Blended Monkey reviews

19 Jun 23'

Andy reviewed: Beginners half-day pairs pottery throwing workshop

"My son and I had a lovely Fathers day learning how to use the Potters wheel with Louise, and look forward to enjoying the results, our pots! Would definitely recommend Louise and Blended Monkey, perhaps some wood turning with Simon next time 😁"

Blended Monkey responded:

"It was a delight having you guys in the studio and I'm so pleased you both enjoyed your throwing experience on the potter's wheel. You both picked up the techniques pretty quickly and achieved some really lovely results. Thanks for the great review :-). "

15 Jun 23'

Bob Angell reviewed: Beginners 1-day pairs woodturning workshop

"What a fantastic day. I have a wood turning lathe that I purchased following a days tuition a few years ago from an amateur turner. I enjoyed that day but my daughter and I attended Blended Monkey as a birthday present and learnt so much. Simon has fantastic enthusiasm for turning and this shows in his teaching. I really cannot thank him enough. Worth every penny of the cost. Brilliant! "

Blended Monkey responded:

"Hi Bob, So glad you enjoyed the day and it’s nice to know your interest has been piqued once more! Any queries, etc. do get in touch. Happy turning! — Simon"

15 Jun 23'

Mike Glasbey reviewed: Beginners 1-day 1-2-1 woodturning workshop for 1 person

"I had a wonderful day with Simon and Louise at Blended Monkey last weekend, with my first foray into woodturning. I've been wanting to try turning for so long and Simon's expert knowledge and easy to follow instructions made the whole day very informative and enjoyable and I got plenty of "hands on" experience and turned my very first bowl. All in all, a great day with some lovely friendly people! P.S. thanks for the hospitality and the lovely lunch too :-)"

Blended Monkey responded:

"Hi Mike, You're welcome! Great to have you here for the day and so glad you enjoyed the experience. -- Simon"

15 Jun 23'

Rachel Angell reviewed: Beginners 1-day pairs woodturning workshop

"I booked this 1 Day Pairs Woodturning Course as a Birthday Gift for Dad and we had a fabulous day. Firstly Simon was very accommodating with the dates and all of the information was sent well in advance of the day with a gift certificate that I could wrap for Dad's present. The location is beautiful and Simons enthusiasm is infectious. We had a super day, learnt some new skills and now have a new hobby which we can carry on together. I love the bowl we created, and proudly showed off my handiwork to the rest of the family. Thank you for a wonderful day. "

Blended Monkey responded:

"Hi Rachel (& Bob), So glad you enjoyed the experience. Do get in touch if you need more help or advice. Happy turning! -- Simon"

11 Jun 23'

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

"Simon is a brilliant, friendly tutor and I learnt a lot from him. The set up he's got is perfect for what you're going to do and you'll have plenty of time and support to achieve great results with him. He is also an excellent host, he really welcomes you into his home. All in all a great crafting day. "

Blended Monkey responded:

"Hi Tom, Glad you enjoyed the experience and great to host you here. Any help or advice, please get in touch. -- Simon"

11 Jun 23'

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

"I was gifted the 2 Crafts in 1 Day and I had a brilliant time. Simon was patient and a fantastic teacher. He was able to explain everything really clearly and I was working with the lathe very quickly. Understanding the different tools and techniques was fascinating. After a lovely lunch in the beautiful and quiet gardens it was time to play with clay. A great afternoon getting to grips with slab work, hand raising and the wheel work (I definitely contributed to the tower of shame, but it was such fun). Louise is also a wonderful teacher and it was a pleasure to spend the afternoon with her in the studio. I’d recommend this course in a heartbeat. It’s a fantastic introduction to wood turning and pottery. "

Blended Monkey responded:

"Alison, it was lovely to have you in the woodturning workshop and ceramics studio, and we're so pleased that you enjoyed your 2 Crafts in 1 Day experience with us here at Blended Monkey :-). You took to both crafts with ease and created some lovely pieces. Well done!"

