Latest reviews

Clare Downton reviewed: Sculpture workshop two days with Jo Garden Art in beautiful rural Norfolk/Suffolk border setting

"I can’t recommend Jo’s course highly enough. We had a fabulous weekend in Jo’s beautiful studio. I was a little nervous being a complete novice but this is such well thought through course. Jo manages that perfect balance of expertise, with perfectly timed gentle nudges in the right direction, and freedom to create. Andy provided the armature cores which provide the perfect start. I am just so proud of my dog. He makes me smile every time I look at him and am so looking forward to trying out my hare and person kits - although I’ll give my hands a little rest first ! Thank you for a very special weekend Jo and Andy."

Jo Garden Art responded:

"Thank you Clare - I fell in love with your dog sculpture and am planning my own version in memory of a four legged friend from long ago ?. Enjoy making the kits! Jo xx"

Mike reviewed: Creating a Viking knife an introduction to forging and knife making at Bearded Pig Forge

"What a wonderful day making a Viking knife. Spike is a born teacher - very knowledgeable with an outstanding manner. His knowledge and clear enthusiasm for his craft come shining through and he is obviously delighted to pass it on and share it with others. He gives a thorough safety briefing at the beginning and during the course and keeps a careful, albeit, unobtrusive eye on his participants. I would have no hesitation in recommending this course and any others that Spike offers to someone who would enjoy an experience with a difference."

Ross reviewed: Alien spoon carving

"My brother and I attended Alan's spoon carving course this weekend. We both found it an awesome day. Alan was very knowledgeable and re-enforced safe carving techniques. We had both dabbled in carving but very sporadically and were both very rusty. Alan provided all the equipment which included a variety of different knives/axes. As soon as we arrived, Alan and Sim made us very welcome with a nice pot of coffee and good chat. Sim prepared some amazing home baked goods for snacks and lunch. All in all a very enjoyable day which seemed to finish in a flash (which shows how much fun we were having). If you are interested in giving carving a go, I would not hesitate to recommended this day course as an introduction!"

Helen Chew reviewed: Pottery and decorating day for two

"My daughter and I spent a fantastic, fun filled day with Marina in her studio at Dorking. I had purchased the pottery day as a treat for my daughter and myself. We had no idea what to expect as neither of us had ever done pottery before, but we did not need to worry as Marina was delightful and so helpful with our pot making. We managed (after much help and encouragement from Marina) to make 3 pots each and can't wait to collect them in a few weeks time. I think our favourite part was decorating each pot. I would thoroughly recommend Marina and her courses and if we did not live quite so far away, we would certainly attend more courses."

Marina Randall Ceramics responded:

"Thanks Helen for your positive comments ! I'm pleased to say your pots have all been fired and look rather lovely! See you soon at collection Kind regards Marina"

Lynnette reviewed: Kitchen Knife Course

"Such a brilliant experience from start to finish! Dave was a very good teacher, explained what had to be done in a clear and precise way and nothing seemed to be a problem. I felt very at ease with the equipment and what had to be achieved as I knew that Dave was there guiding me as I worked. I have a wonderful new kitchen knife that takes pride of place but also the knowledge that I was able to craft it in a working forge and for that I am very proud. I would highly recommend this for anyone who likes to be creative and use their hands and power tools! I am thinking an axe blade might be next, they do come in handy!!! :)"

Hand forged Yorkshire responded:

"Many thanks indeed Lynnette for leaving such a lovely review. It was a pleasure having yourself and Mark in the forge, so pleased you enjoyed the day and you're so happy with your knife. It would be a great to see you again if you wanted to return and make an axe! Kindest regards Dave"

David reviewed: Bladesmithing Weekend

"Excellent course. Instruction when you need it, but plenty of time to get on and work at your own speed."

Silvia reviewed: One-to-one 3 day lampshade making masterclass including business startup guide for crafters

"Thank you Moji for the great experience, and the knowledge you provided. Your attention to detail and your encouragement made the 3 day course very inspiring. Something i will always take with me. Silvia"

Moji Designs responded:

"Dear Silvia, Thank you for your kind words. I enjoyed having you and I wish you all the best in your future endeavours. Best wishes, Moji"

Naomi reviewed: Wire Wrapping Jewellery Course (Merseyside)

"I loved the course and have learnt many new wire wrapping techniques. I cannot wait to practise at home."

