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

17 Mar 22'

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

"This was a gift for my hubby, something new to try. He really enjoyed the day, finding Simon very patient and supportive throughout and was very pleased with the pieces he came away with. He was amazed at how therapeutic he found it too. Lovely lunch provided by Louise. He said he would highly recommend the experience to anyone."

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

"Hi Josie, Thanks for (another!) review for Jeff's day. So glad he enjoyed it - now he's just got to find somewhere to put the lathe, tools, grinder, dust extractor..... :) -- Simon"

14 Mar 22'

Jeff Thompson reviewed: Beginners 1-day 1-2-1 woodturning workshop for 1 person

"Very interesting and informative day spent with Simon learning some of the basics of wood turning. I'm completely new to this but after only one day I think I'm already hooked- thanks to Simon for being very patient! It's great to be able to focus entirely on one thing- the piece of wood spinning round in front of you so is excellent mindfulness training!! I even managed to produce a couple of pieces to take home! Highly recommended- I'll be back!!!!!"

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

"Hi Jeff, Thank you for a lovely review. So glad that you found the experience relaxing and enjoyable. Look forward to seeing you again :) -- Simon"

11 Mar 22'

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

"I was given by my wife as a Christmas present, a one day course in wood turning from Blended Monkey. It is always difficult for her to know what to get me and, with my abilities to be practical she thought it would be a good idea. Well she wasn't wrong, I loved it! I had no preconceived ideas about how the process worked other than I knew roughly what was made on a lathe, this in mind I couldn't wait for the day to arrive. Once I had booked a day for the course, I was kept well informed about what would happen on the day and assured that COVID guidelines were in place, should I have concerns. I was warmly welcomed by hosts Louise and Simon on my arrival and taken to the wood turning room and offered a drink with biscuits, the first of many through the day. Simon then went onto talk about health and safety and the equipment we would be using and told me not to worry about remembering everything, as detailed notes would be emailed to me the next day, The notes incidentally were very in-depth and repeated in print, the whole day which is and will be a great help going forward. We started on the basics and by the end of the morning I had produced a honey drizzler which, I don't mind saying without being big headed, was amazing for a first attempt. Lunch followed and here, I have to say a big thank you to Louise who, after being made aware of my dietary preferences beforehand, this being plant based, served up a lovey platter of sweet and savory offerings. Onto the afternoon and Simon went on to explain the next project which was a bowl made out of cherry wood. Again The process was explained and by the end I had produced a lovely bowl which again, I am really proud of and looks beautiful. I am hopefully going to retire in a couple of years and am seriously thinking about investing in the equipment to give me a great and totally enjoyable pastime when the great day finally arrives. To finish, I would thoroughly recommend this course with Blended Monkey, you will not be disappointed. Many thanks to you both. :-)"

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

"Hi Chris, So glad you enjoyed the day and felt it was enjoyable and worthwhile - means a lot to us. Thank you for such a heartfelt review too! -- Simon & Louise"

7 Mar 22'

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

"Absolutely fantastic day! We were given a very warm welcome right from the start by Simon and Louise in in their beautiful home and garden, having morning tea and biscuits while we had our introduction in the wood turning workshop. Simon gave very clear guidance, and really useful demonstrations and explanations. We had plenty of time on the lathes and before lunch we had learned useful basic skills and finished a simple turning project. After a very nice lunch, we then moved to the pottery workshop, where Louise was very inspirational helping us to design and create pinch pots and a slab-formed vase. She was lovely to spend time with and learn from. We then finished the day on the wheel learning to throw pots. One of us seemed to be a natural at this, the other less so (but she’s very keen to come back and try it again!). Again, excellent demonstrations - and patience when the student takes “throwing” slightly too literally… We are really looking forward to seeing our creations when they’ve been fired and sent out to us. Overall an amazing day, very enjoyable and we learned loads. We very highly recommend this course and we will definitely be back for more!"

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

"Hi Jenny, hi Howard, Really pleased you had a good day. Simon and I enjoyed your company in our studios and I've definitely learnt a lot about snakes ;-). We'd be more than happy if you'd like to return and get to grips with the intricacies of of throwing - you've got a score to settle with that wheel! :-) You both made some really lovely pieces and we're so pleased you enjoyed your experience!"

4 Mar 22'

Antonella reviewed: Beginners half-day pairs pottery / ceramics workshop

"We had such a great time! I have booked the pottery class as a birthday gift and it was brilliant. We had such an amazing time learning and chatting. Louise is a fantastic and knowledgeable teacher and made us feel so welcomed and relaxed throughout the day :) She took us lovely photos too which we will treasure forever as well as the ceramics that we made. I cannot recommend this experience enough!!! Thank you!"