8 Jun 23'

Gillian Lewis reviewed: Beginners 1-day pairs woodturning workshop

"My husband treated me to this 1 to 1 full day course as a surprise 70th birthday present as I had previously expressed an interest in having a go at wood turning. The day was perfect with Simon's expert tuition being delivered with great patience and humour. With his help, I had a go at several techniques using a variety of tools and I managed to complete a honey drizzler and a beautiful bowl which I will treasure with great pride. My husband sat and watched and was able to take lots of photos. We were given hot drinks throughout the day and also had a fabulous lunch in Simon and Louise's farmhouse kitchen. A most memorable day in every way."

Blended Monkey responded:

"Hi Gill, Thanks so much for a lovely review and so glad you both enjoyed the day. If you need any further advice, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. — Simon"

6 Jun 23'

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

"I want to thank Simon for a truly immersive woodturning experience and sharing his knowledge and expertise. I enjoyed the whole day immensely and his enthusiasm has re-energized my love of all things wood. The workshop is based in an ideal beautiful setting with other courses and accommodation available. I would also like to thank Louise for my very tasty lunch. Thankyou again"

Blended Monkey responded:

"Hi Carol, So glad you got so much from the day and really pleased I've rekindled your enthusiasm - that's why I do it! :) Happy turning! -- Simon"

4 Jun 23'

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

"Wow! What a great course. Arrived as a complete novice and left feeling that I had learnt A LOT. I even got to complete and take home two great little projects. Simon is a great teacher and I don't hesitate to recommend this course. You will love it!"

Blended Monkey responded:

"Hi John, Thank you for your kind praise! I hope some of the knowledge sinks in 😊; if not, you have my notes. So glad you enjoyed the day though. — Simon"

25 May 23'

John Chappell reviewed: Pole lathe turning 1-2-1 or pairs

"Had a lovely day, sharpening tools and working on the lathe. Although I have some experience I found the day very useful and informative. Thanks Simon and Louise "

Blended Monkey responded:

"Hi John, Thanks for your frank review - always appreciated. Hope you get more from your turning with super-sharp tools now! -- Simon"

22 May 23'

David reviewed: Pole lathe turning 1-2-1 or pairs

"Really great day woodturning. The course was laid out really well, taking a 'raw' split log all the way through the stages of the process to create a fully finished item. Lot's of useful instruction, both on the theory and the practical nature of each step along with some great guidance on how to improve. Really beautiful setting to learn in too, plus Simon and Louise were super friendly. I'd definitely recommend to anybody interested in either learning woodturning for themselves or as a great one-off experience day."

Blended Monkey responded:

"Hi David, Thanks for your candid review and so glad you enjoyed the day - we were lucky with the weather too! — Simon"

19 May 23'

Alex Gilbert reviewed: Beginners 1-day 1-2-1 woodturning workshop for 1 person

"I had a fantastic day with Simon and left feeling full of confidence, enthusiasm and with a beautiful sycamore bowl that I had made. The day was a perfect mix of explanation, demonstration and lots of hands on experience. Simon creates a relaxed atmosphere so that it didn't feel like so much a lesson but more an enjoyable day chatting and learning. We got through an enormous amount and he made sure that we covered particular areas that I was interested in. The day included a lovely lunch in the garden and both Simon and Louise made me feel very much at home and welcome. Thank you!"

Blended Monkey responded:

"Hi Alex, So glad it was an enjoyable experience for you. Do get in touch if you need any further advice or information. — Simon"

18 May 23'

Chris reviewed: Beginners half-day pairs woodturning workshop

"We had a fascinating afternoon learning and nearly mastering (!) the basics of woodturning. Simon was so patient and unhurried, it was a real pleasure. Highly recommended!"

Blended Monkey responded:

"Hi Chris, Thanks for taking the time to review your experience and for your positive comments - it's really great to know that you appreciated the course. Do get in touch if you need further assistance or advice. -- Simon"

9 May 23'

Russ Barker reviewed: Beginners 1-day 1-2-1 woodturning workshop for 1 person

"I thoroughly enjoyed my 1-2-1 woodturning workshop learning all about woodturning as well as the equipment required, tools needed, wood (and grain). As a total novice who only had seen YouTube videos of woodturning, I ended up "proficient" enough to take home 2 pieces of my work that currently sit proudly on display for all to see! Simon was patient whilst explaining and demonstrating the techniques and tips needed. He is very easy to chat to, and quick to allay any fears or answer any questions. It doesn't seem to stop at the end of the day either - the post-course information notes (and some great photos) were gratefully received afterwards. Something for me to read up on, so I don't forget before the next time I am in front of a lathe...."

