Blended Monkey - pottery - woodturning - green woodworking - pole lathe - throwing reviews

Luke A reviewed: Beginners half-day 1-2-1 woodturning workshop for 1 person

"I did the beginners half-day 1-2-1 woodturning workshop with Simon and absolutely loved it. The whole experience was brilliant from start to finish. His garden workshop is spotless, well equipped, and so well organised (I’m seriously jealous of his setup). Simon’s a great teacher. He explains everything clearly and makes you feel at ease straight away. I made a honey dibber and couldn’t be happier with how it turned out. He even took photos throughout the session, which was a nice touch and meant I had something to show off later. Small details like that make a big difference. I also appreciated that he remembered I was gluten free and had biscuits ready for tea. It’s those thoughtful touches that make the day stand out. Highly recommend it to anyone thinking of giving woodturning a go."

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

"Really good day. Would strongly recommend to anyone interested in learning turning."

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

"Hi Steve, Glad you enjoyed the session and thanks for your review - much appreciated. --Simon"

Nic reviewed: Stone Carving Experience - Working with Geometry & Pattern - Stone Masonry - Blended Monkey

"Stone carving day was great fun, lovely small group of people each carving a different geometric design on Portland stone. Super instructor who was a stone mason all his life . I’m 49 and I took along three lads aged between 20-22 we all very much enjoyed our day Oh and the lunch was superb too! "

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

"Nicola, we're so pleased you enjoyed your stone carving experience here in our Blended Monkey studios. It was lovely to meet you and the lads! You all accomplished so much - massively impressed :-). Thank you for your lovely comments and we're pleased you enjoyed the lunch too."

T Millar reviewed: Enamelling Workshop - Jewellery & Decorative Panel - Blended Monkey

"The Enamelling course was really well organised from the very beginning to the end of the day! There were 4 of us and it was the perfect ratio! we got to practice with test pieces before we committed to our final design. We were well looked after with yummy food and freshly baked goods and plenty of coffee/drinks to keep us going! Would definitely book with the team again!"

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

"We're so pleased you enjoyed your enamelling experience! You created some beautiful pieces. It's such an interesting process, isn't it? Thank you for your lovely positive review (also pleased you enjoyed the homemade bakes from Fanoggins Bakery :-))."

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

"I attended the 1:1 beginner’s woodturning session and could not recommend it highly enough! Simon was clear, patient knowledgeable and very friendly making the whole day a real pleasure. He struck the perfect balance of instruction and practical and mastering the art of always being present and on hand to assist without ever feeling like he was hovering. If you’re looking to dip your toe in these waters then this is an incredible place to start. (And if you’re lucky you’ll get to sample the world’s best cookies at lunch too!) Thank you so much, looking forward to coming back soon!"

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

"Hi Adele, Wow! Thank you for a lovely review! So glad you enjoyed your day; please get in touch if you need any more help. — Simon"

Steve Burke reviewed: Beginners 1-day 1-2-1 woodturning workshop for 1 person

"I had a 1-2-1 wood turning course with Simon. What an amazing day. The workshop was a great space. I asked Simon if I could take some photos for when I build my own. Simon is an amazing guy. So informative and patient. He explained each technique in an uncomplicated way. The day was very “hands on”. The techniques learned in the morning were put to good use for the two projects later on. The beech honey dipper and oak bowl turned out much better than expected. I’m really proud of them. Chatting with Simon over lunch and numerous cups of tea was so interesting, to hear of his history and experiences of woodturning ( amongst other things) It was a great day and I will definitely be pursuing my interest in woodturning. Simon’s follow up email with advice, photos and work notes ended the course off superbly. I will gladly recommend Simon to any person interested in woodturning, or the other crafts that he and Louise hold at their workshop. Cheers Simon "

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

"Hi Steve, So glad you enjoyed the day and I hope the experience stands you in good stead in your future woodturning endeavours. Any questions or queries, do get in touch and, when you start to take it up, do attend a sharpening course to get the best start. --Simon "

Martin reviewed: Green Woodworking - Woodcraft Workshop - Blended Monkey

"Had a really good time. I experienced new skills and came away with a finished product, a garden dibber. Simon and Louise are great hosts and catered for us with lunch and refreshments throughout the day. Simon is a good teacher and thoroughly explained things to us. We were a small group of 3 and I also learned from the other 2 participants John and Stuart. I fully recommend this course. "

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

"We're so pleased you enjoyed your green woodworking experience here in the Blended Monkey gardens and studios. It was lovely to meet you and your dibber looks rather fab! Thank you for giving us a lovely review and maybe we'll see you again in the future. Take care Louise & Simon"

Steve G reviewed: Beginners half-day 1-2-1 woodturning workshop for 1 person

"Hi I had a great 1-2-1 beginners course with Simon, he showed me what wood turning is all about and I learnt so much. From safety first to different woodworking working chisels to making delicate object and showing how to finish it off. This was a fantastic experience, thank you to Simon for his learning and patience. "

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

"Hi Steve, So glad you enjoyed the session; I hope it inspires you to continue this lovely craft. — Simon"

Liz & Alan reviewed: "2 Crafts in 1 Day!" pairs - woodturning & pottery experience

"Great day out with Louise & Simon. Thoroughly enjoyable and fun whilst learning 2 new skills. The time flew by and would definitely recommend. Also fabulous lunch provided "

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

"We're so pleased you enjoyed your Pairs 2 Crafts in 1 Day experience with us here in the Blended Monkey studios :-). You both rose to the challenges of woodturning and pottery; creating some beautiful work in the process! Thank you for your lovely review. We hope to see you again sometime."