Susan reviewed: Wire Wrapping Jewellery Making Course - (Reading)

"Great course I learnt lots of new techniques ?"

Peter Radula-Scott reviewed: Spoon Carving Course in sussex

"I echo Ian's comments above.I had a great time.A lovely bunch of fellow carvers on the course.Danny was relaxed and instilled confidence notwithstanding any lack of talent. It was an excellent experience. The food tea and coffee were all very good and the flapjacks the best ever. A highly recommended experience!"

Sussex green woodworking responded:

"Thanks Peter ! Great to meet you . I have to be careful with that flapjack, It’s too good!"

Duncan Webb reviewed: Stained glass leading for beginners

"What a splendid course !!!! I learnt glass cutting and leading skills from a gifted artist with a wealth of knowledge & experience. I feel I now have the ability to try my own project knowing what I need, where to get it from, and where I can get support if needed. The course also meant that I left with a leaded, stained glass sample, crafted by my own hands. Thank you very much. Duncan"

Stained Glassic responded:

"Thank you very much Duncan"

Elizabeth reviewed: Knitting workshops in Leeds City Centre

"I booked a one to one session with Ann to learn how to knit. As a complete beginner, Ann was very patient, knowledgeable and extremely easy to get along with. Not only did I learn the basics over a lovely cup of tea but we had a lot in common to chat about. I was given instructions to take home with me and would definitely recommend her to all my friends and family. I really enjoyed the session."

Leeds Central Faith and Light responded:

"Thank you Elizabeth for taking the time to write this review and for your kind words - we did chat a lot!!!! I am glad you enjoyed our session together and hope that you are able to carry on from this. Kind regards Ann"

Lena Russell reviewed: Daytime glass fusing workshop with Paula Andrews

"I took my friend for a birthday treat and it was exactly that… a treat indeed! We created three individual pieces each and we can’t wait to see the finished products. Paula is very experienced working with glass and her passion for the craft was evident. I would highly recommend and definitely wish to attend again."

Sam Bloxam reviewed: Beginners/improvers glass fusing workshops in Hemingford Grey, Cambridgeshire

"As someone who has never done glass fusing before having Carole as our tutor was amazing. She explained clearly what we needed to do and the best way to achieve what we wanted to do. I totally enjoyed the day with lots of chatter and laughter to be had by all and lots of tea/coffee and biscuits. I would definitely recommend this course to anyone interested in glass fusing and hope to enjoy another course myself soon. Thank you Carole for a truly wonderful day."

Gore Tree Studio responded:

"Thank you Sam, so glad you enjoyed the day :) Your arywork will look fabulous when they come out of the kiln too."

Ming Tang reviewed: Two day leather work course - bag making

"The two day course with Jason and Louise was awesome, they have a wonderful workshop, and created a lovely atmosphere to learn and absorb the craft of leather work. I will be back to make a bigger piece, Jason and Louise were so generous with their knowledge and support. Jason's Fish goujon sandwich was delicious! I love my bag, I would definately recommend this course to anyone who wants to learn more about leather tooling, tying, stitching - the time flew by and we all made something personal and were very proud of our bags."

Diamond Awl Leather Workshop responded:

"Thank You Ming xx It was so nice to meet you and please keep in touch. kind regards Jason and Louise xx"

Helen Tomes reviewed: Green Man stone carving in Yorkshire

"Helen taught us (4 complete beginners) from start to finish, to make our own, unique, Green Man - in just 2 days! This course appealed to my interest in being able to make with my own hands and just a few simple tools. Although I went with my sisters in law, I would have been completely happy going on my own. Helen and the other regulars in the workshop were really friendly and encouraging. Lots of potential for further learning too. Brilliant."

The West Riding Stonecarving Association responded:

"Thank you Helen for your great review .I'm glad everyone enjoyed it ?"

