Vallis Green Woodworking reviews

18 Oct 14'

Martin reviewed: Introduction to traditional green wood turning course

"As I sit in the kitchen admiring my freshly turned dibber I can't help but reflect on one of the most enjoyable days I have had in some time. Simon is a fantastic and patient teacher who is clearly passionate about his subject. This enthusiasm is so infectious, and the task so absorbing that, for several hours at least, the troubles of the outside world seem to be banished from this magical place. The kettle is always simmering over the campfire allowing refreshment when required, or a pause to reflect on the task ahead. I couldn't recommend this course highly enough, don't equivocate just book now!"

16 Oct 14'

Sue reviewed: Introduction to traditional green wood turning course

"I gave this course to my husband as a birthday present who has been talking about wanting to work with wood for a very long time. I joined him for the day and am so glad I did. I knew nothing about wood turning when we arrived but this did not seem to matter and Simon was full of encouragement and a great teacher. Such a peaceful spot in the woods with endless cups of tea from the old camp kettle made the day fly by and we couldn't believe the time when we were leaving with our very own dibbers. Addictive? Well we currently have a pole lathe under construction in the garden!"

29 Sep 14'

Chris Smith reviewed: Introduction to traditional green wood turning course

"Did the introductory course last year and got the bug to do more. Now just finished the 2 day intermediate course and came away with a 3 legged stool! Simons enthusiasm is infectious and he is a great teacher..Want to do still more now...I would highly recommend Simon and his courses to anyone.5"

23 Sep 14'

Adrian Thornberry reviewed: Introduction to traditional green wood turning course

"As a complete beginner Simon was a great teacher. He gives full and interesting instruction, explaining not just how to do things but why you are doing them. His easy going style and willingness to field any questions throughout made for a great day out. I would wholeheartedly recommend this course and Simon's enthusiastic tutelage, his pride in his work is infectious."

12 Sep 14'

Kevin Beare reviewed: Introduction to traditional green wood turning course

"Green wood – what’s that? And who’s a Bodger (as distinct from a botcher)? Simon’s knowledge of the history of wood working and skills are fantastic – and imparted to me, a bit of a novice, in a clear and friendly way. So many skills and techniques taught and learnt in one day – and all just using sharp tools, with no power other than the treadle. A bit of a surprise to find no electricity, but actually you don’t need it: just use the hand tools and the treadle, and the fire for the kettle is forever on using wood remnants and shavings –as Simon says nothing is wasted with wood. If you are at all doubtful about going on this basic wood pole lathe turning course, don’t be. Go. You will enjoy it and learn a lot."

1 Aug 14'

Keith Stark reviewed: Introduction to traditional green wood turning course

"I had a great day learning to turn on a pole lathe with Simon , his course was full of content and full of useful tips, the facilities were very good tea on tap all day was most welcome . Simon was very friendly and informative , I was very pleased with my dibber that I made. I look forward to doing another course with Simon. Many thanks Keith."

13 Jul 14'

Chris reviewed: Spoon carving beginners course

"I really enjoyed this course. I have learnt about the different carving techniques using each tool to get a smooth effect on the spoon. It was nice to work in a calm and peaceful environment in the woods. It was relaxing because you didn't feel rushed to get the spoon finished in a set time. The instructors (Simon and Nigel) were friendly and helpful. They were very supportive and we had a few laughs. I liked the tea and biscuits especially as the tea was made by hanging the kettle over the wood fire. I would recommend this course to anyone who wants to learn new skills in carving."

13 Jul 14'

Phil Brownjohn reviewed: Introduction to traditional green wood turning course

"Just spent a day with Simon on the pole-lathe course and had a fantastic time! There was so much to be learned from Simon the biggest problem may be remembering it all. Simon is an excellent teacher, imparting so much information and with great patience and support. We covered so much in the day from understanding of the wood itself, through use of froe, axe and producing the basic billet to shave horse and of course the lathe itself, learning techniques and tips all the way. All in all an extremely enjoyable day from start to finish!"

1 Jul 14'

Mike Weston reviewed: Spoon carving beginners course

"A very enjoyable day spent with a very talented tutor Chris, I spent far too long chatting and not enough time carving my spoon, but hey isn’t that what ‘whittling a stick’ all about? Chris encouraged us to try all the techniques with a wide choice of tools so we could find which worked best for each of us. I left with a spoon shaped piece of wood and a great deal more understanding of the carving techniques needed to finish this off and today I have just picked up a couple of carving knives to add the ‘finishing touches’ to my very own spoon. If you want to see some examples of Chris’s spoons; pop into Saddleback farm shop on the B4494. The woodland location was also superb with Simon keeping us well watered with hot drinks off the fire burning in the background. If you are in need of a Stress Detox day- book yourself on a course you will not regret it. PS good luck with the George Lailey project Simon."

1 Jul 14'

Matt Smith reviewed: Spoon carving beginners course

"Two of us attended the one day spoon carving course at the Vallis Green Woodworking site on Snelsmore Common near Newbury on 26th June 14. Both Simon and our instructor Chris were enthusiastic and keen for us to learn and enjoy our day as much as possible. We both left at the end of the day with the knowledge to choose a suitable piece of wood and the skills to produce a spoon. What a brilliant day which has inspired me for more."

12 Jun 14'

Dave Wills reviewed: Introduction to traditional green wood turning course

"Driving to Newbury in torrential rain might not have been an auspicious omen, but I need not have worried. Saturday was spent being initiated into the mysteries of the pole lathe under the watchful but unobtrusive eye of Simon. Somehow, he managed to coach me into producing a beautiful piece of work from a unpromising log. During the day we enjoyed a good laugh and numerous cups of tea, interspersed with visits from all sorts of people expressing their satisfaction with work he had done for them. Obviously an excellent craftsman himself, Simon communicates his enthusiasm with patience and good humour throughout. Recommended if you are wondering what pole lathes are about but beware - it IS addictive and is likely to go on to cost me more now! Thanks for a great day Simon!"