Blended Monkey responded:

"Hi Russ, So glad you enjoyed the day - do get in touch if you need any guidance, especially purchasing kit. I can't promise I know it all, but I'll try to help if I can. -- Simon"

8 May 23'

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

"A highly enjoyable and informative day. I was completely new to turning and Simon was a wonderful instructor, patiently walking me through the background of the equipment, points to watch out for and how to approach a project. His guidance on techniques and proper handling of the equipment meant that I was given a strong introduction in how to approach the craft, and the information provided afterwards meant that I now have a fantastic reference point going forwards. Overall, a brilliant day with a great instructor, providing an informative and good, broad coverage of wood turning. I would highly recommend to anyone considering this course."

Blended Monkey responded:

"Hi Tom, Thank you for a very comprehensive review - you were a model student and I wish you well in all your woodturning endeavours. Any queries or assistance required, please don't hesitate to get in touch. -- Simon"

25 Apr 23'

Jools reviewed: Beginners half-day pairs pottery throwing workshop

"A relaxed, fun and informative half day course with Louise. Everything we needed was ready for us with tea and biscuits too! Louise is a great communicator both with useful messages and reminders prior to the workshop day and during the experience. Beautiful location, welcoming atmosphere and all the tuition required to actually produce some pottery! Great workshop, I’m going back for more soon!"

Blended Monkey responded:

"It was great fun having you guys in the studio, and I'm so pleased you enjoyed your throwing experience :-). You both took to the process very quickly and I'm sure you'll be pleased with the fired results! Well done and maybe see you again in the future :-)"

21 Apr 23'

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

"I thoroughly enjoyed my day with Simon and I came away buzzing with enthusiasm for wood turning. I had already tried a few bowls on my own by following YouTube videos but was very aware I needed some more hands on instruction. Simon was brilliant at providing the sort of practical guidance you can't get from just watching someone else turn. He was also really good at explaining the 'why', helping me understand the theory so I could see why cutting in one direction would give a smooth finish, while the other leads to tearing. He sent me away with newly sharpened gouges and lots of practical advice on tools and materials which has already led to some Axminster purchases (you should be on commission Simon!) On top of that he's very easy to get on with - I enjoyed good company, was well supplied with refreshments and a very nice lunch. It was such a shame to go back to work the following day :-) Thank you Simon."

Blended Monkey responded:

"Hi Alex, So glad you enjoyed the day and got so much out of it - it’s always nice to hear that another woodturner has joined the community! As ever, any questions you have, please get in touch and I’ll help if I can. Happy turning! — Simon"

20 Apr 23'

Peter and Sarah reviewed: Beginners 1-day pairs woodturning workshop

"This is a great course for complete novices like us and we thoroughly enjoyed the day. Simon taught it really well, first explaining the equipment and how to use it and then we practised doing some bead and cove shapes. In the afternoon we made a bowl from scratch, with help from Simon where needed to keep us from making too many mistakes and making sure we had something nice to take home. A really relaxed atmosphere, no pressure, and nice relaxing lunch too. Would highly recommend. Also, Simon sent us some excellent follow-up notes afterwards that went through everything we had done on the day."

Blended Monkey responded:

"Hi Peter & Sarah, So glad you enjoyed the day and I hope the notes will come in useful. Please get in touch if you have any questions or need any advice. — Simon"

12 Apr 23'

Vicky Gardner reviewed: Beginners half-day pairs pottery/ceramics workshop

"A hands on experience and a wonderful opportunity to try lots of different types of pottery making, with the expert assistance of Louise, who is a warm and friendly teacher. Highly recommended!"

