Penlan Crafts

Contact name: Stef Palazzi

49
Total bookings

Rating

(42)

over 4 years
with CraftCourses

Courses, kits & gifts

gold award

Craft kit

AT HOME Automata Kit

3 items left

(1)

£100.00

gold award

Bristol

Kids Automata making course

4 hours

Next date: 7th Dec 2025

(2)

£100.00

gold award

Bristol

Wooden mechanical toy (automata) making

7 hours

Next date: 7th Dec 2025

(32)

£150.00

Recent reviews

All maker's reviews

10 Nov 25'

Greg B reviewed: AT HOME Automata Kit

"This was such a fun kit to build! All the pieces were easy to assemble with straightforward instructions and precision fit, allowing all the elements to work together seamlessly. This kit is a great introduction to the craft of Automaton and I'm really glad to have started here. Before ordering, I had emailed Stef from Penlam Crafts for modified shipping and she was super helpful to make that happen without a hitch! I can't wait to try other kits and really wish I could take an in-person class, if I were anywhere near the UK. Thanks Penlam Crafts!"

Penlan Crafts responded:

"Hi Greg, I'm so pleased you liked the kit! As you noted, a in-person course would be even more fun, especially for somebody like you interested in better understanding the mechanics of movements... but at least you had an "appetiser" with my kit. It was a pleasure interacting with you and I'm really happy that the delivery went smoothly. Please stay in touch! All the best, Stef (nickname for Stefano, a male Italian name :))"

18 Oct 25'

Mike reviewed: Wooden mechanical toy (automata) making

"Thank you Stef for a wonderful day building my own automata. You coached me learning to use the machines to cut /finish the parts, paint, and assemble the machine with great patience and enthusiasm. I can see you love this process and enjoy sharing the experience. Thank you again. "

Penlan Crafts responded:

"Thank you Mike... you are right, I love automata making! But it's sharing my (limited) knowledge with enthusiastic students like yourself the really rewarding experience :) Thank you for your lovely review, please keep in touch to discuss your future projects. Best, Stef "

8 Oct 25'

Tracy Lindsell reviewed: Wooden mechanical toy (automata) making

"One of the most enjoyable courses I have been on. The communication before the course was spot on. Stef gives you the options of the style of automaton you want to make. (And you can tweak it to suit yourself….within reason🙂) The day itself was fabulous. Stef is a very talented and lovely man who enjoys sharing his skills. I will definitely be returning. (I’ve already dropped hints to Mr.L about Christmas presents…..)"

Penlan Crafts responded:

"Thank you, Tracy! "The Dancing Goats", based on your sketch, are delightful! Please send me a picture of the sky once it's completed... I'm sure it will be a real work of art! And yes, it would be great to have you back, maybe with Mr. L, to build something even more complex (maybe with bees, this time?). All the very best, Stef"

26 Jun 25'

Anastasia Towers reviewed: Wooden mechanical toy (automata) making

"I found this course by chance and was intrigued by the idea, so booked it. What a marvellous day I had. I had trouble finding the place and was late, but Stef was very kind and understanding. We set about starting the day and Stef had everything organised with clear instructions ready to go. I wanted to make a toy for my granddaughter and chose 'The Fishing Cat'. I had let Stef know that I would like the toy to make some noise as my granddaughter is still a baby and likes noises. He came up with an idea to add a bell to the mechanism that rings when we turn the handle to move the fish. He is happy to adapt the toys to what a customer wants and that is really wonderful. I had a brilliant day, using the various machines, cutting, sanding and painting all the pieces. Stef was brilliant at instructing and guiding you through all the processes and the day passed quickly. We finished in good time and the toy looks fabulous and works really well with the bell ringing. I can't wait to give this to my granddaughter. Thank you Stef for a wonderful day and great experience."

Penlan Crafts responded:

"Dear Anastasia, thank you so much for the detailed and enthusiastic review! I'm so happy you love your Fishing Cat, and I'm sure that your granddaughter will love it too, a beautiful present that will stay with her for a long time :) Warm regards, Stef"