19 May 14'

Jeremy Hunter reviewed: Introduction to traditional green wood turning course

"Attended this day course and highly enjoyed it, and would recommend it to anyone who is interested to find out if green woodworking is "for them". Simon was very helpful, encouraging and patient which made me feel that much more comfortable doing each task. He has a great manner for correcting mistakes so don't worry about getting something wrong! Again, would highly recommend. This course gave me the bug for traditional woodworking, I am going to save up for the next, two day course, whilst also engaging in more traditional woodworking projects and opportunities because of the day and how much I learnt on it."

17 Apr 14'

Louis footman reviewed: Introduction to traditional green wood turning course

"I have just got back from a fantastic day with Simon where I was taught some great new skills. The pole lathe taster course is excellent. I would recommend it to everybody. Simon is a great teacher and immediately made me feel comfortable. He "office" in Snelsmore common is the perfect location for such a hobby."

3 Feb 14'

Brian Hempsted reviewed: Introduction to traditional green wood turning course

"I had a great day, Simon’s mix of hands on work and history was just right. I would recommend this course to anyone interested in trying traditional wood working."

17 Nov 13'

Jamie reviewed: Introduction to traditional green wood turning course

"Had a great day. Simon was a great teacher and I made something I didn't believe I could. Want to do more - perhaps the 2 day advanced course next year.."

17 Nov 13'

Chris reviewed: Introduction to traditional green wood turning course

"My 14 year old son and I had a fantastic day. Never thought we could make something so nice from a log in such a short time. Simon's teaching was amazing. I would recommend this course to anybody."

23 Oct 13'

Lesley Pace reviewed: Introduction to traditional green wood turning course

"Simon demonstrated at our gardening club meeting. His presentation was extremely clear and enthusiastic. He had gone to a lot of trouble to bring the equipment to set up in our village hall, and brought the craft to life. We all now appreciate how much hard work and skill goes into the making of craft objects. We would recommend him as a speaker at other groups."

26 Aug 13'

Isaac Tapping reviewed: Introduction to traditional green wood turning course

"I really enjoyed it. I'd like to do it again sometime."

26 Aug 13'

Rachel Tapping reviewed: Introduction to traditional green wood turning course

"My son and I had a really good day with Simon. We worked hard and felt very supported and encouraged by Simon's attitude and confidence. We've really got the bug now and I can't wait to have another go."

22 Aug 13'

David Holmes reviewed: Introduction to traditional green wood turning course

"I attended the taster course on Wed 21st August. I wasn't sure what to expect and had no experience in turning or green woodworking. Simon gave an introduction to the tools and methods involved along with an in depth safety instruction. During the day, Simon was able to explain and demonstrate the methods used before allowing me to use the equipment under his expert guidance. I found the whole day thoroughly enjoyable and instructive and Simons infectious enthusiasm for his for work and green woodworking in general very professional."

12 Aug 13'

William Preston reviewed: Introduction to traditional green wood turning course

"A very enjoyable day with Simon going through the whole process of producing item from log to finished item. Simon’s nature allows you to feel very comfortable and relaxed despite having a to be aware of yours & Simons safety using tools which if not respected can do real harm. I felt Simon judged my experience & abilities well therefore the speed of the course was correct. Simon’s communication is very clear and concise, you are able to understand the required action to bring about the right result. Simon explains how to use the tools clearly and keeps a close eye on you to make sure you are safe and also you are using the tool in the most efficient manner. I certainly came away having enjoyed the whole experience and enthusiastic about in the future setting up a small wood turning set-up for myself. Highly recommended! 10 August 2013"

4 Jun 13'

Matt Estlea reviewed: Introduction to traditional green wood turning course

"Highly recommend this course to anyone no matter what their previous experiences are. Brilliant teacher, interesting to talk to, welcoming, and skilled at what he does. After spending two days with Simon, Ive started looking up plans to make my own pole lathe for the back garden, despite what my parents say, so that I can start some of my own projects in my free time. Cheers Simon!"

25 Apr 13'

Adrian Ford reviewed: Introduction to traditional green wood turning course

"I can thoroughly recommend Simon's day course in green woodturning using the pole lathe. It is an excellent opportunity to learn about an ancient skill at your own pace under the expert guidance of someone who's clearly enthused and knowledgeable about his subject. The whole experience was so relaxing you lose all sense of time, and the setting (at Snelsmore) is idyllic."

8 Apr 13'

Kerrie Walker reviewed: Introduction to traditional green wood turning course

"Simon came to run a workshop for our Touch To See Art Club for visually impaired participants at the Corn Exchange, Newbury. Tactile resources are very important for this group and Simon very kindly provided examples of his work for them to handle whilst explaining the techniques he uses to make them. It was great that he could offer something so hands-on but with the opportunity to learn about the skills behind his work, and that he was so keen to answer their many questions! The group are keen to have Simon back so they can try using some of the braid wheels…thank you for such an informative and engaging workshop!"

18 Mar 13'

Huw Jones reviewed: Introduction to traditional green wood turning course

"I had a great day on Simon's course, introducing me to wood turning. He was very welcoming from the initial cup of tea, right through the whole day. Simon's enthusiasm and patience with me as a learner gave me a great experience, and inspired me to progress further. I now have my own lathe and do my own projects, and I have often called on Simon to give me advice and help as I get more experienced. I would highly recommend Simon and his courses."