Latest reviews

Janet reviewed: Creative Fused Glass for beginners and improvers

"I really enjoyed this creative fused glass course. Nadine is a very friendly and helpful teacher, always ready to give a hand with advice on project ideas, and what type or colour of glass would work well for a specific project. I am new to working with glass but found the experience very enjoyable and would recommend this to anyone interested in working with glass. I am looking forward to seeing the finished product!"

Nadine Mahoney responded:

"Hi Janet, Thank you for these kind worlds, and taking the time to write a review. It’s very appreciated. I loved the design of your coasters, hope they look great in your home."

Elizabeth reviewed: Sewing Kit - Sew a drawstring bag with handles - sewing kit for beginners

"Lovely design, great quality, swift delivery - would highly recommend!"

Shirley reviewed: Alien spoon carving

"We had a really interesting day learning techniques to use different types of axes and knives - it was a little intimidating at first, but we went over the safety aspects and got lots of tips. Ended up with items which actually resembled spoons, which was very satisfying. We also got information sent after the workshop going over some of the things we'd learned, which was useful. Excellent scones and banana cake! Good day and Alan was very helpful and patient."

Caroline & John reviewed: Introduction to Bees and Beekeeping

"We loved learning about the honey bees in such a friendly, relaxing and beautiful setting. Elizabeth and Ken possess an incredible knowledge of the subject of bee keeping. We could not help but be taken in by their passion for bees and all that is associated with helping and protecting our environment and our wildlife. We would happily recommend this course to anyone wanting to just learn about honey bees or those thinking about keeping bees. A wonderful day"

Oakdale Bees responded:

"Thank you so much for taking the time to write such a lovely review. We really appreciate it and it was our pleasure to to have you both here. Thank you and very best wishes"

Pam Stephen reviewed: Kate Morrell willow sculpture courses

"Had great fun making a willow cockerel. Kate is a very patient and points out what would improve the sculpture you are making, making it more balanced and filling in any holes. (of which I had a few) Really interesting and I would love to come back and make another animal. I had a really good day out highly recommended."

Margaret Beales reviewed: Come Frame With Me - Making your own Picture Frame

"Excellent, course really enjoyed it,very informative and easy to follow,would definitely recommend this course to anyone wanting to make frames as a hobby or professionally"

Studio 93 Framing responded:

"Thank you Margaret for your review. It was a pleasure hosting you for the day and your frame looked excellent. I glad you enjoyed the experience day and I look forward to hearing how your framing is going in the future. Kind regards, Ady"

Kate reviewed: Lace pattern porcelain ceramics in Kendal, South Lakes

"My sister and I really enjoyed the lace pattern porcelain course with Nik. She was very welcoming and professional. As all materials were provided, all we had to do was watch, learn and create our own pieces! Tea / coffee and cakes were provided whilst we were busy working away on our creations! Brilliant day, many thanks!"

NIKSLOVELYART responded:

"Hi Kate, Thank you for the lovely review of your day with me yesterday. I'm delighted you and your sister had a great day. Nik"

James reviewed: Silver Clay Beginners day

"We thoroughly enjoyed our day with Louise! She was very friendly and upon meeting her made us feel welcome. Louise's knowledge on the subject was spot on and she was willing to jump in and help us whenever we got stuck! Thank you again Louise."

Louise Anne designs responded:

"Thank you I’m glad you enjoyed your day ?"

Dawn Riley reviewed: Hanging hearts craft kit

"I was sent the wrong hanging heart, I ordered 3 hanging red hearts but received 1 embroidery heart. However I decided to keep it and I've really enjoyed making it and think I've learnt more than if I'd got the other set. So a happy accident for me ?"

The Wood Cottage Crafts responded:

"Hello Dawn, My sincere apologies for sending in error. I'm so pleased you enjoyed it though, it is a lovely make, with the embroidery stitches. I will send the right for you too. Many thanks."

Scott Johnstone reviewed: Building with Lime

"I thoroughly enjoyed the day with Ben. He provided expert advice and was more than happy to discuss personal projects and offer tips or guidance. The ladies were friendly and welcoming, the food was nice although not to my palette."

Humble by Nature responded:

"Hi Scott, thanks for your review. It's great to hear you enjoyed the course. Best wishes, the farm team"

David Thornley reviewed: Blacksmithing Beginners day courses in Yorkshire and the North East

"What a good taster day, and well recommended. I ended up with a 3-way 'dragon' coat-hook, and a key-ring to master the initial techniques. Thanks to Debbie for an excellent dinner too, and then biscuits/cake/cheese, tea or coffee to finish off before finishing, leaving about 4:30. There were 8 of us there, well spaced out in an huge, airy forge. Adrian and Andy are excellent tutors and a very friendly and understanding. Don't think this is just for blokes, as there was one married couple there too. A thick leather apron and safety glasses are provided. All-in-all an interesting day! David"

Steve T reviewed: Glass blowing course - taster

"Highly recommend this taster session. The guys at Chew Valley Handmade Glass are extremely knowledgeable and personable. I might even head back for the intensive 1-2-1 session."

Chew Valley HandMade Glass responded:

"Thank you so much Steve for your comments. We are so glad you enjoyed your course and you are welcome back for an intense couse anytime. Regards Angie"

Ruth reviewed: Enamel Jewellery - Beginner - 3 Hours - One to One

"I bought this course as a Christmas present for myself and my Mum. I was excited about it before we went, but even then it exceeded my expectations! Such a fun course creating really unique pieces, thank you Rachel for your excellent tuition and enthusiasm. It was truly a wonderful way to spend a Saturday morning."

