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

20 Jul 22'

Jo & Lucy reviewed: Beginners half-day pairs pottery / ceramics workshop

"My daughter and I recently returned for the pairs half-day pottery workshop, and what a wonderful time we had! The studio is set in a beautiful cottage garden, making you feel immediately relaxed and creative. Once again we were made to feel very welcome by Louise. As we'd been before, Louise adapted the morning so that we could focus on what we wanted to make. Louise is a very patient and friendly tutor. We both had a really relaxing and fun time and returned home buzzing! Thank you Louise!"

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

"Hi guys, Thank you for your review! It was again a pleasure having you both in the studio and you made some really beautiful pieces :-). It's so nice that you chose to return to my pottery workshop to have some lovely mother/daughter time and I'm sure your pieces will look fabulous when they emerge glazed from the kiln :-). Thanks again for the lovely, encouraging review and see you soon. "

19 Jul 22'

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

"Thank you so much Simon and Louise for a really great day. Both the woodturning and the pottery were taught expertly and patiently, and my teenager and I learnt a lot and enjoyed ourselves in the process. Lunch was delicious and in a beautiful setting in the garden too, and we enjoyed chatting to you both as well. My teenager has had a really tough time in the last few years, and it made me so happy to see them relaxed and chatty and enjoying being creative. They came away from the day buzzing, as was I, and I hope we will be back before long to do some more pottery throwing. So a huge thank you for a really enjoyable experience."

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

"We're so pleased that you guys enjoyed your 2 Crafts in 1 Day experience with us here at Blended Monkey. It was lovely having you in the woodturning workshop and ceramics studio. You're both very creative people and a joy to teach. We're also pleased that you both felt relaxed and comfortable in the space too. We always want our students to feel calm and at home - makes for a much more creative and fun experience. See you soon when your lovely pieces have been fired!"

18 Jul 22'

Robin Turner reviewed: Intermediate 1-day 1-2-1 woodturning workshop for 1 person

"A really interesting and informative day with Simon who patiently guided me through the various stages of wood turning. I am amazed at the level of skill, touch and finesse that a wood turner needs. For a few hours I was introduced to some of these attributes which I can aspire to develop independently. Under Simon's tutelage I came home with artefacts which stunned my wife and left her speechless..... A rare occurrence. Many thanks to Louise and Simon for a great day. "

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

"Hi Robin, Thank you for a lovely review and we're so pleased you enjoyed your day. As promised, please get in touch if you require any further assistance. Happy turning!"

18 Jul 22'

HTG reviewed: Beginners 1-day pairs woodturning workshop

"I've been learning turning for a just few months, and I took my novice 11 y/o daughter with me for a two-person experience. We both learned a huge amount, and my daughter gained enough confidence to be able to turn a bowl pretty independently. We both absolutely loved the experience. Simon has a solid way of explaining key concepts, and real depth of knowledge and skill. Honestly, I can't imagine what Simon could have done to have made it any better. I highly recommend the experience. "

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

"Hi HTG, Thank you so much for your heartfelt review; it means a lot to us. It's nice to know that we have helped you both on your woodturning journey and, if you need further assistance, please do get in touch. -- Simon & Louise"

13 Jul 22'

Chris Chambers reviewed: Beginners 1-day 1-2-1 woodturning workshop for 1 person

"The whole day at Blended Monkey, for me was fantastic. The meet and greet is very friendly and even the German Shepherd loves to say hi, along with the Carp, but they just want feeding. I have never done woodturning before, and the personalised tuition is second to none. The lunch time cheese board was very yummy, and then it was back to the delicate art of turning a lump of wood into a gorgeous bowl, all under the watchful eye of Simon. At the end of the day, with many shavings on the floor and over myself and the rough end of a sandpit up the nose, a spalted piece of wood is turned and a bowl is born. Would I recommend the Blended Monkey experience? Hell yeah. Worth every minute of the day. Along with the goods you have produced, you get certification and a good sense of achievement. It was like being a kid again, "look mum, I made this" Thanks guys loved it. "

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

"Hi Chris, Thanks for an excellent review. We're so glad you had such a wonderful experience - exactly what we intend to do, so we're really chuffed that you enjoyed your day. (Simon: however, my workshop will ALWAYS be better than yours! :D ) -- Simon & Louise"

12 Jul 22'

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

"My son George loved his woodturning workshop with Simon. It was lovely to see him get so much out of the process of making something and come away with a piece that he was truly proud of. Simon is very knowledgeable, friendly, and engaging, I highly recommend his workshops, George is hoping to do another one soon!"

