who has an interest in practical hands on work. Whilst £120 may seem like a lot of money for 2 days, after carrying out some market research I discovered that the pricing is more than reasonable and I am delighted that I was there to complete the course. Peter has a lot of knowledge to give and I am keeping my ears pricked for further opportunities that he has to offer."

3 Jan 14'

Andy Wells reviewed: Green Wood Chair Making - 6 Day Woodworking Course in South Devon

"Beyond excellent"

3 Jan 14'

Katherine Giles reviewed: Green Wood Chair Making - 6 Day Woodworking Course in South Devon

"This course was truly awe-inspiring. Peter's depth and breadth of knowledge within the fields of green woodwork and furniture making is unsurpassed. He has a solution and workaround for any and every eventuality working with such a naturally unpredictable material as green wood. Having done only a small amount of green woodwork before and no furniture making I found the course to be really accessible and great fun. This is all down to Peter's attentive and natural teaching style. It's like catching up with an old friend (and you get to take a chair home!) I have the bug. And have since made my own shave horse so I can continue building on the skills learnt on the course."

3 Jan 14'

martyn ellison reviewed: Introduction to Green Wood Furniture Making - 2 Day Course in South Devon

"Boost your confidence and have fun at the same time. Peters relaxed and informative style of teaching green woodworking is both enjoyable and rewarding. On the 2 day course that I attended, Peter guided us through the process of choosing our wood, shaping it, and constructing it into wonderful green wood furniture. A great course which I would highly recommend to anyone who is interested in learning about green woodworking and developing a new skill."

2 Jan 14'

Theresa reviewed: Introduction to Green Wood Furniture Making - 2 Day Course in South Devon

"As a complete novice at woodworking this course was absolutely brilliant, Peters relaxed and supportive teaching style had me using both traditional and power tools (eek!) with confidence. The small side table I produced is absolutely beautiful. Peter really took the time to get to know everyone on the course and to really think about what our individual needs were. He tailored his teaching to our previous experiences (which were varied) perfectly. He has inspired me to get my own tools and develop my woodworking further. I thoroughly recommend this to anyone who wants to learn some woodworking skills. Even if you are a beginner, don't be scared, jump straight in with Peter, you couldn't ask for a better start."

2 Jan 14'

Joa Grower reviewed: Introduction to Green Wood Furniture Making - 2 Day Course in South Devon

"Although I am one of the workers at Growers Organics I took time out from working one weekend last year and attended the 'Introduction to Green woodwork' course and had a lovely time spending time with the students and even I mananged to produce (even though I say it myself) a preatty good 4 legged stool. Thanks Peter for your patience!"

2 Jan 14'

Javed Mir reviewed: Introduction to Green Wood Furniture Making - 2 Day Course in South Devon

"I did an "Introduction To Green Woodworking" course with Peter at Growers Organic. It really was fantastic, as well as learning a whole range of skills, and spending the weekend with a great bunch of people, I made and finished a beautiful stool. Peter was a great teacher, allowing everyone to learn at their own pace, with humour, kindness and patience.. I was amazed at how we all as a group were able to produce such a beautiful collection of stools and tables, even people with no previous woodworking experience ! I really couldn't recommend this course enought, it has given me the knowledge and skills to continue Green Woodworking on my own. Am looking forward to joining Peter next year for more of the same."

1 Jan 14'

Andy Wells reviewed: Introduction to Green Wood Furniture Making - 2 Day Course in South Devon

"I've been to two of Peter's courses now and wouldn't hesitate to recommend them. I've thoroughly enjoyed the process and the finished articles and much of this has been down to Peter's sensitivity and responsiveness, being willing to be flexible and adapt the courses to the sometimes challenging and awkward wishes of course participants like myself. He was always happy to go the extra mile to enable individuals to achieve their desired finished article and his knowledge, skill, professionalism and manner would be difficult to match."

1 Jan 14'

Jane Baker reviewed: Introduction to Green Wood Furniture Making - 2 Day Course in South Devon

"Brilliant course! Excellent tuition and company. I was so pleased with my beautiful stool that I gave it to my daughter for Christmas. She loves it. I went on the course with some friends and we had such a good weekend. Creative, productive and fun. Highly recommended."

1 Jan 14'

Nigel Gross reviewed: Introduction to Green Wood Furniture Making - 2 Day Course in South Devon

"I attended this course last year. I surprised myself by coming away with a really beautiful table. Peter has a lovely style of teaching, a dry sense of humor and great attention to detail. What I particularly liked about the course is his eye for the design of the piece - he shares his thoughts but leaves you free to make your own choices. The tools were great and we used superb materials from the local area. I learnt so much and have since made myself a shave horse, and intend to go on his chair course this year."

1 Jan 14'

Richard Lowery reviewed: Blacksmithing, bladesmithing and metal craft

"I attended one of Nigel's courses and was given a large amount of time actually forging coming away with useful ironwork and a thirst to do more. The accommodation is good with basic facilities to cook and a number of close hostelry's. I understand that new accommodation in showman vans are being constructed to support the new courses to help people assemble Shepherd Huts--cant wait!!"