Fiona reviewed: Lino Printing - Decorative Cards & Envelopes - Blended Monkey

"It was a lovely day, leaving me wanting to pursue the art of lino printing. Lovely setting and fantastic refreshments."

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

"Fiona, thank you for your lovely review. We're so pleased you enjoyed your lino printing experience :-)."

Dawn and Julian reviewed: Beginners 1-day 1-2-1 pottery / ceramics workshop for 1 person

"Julian and I have just finished a one-day pottery course with Louise and cannot speak highly enough of everything. We were able to try all types of pottery, from pinching, to throwing on the wheel and, despite being total beginners, under Louise's guidance and excellent tutoring, we produced items that we are really rather proud of and cannot wait to see after they are fired. We were part of Louise's family for the day and found this just the most welcoming and delightful way to help us to feel engaged and looked after. The location is beautiful and the facilities are just about perfect. We will definitely be coming back for another course and a catch up. Louise is a warm-hearted person who just makes you feel that you can achieve in the time you spend together. The day rushed by because we enjoyed everything that we were able to create and participate in. Thank you, Louise. We recommend this course highly."

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

"It was a real delight teaching you guys in our Blended Monkey ceramics studio. You embraced all the different pottery techniques with creativity and good humour, and you both achieved so much! Thank you for your lovely review ... look forward to maybe seeing you again in the future :-). "

Geoff reviewed: Green Woodworking - Woodcraft Workshop - Blended Monkey

"Easy, relaxed hospitality in a serene garden setting. No pressure and plenty of time to push the world away for a day. My target was to come away having learnt something new; something I could perhaps continue from my own garden. I achieved that and more. I'm even going back for a second bite. Well, the lunch was that good! Simon and Louise - thanks!"

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

"Hi Geoff, So glad you enjoyed the day and took something out of it. Look forward to seeing you again soon. --Simon"

Jan Rix reviewed: Creative with Clay Workshop - Tile Making & Glazing - Blended Monkey

"What a fabulous, relaxing and creative way to spend last Sunday, making an embossed, decorated glazed tile set. Louise is a wonderful tutor, everything you could need was provided, along with lots of inspiration. Lovely bright venue too. Thank you very much Louise and Simon"

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

"Hi Jan Thank you for your lovely review :-) It was a pleasure having you and your daughter attend my workshop - you both created beautiful tiles. I'm looking forward to seeing them emerge from the kiln in all their glory. Thank you for your kind words. Take care Louise"

susan ruben reviewed: Stone Carving Experience - Working with Geometry & Pattern - Stone Masonry - Blended Monkey

"We had an excellent day learning a new craft. Mark the tutor was supportive, encouraging and helped us achieve a fabulous stone carving. The whole day was well planned and Simon and Louise gave lots of encouragement also as well as providing first class refreshments and lunch. "

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

"Susan, it was a pleasure having you join us for the stone carving experience. We're so pleased you guys enjoyed the day, and thank you very much for your lovely review! You all made such beautiful pieces! "

Tracey Smith reviewed: Beginners half-day 1-2-1 woodturning workshop for 1 person

"I bought this course for my husband as a birthday present. He had an absolute ball and has been raving about it ever since. Trust me, he's not a raver!!! So, thank you for making it such a great day, would definitely recommend to anyone. "

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

"Hi Tracey, So glad he enjoyed it and really pleased it has made him want to continue the craft. As promised, please get him to get in touch if he needs further help or would like to try bowl making or sharpening. — Simon"

Jo reviewed: Enamelling Workshop - Jewellery & Decorative Panel - Blended Monkey

"Very much enjoyed the full day enamelling workshop run by Kate Janssens at the Blended Monkey studios. Kate was very generous with her knowledge and wide range of materials. I came away with two sets of lovely earrings (different enamel colour front & back!). Blended Monkey provided constant drinks, snacks and a lovely lunch. They have a wide range of workshops, so well worth checking their other pages!"

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

"Thank you for your lovely review Jo :-). We're so pleased you enjoyed your enamelling experience - love the orange earrings! And thank you for pointing out our other workshops too - most appreciated :-)."

