Latest reviews

Tracey reviewed: Watercolours for beginners online course, by Sarah Colgate

"This course is absolutely brilliant! As a complete beginner Sarah’s written information sheets together with great videos carefully guided me through manageable steps that built my knowledge, skills and confidence. The exercises are really interesting, using a variety of subjects and as the course progresses you are able to use skills learnt as you learn new ones. I have learnt so much, e.g colour mixing, colour strength, washes, brush techniques, textures and distance and perspective. I could not have imagined how much I would learn. Sarah has a lovely calm manner in her videos. She clearly puts much time and thought into giving helpful and supportive feedback on your work. This has added something special to my life. I highly recommend this course. I have already registered for Sarah’s improvers course in September which I am excited about. Thank you Sarah. "

Sarah Colgate responded:

"Thank you, Tracey, for your review. I am glad you feel that you have developed skills and confidence (which I can see you have) in watercolour painting and liked the variety of subjects and techniques. Also finding the feedback on work useful. It’s excellent to hear that painting has become something special to you. I very much look forward to working with you again in September on the Improvers course. Sarah "

Meg Bernstein reviewed: Lucy Churchill's Stone Carving Workshops

"Lucy's stone carving course has been one of the highlights of my year-- I can't believe how much I learned about tools, materials, masonry, and carving techniques in just three days. I'm an art historian who has studied stone sculpture for years, but experiencing carving stone myself under Lucy's tutelage has revolutionised how I think about the medium. Lucy is a gifted teacher-- patient, thoughtful, and clear. It is truly a testament to her and the course she has designed that my cohort and I left on the third day with objects that we couldn't have fathomed making three days before! Beyond the actual carving, the whole experience-- carving in Lucy's sunny workshop, lovely food and plentiful tea and biscuits, great conversation with Lucy and the other participants-- was absolutely wonderful, and I'll be returning as soon as I can!"

Di reviewed: Lino Printing onto Fabric YORK

"Thankyou Holly.. This was a lovely few hours working on a process I was eager to learn. I will definitely pursue this craft further. The class was calm and structured and Holly was a great tutor who was willing to share all her knowledge and experience so we achieved a successful piece of fabric at the end. I would highly recommend you take this course with Holly. "

Richard Parker reviewed: Box making weekend in Cumbria

"I did this course last weekend and - with Mark's excellent (and in my case patient!) support and guidance I came away with a wonderful box, of which I am inordinately proud. Mark took us through all the steps with great care, took time to demonstrate procedures someone else was following (if making a different box) and we did a detour into making dovetails the old fashioned way! I thoroughly and unreservedly recommend course - one of the best activity weekends I've had in a long time and certainly the best craft course I have ever done. And all in a good company of learners and in glorious Cumbrian surroundings. I may do it again!!"

Rashmi Patel reviewed: Batik Silk Painting for Beginners

"Thoroughly enjoyed the whole experience. It was an absolute bliss. Would certainly do it again. "

Stanwick Lakes Art and Craft Courses responded:

"Thank you for taking the time to leave us a review - we are very happy that you enjoyed the workshop. We do hope to see you here at Stanwick Lakes again soon. Best wishes, The Stanwick Lakes team. "

Gill Kniveton reviewed: Crochet for Beginners, York

"The 3hr crochet for beginners was hosted by Stephanie who put the small group of 4 at ease straight away. Over the course, we learnt a few different stitches. Everybody went at their own pace and Stephanie took time with us all individually. She was very patient with me. Although the time went fast, it felt it was just the right amount of time as a beginner. Highly recommend this course. My friend and I enjoyed it very much. "

Naomi Warren reviewed: Crêpe Paper Peonies

"I loved this workshop and came away with the knowledge to create beautiful paper peonies. The teacher was friendly and informative. The setting for the workshop was in a stunning rural location, inside an old oast house, very picturesque. Delicious cakes and beverages were available made by the host. It was a lovely day out for me and I am delighted with my peonies, and am definitely going to make more at home now that I know the steps to create them."