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

"It was a pleasure having you both in the studios :-). You made some fabulous pieces - especially the Bourbon biscuit! ;-). I'll let you know when your creations are ready!"

2 Mar 22'

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

"I had a fantastic afternoon with Louise. She explained the processes and techniques so well and was very patient. She gave me loads of helpful tips and encouragement. Also she was so friendly and chatty. It was alovely relaxed atmosphere to learn in and so enjoyable. I would thoroughly recommend this experience. I'm really looking forward to seeing my finished pieces. Thank you!"

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

"It was a real delight having you in the studio Beckie, and I'm pleased that you enjoyed it so much you're looking to get some kit and do some yourself at home. Fabulous! You made some lovely pieces and I'm just as excited as you are to see how they look after they've been glazed and fired :-)."

1 Mar 22'

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

"I had an amazing day and although I am not the best at being a student, I was made to feel relaxed from the moment I met Simon and Louise. The day then got going and didn’t stop. It was the escapism I needed for a day and I learnt lots too. Now I just need to remember it and practice!! Thanks again for your patience and for the much needed caffeine and lunch."

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

"Really glad you enjoyed the day, Hayley. We hope the notes will help you remember what you did - please get in touch if you need further assistance. Happy turning! -- Simon & Louise"

26 Feb 22'

Lee Davies reviewed: Beginners 1-day 1-2-1 pottery / ceramics workshop for 1 person

"I had a great day. My wife bought me a one day pottery experience with Louise as I've always fancied having a go especially at throwing a pot or two. I'm so glad she did. I learnt so much but had one of the most relaxed days I've had in a long while due to the environment, the hospitality and the training style. Which clearly worked as Louise had me throwing cylinders/pots shortly after lunch! Can't wait to see what comes out of the kiln. If you have an interest and like me, have never used a potters wheel or touched a bit of clay since I was at school ( some 40 years ago ) then you won't go wrong by spending a day in the studio with Louise. Highly recommended !"

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

"Thanks for your lovely review Lee. It was great having you in the studio and I'm glad you felt at ease and came away having learnt a bit more about the various methods of handbuilding and throwing. You made some fab pieces!"

24 Feb 22'

Nigel Hymas reviewed: Beginners 1-day pairs woodturning workshop

"Thank you for this course which my son, Hugo, and I greatly enjoyed. Simon's love of what he teaches really shone through and that inspired us both! He seemed to strike just the right balance between active guidance and periods of letting us have a go on our own. Simon's perfectionism was admirable, and his encouragement to us that we aim for shapes that pleased the eye and hand as far as possible was a valuable challenge. He imparted loads of very valuable advice during the day about various aspects of wood turning, tools, equipment etc and even sharpened some of my own chisels for me! The next day we received extremely helpful online copies of his illustrated teaching notes and information about equipment etc. Finally, thank you for the refreshments during the day and the delicious lunch. All in all, a great day!"

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

"Hi Nigel, Thank you for your heartfelt review. It was great having you and Hugo in the workshop for the day and we’re so glad you enjoyed it. As we said on the day, if you have any questions or need any help, please do get in touch. — Simon & Louise"

18 Feb 22'

David, Simone, Luke & Holly reviewed: "2 Crafts in 1 Day!" pairs - woodturning & pottery experience

"My son and I enjoyed our days woodturning so much last year we returned with the girls for pottery and woodturning, again, not disappointed enjoying a superb days experience, can't recommend enough. Lovely lunch too. Thanks Blended Monkey."

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

"So lovely to see you guys again! And so glad you enjoyed another day with us. Hope your woodturning goes from strength to strength and you like your ceramics once they are finished. — Simon & Louise"

14 Feb 22'

Kevan McCaig reviewed: Beginners 1-day 1-2-1 woodturning workshop for 1 person

"It was a great woodturning course that encompassed everything and more. Simon is a patient teacher and thoroughly understands his craft in detail. The day was very relaxed with coffee and lunch provided by Louise. I made a honey wand a bowl out of a really nice piece of wood. I enjoyed learning about the finishing products and process. The next day I turned 2 bowls at home thanks to Simons tuition. I would highly recommend Simon (Blended Monkey) to anyone wishing to get off to a god start in Woodturning. I’ll be back!!"

