Latest reviews

Fiona Tunley reviewed: Beginners crochet course - in Trowbridge, Wiltshire

"Lynn managed to teach me to crochet from nothing in an afternoon, she was patient, excellent at explaining and showing what to do when I got stuck or wasn't sure, and there was cake! I went home proudly with my granny square and have now made a number more. Very highly recommended for anyone who wants to learn how to crochet. Thank you Lynn."

Get Hooked with Lynn responded:

"So pleased you have made many more squares. Looking forward to a photo of your finished project. Welcome back anytime. Keep Hooking!"

Shaorn reviewed: Furniture Painting Workshop (levels 1&2 techniques covered) in Warrington, Cheshire

"Just had a brilliant day with Jo who was wonderful and informative. Even though I am not creative, this allowed me to try out different techniques which I will be able to use. Jo spent time with everyone discussing ideas for our chosen piece of furniture. I am looking forward to booking on another course in the future."

The Boho Shed responded:

"I'm delighted you enjoyed the day, thank you for your lovely review. I look forward to seeing you again soon."

Richard Buckley reviewed: Spoon carving for beginners with Green Fox Wild Crafts

"We had a brilliant day at Regather in Sheffield. Nadine is an engaging and inspirational teacher and we learnt the basics of shaping the spoon blank with the axe, followed by more detailed shaping with spoon gouge and knife. Importantly, we also had an introduction to sharpening our tools and also to the different timbers used. We were not pressured in any way and as other reviewers have said, Nadine was very patient with us all. I had a little bit of experience of green woodworking, but really benefited from being taught a systematic approach to spoon carving with clear stages, rather than my usual bull-at-a-gate way which leads to poor results. So highly recommended!"

Sue Mullan reviewed: Christmas willow wreath workshop Hemel Hempstead

"I have attended Helen’s workshop every year and it only gets better. Each year I introduce a friend to our fun filled day. All organic (no tinsel or plastic used), and no need to worry if you are a novice as Helen is on hand at all times. Last year I made a moss wreath due to arthritic thumbs which was such fun and gave me a completely new Christmas look. Start your celebrations with laughter, fun and no stress!"

Helen Reeley Gardens responded:

"Thanks Sue. It was your feedback that encouraged me to offer moss wreaths as well as willow wreaths. I saw your wreath hanging on your gate last year-I thought the twinkling lights really made it look extra special :-)"

Mike Reynolds reviewed: Blacksmith experience day in Bristol with Joanna Williams, Fire Iron Art

"Even being a time served industrial blacksmith, although last worked as such over thirty five years ago, Joanna was able to teach me 'new tricks' and skills. She structured the day to suit my requirements which made it extremely enjoyable and productive. I am due to retire next year and wanted to refresh my skills and do some smithying as hobby to fill some of my free time. She has given me the confidence to do this again. I can wholeheartedly recommend this experience day, as Joanna is an excellent teacher and you will come away with a sense of pride and something to show for your efforts. Thanks again Joanna"

Fire Iron Art Blacksmithing responded:

"Thank you Mike. It was a great day in the forge with you and really glad you enjoyed it. You had certainly not lost any of your forging skills from the past and I am glad i was able to show you some new techniques and things to make - including useful tools i have in my tool boxes! I think you will be busy in your retirement!!! Have fun and stay in touch."

Simon & Helen reviewed: Stained glass leading for beginners

"We really enjoyed learning how to make our first leaded stained glass panel. Jamal guided us through each step in a relaxed and comfortable garden studio."

Stained Glassic responded:

"Dear Simon & Helen, Thanks very much for your review. I am so happy that you loved your stained glass course. Best Regards, Jamal Rafay"

C Jaycock reviewed: Learn how to see through an artist’s eye and draw more confidently - Skipton

"I enjoyed this drawing workshop as I had never been to one before and it made me look at images in a different way. Trying out different types of pencils was very illuminating and has whet the appetite to pursue this hobby."

Kate West responded:

"Hi Caroline, thank you so much for taking the time to leave a review. You helped create a lovely 'working' group and so good to know that you now see the world a little differently and are inspired to pursue your creativity!"

Trisha Wells reviewed: Wet felting workshop: introduction to 3D construction for Bowls, Pods and Bags in Henstridge near Stalbridge, Somerset and Dorset

"This course was exciting with instant and stunning results. I still can't believe I made three good things in one day! Being told what to do step by step was so reassuring and Sally could spot errors we were unaware of and point us in the correct direction before we ruined our work, that sort of experience would have taken me years to gain, if I had the time to do it! Hugely valuable."

