Crafts in the Valley reviews

21 Sep 19'

Ellen Morrell reviewed: Crafts in the Valley - Batik textile workshop in Hebden Bridge, West Yorkshire

"Absolutely fantastic! Myself and two friends attended Melanie's studio for the Batik workshop. We were greeted with warmth and friendliness. We were made to feel at home. I learned so much but was not overwhelmed with information. The atmosphere was very relaxed. Throughout the day, Melanie passed on lots of techniques and skills, was very informative and helpful but at the same time, allowing us to let our own creative juices flow. Her teaching method was superb! As a result, we have booked another course. Great value for money. Can't recommend Crafts in the Valley highly enough! As a bonus, fantastic surroundings!"

21 Sep 19'

Helen reviewed: Crafts in the Valley - Batik textile workshop in Hebden Bridge, West Yorkshire

"I had a great day doing this batik class - Mel ran the class extremely well, enabling all of us to finish beautiful pieces. She gave us all the relevant information at each stage, and there was always the opportunity for questions and help available when needed, with either technical aspects or inspiration. I would highly recommend this class (and all her other classes too!). Mel is a great teacher and a lovely person."

17 Sep 19'

Alison reviewed: Crafts in the Valley - Batik textile workshop in Hebden Bridge, West Yorkshire

"This is the second course I have undertaken at Crafts in the Valley. I have thoroughly enjoyed both. Nothing is too much trouble. All crafting tools/ materials are on hand and a excellent commentary/ instruction of what is needed to produce a piece of work to be proud of. Food and refreshments an added bonus and delicious. Would recommend to anyone, especially those who enjoy being “crafty”."

25 Jul 19'

Valerie Mendenhall reviewed: Crafts in the Valley - Beginners glass fusing workshops in Hebden Bridge, West Yorkshire

"How fortunate we are that classes like this are offered, with projects easily accomplished by a novice or beginner under the exceptional tutelage of Melanie. Melanie made this new-to-me art form accessible by sharing her wide variety of supplies and teaching us a number of techniques resulting in four projects. I felt confident knowing she was right beside us guiding us through the selection of colors and materials. The class was well organized, with supplies neatly laid out, alternating instruction time with project time. She organized a lunch outing at a nearby restaurant, which was included in our class price. And had breakfast pastries and afternoon (lemon - yum!) cake for us. My only wish is that the venue (quilt shop) had opened for an hour for the class takers to do a little browsing & shopping! But since it was a Sunday, the quilt shop owner certainly deserved a day of rest."

24 Jul 19'

Mrs Sarah Collins reviewed: Crafts in the Valley - Felted Pictures Workshop in Cragg Vale, Hebden Bridge, West Yorkshire

"I did the felting course, which covers wet and needle felting along with using machine embroidery as embellishment. Lovely course, very clear instructions and lots of help. Books and pictures were provided for inspiration or we were free to use our own from home. This is a really enjoyable and satisfying set of techniques to learn. Best of all, you go home with a piece of finished work using them. The venue was Cobbles and Clay in Haworth and a delicious lunch was provided. Looking forward to my next course already."

17 Jul 19'

Charlotte Y reviewed: Crafts in the Valley - Batik textile workshop in Hebden Bridge, West Yorkshire

"l was lucky enough to do one of Melanie's batik workshops recently in the wonderful Hebden Bridge - so far it is my most favourite creative thing l have done this year! l was hoping to bring a nice creative image with me for inspiration but really didn't have the time - it didn't matter though as Melanie had a really good selection of images available, that l was easily able to find something to inspire me for my batiks. Melanie really lnew her stuff and was not only an excellent teacher but a warm and welcoming host! With it being in such a fantastic part of the country l was able to make a weekend of it and hang around Hebden Bridge the following day, which I would highly recommend tagging onto your time if you are able to. I left with a really beautiful piece of artwork, l never thought it was possible for me to produce something so good. Looking forward to putting it on my wall so thanks Melanie! l would love to come and do another course (or two) with you again."

