Blended Monkey reviews

12 Sep 21'

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

"Having been bought this course as a birthday present, I was very excited to go and experience woodturning for the first time. I enjoy woodworking generally as a hobby, so this felt like the natural next step for me and I can confirm that this experience has helped me make up my mind and see that woodturning is definitely for me. Both Simon and Louise were very welcoming and Simon’s passion, calmness and clear tuition gave me a great amount of confidence throughout the session. I left feeling very proud of what I had learned and a with a determination to follow this up further! A huge thank you to Blended Monkey for giving me a fantastic day and a wonderful experience."

Blended Monkey responded:

"Hi Mark, Thank you for a lovely (and speedy!) review - felt like you were only here yesterday ;) So glad you enjoyed your experience and I hope to see you again soon for more. Any help in the meantime, please do get in touch. Kind Regards, Simon & Louise"

12 Sep 21'

The William reviewed: Beginners 1-day 1-2-1 woodturning workshop for 1 person

"An amazing day! Under Simon's excellent tuition, supervision, and encouragement I turned a 2x2" square section length into a passably attractive honey dribbler, and an ugly lump of sycamore into a very bowl-like piece. (I wish I could add photographs - they are quite beautiful and I am so proud!) It was utterly absorbing. As a complete novice (but an expert klutz) I was in danger of turning (geddit?!) my bowl into an eggcup but Simon rescued me. He was generous with his time, determined we should go away with fully finished pieces. It was also inspiring to see what SimonTheExpert achieves - paper-thin bowls in example shapes, and spindles-as-art (both in their own right, by eccentric centring, and as a set that creates female forms in the gaps between them). Can't recommend this highly enough :-) But, if you don't want to find wood shavings in your underwear, wear one of the offered smocks!"

Blended Monkey responded:

"Hi William, So glad you enjoyed your experience - you were a pleasure to teach and lovely company. If you do get the bug and need more help, don't hesitate to get in touch. Kind Regards, Simon & Louise"

11 Sep 21'

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

"Everything about this course was excellent. The tuition clear and helpful taking note of my previous lack of experience. The tutor was very helpful and ensured the safety of the pupil at all times. The venue was well looked after and well stocked with appropriate equipment. This was one of the most enjoyable days I have spent for a long time and I would return for a more advanced course if it were to be offered. Lunch and refreshments were provided throughout the day, and were much appreciated. The follow-up notes and photos were unexpected and well thought through. A thoroughly enjoyable experience."

Blended Monkey responded:

"Hi Chris, Thank you for a lovely and honest review; we're really glad you enjoyed your experience and will hopefully be setting up a follow on course soon. Kind Regards, Simon & Louise"

11 Sep 21'

John Rayner reviewed: Beginners 1-day 1-2-1 woodturning workshop for 1 person

"Excellent day had on the wood turning course. Both Simon & Louise made me feel most welcome on arrival. Very constructive morning and afternoon sessions with Simon. There to help you constantly and was most grateful for his advice. Nice to receive the follow up notes, photos and video reminding me of a memorable day. Highly recommend the course to anyone. Will certainly be going back! Thank you Louise for a lovely lunch by the way. Kind Regards John Rayner"

Blended Monkey responded:

"Hi John, We're so glad you enjoyed your course and look forward to seeing you again in the future. Kind Regards, Simon & Louise"

6 Sep 21'

Richard Beane reviewed: Beginners 1-day 1-2-1 woodturning workshop for 1 person

"I am a self confessed wood butcher having always enjoyed making practical objects. This course was a birthday present to allow me to experience a long term desire to try wood turning. From the off Simon, Louise and their pets made me very welcome. The facilities are wonderful and Simon’s knowledge is extensive and he imparts it enthusiastically. I would thoroughly recommend any course offered here due to the professionalism of Simon and Louise. Following my rewarding day, I am designing additional storage space so I can empty my shed to create a workshop! Then I'll need another lesson (plus a lathe...) to further my knowledge. Best wishes, Richard"

Blended Monkey responded:

"Hi Richard, We're so pleased you enjoyed your day and that you are pursuing the craft further - fantastic! If you need any help with anything, please drop us a line. And thank you so much for your advice on our electrical setup - invaluable. We do hope to see you again soon. -- Simon & Louise"

3 Sep 21'

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

"I was given a voucher for a pottery day from my husband for Christmas. The booking process was easy and Louise checked for any dietary requirements for lunch (I avoid cow’s milk). On the day the travel directions were very straight forward and on arrival Louise put me at ease as she is very friendly and approachable. I was a complete beginner and enjoyed learning pinch pots, coil pots and slab building. After a lovely relaxed lunch I tried throwing on the wheel. By the end of the afternoon I had a good choice of pots to have fired and glazed."