Bill Warrilow reviewed: Creating a Viking knife an introduction to forging and knife making at Bearded Pig Forge

"I was gifted the 2 day bladesmithing course as a retirement gift by my colleagues- how well they know me! Spike proved to be an excellent teacher - his gentle and encouraging manner, with plenty of humour, made for a brilliant learning experience. I now have a beautiful traditional Seax belt knife to use and treasure! I came to the class with all sorts of ideas and Spike patiently helped me to craft something that is astonishingly close to what I dreamed of - I will certainly join him for another workshop in the future. His setup here at birchington is delightful and I can only thank him for a “5 star experience “!"

Joanna reviewed: Drum lampshade workshop - Saturdays

"An excellent workshop. Very detailed and professional. Sarah is a very good tutor and made it a very enjoyable experience."

Karen Booth reviewed: Inspired by Bloomsbury: exploring mixed media in Derbyshire.

"This workshop is a delightful introduction to the art of the Bloomsbury group, an exploration of their decorated home. I thoroughly enjoyed Liz’s excellent tuition and enthusiasm for her subject. Starting with simple designs on template plates, I moved on to making picture compositions which were fun, and full of vibrant colours, all with Liz’s guidance and inspiration from her lovely samples, and vases of flowers to study. At the end of the session I was thrilled with my joyful picture and was very keen to carry on making more pictures and consider possibilities for decorating my own home with this inspirational art. Thank you again Liz for your encouragement and kindness, skilful instruction, and a wonderful welcome into your studio, which must be one of the most beautiful places to soak up art in Derbyshire! One day wasn’t long enough!"

Liz Wellby - Artist, Teacher & Maker responded:

"Hi Karen, Lovely to work with you again and thank you for telling me about your day at The Slipper Studio - I have a big smile on my face. It’s a lovely workshop, with some much potential to explore colour and pattern, so I’m really pleased that it hit the mark with you. I hope you have time to continue your investigation into the art of Bloomsbury. Very best wishes Liz Wellby"

Mo Perkins reviewed: Introduction to candle making workshop

"We always have so many fabulous candles and melts to take away with us. It's amazing what you can do with a bit of help from a great teacher. Pauline definitely makes the course great value for money."

Bonita Candles responded:

"Thank you Mo for your lovely feedback. We really appreciate it. Enjoy the beautiful candles that you made. x"

Tina Thornton reviewed: Two day (consecutive) stained glass starter course at North Norfolk Stained Glass

"What a fabulous course. I am definitely not a crafty or creative person but completely loved this and cannot believe that I have made an amazing stained glass panel from scratch! Paul’s teaching style is really great and gave me the confidence to do things. Highly recommended"

Julie reviewed: Create a contemporary landscape in acrylic.

"A very enjoyable day. Equally supportive as well as relaxed."

SulikoSoul responded:

"Many thanks for coming, I enjoyed it too and hope you got some inspiration for further artworks :) J"

Joy Kilpatrick reviewed: Blacksmithing day courses: making garden flowers

"An amazing experience from start to finish. A warmbwelcome by Diane and delicious flapjack. Great tuition from Adrian and Andy, especially as I had never done this before they were encouraging and made it fool proof. The lunch was delicious and a great time to get to know the group. I would definately recommend booking on and having ago. It was well worth the journey, I came away feeling inspired and and thatbi had achieved something. Thank you all, I would love to return."

AskewPottery reviewed: Animal clay sculpture workshops with Jill Collier

"Jill is an amazing person and a great teacher! She went an extra mile to help me reschedule my class when I couldn’t get to the original lesson due my personal problems. I am soooo happy I got to this course as I really needed a kickoff to figurative ceramics. She shared quite a few tips which one can get only over years of experience and that really helped me (I’ve been in pottery for 6 yrs, mainly making functional tableware). I highly recommend her courses because they are so much fun! I am already thinking about the next time."

Steve reviewed: Two day wood carving course at Middleton Hall

"Very good two day course; value for money. Learnt a great deal and feel confident to continue wood carving. Garaint, our instructor, was very helpful and provided excellent direction on the use of the different tools to create a carving. It is held in the open air so there's a need to be prepared for the weather; cold wind or sun. It would be helpful if a fact sheet could be provided for those wishing to take up carving. 10/10. Would recommend anyone give this a go."