The Oast Studio responded:

"Thank you Naomi, it was lovely to meet you and thank you for travelling so far! I wish you were nearer as I would love to have you teaching jewellery making at The Oast! "

Steve Heckels reviewed: Beginners Knife Forging Day

"Fantastic day with Alex guiding me through the process of making my own knife. Great atmosphere, professional instruction but with plenty of laughs along the way. I would recommend this course to anyone as Alex makes sure everyone gets the support they need ."

Pat Jarratt reviewed: Stained glass weekly classes in Sheffield (South Yorkshire)

"Excellent course. Martin is a great teacher, very helpful, always there if you need him."

Martin McAssey Glass responded:

"Thank you for the nice review."

Daniel B reviewed: Intensive 1 to 1 Welding Day Course M.I.G / T.I.G or M.M.A (Stick)

"Highlight of that course is individual approach to you and your training. After mandatory health and safety talk, we went straight to practicing all kinds of welds that are required for both lvl1 and lvl2. I didn't expected that I would learn so much in such a short time. Definitely recommend it!"

Allied Welding School responded:

"Thank you for your positive review Daniel, unlike bigger collages we are able to keep the numbers small & deliver the courses with the service I think should be given & what attendees deserve. Kind regards David "

Helen reviewed: Introduction to traditional stained glass (1 day) in Sheffield, South Yorkshire

" Clear instruction and ready support & guidance from Martyn, made it encouraging and enjoyable and I'm pleased with the result, as a first-timer. The studio is a pleasant space in a nice environment and Lunch from Joni's cafe next door made it even more of a treat. Would definitely recommend."

Martin McAssey Glass responded:

"Thank you for the nice review, I'm really pleased you enjoyed the workshop."

Hunting Treasure reviewed: Willow 'sculpture of your choice' - one day workshops with Willowtwisters

"Sara is an inspiring artist. I love the swan that I brought home. A lovely location to spend the day. "

Willowtwisters responded:

"Many thanks for this lovely review. You are a natural with willow and your swan was excellent! All the best, Sara"

Anna Baker reviewed: Fused glass introduction full day at Kingcot, Worcestershire

"A brilliant, chilled out yet productive enjoyable day. Vicki has the ability to pitch to your ability and provide as much support and ideas as you require. Thank you so much, we will be back "

Kingcot Gallery responded:

"Dear Anna, thank you so much for your kind words, they are appreciated. Your pieces show how confidence is gained throughout the session which is always a good thing! Thank you again - Vicky"

Glenys Jones reviewed: One day fused glass course at North Norfolk Stained Glass

"Excellent day, everything explained clearly, guided and helped, lovely relaxed atmosphere. Thoroughly enjoyed this birthday surprise, highly recommend this ."

North Norfolk Stained Glass responded:

"Hi Glenys, Thank you for coming on the class and your kind review. I posted your project today, expect it very soon! Best wishes Paul"

Paul Harrison reviewed: Two person pen making experience. Make & take home the pens of your choice.

"A very well run and enjoyable course, resulting in a very presentable pen! Duncan was a very good tutor. Recommended."

Duncs Wood Turning responded:

"Paul, I'm glad you and Henryk both enjoyed your time with me, I think you do yourself a dis-service, you both made great pens. You were fun to have in the workshop. Thanks. Rgds, Duncs"

John Ratter reviewed: Box making weekend in Cumbria

"I had a most enjoyable weekend on the box making course. I found it to be a pleasant and relaxed atmosphere in which to enjoy learning new skills. Mark is very patient and knowledgeable and is good at explaining all the steps involved. It's a great workshop with a huge selection of machinery and hand tools. Highly recommended. "

Debbie reviewed: Powertex Notebook/Journal Workshop

"I really enjoyed the course and Michelle was very friendly and knowledgeable. I will definitely be booking on another powertex course in the future."

Gwendoline reviewed: Beginners spoon carving

"I recently attended the spoon carving workshop and it was an absolutely fantastic experience! Nick was incredibly knowledgeable and patient, guiding us through each step with ease. Debbie was lovely and took good care of us throughout the day. The hands-on approach made it easy to learn, the atmosphere was friendly and encouraging, perfect for both beginners and those with some experience. I left with a beautiful handmade spoon. Highly recommended for anyone looking to learn a new skill and have fun in the process!"