Blended Monkey responded:

"It was lovely to meet you for your 1-day ceramics experience and I'm really pleased you enjoyed your time and felt at ease in the studio. I enjoyed your company and our chat too! You made some great pieces."

31 Aug 21'

Lis Sharratt reviewed: Beginners 1-day 1-2-1 woodturning workshop for 1 person

"I had such a lovely day and am very grateful for my wonderful gifts certificate from my best friend! I was put at my ease upon arrival and was made to feel very welcome. Who could resist Harry the dog, Nala and Simba the cats and a beautiful garden? The workshop was lovely with lots of tools and pieces to entice. Everything was clean, tidy and organised. I felt bad leaving a huge pile of shavings in my wake at the end! Simon introduced everything over coffee and explained how we would work. Every step was explained clearly and demonstrated. I had never turned anything prior to this. I felt that I was in safe hands and could ask for more help whenever it was needed. It was lovely to be given time to practice the skills at my own pace. Making the drizzler was very pleasing. It really enabled me to see the skills I was trying to gain. Definitely need to come back to beads! Simon was very attentive and ensured that I was a successful. He was very patient with my left handed translations! I loved every minute. The sense of awe and wonder in the beauty of the wood will remain with me. I am very proud of the things I made and I cannot recommended the course strongly enough. We stopped for a lovely lunch half way through but I couldn’t wait to get back to start on my bowl if I am honest. The time passed so quickly. I do hope that I will be able to return at some point and I will certainly keep a longer wood turning course on my retirement bucket list. I was definitely inspired to learn more. What a lovely hobby it would be. I also spied the ceramics workshop but have more of an eye on the silk option. Thank you for a great introduction to something wonderful."

Blended Monkey responded:

"Hi Lisa, Well, what a review! Thank you so much. We’re glad you enjoyed the day so much and look forward to seeing you again should you wish to pursue more crafts. Simon & Louise"

30 Aug 21'

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

"I bought this for my 15 yr old son. Neither of us had any previous experience. I spent the day in the workshop as an observer as my son is a minor. Simon took time to explain things to the both of us, keeping my son 'hands-on' while allowing me to try and remember as much as possible. The day was relaxed and offers plenty of time to learn and make some nice pieces. Simon and Louise are welcoming and brilliant hosts. Nothing seemed too much trouble and a great lunch was supplied. Simon has since helped with advice on equipment and instruction. Riley thoroughly enjoyed the day and has had me busy installing a lathe, sorting tools and sharpening equipment. With just this one day of tuition, he is capable of producing some pretty reasonable pieces alone. A complete success. Next, the girls want to try the pottery classes, and I wouldn't be surprised if Riley wants to return to learn some more techniques. Many thanks, and if it isn't obvious, I would highly recommend to anyone, younger or older."

Blended Monkey responded:

"Matt & Riley, Thank you for a lovely review - we’re so glad that you both enjoyed your experience and that Riley is taking it up as a hobby - fantastic! Any help required, please shout and we look forward to you visiting us again. — Simon & Louise"

30 Aug 21'

Tracey Wallis reviewed: Beginners 1-day 1-2-1 pottery / ceramics workshop for 1 person

"I was lucky enough to have a full day pottery workshop voucher given to me for my birthday and thoroughly enjoyed every minute of the day. Louise demonstrated various types of pottery techniques, including wheel throwing, which she made look very easy! It was all very relaxed and Louise made you feel confident enough to be creative with your own designs but guided you when needed. I hope to gain further wheel throwing experience in the future with Louise and would definitely recommend the workshops."

