Latest reviews

Adele reviewed: Weave a Scarf Workshop

"Had the best day learning how to weave, using beautiful yarns in a vast array of colours. The tutors Jessamy and Sophia were very knowledgeable and right on hand but also did not hover. The length of the course is just right to come away with your own personally designed scarf. Brilliant!"

Lazykate Textiles responded:

"Thank you so much for leaving your feedback. We're so pleased you enjoyed the day, it was lovely spending some time with you"

Andy K reviewed: Axe making course

"Really enjoyed my dad at the forge. Andy was a really good instructor; explained what was happening at each stage, nice clear instructions then left you to have a try for yourself. Really pleased with how the axe turned out ?"

Rachel reviewed: Beginners Crochet 9.30am - 11.30am

"Great course to help me understand the basics. Was really good being able to do it online as I live nowhere near Emma who held the course. Emma was really patient and explained everything really well. Will definitely be coming back to do the next level of course once I have practised a bit more."

Alexander Northover reviewed: Hand forged rustic knife course

"I bought this course for my brother's Birthday who has always seemed interested in blacksmithing but struggled to find opportunities. I cannot express more that my expectations were completely blown away at how brilliant a time he seemed to have had. He has shown his knife (that he crafted there, himself) to anyone that is even remotely interested. I am so thoroughly satisfied with how the day went that the next plan is for my dad and myself to go with him next time. By all accounts, Andy and Dave sound like brilliant, genuine guys that my brother got on with very well and it was not at all awkward. I was also surprised as to how much freedom my brother had in crafting the knife, since it sounds as if he was able to do 99% of the crafting unassisted, but with guidance and instruction from Andy and Dave. A fantastic service which is more than recommended by me, especially if you are up North (we travelled from Liverpool) as there seems to be limited forges around here, which is reflected in this review and the others."

Stephen Agnew reviewed: Chair Making Courses with Sussex Green Woodworking

"A very rewarding and fulfilling experience in the woodland! I would thoroughly recommend this course if you have an interest in learning some country crafts and skills of times past, where power tools rarely feature. I had no idea what you could produce using a simple pole lathe, draw knives, travishers, spoke shaves and the like! I took away a high-quality piece of furniture that I am well proud of and will last many years. Thanks to Danny who is a most confidence inspiring and accomplished teacher who guides, instructs, corrects but otherwise lets you get on with it. The setting in the woods is magical and the food provided was very tasty and nourishing, especial the delicious soups, thanks to his daughter. There were a number of elves present who helped out too, thank you to Peter x2, Mike and Flo. Nicer people you won’t meet. Participants on the course were all thoroughly entertaining people, no cowboys but plenty of bodgers! I loved everything about the course and had a thoroughly great week. I hope to do another course soon. Stephen Agnew 4/2021"

Sussex green woodworking responded:

"Thanks Steve ! It was a pleasure to spend time with you and I’m looking forward to seeing you in the woods again . ?"

Martin Geary reviewed: Private or private group silver jewellery making / silversmithing workshop half-day at Silver Designed Personally

"Took my own, rather challenging design, which I had discussed with Sara in advance. The day started with a warm and friendly introductions (including Misty) and coffee. Instruction commenced soon after in a neat workshop in Sara's beautiful garden. Covid protocols were followed. Instructions were clear and concise, followed by a short demonstration prior to getting hands on. Sara has a very positive "not a problem" "we can sort that out" approach. This gives confidence during the hands on sessions and importantly I would emphasise the "we can" comment. Any problems were carefully considered and a solution found, allowing me to rectify where possible. Sara also helped where it required a more experienced solution, but in no way took over. The item was designed and made by myself with a Sara's guidance. The project was completed in the half day session, and as a first attempt the results were excellent. Yes it looks hand made, but in a good sense, that is exactly what it is! I would have no hesitation in recommending Sara's workshops, and in fact, I am already thinking about another design to allow me to gain more experience in areas that were not covered. Thank You Sara"

Silver Designed Personally responded:

"Wow - what lovely comments - thank you so much for talking the time to write. You did do so well for a first attempt at piercing and that was a complex piece - it was a lovely result. Really hoping you can come back some time to learn some more. Sara"

Adrian Joy reviewed: Spoon carving at Walderchain Wood, Canterbury

"Fantastic day. Been looking forward to it since my wife gave the day as a gift. We were lucky with the weather, Mark was a great teacher, showing every step of the way with a good range of tools to test / try. I can’t recommend this course enough. I want more!"