Gosman Spoon Co. responded:

"Debbie and I are delighted that you enjoyed your day so much, it was a fantastic workshop despite the weather! If you have any questions about tools or further information, please feel free to contact us :)"

Nicola reviewed: Introduction to Natural Dyeing Workshop, Mere, Wiltshire

"A really informative introduction to natural dyeing, I learnt a lot and really enjoyed my day! The venue was lovely and we had endless cups of tea. A bonus was having a mini booklet to take home, a mini shibori dyed bag (that we dyed ourselves) and dye samples."

Elka responded:

"Thank you so much for taking the time to leave a review Nicola. We're delighted that you enjoyed the day and feel that you've learnt a lot! "

Ann reviewed: Bespoke One Day Workshop For Two - Introduction to Linocut

"Thoroughly enjoyed this course! It was well planned with lots of useful information (both in advance of the course and during) and examples to help us understand the materials, equipment and process but also plenty of opportunities to work at our own pace and level, with as much support as we wanted. Gerry was very accommodating, a great tutor and the studio was beautifully equipped. I had a fun, relaxing afternoon and managed to achieve much more than I had expected, I can’t wait to try Lino printing again!"

Gerry Coles Prints responded:

"Thank you Ann, the print you produced was fabulous and I’m so pleased that you enjoyed coming to my studio and getting to know the process. Thank you so much for leaving a review. Best wishes G"

David Owen reviewed: 1 Person Pen Making Experience. Make & take home the pen of your choice.

"A wonderful experience and a joy to spend time making a pen which is personal. Duncan's approach is both encouraging and helpful, giving you the feeling of pride in the pen you have made. The variety of woods and finishings give much choice. Excellent."

Duncs Wood Turning responded:

"David, it was a pleasure meeting you, your love of pens and penmanship in general were evident, I hope that the pen that you made gives you years of pleasure. Rgds Duncs."

Josie Aldridge reviewed: Star garden light

"I ordered this kit to build for my sister. I had a query about how quickly it would be dispatched- my query was answered very promptly and I received the kit within 2 days. It was very straightforward to make- apart from the last instruction about attaching the battery pack. I just couldn’t understand this instruction at all, so I left it for my sister to sort out! The finished star looks lovely in her garden."

Craftkits responded:

"Josie, Thank you so much for taking the time to write a review. I'm glad that you liked the star once completed. I think I know the issue with the instructions, I have a kit for a much smaller version of this star and it has a wee wooden star that the battery pack hides behind, I think I sent those instructions by mistake. I'm so pleased that you still managed to put the star together though. My apologies for the error. Thanks again and kind regards, Lorna"

Graham Clark reviewed: Beginners Knife Forging Day

"Thoroughly enjoyable day, well led by Alex. His knowledge and ability is quickly apparent and he helped all of us throughout the course, showing where we had gone wrong and helping us to make corrections. He explained all of the safety risks, demonstrated necessary techniques and how to use the various machines and allowed everyone to get on with their own knife making. I was very pleased with my end product made using tools and techniques I hadn’t used before. Congratulations on running an interesting and memorable course. "

Prin reviewed: Introductory pottery wheel throwing taster sessions

"The taster pottery session was a very good basic class in which there was plenty time to practice on several pots. Lorraine was very helpful and supportive, as well as informative on exactly how to practice hands on and learn a new skill as a hobby or anything else which was meditating and lots of fun too. "

Woodsetton Art Pottery responded:

"Many thanks indeed for the kind words and I hope to see you again at some time. Lorraine at Woodsetton"

Kevin Shakespeare reviewed: Two person pen making experience. Make & take home the pens of your choice.

"My friend & myself went to Duncs Wood Turning today & it was an amazing experience. Duncan is very professional & such a nice man. He helped us both create our own beautiful pens. This course is highly recommended. Thanks again Duncan"

Duncs Wood Turning responded:

"Kevin, It was my pleasure to have both in the workshop today, you both made beautiful pens and I hope that they give you years of pleasure. Rgds Duncs"