Blended Monkey responded:

"Tracey, it was a pleasure to have you in the studio. You made some really lovely pieces and it was a joy chatting to you while we created with clay! Would be lovely to have you back in the studio some time if you fancy honing those throwing skills :-)."

30 Aug 21'

Alan Bonner reviewed: Beginners 1-day 1-2-1 woodturning workshop for 1 person

"Like many of the reviews above, the day with Blended Monkey was bought for me as a present. Perhaps because I have made several walking sticks, my sons felt I should probably progress my skills!! The day exceed my expectations. Louise and Simon being the perfect hosts with a genuine welcome to the world of wood turning. Simon was patient, clear and concise with instructions along with his enthusiasm made the day one to remember. I would highly recommend Blended Monkey to novices as well as experienced individuals who want to expand their knowledge of wood turning and have an excellent value for money day out. Thank you Simon and Louise."

Blended Monkey responded:

"Hi Alan, Thank you for a great review! We’re glad you found the day and instructions useful; please get in touch if you decide to pursue the craft and need any extra help. Simon & Louise"

24 Aug 21'

Joanna Aspinall reviewed: Beginners 1-day 1-2-1 pottery / ceramics workshop for 1 person

"I had the most enjoyable day with Louise at Blended Monkey. I got given a Pottery Throwing voucher for my birthday and having done it before I was slightly nervous. Louise made me feel very comfortable and relaxed and she was great at encouraging me as I designed my pieces. She was a great teacher. I really enjoyed the throwing part of the day and can't wait to have another go one day soon."

Blended Monkey responded:

"Hi Joanna, I'm so pleased you enjoyed the pottery workshop. I know how it can be when you come to a new place to do a new thing, but I'm glad you felt comfortable and at ease during the workshop :-). It was a pleasure to have you in the studio and you've made some really lovely pieces. You'll have to come back for half a day of throwing :-). Your pieces will be ready very soon. Take care."

23 Aug 21'

Graham Leach reviewed: Beginners 1-day 1-2-1 woodturning workshop for 1 person

"I had always been interested in taking up woodturning ever since the afternoon at school many years ago when I was allowed to try out the lathe in the woodwork class. So I was delighted when my wife gave me this one-day course (and a lathe!) as a birthday present. The moment I arrived, I was made to feel very welcome by Louise and Simon. As a beginner I was very conscious of the piece of wood spinning on the lathe and the laws of physics, on the grounds that it is not natural for part of a tree to spin horizontally at 1000 rpm! However, Simon explained the issues around safety and safe practice, which was very reassuring. I had great fun turning up my first project - a honey dipper - during which Simon taught the principles of turning coves and beads. In the afternoon, I produced a bowl, again with Simon's guidance. He is an expert tutor; his teaching style is relaxed but professional and the course is taught in a workshop that is well equipped and well organised. I took along my own recently purchased turning tools, which Simon checked over and tweaked to ensure they worked efficiently. I now understand the purpose of each of the gouges, and was also shown how to sharpen the tools and the different types of grind that I can try out. He also gave advice on the care and storage of woodturning blanks. After the course Simon emailed the course notes to me, plus the videos that were shot during the day - these are really helpful. At the end of the day I was fired with enthusiasm and felt much more confident about the practice of woodturning. My daughter has already asked me if I could make her a bedside table with turned legs. In at the deep end! Louise provided an excellent lunch, and tea and coffee appeared at just the right times. I would thoroughly recommend this course, and Blended Monkey, to anyone interested in learning a new skill, or extending their knowledge. I might even go back and try the pottery workshop!"

Blended Monkey responded:

"Hi Graham, Thank you so much for your detailed review - it means a lot to us. We would obviously welcome you back if you'd like to try your hand at ceramics and good luck with the bedside table! -- Simon & Louise"

19 Aug 21'

Roger Moore reviewed: Beginners 1-day 1-2-1 woodturning workshop for 1 person

"I was made to feel welcome by Simon and Louise the minute I stepped out of my car. Very professional and friendly tuition, I couldn't have asked for better. Though I had some idea of what I was doing I still learned an awful lot in one day. I would recommend this course to anyone even vaguely interested in woodturning - they'd soon get the bug. Wouldn't mind going back next year for a refresher and upgrade."

