Latest reviews

Linda reviewed: Intermediary Glass fusing workshop with Laura Hart of Hart Glass

"I have just completed a three day course at Laura's wonderful studio. I learnt how to give glassware a truly professional finish, make freeform moulds and how to manage the different firings to give different results. She encouraged me to be as imaginative as I wanted to be and after explaining what to do she left me to it. That is exactly the way I prefer to learn and Laura understood that without being told. It is that level of intuition that makes for a really good teacher. And she is. I came away with a lot of technical knowledge about the way glass behaves in different hot and cold forms, which I can now take forward into something of my own."

Hart Glass responded:

"Hi Linda, Thank you kindly for such a lovely review. I'm so glad you enjoyed your time with me and I look forward to seeing future results as your work progresses. Well done!"

Jane McVey reviewed: Candlemaking workshops for beginners in Hastoe, nr Tring

"A friendly personalised workshop just right for beginners. It was really enjoyable and we came away with some lovely candles as well as having learnt a lot about candle making and how to go about it at home. Delighted with the candles I made, learnt about dyes, scents as well as different styles of candles. Thanks very much!"

Heidi da Costa reviewed: Architectural homage freehand machine embroidery or drawing with thread workshop

"I’ve attended Stacey’s workshops and found her patience and encouragement second to none. She shares her knowledge in such a warm and friendly manner, you feel thoroughly supported through out. The view from the venue, Sands, is beautiful; the beach, sea and sky. It’s a perfect backdrop to help the creativity flow."

Jim wynn reviewed: Weekend introductory blacksmithing course 'O' at Quinnell School of Blacksmithing

"I can’t imagine how a course could be any better. All aspects were perfect. When I show people what I achieved, frankly, people can’t believe it. Peat and Eamonn were simply top drawer and the most amazing hosts."

Mamie reviewed: Feltmaking OOH the choices!

"I spent a wonderful day today playing with colours and textures to make my nuno felted scarf. Barbara was a really positive and informed tutor who helped me to experiment and not make too many mistakes along the way! She has a lovely selection of colours to choose from and gives lots of encouragement. What a lovely way to spend a day."

Feltworld - Creative Arts responded:

"Thank you, your scarf looks fabulous. Best regards Barbara"

Ann Burrows reviewed: Introduction to Blacksmithing in North York Moors National Park

"My son (16) has just spent the most amazing day with David. David is a fantastic teacher, patient and extremely talented. He has worked with my son (who has aspergers) to produce the most amazing pieces. He has had the best day ever! We feel very lucky and privileged to have found him and can't recommend him enough. Thank you! The first day of many!..."

Hilary Leeves reviewed: Weekend introductory blacksmithing course 'O' at Quinnell School of Blacksmithing

"I bought this course for my husband as a special birthday gift so although I did not participate (he will do his own review) I can say how much he enjoyed the whole experience. “Fantastic tuition in a beautiful setting with a great group.” He found it interesting, fun, rewarding and satisfying. From my point of view the booking experience was efficient, friendly and helpful. If you are looking for an unusual and very special gift for someone I can heartily recommend this course."

Joy Book reviewed: Wedding/Civil Partnership Ring making workshop - Sterling Silver

"What a fantastic day! Sarah was suberb with her instruction. Just the right amount of 'there to help' if needed without dominating in any way. We had a lovely day chatting away as we crafted our rings. Lunch was lovely too. And the end result . . . we are absolutely thrilled with our rings!!!"

Helen Elderfield reviewed: Weekend introductory blacksmithing course 'O' at Quinnell School of Blacksmithing

"I was a complete novice with no real idea of what to expect when I arrived on Friday afternoon. A fantastic experience and a real sense of achievement was gained on this course. I had a very enjoyable, and somewhat challenging weekend but left with three finished pieces of which I am very proud. The relaxed and friendly atmosphere created by Richard and Pauline Quinnell, who were charming hosts and a joy to spend time chatting with at the lunch breaks, together with Pete's expertise and Eammon's patience and skill combined to enhance the experience no end. Excellent clear instruction and demonstration and a really inclusive approach meant that we all received the level of assistance and encouragement that we needed, when we needed it. A special setting and to top it off a tour of the gallery from Adam at lunchtime on Saturday was an unexpected pleasure. I have already recommended the course to friends and family. Fabulous!"