Lindy reviewed: Beginner creative writing with Lorraine Ambers

"Absolutely loved my day with Lorraine, she is an amazing teacher who gives so much brilliant advice. I’ve always dreamed of writing a book and now I feel nearer to achieving it. Stiwidio 3 was a perfect setting for it too"

Hannah reviewed: Silver earrings workshop

"Jo is friendly, welcoming and a wonderful teacher. She is really able to break things down step by step and patiently answers any question, explaining the hows and whys behind the process. I made several pairs of earrings, some I gave away others I kept for myself! Have since been back for further courses with Jo. Highly recommended!"

Joanne Tinley Jewellery responded:

"It was great to have you in the class Hannah! Your earrings were lovely, I'm sure the gifts were very well received! Thank you for your kind review."

C Miree reviewed: Knitting workshops in Leeds City Centre

"I decided to learn crochet a few weeks ago and after looking at books and watching you tube I knew only very basic crochet and not sure if I was doing it correctly. I booked on a 2 hour course with Ann and now I'm well on my way. The vintage tea rooms are an amazing place to learn, Anne was great and I'll certainly be back again .. thankyou"

Leeds Central Faith and Light responded:

"Thank you for your review. I hope your skills improve and you enjoy your new hobby. I look forward to meeting with you for more Kind regards Ann"

Steve Fisher reviewed: Two day leather work course - bag making

"What a fantastic way to spend a couple of days ... Jason is a great teacher and has a wonderful outlook on life that he brings to the class. The course was a great mix of interesting background and theory, followed up with hands-on working. Jason explained things clearly and then allowed the students to get stuck in. He was always around to provide assistance where needed. A well paced course saw us creating well made items, that we were all proud to take away. I will definitely be staying in contact, and heading back for more learning with this great teacher."

Katrina reviewed: Tapestry weaving workshop for beginners

"A happy return to Jane's tapestry weaving course! Another great day learning to tapestry weave with Jane where the atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming. A fab location in an inspirational setting. Great company creating just the right atmosphere with the day going all too quickly. I would recommend this course to anyone interested in learning a new craft skill. Weaving skills required are demonstrated to the group and on an individual basis as needed with all possible resources available for use. I completed my seascape which I am very pleased with. Wonderful lunch and refreshments provided. Looking forward to my next tapestry weaving course with Jane and am in the process of getting my equipment to weave home."

Mary Parkinson reviewed: Blacksmithing Beginners day courses in Yorkshire and the North East

"An excellent day. Great teachers, home made food in plenty and a really memorable different day. Thank you. We were really pleased and chuffed with what we manage to produce."

Christine Coombs reviewed: Hessian Floristry workshop

"Highly recommend this course. You get to learn a lot in a day and come away with your creations. Annabelle is very helpful and demonstrates well. She has good resources which you can help yourself to without limit, allowing you to experiment with your flowers. It was well prepared and we all had a small pack with templates and instructions. I came away knowing I had learnt enough to give it a try on my own but knew I could contact Annabelle with any questions. There was also an opportunity to buy a starter pack from Annabelle which meant you could go home and start straight away. The course was fun and informative. Thank you for a great day. PS. Thank you also for the biscuits and tea and coffee ?"

Hessian Creations responded:

"Hi Christine It is reassuring to know that from what I had demonstrated with you and from the written instructions I had provided you felt you had the confidence to make flowers on your own. Feel free to contact me if you get stuck or need any help with your creations. Best wishes Annabelle"

Henrietta Brooks reviewed: Stained glass taster day in Worcestershire

"I have just got back home from an absolutely amazing day with Vicky and Vic who taught us how to make beautiful stained glass hanging pieces using lead from start to finish. The tuition was excellent, clear and concise, packed with really good health and safety tips presented in a totally non patronising way. The course was fun and totally stress free which in turn allowed us to cut the glass confidently and build the frame without feeling too fraught! We broke off for an amazing lunch in Vicky's beautiful home which was a work of a work of art in itself. I would have been happy with a sandwich and a cuppa but instead we were provided with the most amazing and delicious spread of lovely food plus gorgeous chocolate cake. The afternoon was packed with incredible tuition and we were carefully guided how to build up our design and meticulously taught how to solder (which I was dreading!). Vic kindly fitted some hanging rings on for us so we could take our creations home and display them. I will be buzzing for ages after this wonderful course and I can't wait to visit Vicky's beautiful studio and also return for the glass fusing and copper foiling courses. Thank you so much for a most enjoyable and memorable day and for giving me the confidence to have a go at this most beautiful of skills. Highly recommended and I will be telling all my friends. Can't wait for the next one. A very, very happy customer indeed."