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

"Hi Tracey, So great to hear that George had such a good day and that he's proud of what he made. He was an excellent pupil and picked it up really well; I hope he considers it for a hobby (alongside the Xbox, of course!) -- Simon"

10 Jul 22'

David McDonald reviewed: Beginners 1-day 1-2-1 woodturning workshop for 1 person

"Had a great day with Simon. A knowledgeable and patient teacher. Lovely lunch and location. A really enjoyable day!"

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

"Hi David, Thank you for taking the time to provide a review and so glad you enjoyed the experience. -- Simon & Louise"

8 Jul 22'

Jane Robinson reviewed: Beginners 1-day pairs woodturning workshop

"Both boys really enjoyed the day and would definately book it again. Also they are really proud of what they made."

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

"Thank you for a lovely review and so glad they enjoyed their workshop. -- Simon & Louise"

7 Jul 22'

Warren Woodward reviewed: Beginners 1-day 1-2-1 woodturning workshop for 1 person

"The woodturning course is fantastic and highly recommended. I had a wonderful day of woodturning under Simon's expert tuition. The day passed too quickly, and I could have happily stayed longer making more pieces and honing my beginner's skills. A great lunch and refreshments are also provided. I want to do it again."

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

"Hi Warren, Thanks for a great review - you're welcome to visit again and it would be great to see you. Happy turning! -- Simon"

6 Jul 22'

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

"A very warm welcome by both Louise and Simon when I attended their wood turning beginners course. The day was well planned, clearly presented and structured to your own speed of learning and your ability to execute the various techniques. All equipment was of a high quality and safe standard. A most rewarding day backed by clear and precise supporting notes. Wonderful hosts. I would definitely be happy to recommend this course.."

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

"Hi Michael, Thank you for such an honest and heartfelt review! We're so glad you enjoyed the day and that it met your expectations. Do get in touch if you need more guidance; we hope the notes are useful. -- Simon & Louise"

3 Jul 22'

Gary and Lucy Goodfellow reviewed: Beginners half-day pairs pottery / ceramics workshop

"Greeted by Louise and was treated with whatever drinks and biscuits we needed. Louise explained all about the clay and what methods we was going to use throughout our 3 hour session. Both my hubby and i came away with 3 items each and very happy with the results. Came away buzzing as we had such a great morning Highly recommend it"

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

"Guys, it was a real pleasure having you in the studios :-). You should both feel very proud with the outcome of your few hours of pottery (I think Gary's was a fluke though ;-)). Nice to have such pleasant, chatty students and you'd be welcome back any time. I'll let you know when your creations are ready :-)."

2 Jul 22'

Glenys Self reviewed: Beginners 1-day 1-2-1 woodturning workshop for 1 person

"From the moment I arrived at Blended Monkey, Louise and Simon both put me at ease with their kind, warm manner and genuine interest in my venture to learn a new craft. I was well out of my comfort zone, but I found Simon's instruction crystal clear, knowledgeable and reassuring. His expertise and experience as a craftsman and teacher was inspiring and I had a most encouraging and delightful day. I think they are both doing a wonderful job in helping others expand their creative horizons."

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

"Hi Glenys, Thanks for a lovely and heartfelt review. We both look forward to seeing you again and helping you on your creative journey. -- Simon & Louise"

2 Jul 22'

Matt & Riley Dingle reviewed: Intermediate 1-day 1-2-1 woodturning workshop for 1 person

"Another very enjoyable day. Having been turning for a short while, Simon helped with improving our tool sharpening and ironed out problems we were having with spindle and bowl turning. Then it was onto making a great box. More new techniques to learn. Many thanks, and who knows, may see you again for the next installment!"

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

"Hi Matt & Riley, It was nice to see you guys again and I’m really glad you had a great day. Riley, you’re coming on really well - keep it up! Happy turning :) — Simon"

29 Jun 22'

Andy Mitchell reviewed: Half-day 1-2-1 sharpening (woodturning gouges) workshop for 1 person

"I have attended two courses which are run by Blended monkey, a 1 day turning instruction in lathe and tool use and 1 half day training on the sharpening of lathe tools. I found both courses of great benefit, well delivered by someone ( Simon )who knows what he's talking about. Both were one to one so felt more personal and beneficial. The venue was easy to find and well equipped with everything required, dinner on the day course was included with drinks coffee biscuits also available. Simon was a very down to earth guy very approachable and easy to talk to and thankfully had all the answers to my questions. If your a beginner like me and just finding your way around a lathe, then I cannot recommend these courses enough."