Julie and Martin Strudwick reviewed: Beginners 1-day pairs pottery / ceramics workshop

"We have just had the most wonderful enjoyable and relaxing day with Louise on a pairs days pottery course. Louise and Simon were both so welcoming and we thoroughly enjoyed the whole day, though the time flew by so quickly. My favourite things were the hand built items - the pinch pots, coiled pots and slab built pots but I was also excited to be able to try throwing a pot on the potters wheel. Throwing on the wheel was not my forte certainly much harder than I thought it would be but I was pleased to have tried. My husband did so much better at throwing on the wheel than I did! We were kept fuelled with cups of tea and biscuits and a delicious lunch in their lovely warm kitchen. I cannot wait to see our pots when they have been glazed and fired - hope the kiln gods are kind. Looking forward to returning to try something else. "

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

"What a lovely review guys - thank you so much! It was great having you both in the studio for the day and just wonderful that you enjoyed it so much. It's often the way that one person takes to the wheel quicker than the other, but I'd say you really found your niche with the beautiful slab work Julie :-). Thank you again for the lovely review and I'll be in touch when your creations have been glazed and fired."

Andreea & Chris reviewed: Beginners half-day pairs pottery / ceramics workshop

"We have done the half day pottery course, trying a little bit of everything and we absolutely LOVED IT!!!! Louise was brilliant and very knowledgeable and took time to go through techniques and teach us different things about clay. Louise is brilliant and her studio is great! We highly recommend a course and we will for sure be coming back for more fun."

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

"Guys, I'm so pleased you enjoyed your experience here in the pottery studio. You both made some beautiful pieces (we won't talk about how quicky Chris took to the wheel - some people are so annoying ;-)) to be super proud of! Looking forward to seeing your pieces when they emerge from the kiln in a few weeks' time. Take care. "

Seb reviewed: Beginners half-day 1-2-1 woodturning workshop for 1 person

"A really enjoyable half day with Simon. In three hours we went from the basics of the equipment and qualities of the book, to trying out the lathe and making my first piece, a lovely wine stopper. Simon was an excellent teacher, giving me a chance to try things out and helping me when necessary. Highly recommended."

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

"Hi Seb, Thanks for a lovely review; do get in touch if you need any further assistance. -- Simon"

Trina McDonald reviewed: Half-day 1-2-1 sharpening (woodturning gouges) workshop for 1 person

"Really enjoyed our afternoon with Simon. Thank you. It was just what my husband needed to renew his enthusiasm, advise us on what equipment we needed and the fact that it is already ordered bears witness to how effective and appropriate Simon's tuition was. We might even find ourselves working in the wood shed together!"

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

"Hi Trina, So glad he enjoyed the session. I’ve sent over my notes; any questions, please do get in touch. — Simon"

Simon Bailes reviewed: Beginners 1-day 1-2-1 woodturning workshop for 1 person

"Absolutely cracking course. Simon was brilliant in explaining what we were doing and why. He left me to it but stepped in when he could see that I was struggling. The day was well structred and I cam away with an enthusiasm to buy my own lathe and create large amounts of wood shavings. I would thoroughly recommend Simon as a tutor and I will be going back for additional courses."

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

"Hi Simon, So glad you enjoyed the course and I hope the follow-on notes are satisfactory. Do get in touch with any questions or queries and I look forward to seeing you again soon. --Simon"

Bert reviewed: Intermediate 1-day 1-2-1 woodturning workshop for 1 person

"Solid tuition from Simon who knows what he is talking about with the craft. It was an enjoyable day in the workshop learning some intermediate skills as I'm looking forward to getting back into woodturning"

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

"Hi Bert, Thanks for the review and glad you got a lot from the session. Do get in touch if you need any further help. -- Simon"

Sarah J reviewed: Beginners 1-day 1-2-1 woodturning workshop for 1 person

"Bought the course for my 14 year old son for Christmas as he enjoys whittling and wanted to know more about woodwork generally. Simon was fantastic, connected with him, established what his interests were and what he knew already and pitched his instructions perfectly. My son was totally absorbed all day, learned a ton of new things, had a brilliant time, and is keen to do more! Great day, great course, can't recommend it enough. Lovely lunch too :-)"

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

"Hi Sarah, So glad your son enjoyed the workshop - promoting crafts to young people is a key part of our business ethic. I hope the notes will help him gather confidence and help him to practice key skills in his future woodworking endeavours. -- Simon"

Paul Farr reviewed: Beginners 1-day 1-2-1 woodturning workshop for 1 person

"I would thoroughly recommend the wood turning course with Simon. I had a fantastic experience. Simon is a very good teacher, with a good teaching style. I walked into his workshop a complete novice, and went home with 2 pieces of turned wood, that I am very proud of. I can't recommend this enough!"

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

"Hi Paul, Thank you so much for the recommendation; our business is built on it. If you'd like to try some of our other woodcraft/craft workshops please get in touch. -- Simon"

Shelly Cole reviewed: Beginners 1-day 1-2-1 woodturning workshop for 1 person

"What an amazing day! I learned so much, Simon let me go at my own pace and explained everything in a way that was easy to understand. Great communication before and after. Plus a fabulous lunch jointly shared with the pottery class which was lovely. I would highly recommend this workshop! A most enjoyable experience making a beautiful bowl and mushroom made by my own hand (with lots of help)."

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

"Hi Shelly, So pleased you enjoyed your day - do get in touch if you need further assistance or would like to try more woodcraft. --Simon"