Kingcot Gallery responded:

"Henri - ah shucks, you're making me blush! Glad you enjoyed the day, I'm never sure who enjoys it more - the students or us! As and when you are ready we'll be here. Thanks Vicky"

Luke Jeffs reviewed: Bladesmithing experience day

"Had a brilliant day with steve, his knowledge and passion for his work can’t be beaten. He made us feel welcome as soon as we arrived and was an excellent teacher...and provided an enjoyable day all round, we couldn’t have asked for a better experience and will definitely be returning in the future! The blades we made will take pride of place in our homes for sure. Thanks again."

White Tiger Knives responded:

"Hi Luke It was great to meet you today and a pleasure to catch up with Ray again. It's great to know that you both enjoyed your bladesmithing day so much and are so pleased with the man blades that you created, thank you once again. ATB Steve"

TME reviewed: Hessian Floristry workshop

"Had a really great day learning how to make flowers for my wedding! Annabelle was a great teacher and very helpful! Would highly recommend to anyone wanting to create any design of flower!"

Hessian Creations responded:

"Thank you so much for your review, it was lovely to be able to help you create flowers in your chosen colour scheme. I hope all goes well with your forth coming wedding and would love to see your flowers."

Craig & Lisa reviewed: Candlemaking workshops for beginners in Hastoe, nr Tring

"My wife and I had an excellent time, Anne is a lovely lady, she is very professional and knowledgeable. Anne answered all our questions. We learnt a good variety of candle styles and were allowed to take them home to enjoy and give some to family and friends. We will highly recommend this course to anyone. Thank you Anne, you are a star."

Beverley Cox reviewed: Hessian Floristry workshop

"Had an excellent day learning how to make flowers out of hessian. Great teacher and a fun class. No question too silly to ask! She had time for us all. Would recommend to go and have a great time and come home with some nice flowers."

Hessian Creations responded:

"Hi Beverley It was lovely meeting you and what a fun day we had, so much laughter but you all made a lovely assortment of flowers to take home. It was a lovely size group to work with and participants feel more relaxed in smaller groups. Thank you so much for your review. Best wishes Annabelle"

Nikki Trevett reviewed: Hessian Floristry workshop

"Fantastic day out, well organised and plenty of skills learnt and materials to choose from. Extremely friendly and knowledgeable host who was able to cater to our every need effortlessly. Value for money and a highly recommended course to go on ?"

Hessian Creations responded:

"Hi Nikki I am so pleased that you felt you learnt a lot of new skills throughout the day. It’s also good to know that you felt it was value for money. I look forward to seeing you again in December for the wreath and table decoration workshop. Best wishes Annabelle"

James Hawtin reviewed: Beginners Silver Jewellery Course

"Fabulous day! Very welcoming and friendly. Me and my partner both made and took away 2 silver rings. Well paced day for our abilities, loads of options and we could be as creative as we wanted! Would highly recommend this course and any other course provided by Mark. Thank you for an amazing day!"

Dandelion Silver responded:

"Pleasure to have met you both, so happy you enjoyed your day and I'm working on mounting that tanzanite for you. Mark"

Janet Burden reviewed: Hessian Floristry workshop

"A relaxing day learning new skills. No pressure approach so plenty of time to work at your own speed and create your favourite pieces taught during the day."

Hessian Creations responded:

"Hi Janet Thank you so much for your review. It’s great to hear that you found the workshop a relaxing experience. Best wishes Annabelle"

Rachel Woodhouse reviewed: Necklaces, handmade beads, ancient fresco-style, papiermache recipe

"An excellent (and well-structured) course. During a single day, we made beads using recycled materials, decorated them and created our own necklaces. The end results were astonishingly good. The group (of all abilities, from keen beaders to absolute beginners) was small, so all got individual attention where necessary. And the home-cooked lunch was delicious!"

Jack Armitage reviewed: Blacksmithing Beginners day courses in Yorkshire and the North East

"Absolute fantastic. Today was my fourth course and Adrian and Andrew are fantastic teachers, ery skilled and a great laugh. Debbie provides wonderful food and cakes. I would highly recommend the courses and I'll certainly be back so you lot have been warned ?"