Blended Monkey responded:

"Hi Rog, Thank you so much for a lovely review; we really enjoyed the day too and we're glad you learned a lot. Keep those tools sharp and happy turning! -- Simon & Louise"

17 Aug 21'

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

"I was extremely fortunate to have the 1-day woodturning course as a surprise Christmas present from last year. I was looking forward to my workshop day which was booked in the August. It was definitely worth the wait and had a fantastic day learning about woodturning with Simon. I've learn't so many different wood turning techniques in a day and successfully made a honey drizzler and bowl. I couldn't recommend Blended Monkey enough. Thank you Simon and Louise for a fantastic experience. All the best, David"

Blended Monkey responded:

"Hi David, Thank you for a lovely review. If you do take up the craft, do get in touch and let us know how you're getting on. All the best, Simon & Louise"

16 Aug 21'

Daniel Humphries reviewed: Beginners 1-day 1-2-1 woodturning workshop for 1 person

"An excellent day spent with Simon making a mess in his workshop and creating some awesome wooden creations on the lathe. Friendly and bright atmosphere! I would highly recommend this to anyone."

Blended Monkey responded:

"Hi Dan, Thanks for the review. The day was fun and we hope the advice and notes will set you up in the craft; shout if you need any more help. --Simon & Louise"

15 Aug 21'

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

"My wife and I attended half a day pottery and wood turning courses. We loved them! I enjoyed learning all the wood Turning techniques and using the tools to create my honey drizzle. My wife liked making pots using the slab method and attempting a go on the pottery wheel. Both Simon and Louise were very friendly, Patient and great teachers. We are already planning our next visit! We highly recommend it to anyone looking for something different to do."

Blended Monkey responded:

"It was lovely to meet you both and Simon and I enjoyed having you guys in our studios. We're pleased you've both found the half-day sessions to be a good taster and that you're keen to come along for a full day in each craft. We look forward to meeting you guys again!"

12 Aug 21'

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

"Both SImon and Louise were patient thoughtful and caring teachers. Excellent tuition was given in each of their fields of expertise. They are very personable - any beginner's jitters are soon forgotten. Thanks to both for a truly enjoyable day!"

Blended Monkey responded:

"Hi Mark, Thank you for your glowing review! Coming from a teacher it means a lot. We're glad you enjoyed your day and you're welcome back any time. -- Simon & Louise"

10 Aug 21'

Graham & Tina Wright reviewed: Beginners 1-day pairs woodturning workshop

"We booked this course hoping to get a good insight into woodturning and we were not disappointed. Simon and Louise were great hosts and made us feel at ease as soon as we arrived. Simon spent time running through the basics of the lathe and the safety considerations and then we were soon producing our first piece of work, a honey twizzler. After the morning session, we were treated to a farmhouse lunch, which was fully gluten free, accommodating my dietary needs. In the afternoon we worked on making bowls and whilst we had to learn new skills, Simon was a great tutor and gave lots of encouragement. At the end of the day, we stood for a photo opportunity, proudly showing off the fruits of our labour. We would highly recommend this course if you are interested in taking up woodturning or just want to experience making something."

Blended Monkey responded:

"Graham & Tina, Thank you so much for a lovely review. It was fun having you visit for the day and we’re glad you enjoyed your workshop. Any queries, comments, questions, please reach out. - Simon & Louise"

7 Aug 21'

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

"I would really recomend this course for anyone interested in wood turning. Simon was such a great teacher and so knowledgeable. It was a great introduction and it was wonderful to be able to make something lovely by the end of the day. It left me wanting to do more. Thank you sinon and louise for the day and for being so welcoming!"

