Latest reviews

Helen Harris reviewed: Powertex Stone Art Clay Hare (medium) Sculpture - by Inky Escapades

"We attended our first powertex workshop not really knowing what to expect. Karen was very welcoming and immediately put us at ease. The studio was set up to comply with Covid 19 regulations whilst still achieving an informal friendly space. Karen was an informative, patient teacher and guided us through the lesson allowing us to work at our own pace and explore our own creativity whilst keeping a close eye on us. Lunch was in her lovely garden with social distancing. We ended the course with items that we were very happy with and never thought we could actually achieve. We are already talking about what item we are going to make on our next visit. ?."

Niki reviewed: 1 day introduction to silver jewellery making

"I signed up for the one day silver jewellery making course, a brilliant day with Jonathan sharing his expertise and knowledge. Highly recommend attending a course with Jonathan, his teaching incorporates detailed explanations as well as demonstrations of all techniques. I had a great day, learnt lots and am keen to develop and practice the techniques he has taught me. I’ll certainly be booking a follow up course."

Kelly Fairbrother reviewed: Introduction to candle-making as a business

"What can I say...so so glad I attended this course! Firstly Jo is lovely, such a warm welcome and happy to share her experience and knowledge completely freely. Personally I had watched every YouTube video, Googled everything I could think candle making related and followed every possible social media group I came across. For me the result was a scrambled mess of ‘knowledge’ with conflicting advice not to mention different countries so different rules!! Spending the day with Jo gave me the correct knowledge and confidence to move forward with my ideas and start testing ready to finally start selling in the future. Thanks again Jo x"

The White Candle Company responded:

"This is such a lovely review Kelly. Thank you so much and best of luck moving forward, youll be fab xx"

David Cooke reviewed: Make a chef's knife

"I joined with 4 others, John, and his team of smiths on his two-day knife making course. Brilliant. Great fun and very rewarding being able to produce a ‘sharp’ thanks Aden. Making a chef's knife was a fantastic way to spend two days sweating away…true craftsmen all of them, great atmosphere, team giving plenty of one to one tuition. I thoroughly recommend this course. John, great idea with the ploughman’s lunch much better than the pub lunch! Thank you to you all. David."

Anvil Forge responded:

"Hi David thanks for the review , I can assure you we all had great time as well . I dont think I can add much except you are welcome back of course any time and dont forget to email me for the discount voucher for your next class. Ps Pleased about the ploughmans lunch , makes a great change from the pub! best wishes John"

Ed Robertson reviewed: Learn to sketch with the Edinburgh Sketcher

"Short taster course and really enjoyable. I don't consider myself to be very "Arty", but this brief intro got straight to the point, here is a pen and paper and get sketching. Mark has a relaxed manner and makes time for each person in the group. I've already got a place booked on one of the advanced courses, so I'd better get some practice in. Lynn had everything sorted out for Covid 19 precautions - information, screens, single use items, hand sanitizer etc."

The Arienas Collective responded:

"Hello Ed. Thanks for your lovely review! I’m so glad you enjoyed your workshop with Mark, and felt safe while you were with us for our first In-person workshop since lockdown. We love helping people release their inner artist, and look forward to welcoming you back for your advanced sketching workshop with Mark and to seeing how you’ve progressed. Meantime, keep sketching! Best wishes, Lynn"

Matthew Walker reviewed: Lampworking Workshop: Half Day Beginners Workshop

"My wife and I attended this course, as it's something we've wanted to have a go at for a while. Suzanne was absolutely superb and professional with everything. We couldn't have asked for a better experience. We would strongly recommend for anyone of any level!"

Suzanne Jewellery responded:

"Hi Matthew, thank you for your lovely review. I am so pleased you both enjoyed your workshop. Suzanne"

Angie D reviewed: Bespoke Contemporary Fine Art Encaustic Wax Workshop.

"Dear Lyn It was so lovely meeting you and I absolutely loved the course. I am still on a high and my family could not believe the quality of my art work. You truly are an inspirational teacher and loved your laid back, calming nature, as you made learning a joy. I loved the way you made me feel I could accomplish the tasks, as you gave me confidence in myself, so thank you so much. You also made the most delicious sugar free fruit cake. Yummy! Thank you for a Fabulous, Fun, two days and will look at dates tomorrow for the next course."