Walderchain Wood responded:

"Adrian, Thank you for the review. Glad you enjoyed the day and found it useful. Do come back for more :) Mark"

Linda & Rhona reviewed: Jewellery - carve a ring in wax, cast it and hey presto your own ring in sterling silver!

"What a great day Sue very friendly, lovely location and a yummy lunch. Throughly enjoyed carving rings and can’t wait to see them. Would definitely recommend any of Sue’s courses, she is very knowledgeable and made us feel really welcome. April 2021"

Sue O'Mara Art responded:

"Thank you for the kind words. It was a pleasure to have you both here. Won't be long now until you get the rings in the post. Best wishes, Sue"

Eugene reviewed: Bristol Bronze Club - 2 day lost wax bronze casting workshop

"This was a great course, I learned a lot about smelting bronze and David made the days seem fun and fly by. David's knowledge on metal smelting overall was impressive and although the course is aimed mainly at Bronze, I also learned a lot about working with other metals from David and he answered many of the questions I had prior to taking the course."

Jacqui Shaw reviewed: Beginners Pottery Day Course

"Today I had the pleasure of learning to throw a pot with Matthew. What an absolute gentleman & fantastic teacher. I was very nervous about how the day would go as I have never done anything like this before. He talked me through every step and made it so easy for me to follow. I am hooked it's the most enjoyable course and I can highly recommend to anyone who is curious to have a go. It's fabulous value for money as you get to have your pots painted & fired. I managed to make a few items & can't wait to see them glazed. I will definitely be requesting another voucher from santa... Thank you for a fabulous day"

Dimbleby Ceramics - Studio Pottery Courses responded:

"Hi Jacqui, it was an absolute pleasure to teach you and see you progress throughout the day. You made amazing progress in one day and the results speak for themselves. Best wishes and I can’t wait to see your glazed pots. Mat"

Lux reviewed: Introduction to spooncarving at Hill End

"This is a fantastic course! David and Mike are experienced tutors. They are passionate about woodcraft, they are knowledgeable and professional. They paid attention to each student in the class. My boyfriend and I are absolute beginners for woodcraft, we learnt a lot on the day, with the help from the tutors, we both managed to get a spoon done. It was a happy learning experience and a great fun day! The workshop is located at Hill End such a beautiful place in Oxford. Thank you so much, David and Mike! :) All the best!"

David Knight Woodland Crafts responded:

"Hi Lux it was a real pleasure to introduce you and Eccles to the joys of wood carving. I’m so glad you enjoyed the day and I do hope it has triggered a continuing interest in wood crafts. I look forward to seeing you on further courses, perhaps?"

Susan Jones reviewed: Fabric Easter egg craft kit

"I’ve only just got the easter egg and haven’t had time to make it yet. Ask again in 6 months if you want. review."

The Wood Cottage Crafts responded:

"Many thanks Susan,I'm sure you'll enjoy the making."

Nicole reviewed: The Art of Journalling - a writing and bookbinding workshop

"Such a unique experience! I loved getting to make my own journal. I'm the type to buy pretty notebooks and never use them because they're too pretty, but this journal is special and makes me want to write in it constantly! Cass's instructions were helpful for someone who has never done bookbinding before. The live portion had different writing exercises that really helped get me in the zone for journalling. I loved the structure of the workshop and will definitely be using these exercises for my own journalling going forward!"

Airtily responded:

"Thank you, Nicole! It's fabulous to hear you're enjoying using your journal."

Nicole reviewed: Landscape Collage for Beginners

"What a great workshop! I'm not the most artistic person and haven't made art since I was a child. I signed up for this workshop because I was looking for a new creative outlet and thought it could be fun to try collage, which I've never done before. The group was lovely and Julie made us all feel welcome. Her guidance and explanations were clear and helpful. I realised collage-making is not only fun and creative but also meditative. I loved ripping up newspapers, getting glue everywhere, and making a mess – it made me feel like a kid again!"

Airtily responded:

"Thank you, Nicole! I'm so glad you enjoyed the workshop."

Donna Debenham reviewed: Teen Saturday art club (12-16 year olds) 13weeks

"My daughter attended this course and it is really excellent. She was welcomed warmly and supported with advise and guidance. Some of her art from this course is on my living wall! Would definitely recommend."

The White Room Art Studio responded:

"Thank you so much for your review. So pleased she enjoyed the classes, and I hope she continues to be creative regards Julie"

Paula Lambe reviewed: 'Glass for the garden' with the Cheshire School of Glass

"Beautiful rural setting , comfortable studio, loads of resources and great company in my fellow glass workers. Jenny is informative, encouraging, inspiring and knows just when to help out at that point when you are struggling. I had a very enjoyable day and am looking forward to seeing the finished product. A real creative haven.Thank you."