16 Jul 19'

Ann Clough reviewed: Crafts in the Valley - Batik textile workshop in Hebden Bridge, West Yorkshire

"What a fabulous workshop! Had a wonderful day learning a new craft from a patient, knowledgeable and awesome tutor. Mel makes everything seem doable. From knowing nothing at the start of the day, to creating an end product that I am proud of is testament to her skill as a teacher. Most of all though is the sheer feeling of calm relaxation that Mel creates - her class really is a feast for the soul. Loved it!"

15 Jul 19'

Ruthie reviewed: Crafts in the Valley - Batik textile workshop in Hebden Bridge, West Yorkshire

"Mel is a therapeutic art extraordinarie. I’ve attended a few of her workshops and the batik one really was the most amazing day. For someone who is constantly ‘in her head’ I found myself drifting off to a place of art tranquility all at the same time as learning a new skill and creating two wonderful pieces of art. Mel works with a small group but always finds space and time for you as individuals. She is patient, matches your learning needs to how she explains things to you and her environments are always so welcome. And there is ALWAYS cake. What more could you ask for. Thank you Mel for allowing me to have a little head holiday. It really was worth its weight in gold."

10 Jul 19'

Niki Taylor reviewed: Crafts in the Valley - Batik textile workshop in Hebden Bridge, West Yorkshire

"I’ve done a few batik workshops prior to Mel’s and I’d say hers comes out with top marks. As someone who is a little terrified of art I found Mel to be an excellent teacher at giving clear step by step instruction and attention to detail using various techniques. Always at hand if you make mistakes. She made the classroom warm and cosy and provides tea and cakes. Mel is a warm, welcoming and attentive teacher and I would highly recommend her classes to anyone. The creations produced in her classes are of a high standard because of that."

2 Jul 19'

Jill reviewed: Crafts in the Valley - Batik textile workshop in Hebden Bridge, West Yorkshire

"What a fantastic batik workshop day we spent with Mel! The planning that had gone into the course for our benefit was second to none and each of us left with pieces of work we were proud of. I was a novice and loved the day and am looking forward to another batik workshop in the near future."

1 Jul 19'

Sian Hughes reviewed: Crafts in the Valley - Batik textile workshop in Hebden Bridge, West Yorkshire

"Absolutely loved this batik workshop! I haven’t done batik for years since college and really enjoyed the day. The day is set out really well and really enjoyed getting stuck in to the creating! Would highly recommend this workshop!"

17 May 19'

Lynne P reviewed: Crafts in the Valley - Beginners glass fusing workshops in Hebden Bridge, West Yorkshire

"Fused Glass Beginners workshop....What a fabulous fun way to spend a Sunday! Melanie was an excellent teacher, explained the processes clearly at each stage, guided us and made helpful suggestions for creating gorgeous glass decorative items and jewellery. We learnt glass cutting too - not as scary as it sounds! The whole experience was delivered in a relaxed, friendly environment, with refreshments and a delicious lunch included too. Great workshop,we made lots of lovely items to take home once they've been fired in the kiln. Can't wait to do another one! Thanks very much Melanie."

10 May 19'

Carol reviewed: Crafts in the Valley - Beginners glass fusing workshops in Hebden Bridge, West Yorkshire

"Really enjoyed the glass fusing course, and an excellent teacher, had time for everyone. Lovely lunch included too. Would definitely recommend."

9 May 19'

Alison reviewed: Crafts in the Valley - Beginners glass fusing workshops in Hebden Bridge, West Yorkshire

"Thoroughly enjoyed the day fusing glass, Melanie made the class easy to follow and engaging. Would recommend to anyone."

9 May 19'

Gillian Gumery reviewed: Crafts in the Valley - Beginners glass fusing workshops in Hebden Bridge, West Yorkshire

"We had a private beginners workshop for a birthday celebration on glass fusion with Melanie. The whole day was lots of fun, very creative and we all enjoyed it very much. Melanie was so friendly and helpful and gave us lots of ideas for our creations. We had refreshments and a great lunch and I would highly recommend it!"