Blended Monkey responded:

"It was great fun having you guys in the ceramics studio and I'm so pleased you enjoyed your pottery session :-). You embraced both the handbuilding and the throwing techniques with creativity. Thanks for the lovely review!"

5 Apr 23'

Marcus reviewed: Pole lathe turning 1-2-1 or pairs

"Excellent day learning how to shape wood with an axe and a draw knife before using the pole lathe to produce a French rolling pin. I learnt lots of skills I can use in other areas of woodworking. Lots of tea provided which I run on, and very posh biscuits. "

Blended Monkey responded:

"Hi Marcus, Really glad you enjoyed the course (and the biscuits!). I’m fully expecting to see photos of excellent pastry rolled using your new pin… — Simon"

5 Apr 23'

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

"My son had the best time at his second woodturning workshop with Simon. He got so much out of his first session that he couldn't wait to go back again! In this workshop he made a bowl, which he is super proud of. He loved trying different techniques and using different tools in making his bowl and it has really inspired him to continue with learning woodwork. I highly recommend the workshops at blended monkey for young people and teens, Louise and Simon are brilliant teachers, knowledgeable, friendly and engaging. "

Blended Monkey responded:

"Hi Tracey, Thank you so much for (another!) lovely review. Your son was such a great pupil and very attentive and I do hope this encourages him to take the craft further. -- Simon"

2 Apr 23'

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

"Hello. I have recently completed the 1 day lathe wood turning course with Simon at Blended Money. The day was excellent, with lots of practical advice, hands on activity and in the end I left with a fabulous bowl which I'm very proud of. Everything was provided, including all raw materials, use of excellent equipment, plentiful drinks and lunch. Simon could not have been more welcoming and knowledgeable. As a result, I have since purchased my own lathe and feel confident to start practicing my skills. Also, I plan to go back this year for an outdoor green wood wood turning course as well, as it looked so much fun and nice to learn a heritage craft. If you are like me and never turned a piece of wood before, I strongly recommend this course with Simon at Blended Monkey. The prices are fair, you will have a great day, and in the end you can safely continue turning."

Blended Monkey responded:

"Hi Nick, Thank you for such a glowing review! :) I'm so glad you have taken the next step on your turning journey and would welcome you back to have a go at the green woodturning too. Any questions in the meantime, don't hesitate to get in touch. -- Simon"

31 Mar 23'

Ellie reviewed: Beginners half-day pairs woodturning workshop

"Brilliant half day session with Simon for me and my mum - learnt all the basics include how to make coves and beads and left with our test pieces and one completed spindle-based piece by the end. "

Blended Monkey responded:

"Hi Ellie, Glad you enjoyed the session. Do get in touch if you have any questions or want to take the craft further. — Simon"

27 Mar 23'

Pam and Jonathan reviewed: Beginners 1-day pairs woodturning workshop

"A great course for two novice woodturners. Simon’s teaching style was perfect for adult learners. Theoretical aspects were covered and sat well alongside the practical work. Demonstration of techniques was excellent so we were confident to get stuck in and have a go. Feedback and intervention was timely and appropriate. The atmosphere was very relaxed and we never felt pressured or hurried and the well equipped workshop made an excellent environment for learning. A lovely lunch and plenty of refreshments throughout the day. We were pleased to each go home with two lovely turned pieces and are confident that with plenty of practice and the help of Simon’s notes they’ll be the first of many."

Blended Monkey responded:

"Hi Pam & Jonathan, Thanks for a lovely review and I do hope you continue the craft; any questions, please get in touch - only too happy to help. -- Simon"

24 Mar 23'

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

"This course was actually on my birthday and myself and my husband did it together x It was so much fun, we learnt lots and nothing was too much trouble for Louise and Simon. Lunch was yummy, lots of cups of tea and we have lots of goodies to show for our wonderful day. Staying in their ‘Crafters retreat, was just magical too…..We can not recommend them highly enough x All round 5*****"

Blended Monkey responded:

"It was really good fun having you guys in the woodturning workshop and ceramics studio for your 2 Crafts in 1 Day experience, and Simon and I are pleased you enjoyed your respective crafty workshops :-). We hope you had a fabulous birthday Leigh x"

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