Sharne Everett reviewed: Print and play evening workshops in Bristol

"2 hours flew by! Clear instructions given by Sophie and plenty of time to experiment and play with this process. It is great fun to do as a group or on one's own."

Sophie Rae responded:

"Thank you Sharne for your lovely review."

Rebecca reviewed: Sunday afternoon watercolour painting florals - with Artist Laura Andrew

"A wonderful afternoon spent with wonderful people. Laura is a fantastic teacher with so much knowledge of all things artistic! You will look at painting in a completely different way once finished- and it just might become your favorite hobby! If you are a beginner like me, this is a great course choice for you, as Laura is very patient in explaining everything you need to know. Definitely will be coming back again soon, thanks Laura!"

Linda Patterson reviewed: Business candle making workshop - one to one

"Wow! What an amazing day I had yesterday with Kerry. I had absolutely no idea what to expect and after the warmest of welcomes and invited into her home like a family member, I just adored every minute of the course. It was so informative yet informal and fun at the same time. It’s given me the best starting point and I am so excited to see what the future holds. Thanks again Kerry."

Jo Milsom reviewed: Firebird Forge Blacksmithing School

"30th October 2019 I attended the one day blacksmithing course with my cousin armed with drawings of our dream projects. Mort deciphered our efforts and brought us down to earth with what we as complete beginners could realistically achieve in 8 hours, drew it all out on his massive metal table and we were off. The forge is a fascinating space! An incredible array of hammers and tongs amassed around the heart of the fire with the ssshhhhhh quenching pool at the end. We learned how to detect the readiness of the heated metal for fashioning by its colour and the spitty sparks coming off the fire. Then the “bashing bit” using the huge anvils, bending cones and mould templates plus the thunderous electric punch. Mort’s teaching style is thorough but very enjoyable. When time was getting short he speeded up the manufacture of our objects and the finished articles surpassed both of our expectations. Mort would not compromise with a less than perfect finish. It was a great day."

Laura reviewed: Glass Enamelling on Copper for Jewellery - kiln enamelling

"I wasn't sure what to expect, I love making jewellery and wanted to learn a new technique. This was a fabulous course, Eleanor has a wonderful way of teaching many different techniques, so you can explore your own ideas. Only time limited how many pieces you can make. I'm absolutely delighted with what I have made, and planning to book the advanced course."

Eleanor Designs responded:

"Hi Laura, I am so pleased you enjoyed the day! I'm just as excited to see what you all make with the techniques we cover! Well done! Look forward to seeing you again at a future course at Rainbow Glass Studios! Eleanor"

Louise Paine reviewed: Silver jewellery workshop for beginners with Jude Karnon

"What an amazing day thank you Jude so very much .. the day far exceeded my expectations !! I loved sharing the day with my aunt. We learnt so much and came away with jewellery we actually liked. I made a ring and bangles and have worn them every day since. Jude inspired me so much that I'm now attending a jewellery making course. Thank you Jude for making our day so special and designing the day around us and what we wanted to achieve .. which we did and loved it !!"