Gifted Crafts Company responded:

"Thank you so much Ruth you are lovely. It really was a pleasure and you both did so well. All the very best. Rach x"

Neha Patil reviewed: Pottery throwing in Buxton

"Lots of fun! Was a complete beginner and managed to make two great pots. Highly recommend as an interesting activity to try out :)"

Wolodymyr Krywonos reviewed: Pottery throwing in Buxton

"Earth Pig Pottery is a great time for anybody looking to try pottery for the first time. Thanks to the very helpful and experienced instructors we were even able to produce good quality pots. Overall a great experience for everyone!"

Tim Lowes reviewed: Blacksmithing Beginners day courses in Yorkshire and the North East

"Fantastic day at the Forge; highly recommended to anyone. Adrian and Andy are excellent instructors and maintained a relaxed and friendly atmosphere throughout the day. Definitely the best value day I can think of: 8hrs in the Forge with teaching, 2 items to take home, a delicious 3 course lunch (thanks Debbie), plenty of tea/coffee and great cake/flapjacks, not to mention entertaining and informative chat along the way! Aching right arm and needing a shower, but with a coat rack and key ring to take home - even a complete novice can make something functional that looks surprisingly good! Will be recommending to all my friends/colleagues."

John Hopkins reviewed: Wood turning courses in the Midlands

"Had a full day course with Mark and I found it a truely excellent day. I picked up so many skills, techniques and information, it is a perfect way to start or get back into turning. Mark is a really skilful woodturner and his knowledge is very well founded and most importantly makes sense. His attention to detail, particularly with regards to H & S is fantastic. Mark's teaching manner is exceptional. He is very patient but also keeps you up to a task. He is considerate and helpful and if you need correcting in any way, Mark does it in a very constructive and encouraging way, If you wish to re-ignite your passion, progress your skill or start from the begining, I would thoroughly recommend Mark Hancock. Thanks Mark!"

Mark Hancock responded:

"Thank you John. I really appreciate your comments. All the best, Mark"

Clare reviewed: Bronze Clay Sculpture Kit: Sleeping Cat

"The instructions were really clear, absolutely everything required was supplied in the kit, exceptionally well planned. We really enjoyed it, a relaxing and therapeutic experience, absolutely perfect for a few hours away from everyday life. We would definitely recommend them and will be ordering more in the future."

Jo Garden Art responded:

"Thank you Clare - really glad you enjoyed the kit! Jo ;-)"

Hilary reviewed: Candlemaking for Beginners

"Thank you Rob for such an interesting and informative day - learned so much! Rob was great at explaining everything really clearly and is so knowledgeable. Several different techniques covered during the session and so lovely to come away with a variety of hand crafted candles with a container to transport then home in. Would definitely recommend and go again."

The Wax Studio responded:

"Thanks for the kind review Hilary - it was a pleasure to have you - and thanks for the info on education services- all the best Rob"

John Haffenden reviewed: Blacksmith Experience Day - Anvil Forge

"A brilliant day , amazing workshop and really helpful staff . 10 out of 10 .I’ll be back!"

Anvil Forge responded:

"Hi John Pleased you had great time , I am looking forward to seeing the next creation now you have the basic skills you can build on ! best wishes John"

Brian Lodge reviewed: Blacksmithing one-to-one North West UK

"I had never worked with metal before and Colin White was an excellent instructor and very patient .He explained everything very clearly and made sure the day was a very safe and enjoyable experience .I manufactured a coat rack which required a number of separate skills ,all of which Colin took me through and demonstrated before letting me try my hand .Even when the course was completed he was more than willing to explain many of the other techniques that a modern blacksmith uses . A great course and highly recommended ."

Rhian Browning reviewed: Spoon carving course (1 day)

"The only thing that would improve this course is if it went on for another couple of hours - I didn't want to go home! David is very welcoming and an excellent instructor, explaining everything clearly and making sure everyone was working safely and in the most effective way. There were only four of us so we got plenty of support and it was a pleasure to spend the day with such friendly and interesting people (thank you G, J and M). The workshop is in a sheltered clearing in beautiful woodland, and there was sunshine, birdsong and bluebells as an added bonus. There's also delicious food, excellent coffee and home made cake. My spoon is still a bit rustic but I'm intending to buy some tools and carry on carving because I enjoyed the whole experience so much. If you're considering this course, I would recommend it without any reservation; I'm certain you won't be disappointed."

Su Parker reviewed: The Human Face Explored - One-day Creative Drawing Workshop in lovely Narberth

"I've attended several of Louise's workshops and despite feeling rather nervous at tackling the human face I needn't have worried. I was amazed and delighted at what I achieved and this is all down to Louise's exceptional teaching skills. She has the gift of leading you through step by step from warm up exercises to end result in a way that is both instructional and encouraging, and really gets the best out of you. Louise's studio is a delightful space, filled with light and is a pleasure to work in. Her classes are never too crowded so you really feel you have individual attention when you need it. Thank you Louise, Im looking forward to signing up to your new programme!"

Louise Burdett Artist responded:

"Ah, thanks so much Su for your wonderful review. I can't wait to get back to teaching again and look forward to seeing you very soon. x"

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

"I thoroughly enjoyed this course. Martin was excellent with his explanations of techniques, advice and guidance. I have never worked with glass before but the day was so informative and has given me inspiration for a new and exciting hobby. I didn’t think I was arty but I was proud of my achievements from the day. I would definitely recommend this course to others."

Ben reviewed: Pot throwing on the wheel for a Half Day

"I had a brilliant time with Richard. Richard is absolutely lovely, a very friendly and inspiring teacher. I learnt lots of great techniques and thoroughly enjoyed throwing whilst discussing pottery with Richard. I'll be back for raku lessons."

Potterydayz responded:

"Well that's simply Marvelous. Many thanks Ben, a pleasure to spend time potting with you. Look forward to seeing you for some Raku soon."