Contemporary Encaustic Wax Workshop responded:

"Angie, it was a pleasure to meet you and spend the day exploring all the versatile properties of encaustic wax in a safe, and socially distanced space. The painting you have produced is very ‘you’ I feel. Balanced, calming and imbued with your spirituality. Would love to do more with you in the future. Take care"

Maria Bunker reviewed: Feltmaking OOH the choices!

"I have followed Barbara for a couple of years and have wanted to do one of her workshop, which I finally got to do and wasn't disappointed. I took part in her wet felting bag workshop with two other ladies, who were also lovely. Barbara demonstrated each stage of the process and gave us individual attention as and when we needed it. This session was an all day one where lunch was included, and you definitely need the full day to complete the piece. I love my bag that I have made, and would thoroughly recommend this workshop. I travelled a distance to take part in this session and was not disappointed that I had. In fact I have no hesitation in attending another of Barbara's session and hope it isn't too long before I do so."

Feltworld - Creative Arts responded:

"It was a pleasure to finally meet you and teach you :-). Your bag looks fabulous and look forward to teaching you many more stages and techniques. I'm glad you enjoyed your stay visiting Penkridge and Cannock Chase."

Hannah reviewed: Make your own Personalised Leather Dog Collar

"What can I say, from the minute you walk into the delightful studio and inhale the delicious leathery smells you feel relaxed and right at home. Tracy is very knowledgeable and an excellent teacher. The course is taught in a small group so you get as much help and support as you need. All the materials and equipment are provided so there are no hidden extras once you arrive. Top Tip: Take your purse and have a look at the discount rail whilst you’re there. Some real bargains can be found ?"

Helen Harris reviewed: Willow Angel/Fairy Christmas Sculpture Workshop

"A lovely day. Jo is a fantastic teacher, very friendly and approachable. Covid requirements all fulfilled which meant we were all happy and relaxed. We left the course with a deer that we were very pleased with. Thank you Jo. We will be back."

Jo Sadler at Forged n Willow responded:

"Thanks so much. You were an excellent group to work with. The sculptures were lovely and the new venue worked well. I look forward to hares soon!"

lesley franks reviewed: Kiln Formed Glass Course: group

"I attended this course during Covid. Firstly, I have to say that Ewa took every precaution to follow the guidelines. I always felt safe. Secondly, what a great day I had! Especially after quite a long time unable to do much. I made four fabulous dishes. Ewa is very helpful and I cant wait to attend another course."

Glenn reviewed: Hide camp - deer skin into buckskin

"I’m a deerstalker, and I wanted to learn how to use the skins so that I could harvest more of the animal, and pay it more respect by using it fully. I’m really pleased I booked this course! Jessie and Jane know their stuff and have been following primitive life skills pathways for many years, perfecting and using their expertise. I was able to scrape a fresh skin, then work it over the next few days, watching it amazingly turn to soft buckskin before my eyes! I required a bit of work, but the environment and great teaching and company and food meant the time flew! I’d highly recommend this course!"

Victoria reviewed: Forge your own knife at Padgett Ironworks Blacksmiths

"Excellent day, Connor was patient and full of information on techniques both modern and historical. Great day had by both my brother in law and myself, plus we both made knives which are functional and unique."

tony mulhall reviewed: The complete basics of woodturning (2 days)

"Being a complete novice with no background in wood turning and certainly no equipment or tools getting the right training was always the top of my priorities. My two days with Mark was easily the best value for money, not just in terms of wood turning but also in buying the right kit for the right money and wasting nothing. As I start to put my workshop together based on Mark’s advice and guidance I am sure I have saved more than the cost of his training by not buying some of the things I had on my wish list. Mark’s approach to training on a one to one basis goes way beyond instruction, he coaches his students on all aspects of wood turning with instant feedback and advice as you work at the lathe. He patiently provided expert guidance in response to my many questions. At the end of the course I felt confident to safely handle my tools at the lathe, I am now raring to get on with loads of practice on the lathe. The training was easily the best thing I have done for quite a while and I can see me returning for further training as my skills develop. Many thanks Tony"

Mark Hancock responded:

"Thank you Tony. I really appreciate your taking the time to write the review and the comments you've made."