Blended Monkey responded:

"Hi Molly, Thank you for a lovely review and we're really glad you enjoyed your day. Don't hesitate to get in touch if you need any more help or information. - Simon & Louise"

5 Aug 21'

Mark Williams reviewed: Beginners 1-day 1-2-1 woodturning workshop for 1 person

"The Blended Monkey 1-Day Course is a very good way to experience woodturning for the first time. It is professionally organised and run. In addition the tuition is flexible to reflect the student's interests and existing knowledge. The workshop itself is well equipped and safely managed. Simon is a fine teacher keen to share his skills and passion for woodturning in a very accessible manner. The follow-up pack of course notes and equipment guide is very helpful. Together Simon and Louise make a great team. MSW"

Blended Monkey responded:

"Thank you for a glowing review, Mark. It was a pleasure to meet you and we hope that the course has stimulated your interest in woodturning. Any questions or queries, please feel free to get in touch. --Simon & Louise"

5 Aug 21'

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

"Had a wonderful 1-2-1 Pottery Day with Louise at Blended Monkey. It was an incredibly relaxed and friendly environment which was perfect for exploring my artistic side as I learnt to use a variety of techniques to make pots and vases. I can’t wait for them to be fired and glazed so I can see them finished. I would definitely recommend Blended Monkey!!"

Blended Monkey responded:

"It was lovely having you in the studio Alison - and I enjoyed our chat - we certainly put the world to rights :-). You made some beautiful pieces that you should be very proud of. They're drying away nicely and I'll get in touch as soon as they've been glazed. Lovely to meet you :-)."

29 Jul 21'

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

"My daughter and I had a brilliant time on the pairs half day pottery session. We received a warm welcome from Louise and found it to be a lovely relaxed, creative environment. We received great tuition from Louise and can't wait to see how our creations have turned out after glazing and firing. Highly recommend Blended Monkey - I'd really like to come back and make more!"

Blended Monkey responded:

"I'm so pleased you enjoyed your pottery experience :-). It was lovely having you both in the studios and you should both be very proud of your creations. Looking forward to seeing your work glazed - it's drying nicely and will be biscuit-fired shortly. Take care and maybe see you again sometime :-)."

20 Jul 21'

Tina & Ian Grinsell reviewed: Beginners 1-day pairs woodturning workshop

"What a fantastic day from start to finish. Louise met us with a warm friendly smile. We then met Harry an adorable big soft as anything Alsatian. Simon was already in the workshop, he also gave us a very warm welcome. Ian my husband has worked with wood for years and loves to make things and has a lot of knowledge. However he was very new to wood turning, I was worried he may not enjoy the day. It turns out he had a fabulous time and learnt lots of new techniques. Simon is an outstanding teacher, he has the ability to explain things in the most simple way, without making you feel silly. He also has the patience of a saint. One last thing Louise presented the most wonderful lunch just perfect for us. Highly recommend to both novice or experienced people, you will not find a better tutor. Thanks once again Simon, Louise and Harry Look forward to seeing you both again soon. X"

Blended Monkey responded:

"Hi Tina & Ian, Thank you for such a lovely review - it was great to meet you both and spend the day getting covered in shavings. We're glad you both enjoyed it and, if you have any questions, please just get in touch. Kind Regards, Simon & Louise"

18 Jul 21'

Christopher Brewer reviewed: Beginners 1-day 1-2-1 woodturning workshop for 1 person

"This was a fantastic course in a great setting. I was made welcome from the start and the level of tuition was just right and extremely good . I was given loads of tips on how to develop my wood turning, storing wood and tool care. I would thoroughly recommend this course to anyone who is starting out in wood turning!"

Blended Monkey responded:

"Hi Chris, Thank you for a lovely review. You were a model pupil and I'm glad you enjoyed the day. As ever, any questions/comments/etc. please just get in touch. Kind Regards, Simon"

12 Jul 21'

Joe Gasan reviewed: Beginners 1-day 1-2-1 woodturning workshop for 1 person

"I had a wonderful day on Simon's woodturning course, and have learned new skills which will enable me to develop my new found hobby. This was a birthday gift from my partner which will keep on giving for many years to come! Simon really explained everything well and pretty soon I was getting hand’s on tuition and slowly but surely building my confidence under Simon’s expert and watchful eye. Simon and Louise really looked after me well with plenty of food and refreshments during the day, and all set in lovely surroundings. I’m delighted with my projects which I was able to take home, and would strongly recommend Simon’s course to anyone wanting to try their hand at woodturning. Highly recommended !"

Blended Monkey responded:

"Hi Joe, Thanks so much for a great review and we're glad you enjoyed your birthday present! As you develop the craft, please feel free to contact us if you need any help - only too happy to assist. --Simon & Louise"