Jude Karnon Jewellery responded:

"Hi Louise, Thank you for your lovely comments. It was so lovely to work with you both and that your Aunt was awarded the student from the furthest away! I am glad you are still wearing your pieces and you have decided to carry on your jewellery making journey. Take care xx"

Sarah Morten reviewed: Pottery wheel throwing and hand building full day

"Booked a day with Richard for my husbands Birthday. Wasn’t really sure what to expect. Richard made us feel very welcome and was very helpful (with me) as this was my first time making coil pots. We had a lovely lunch which Richard had made for us from his own home grown veg and some yummy bread. After lunch we moved on to the potters wheel. My husband really enjoyed this part as he knew what to do .... me on the other hand needed more help (which Richard provided). We both had a really enjoyable day with some laughs ‘thrown’ in along the way. Thank you Richard"

Omar reviewed: 2 Day Leather Practical Skills Course

"Leather Craft Workshop Days was a fantastic 2 day immersion with a lot of close and personal attention on every basic skill you need to pick up leather craft (or even just figure out if you like it). Richard is an excellent tutor and host, makes you feel incredibly welcomed and encourages all kinds of creativity and curiosity. With just two people per class, you also get a lot of personal attention and opportunities to ask questions - which you wouldn't get the chance to at most workshops in London. I came away with great new skills for a hobby, tips on how to turn it into a business and loads of guidance for future ideas and projects - not to mention a handmade laptop case, key fob and belt. Worth every penny and frustrating broken thread along the way."

Julie reviewed: Soap making course (beginner) - in the heart of the Ashdown Forest, Sussex

"I was extremely lucky to have a 1 to 1 with Simon. I had a fantastic day & I am looking forward to seeing my soaps ?"

Mohammed Alam reviewed: Oak stool making experience - rustic carpentry & green wood work

"What a great day! As a fine furniture student, it was wonderful to spend the whole day producing a rustic stool. Ian, a fabulous teacher, goes through the whole process using only traditional tools and techniques. It is a great introduction to green woodworking. I have definitely got the bug. I can't wait to try making a shaving horse on the next course."

Ruth Chase reviewed: Introductory soap making workshop

"I really enjoyed the hand, foot and face workshop. Due to my disability I was given some extra help which was much appreciated. The face cream is great and a little seems to be going a long way."

Paul Downing reviewed: Two person 'Have a Bash' at Blacksmithing course in Shropshire

"We (my 16 year-old son) and I both thoroughly enjoyed all aspects of the day. We got stuck in straight away and were very proud of the results. Jake was a clear and enthusiastic tutor and knew just when to step in to help, and when to step back and let us flail a little :-) We also enjoyed getting to explore a range of tools/techniques throughout the session. Would highly recommend for anyone looking for a taste of metalworking!"

Cody Akhurst reviewed: Pottery wheel throwing and hand building full day

"Had an amazing day! Richard is a great teacher! I learnt so much whilst having a fun time. I shall definitely be back to learn more techniques soon!"

Potterydayz responded:

"Thank you for the review Cody it was a pleasure to teach you. Delighted you enjoyed your time with Potterydayz. Look forward to seeing you soon"

Yvonne Akhurst reviewed: Pottery wheel throwing and hand building full day

"What an absolutely fabulous day! My daughter and I thoroughly enjoyed our potting course with Richard, he was patient, funny and a cracking teacher. We would highly recommend this course and we will be back again for more in May!"

Potterydayz responded:

"That's great Yvonne and delighted you enjoyed the day. I look forward to seeing you in May."

Janetta Morton reviewed: Millinery Classes - Learn Hat Making like a Professional

"I just finished this excellent course and am very pleased with my gorgeous hat! Silvia is a great attentive, helpful and fun teacher who takes you through the process of making step by step, from design through stitching and final touches. The outcome is your own unique hat exactly how you want it. I highly recommend the course. Had such a great time, learnt a lot and came away with a fab hat! Don't hesitate to book!"

Linda Camm reviewed: Modern calligraphy (full day workshop) - Hampshire

"This day’s workshop was excellent on every level, so well organised with all you needed laid out ready and waiting. Sunita’s method and style of teaching was crystal clear, gentle and encouraging, giving time for ample individual attention. For a beginner such as myself it was a most relaxing and inspiring workshop and the bonus of taking away pen, ink and a copy of Sunita’s Modern Calligraphy Workbook has been motivating for experimenting at home."