Joanna reviewed: Candle Making Course with Belisama Candles (A Peta approved brand )

"What a pleasure it was to attend this candle making course at Belisama candles. Sharon is one of the nicest people you will meet. She is so passionate about her business & products and her workshop is a delightful little gem. I had no idea of the amount of work that goes into candle making. I would recommend it to anyone! Thank you so much for all your help & advice."

Jean Taylor reviewed: ‘Sunset in wool painting' interactive online course with live tuition

"Hello Raya, I very much enjoyed participating in your zoom course. The kit you sent out to me was perfect and included all the materials I needed (except scissors and glue stick). You gave us very clear instructions and demonstrated the processes step by step along the way. I had never created anything like this before so it was rewarding learning a new skill. I am pleased with my finished picture and have had quite a few lovely comments from friends and family. Thank you for your encouragement and including me in your class. Best wishes Jean Taylor"

Rose reviewed: "Field with red poppies" wool painting interactive online course with live tuition.

"I really enjoyed taking part in my first wool painting course to create a poppy wool painting. Raya was a very enthusiastic and positive teacher encouraging and allowing us to use our creativity to create very individual wool paintings rather than just a copy of her work. The pace was suited to the beginner level and she explained everything very clearly. There were plenty of materials provided in our kits and although Raya taught us on zoom (as it was lockdown) I felt as supported as if she was with us. I would recommend this course to anyone who likes working with natural materials and wants to create a painting using a medium other than paint."

Matt & Charlotte reviewed: Beginners spoon carving

"We had a fantastic day not only learning about spoon carving but also the history and tradition of green woodworking. We were a little bit nervous coming as it was the furthest we have been away since lockdown however we were made to feel really welcome and felt very safe. Nick went to alot of effort to work with our own style and we came away with beautiful hand carved spoons!"

Peter Batchelor reviewed: Introduction to woodturning: one to one

"Fantastic day, Bill is an excellent teacher lets you progress at your own pace, full of knowledge and information. Absolutely chuffed with the bowl I made and I now know what I'm having for my forthcoming birthday. Fab day all round."

John reviewed: Asymmetrical basket making courses - two days with Joe Gregory at Creative with Nature Todmorden Yorkshire

"My wife booked me on my first course as a Birthday present and I've been hooked ever since! I've been on 3 so far and I have loved every single one, the teaching is brilliant and the baskets I've made are beautiful and its amazing to see how far I've come. I cant wait for the next!"

Creative with Nature Ltd responded:

"Hi John, thanks for the review: ) really happy to help you on your weaving journey. Joe. xx"

Mike Clark reviewed: Blacksmithing, bladesmithing and metal craft

"I came to the forge with my son for a two day course last weekend. Nigel is a great teacher and his life stories inspirational. Having access to all his amazing collection of machines and tools enabled us to make forgings of high quality and we came home with far more than we expected. Thank you Nigel for your patience and encouragement. To be able to do this course at the end of a long lock-down was a breath of fresh air for both of us and I am sure we will be returning soon."

Rachel reviewed: Portrait Collage for Beginners

"This workshop was so much fun, I don't have the words to do it justice! With Julie's teachings, the group made and shared many portrait collages. It was a real opportunity for escapism and I was surprised, pleased and a wee bit disturbed (in a good way!) with my collages. I have already started collecting materials for the collage workshop in June on Surrealism and Silliness ... can't wait!"

Airtily responded:

"It's good to get a little silly every once in a while, isn't it? So glad you enjoyed the workshop, and I look forward to seeing you at Surrealism and Silliness."

Rachel reviewed: Painting for Beginners (with or without wine) - materials included

"I joined the Still Life with Flowers workshop in March and although I had no experience of painting since high school days, I was so very surprised with the painting I was able to produce with Julie's fantastic teaching and guidance. Being new to the area of arts and crafts, I did not have any materials at hand so I signed up with the option of receiving a kit containing what I would need. This arrived very promptly and I was impressed with the contents, they made me feel like a real artist before I have even begun! I have taken a total of three Airtily workshops now, and this one, as usual was friendly, fun, informative and made up of lovely people. I'm looking forward to the next Landscape painting workshop in June. It is actually on my wedding anniversary, but I have managed to make plans to celebrate around it!!!"

Airtily responded:

"Thank you so much, Rachel. It's so lovely to hear how much you enjoyed it!"