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

"Hi Kevan, Thanks for the great review. It was great having you in the workshop and I'm so glad you managed to put the teaching into practice - very nice bowls! -- Simon & Louise"

12 Feb 22'

Jeff Parker reviewed: Beginners 1-day 1-2-1 woodturning workshop for 1 person

"I've been trying my hand at wood turning (with a small amount of prior knowledge) through lock down! Simon's course was just what I wanted. He took me though all the basic principles and then slowly taught me the basic cuts for spindle work and for bowl turning with lots of hands on practice and careful guidance. I came away exhausted but very satisfied. More importantly I came away with a MUCH better understanding of what I was trying to do and how to do it safely. A great day. I learnt so much and had a lovely lunch to boot! Thank you Simon and Louise."

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

"Hi Jeff, So glad you had a useful day and came away more confident in the craft. As ever, if you have any questions or issues, please reach out to us. -- Simon & Louise"

9 Feb 22'

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

"Both Simon (wood-turning) and Louise (Clay work) were wonderful! They made us feel very welcome and were great at getting two complete beginners (Mother and daughter) to feel confident in using the tools and equipment available. It didn't matter when we went wrong, it was just used as a learning moment and they then helped us to rectify any issues that we wanted rectifying. They both had a very calm and approachable manner. The day was delivered in an upbeat, positive and friendly way. Although the course had said lunch was included, we both assumed a quick sandwich, how wrong we were. Simon and Louise invited us into their kitchen and presented us with a wonderful farmhouse lunch which we ate with them whilst chatting. As well as new skills, we took home our turned wood and are excited about receiving 3 pieces of our pottery work once they are fired and glazed. We couldn't recommend this day more highly! what an amazing way to spend quality time with each other and learn some great, new skills."

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

"It was really lovely having you guys in the woodturning workshop and ceramics studio! You both grasped the various techniques really well and with good humour. Well done on creating some wonderful pieces! Your ceramic creations should be ready in a few weeks' time. Thank you for such a fab review!"

3 Feb 22'

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

"There are already so many nice words for this course and Simon and I can only agree and confirm. It was a very nice 3 hours course I had with Simon and because we had a nice chat about the world. We had to make it even a bit longer so I can take my own Honey spoon home with me (that I am now showing proud to any visitor coming for brunch). Simon is a great teacher, with passion for what he is doing that makes sure to give each person the best learning exciting fitting their individual needs. I can recommend this course to anyone that want to get to the next level with his Woodturning skills or if you just want to find out if woodturning is something for you."

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

"Hi Sebastian, Thank you for such a lovely review and I'm glad you had a fun day. You're the type of student that makes teaching the craft worthwhile :) Vielen dank!"

1 Feb 22'

Bruce reviewed: Beginners 1-day pairs woodturning workshop

"Many thanks to Simon for an excellent day's wood turning. It was an extremely friendly, professional and comfortable atmosphere in his workshop. I would recommend this course to anybody looking for an introduction to wood turning. Also many thanks to Louise for a delicious lunch."

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

"Hi Bruce (& Pete), Thanks for the review and glad you had a good day. Great to have you both in the workshop ?"

1 Feb 22'

Hannah L reviewed: Beginners 1-day 1-2-1 pottery / ceramics workshop for 1 person

"I had a really enjoyable day learning and making lots of pottery pieces. Louise is a great teacher and a lovely lady. Lunch was so good! :-) All in all a brilliant day had, thank you x"

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

"It was a delight having you in the studio Hannah :-) So pleased you enjoyed your experience. I particularly like your coil pot, and well done with the throwing :-)."

31 Jan 22'

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

"My husband and I had a wonderful day at Blended Monkey. Learning new skills from Simon and Louise who are so knowledge and very patient. Thank you both."

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

"It was a pleasure having you guys in the woodturning workshop and the pottery studio. You both made some really lovely pieces! We're glad you enjoyed your experience :-)."

30 Jan 22'

Gregory Z reviewed: Beginners half-day pairs woodturning workshop

"Great experience! We've learned a lot. Simon's a good teacher"

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

"Hi Greg & Monika, Thanks for your review and great to meet you both! — Simon"

24 Jan 22'

Inga and Luke reviewed: Beginners 1-day pairs woodturning workshop

"We had a great day with the super knowledgeable Simon! From absolutely zero knowledge regarding the craft of woodworking we left feeling inspired and looking for our nearest club as we clutched our newly carved bowls and honey twizzles! A lovely day nattering, learning and getting thoroughly covered in wood shavings. Thoroughly recommended as Simon puts you right at ease."

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

"Hi Inga and Luke, I’m glad you enjoyed the day - it was great fun! If you do take up the craft, let me know how you get on and shout if you need any help."