Chad Barnsley reviewed: Silver jewellery beginners' class - one day

"An excellent day. Louise is so patient and helpful without being patronising. Loved every minute and the pieces I made are lovely."

Amelia Howe reviewed: Beginners 1-day 1-2-1 woodturning workshop for 1 person

"I had a fantastic time on the day's woodturning course. I was a total beginner but was given lots of support and so happy with my pieces. It was great to be given the right amount of time and freedom to explore the tools, but also know that I had support there whenever it was needed (quite a lot!). Lunch and snacks were also of the highest standard! Simon has been really helpful in advising about tools and I can't wait to develop my skills further in the future."

Blended Monkey - pottery - woodturning - green woodworking - pole lathe - throwing responded:

"Really glad you enjoyed the day and that you got the course notes afterwards. Don't hesitate to get in touch if you need any help or advice."

Kate reviewed: Live leatherwork tuition

"brilliant!"

Alex reviewed: Beginners 1-day 1-2-1 woodturning workshop for 1 person

"Highly recommend this course very informative and very enjoyable."

Blended Monkey - pottery - woodturning - green woodworking - pole lathe - throwing responded:

"Thank you for your review Alex. It was a pleasure teaching you and you made some lovely pieces! :-)"

Keri reviewed: Learn to Love your Sewing Machine

"Jen is a knowledgeable and lovely person, generous with both her time in teaching and resource materials. I have gained both enjoyment and skills on the courses I have attended and can fully recommend her."

Sew Forest of Dean responded:

"Thank you Keri, it was lovely to get you started on your sewing journey. Enjoy your new hobby! Kind regards, Jennifer"

Miguel reviewed: Solid silver precious metal clay jewellery making courses

"Hannah was a lovely, friendly, welcoming person who made us feel comfortable right from the start. She is such a fantastic teacher, very patient, explained things very well and made things simple to follow and understand. Couldnt have asked for a better tutor! Wonderful experience all round and very pleased with our final products. Thoroughly recommend thos course"

Sally Joan Ross reviewed: One day stained glass workshop London for beginners and enthusiasts

"My partner and I loved this two day course. Tejal was an excellent teacher and her enthusiasm shone through. Our heads were buzzing with all of the skills we had to learn to complete a butterfly and boat. We are hoping to continue to learn about stained glass and can't wait until Tejal offers another glass course."

GlassSeasons responded:

"Thanks, take care.It was lovely meeting you and training both.Love to see again!"

Niyamat Mehta reviewed: Life sculpture in clay: 1 day course

"Poppy is incredibly hard working and committed towards her work, which (I think) is one of the most inspiring qualities for a student to look up to. She is a very passionate sculptor and has the profound ability of making learning a joyful and rewarding experience. Anyone who has a chance to study and learn under Poppy is very fortunate."

Liz reviewed: Two person 'Have a Bash' at Blacksmithing course in Shropshire

"An excellent course, well instructed and paced, really enjoyable with a knowledgeable and friendly instructor. I did the course with a friend and each of us came away with a beautiful poker and hook to display it on that we made during the day; great mementos of an amazing day."

Hedge Ironworks responded:

"Thank you so much Liz for your kind words! I look forward to seeing you both again if you decide to come back for the Rose making course. All the very best, Jake."

Alison Quigley reviewed: Shibori & indigo dye at Cowshed Creative, the Lake District National Park, near Windermere

"?????Wonderful Shibori course - I definitely recommend Cowshed Creative if you would like to be inspired! Our lovely group experimented with indigo and cotton fabrics, the course arrangements and resources were great, the studio space is idyllic and all arranged with social distancing in place. Fabulous teaching from Kate and excellent lunch and cakes from George - Thank you, I will be back!"

Cowshed Creative responded:

"Thanks so much Alison for your lovely comments. Your scarf was beautiful and we look forward to seeing you again."

Matthew Pendlebury reviewed: 2 day knife/axe making courses

"What a great experience forging with both Gary and Joseph. Both lads masters of their craft who will help in any way necessary to create the perfect blade. Had a great time creating my damascus blade and it is exactly what I expected after watching Forged in fire. A lot of hard work and timely advice in how to go through the whole process from start to finish of forging and grinding a knife. Thanks lads"