28 Apr 19'

Kath and Keely reviewed: Crafts in the Valley - Beginners glass fusing workshops in Hebden Bridge, West Yorkshire

"Had a brilliant day, made lots of items, great teacher and nice friendly group, also a very nice lunch. Can't wait to visit again."

5 Apr 19'

Mary Povah reviewed: Crafts in the Valley - Beginners glass fusing workshops in Hebden Bridge, West Yorkshire

"I enjoyed the beginner's fused glass workshop at the beginning of March so much that I went to the next level workshop at the end of March. Mel is an excellent teacher and makes the craft accessible to everyone, whatever your artistic talents, or lack of them, may be. Plus lovely lunch and cakes!"

13 Mar 19'

Denise reviewed: Crafts in the Valley - Felted Pictures Workshop in Cragg Vale, Hebden Bridge, West Yorkshire

"Two fabulous days learning all about felting in Haworth. Melanie and Linda were extremely knowledge and talented too, it was inspiring to see some of their finished pieces. They were encouraging and patient. The two days felt really relaxed and the group was lovely. Who knew felting could be so therapeutic! Thank you very much"

12 Mar 19'

Maureen Gruszczynska reviewed: Crafts in the Valley - Felted Pictures Workshop in Cragg Vale, Hebden Bridge, West Yorkshire

"I have just enjoyed a wonderful weekend of felting with informal, extremely talented tuition at a fabulous venue with great food. It was great meeting other ladies all with different ideas and all producing something really special in a friendly social atmosphere. A highly recommend experience."

11 Mar 19'

Jill Bradley reviewed: Crafts in the Valley - Felted Pictures Workshop in Cragg Vale, Hebden Bridge, West Yorkshire

"Wonderful two days felting free machine embroidering needle felting and even hand spinning ... amazing number of skills covered with lots of knowledge and expertise shared by two experts and lovely people.... a great experience to be in a relaxed environment in a beautiful setting in Howarth with like minded crafters ... the food drinks and ambiance at Cobbles and Clay the venue was buzzing and added an extra dimension to the two days - great value for money, my own piece of art work and lots of inspiration ... highly recommended and Thankyou Melanie Linda and all my fellow crafters for the day ??????"

11 Feb 19'

Deb reviewed: Crafts in the Valley - Beginners glass fusing workshops in Hebden Bridge, West Yorkshire

"Wow what full on fun packed day. Well worth the money. Melanie was so informative and inspiring. The lunch was an added bonus in a local eatery. Delicious."

11 Feb 19'

Lynda Oneill reviewed: Crafts in the Valley - Beginners glass fusing workshops in Hebden Bridge, West Yorkshire

"Me and my sister had a lovely day. We made lots of lovely glasswork and Melanie is an excellent teacher and very patient. I would do this day again."

11 Feb 19'

Louise E S Reah reviewed: Crafts in the Valley - Beginners glass fusing workshops in Hebden Bridge, West Yorkshire

"Brilliant day. Mel is such a wonderful, inspiring teacher. Had a great time making, creating and experimenting. So many beautiful types of glass and colourful decorations to choose from. Can't wait to see the end results! x"

31 Jan 19'

Jane reviewed: Crafts in the Valley - Felted Pictures Workshop in Cragg Vale, Hebden Bridge, West Yorkshire

"What a wonderful way to spend a Sunday ! Melanie and Linda were just brilliant from the very moment I arrived (a little too early in my over enthusiasm) to the minute I left. THANK YOU THANK YOU for your support, instruction and expert guidance. Would love to do it all over again. Thank you for being so generous with your wools. I loved the food too. Cobbles and Clay is such a lovely sanctuary. Jane x"

30 Jan 19'

Bronwen Archer reviewed: Crafts in the Valley - Beginners glass fusing workshops in Hebden Bridge, West Yorkshire

"I absolutely loved this workshop. It was such a relaxing and creative atmosphere with Melanie who is an excellent teacher as well as a very lovely person. I would definitely recommend this workshop to anyone who is looking to start learning a new skill or simply want a day of creativity making some lovely glass pieces."