23 Jan 22'

Lachlan and Quentin reviewed: Beginners 1-day pairs woodturning workshop

"Bought a pairs woodturning course for my Dad and I for Christmas, it was well worth it! Simon is an enthusiastic, friendly and knowledgeable teacher and we both enjoyed the experience immensely. Thanks also to Louise for preparing a lovely lunch and catering to my dietary requirements. Highly recommended!"

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

"Hi Lachlan, Thank you for such a lovely review; we’re so glad you enjoyed the day. — Simon & Louise"

20 Jan 22'

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

"We booked the 2 crafts in 1 day for a couple and had a brilliant day! We carried out woodturning in the morning and pottery in the afternoon… Louise and Simon showed a huge passion for their craft which was contagious. They guided us through the basics giving us lots of interesting information to help but then stood back and allowed us to get into our own groove and enjoy experimenting with the woodturning and pottery. Well run and thorough... a lovely relaxing day was had!"

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

"I was nice to have you guys in the studios and we're so pleased you enjoyed your super-creative crafty day here at Blended Monkey :-). We enjoyed it too - always great when we can have a bit of a laugh with our students; makes the day really good fun all round!"

19 Jan 22'

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

"I had a full day Pottery Workshop Experience as a gift from my children. I have had a few goes of some pottery many years ago but had always wanted to have a go on a potter's wheel. Louise introduced a pinch pot, a coil pot and a slab pot in the morning and there were pictures and other people's work to give me ideas. However, Louise encouraged me to be as creative as I wished and really helped me explore my ideas. I made a hanging wall decoration in the afternoon and then made a few pots on the wheel. Louise's instructions were so clear and she gave good advice as I progressed through the stages. The day was brilliant and the time seemed to go so fast. I joined a couple doing the woodturning workshop for lunch which was a lovely spread, and it was a very relaxed atmosphere. The day is very good value. Apart from the six hours of one to one tuition and a lovely lunch, Louise had obviously spent a good deal of time preparing all the clay to be used in advance and once the day was over would be sanding the pieces when dry, then glazing and firing them. I loved it so much that I hope to return and do some more pottery. A really great day."

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

"What a lovely informative review Maureen! Thank you very much :-). Really pleased that you enjoyed your ceramics experience. You really let your creativity flow and made some fabulous pieces. It's also kind of you to acknowledge all the background processes that go on before and after the workshop - it's fairly involved :-). Would be great to have you back in the studio again later in the year!"

18 Jan 22'

Colin Izzard reviewed: Beginners 1-day 1-2-1 woodturning workshop for 1 person

"This was purchased as a Christmas gift for me from my Wife! Simon and Louise greeted me and made me feel very welcome! Thoroughly enjoyable day! Simon is very professional and patient, I made some fabulous pieces and had a lovely lunch. I will be retuning for further courses with Simon! I would highly recommend"

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

"Hi Colin, Thanks for such a glowing review! It was lovely to meet you and we look forward to seeing you again. -- Simon & Louise"

16 Jan 22'

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

"I really enjoyed learning the basics of woodturning with Simon! Great instruction and friendly chat with it. I was very proud of the pieces I made on the day with Simon's help. Woodturning is very satisfying, with a real zen quality about it once you get in the zone. It is definitely something that would be hard to learn from a book or videos as it was all about feel, and small changes to angles. However, with an expert helping guide me by showing me the exact movements the tools needed it felt like I made really good progress in just one day. (I'm sure I'm no woodturning prodigy; Simon is just nice) Lunch was great - way better than expected. I'd imagined something basic so I was delighted by a delicious spread. One note: I went in January and it was very cold. I was very glad of a full set of thermals I had chucked in the car at the last minute which I popped on half way through, so if you are going in the bleak midwinter then do dress warm! Overall a great day, highly recommended."

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

"Hi Rob, Thanks for your kind review - much appreciated. Had I known you were cold I would have turned up the heater thermostat! :) You are the first to mention it, so I'll keep it in mind for future students at this time of year. I keep the workshop at around 15 degrees C to ensure that the tools and machinery are kept at an optimum temperature. Glad you had a backup plan though and that it didn't spoil your day. -- Simon"

27 Dec 21'

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

"This course is so much fun! I loved learning all the different techniques in a fun and relaxed atmosphere. Louise is kind, helpful, and fun to chat to. This experience was very relaxing, and I hope to come back again!"

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

"It was great fun having you guys in the studio! Nice to have a good chat while we're creating :-). I'm so glad you enjoyed your ceramics experience. It would be a pleasure to have you back again."