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

"Hi Andy, So glad you found the courses useful and I hope that you’re more confident in sharpening your tools now. I look forward to seeing some of your creations! :) Do get in touch if you have any questions. — Simon"

28 Jun 22'

Sarah reviewed: Beginners half-day 1-2-1 pottery / ceramics workshop for 1 person

"I had a fantastic morning on my 1-2-1 ceramics session with Louise and I would very much recommend the course! Such a relaxing atmosphere, with plenty of time to learn about techniques and make a variety of pieces, from which you choose your favourite three to be fired. Louise's tuition is clear and she's on hand all morning to both chat and give advice, but also allows space for you to immerse yourself in what you're doing. I loved my first experience of the wheel (even my wonky finished pieces made me smile) and now I just want to do more! ?"

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

"Sarah, it was a delight having you in the studio :-). You made some beautiful pieces - especially your two slab vases; very elegant - and you got to grips with the throwing processes very quickly. Well done! I'll let you know when your lovely pieces have been glazed and fired and ready for collection :-)."

26 Jun 22'

Ken and Kate reviewed: Beginners 1-day pairs woodturning workshop

"We treated ourselves to this as a special anniversary gift to each other. We’d always fancied a go at wood turning. Simon was so good at teaching us when we’d never done anything like this before. He is a great tutor and gave us a real desire to take this up as a hobby. The refreshments and lunch were plentiful and the day was way above our expectations! We came away with 2 projects each which we’re proud of! If you fancy a go then this is the place to learn!"

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

"Hi Ken & Kate, Thank you for a lovely review and we're so glad that you enjoyed your day :) Do get in touch if you need more help. -- Simon & Louise"

22 Jun 22'

James Inglis reviewed: Beginners 1-day 1-2-1 woodturning workshop for 1 person

"Although I'm not strictly a raw beginner, I found Simon's guidance and patience hugely helpful in my 'new' journey to 'unlearn' some poor practices and start to grow in this hobby. It is always a joy to work with an expert and the 1-to-1 setting was the best possible way allow a free flow of conversation and for me to get the most out of the day. Thanks to Louise and Simon for making me feel so welcome at their lovely home and workshops and for the excellent lunch we enjoyed in the impressive garden. There were also a lot of incidental tips that arose - such as the way Simon has arranged his workspace to accommodate machinery and people and to provide a safe and clean environment with powerful dust extraction and to the way his various tools are stored and easily located. It's made me want to rethink my own space radically. Overall, a great day that I cannot recommend highly enough."

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

"Hi James, Thanks for your praise - much appreciated and we're so happy you got so much out of the day. As promised, I added the extra equipment items to the standard documentation, so you should be able to source something fairly easily. If you have any questions or need any help in the future, please don't hesitate to get in touch and happy turning! -- Simon & Louise"

21 Jun 22'

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

"This was a really superb gift for Father's Day. I've not done wood turning before and only fairly basic carpentry skills, though happy to have a go! Simon is a really good teacher, very good at explaining and demonstrating the process. As a first timer I felt in good hands. We talked through the lathe and the tools we would be using before having a go. The space is clean and tidy very pleasant to work in. I enjoyed the hospitable environment which helps my learning. I learn well by doing and so it was good to be able to have a go quickly. I'd definitely recommend this training whether as an experience or for someone starting or rekindling them self of a skill. Thanks Simon and Louise."

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

"Hi Oliver, Thank you for your lovely review and so glad you enjoyed session. Any questions or queries, please don't hesitate to get in touch. -- Simon & Louise"

14 Jun 22'

Mrs Wendy Nelson reviewed: Beginners 1-day 1-2-1 woodturning workshop for 1 person

"Malcolm had a wonderful day using his birthday gift. The course was very friendly, a well organised and knowledgeable day. Had lovely lunch and enjoyed the experience and knowledge he had from a very welcoming Simon and learnt lots to look forward to on his retirement days ahead to make some more goods. The bowl and honey stick were great."