31 Dec 13'

John Rutland reviewed: Blacksmithing, bladesmithing and metal craft

"I attended a 1 day course in Blacksmithing with Nigel at Fransham Forge in September 2013. I would rate the training as first class; the tuition was adapted to my interest and level of skill with most of the instruction being hands on. I came away with some nice pieces which have been much admired by my friends and family! Nigel has a wealth of experience in all aspects of metal-working and the forge itself is equipped with amazing tools and equipment.I definitely look forward to going back for more tuition."

30 Dec 13'

Suzanne Thomas reviewed: Kiln formed glass day workshop

"I have done 2 courses with Helen, both excellent! Helen is both patient & well organised! Looking forward to do more!!! Suzanne"

29 Dec 13'

Elspeth Corrie reviewed: Kiln formed glass day workshop

"I have done two, and booked a third, course with Helen making fused glass bunting and then Christmas light catchers. She is patient and encouraging, and is good at letting you do things for yourself, but always willing to advise and help when asked. She has really inspirational examples to show, is generous with time and materials, and I'm already plotting my next designs!"

29 Dec 13'

Andrea reviewed: Kiln formed glass day workshop

"What a fabulous day! I had a great time at the fused glass workshop yesterday, making three surprisingly substantial pieces. Helen is clearly a very talented artist and a skilled teacher too. Her easy-going style had us feeling creative in no time and my friends and I are all chomping at the bit to collect our masterpieces and book ourselves into another workshop with Helen. I can't wait!"

29 Dec 13'

Pauline Davidson reviewed: Kiln formed glass day workshop

"I have attended 3 classes so far with Helen and am totally hooked. She is an excellent teacher - inspiring, patient and so very friendly. I will definitely be attending more of her classes in the future, and introducing my friends to this great craft."

29 Dec 13'

Kathryn Evans reviewed: Kiln formed glass day workshop

"Cracking course (not literally). After my first course I was hooked, been back a few times and built upon my skills. Helen is an excellent teacher and also brilliant with kids, I took my 11 year old and he enjoyed it so much he wants to go again and there are not many craft courses that appeal to boys! Planning a few more sessions for this year and even looking to set up a Rotary Club session."

29 Dec 13'

Julie Clancy reviewed: Kiln formed glass day workshop

"Spent an amazing day with 2 friends at Helen's house. I was stunned at how many different pieces we were able to make and how many different techniques she taught (and re-taught!) us. Helen is fun, patient, encouraging and so creative. We were made very welcome in her lovely home and I am sure this is only the start of my glass fusion journey. Can't wait to go back and collect my masterpieces. Great venue for small workshops, fantastic teacher, amazing value for money - highly recommended."

27 Dec 13'

Tom reviewed: A stool making day

"This was a thoroughly enjoyable way to spend a Saturday. I felt motivated from the outset thanks to the wonderful environment in which the workshop takes place and the awesome teachers Eoin and Gail who patiently guide you through the different skill sets for working with green wood and in the end building a stool. Met some great folks, we had a laugh, we got creative and what a feeling of accomplishment at the end when you leave with a work of art under your arm. I absolutely recommend this class to those wishing to ignite their creative side!!!"

27 Dec 13'

Mim Barnes reviewed: Basket making in Norfolk

"So good I did it twice! Julie is a patient, clear and thorough teacher. Everything's provided, so there's no waiting around for tools, and with just six students you get the help you need when you need it. It's extremely satisfying to make something beautiful and useful in a day and I'm very proud of my baskets. The home made cakes are excellent too! Altogether a really lovely way to spend a day - highly recommended!"

24 Dec 13'

Juliana reviewed: A stool making day

"A lovely day working with wood in an attractive courtyard with supportive companions and alert leaders - as soon as anyone needed extra help and guidance, it was there. We were reluctant to stop for lunch as we were so involved in trying to shave rough wood to smooth round legs. Lots of laughs too. I think were all surprised and delighted with what we had created."

22 Dec 13'

Donna Attias reviewed: Hand Spinning For All - Norfolk

"Excellent day. Theresa was very patient and helpful. A huge amount of fun and lots of laughter. Feel inspired to continue. Thank you."

21 Dec 13'

Jan Gasson reviewed: Pottery throwing day course in the South Downs

"Was given a one day course for a birthday present. Had a brilliant day - instructive, creative and great fun."

17 Dec 13'

Debbie Collins reviewed: Basket making in Norfolk

"Julie is a very good and extremely patient teacher. The day was thoroughly enjoyable and I was so proud of my finished basket. I would really recommend anyone to take the course, it was a day well spent and a real pleasure."

17 Dec 13'

Juliette Oxford reviewed: A stool making day

"This course was arranged for me as a birthday present and I couldn't have asked for anything more enjoyable. I loved learning new skills lead by the excellent tutors Eoin and Gail, and making a stool all by myself ( with a little bit of help to make the holes ). Every time I look at or use the stool I feel so pleased. Thank you Big Tree!!"