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

"Hi Wendy, So glad Malcolm enjoyed the day and we wish him all the best in his retirement hobby. Any questions or advice, please don't hesitate to get in touch. -- Simon & Louise"

8 Jun 22'

Rob Johns reviewed: "2 Crafts in 1 Day!" 1-2-1 woodturning & pottery experience for 1 person

"My wife bought me this as a present and I attended this course yesterday and had to write a review for it straight away. It was amazing, a really relaxing day making things. Half a day of wood turning and half a day of pottery. The wood turning course was informative and really fun, and I ended up with a finished piece by the end of the morning to take home. Pottery is something new to me (I hadn't touched clay since my distant school days) but by the end of the day I had managed to create 3 different pots that were worth keeping all thanks to the great and patient tuition. Looking forward to my next birthday so I can get my wife to buy me another course."

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

"Hi Rob, Thanks so much for a lovely review; we're so glad you enjoyed your day. You should have the tuition notes link now and Louise is working on getting your pots finished for collection. Any questions or queries, please don't hesitate to get in touch. -- Simon & Louise"

7 Jun 22'

Jonathan Peryer reviewed: Beginners 1-day 1-2-1 woodturning workshop for 1 person

"Thank you Simon. Very clear, calm, and professional instruction and demonstrations. My first time woodturning since I did woodwork at school some 45 years ago - and I loved it. The voucher was a great present, and I am proud to show off what I made. I will take you up on your offer of further advice as this becomes a hobby in my retirement."

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

"Hi Jonathan, So glad you enjoyed your experience and delighted that it has kindled an interest as a hobby in retirement. As promised, please reach out if you need any assistance. -- Simon"

1 Jun 22'

Adrian and Bev reviewed: "2 Crafts in 1 Day!" pairs - woodturning & pottery experience

"A fantastic day, Simon and Louise were excellent. We both felt instantly at home and relaxed and it was a great hands on experience. Lunch was much more than we expected and delicious. Overall we would thoroughly recommend the day."

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

"Thanks for the lovely review! We're so pleased you enjoyed your "2 Crafts in 1 Day" experience guys! It was a pleasure having you in the woodturning workshop and pottery studio and we're really happy that you found the day relaxing and that you'd recommend us :-). We'll see you again when your fab pots have been glazed and fired. "

1 Jun 22'

Elly M reviewed: Beginners half-day 1-2-1 pottery / ceramics workshop for 1 person

"What a wonderful way to spend ans afternoon! I was so lucky to have been given a voucher for blended monkey fory birthday. I didnt know what to expect at all. Louise is such a kind and calm person, and her pottery studio set in her beautiful garden is just sublime! I can honestly say ive not had such a relaxing and peaceful 3 hours in many many years. Excellent value for money considering all the prep work Louise does, the 1:1 expert tuition, the fact Louise then finishes, fires and glazes 3 pieces for you, and of course the free biscuits! Therapy when i wasnt expecting have therapy, and I made some nice pots at the same time :) Highly recommended."

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

"It was a real pleasure having you in the pottery studio Eleanor :-). You made some fabulous pieces and I'm so pleased you found the experience to be relaxing too - that's exactly what we try to achieve. Was nice talking to you on the market yesterday too. See you soon when your pots have been fired :-)."

26 May 22'

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

"What a fabulous afternoon. Wood turning is great fun and very satisfying. So why choose Blended Monkey? Quite simple. Simon the tutor is superb. You are made to feel welcome from the start. He is very generous with his time, expertise and offer of post session support. He is very patient and understands the difficulty of the novice. You never feel under pressure. I really enjoyed the afternoon. I am planning to take this up as a hobby and would have no reservations about booking further teaching from Simon. Couldn't recommend more highly"

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

"Nick, Thank you for such a glowing and honest review! I really enjoyed the session and hope to see you again soon. Please don’t hesitate to get in touch if you need more help or information. — Simon"

24 May 22'

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

"Very happy with the day I spent on my first try at woodturning. Simon ran the day at a pace that was just right for me and we talked about all sorts of things that will be helpful when I take the next plunge which will be a lathe of my own. Oh, and tidying my workshop after being put to shame by Simon's immaculate space. Looking forward to my second day of turning with Simon when I hope I'll be able to try some more new things."

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

"Hi Jon, Thanks for a great review and I look forward to our second day together. "

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