Latest reviews

James Stoddart reviewed: Pottery classes in Teesside

"I joined a course at Poppy Rose to build my confidence in throwing on the wheel. Louise is a very encouraging tutor and she has encouraged me to explore different skills and decorative techniques. Poppy Rose is very welcoming and a great place to learn to throw on the wheel."

PoppyRose responded:

"Thank you James, lovely to hear you enjoying your classes. You are producing some fabulous pots!"

Ian whinfield reviewed: Linocut printmaking at Bull Mill Arts Wiltshire

"What an amazing weekend, did both days and it was well worth it. Olivia is full of knowledge and inspiration, everyone goes home with a finished article, and a happy feeling having had a relaxing but informative time. Thank you Olivia I will certainly be back. Ian."

Katie and Fergus reviewed: Two person 'Have a Bash' at Blacksmithing course in Shropshire

"Had a super day! Thoroughly enjoyed ourselves. Thank you Jake! Jake is a patient teacher whose clear expertise helped us create some beautiful metal work that initially I thought would be beyond me. We left with smiles on our faces and some treasures. Would highly recommend the course to everyone and am very tempted to have another go."

Sue Wren reviewed: Animal clay sculpture workshops- one day

"I have done two of these courses with Connie. I am a complete beginner, but I have two lovely animals. Connie helped me every step of the way, she has great patience! Thanks once again."

Connie Fielder Ceramics and Crafts responded:

"Hi Sue Thank you for your review. Your Panda is nearly ready for firing, then you have two pieces to glaze. See you soon. Connie"

Peter reviewed: Five day woodwork course - tools

"What can I say. Absolutely brilliant course, tuition and great fun. Having completed both courses, in October, back to back it was the best 2 weeks I've had for a long time. The first course is meant to introduce you to the various tools used in the workshop and show you how to use them safely and effectively. This in turn gives you confidence to make your project for the week......although always under the watchful eye of both Richard and Mark...trust me they don't miss a thing and will ensure you stay on the straight and narrow! I made a 'Dumpy' which is a small 3 legged side table and the thrill at the end of the week to see it completed is of the scale! Having coming from the 4x2 and 6 inch nail brigade of woodwork to produce something like this was truly amazing. Week 2 was more about the wood itself. Looking at the history, types and origins of wood to how to work with various woods to. A trip to a wood yard was also included and it gives a great insight into how wood is prepared to the point of you buying it. On this course my project was a 3 drawer box made from 2 different types of oak and beech. As with the the table I was truly thrilled with my completed piece and still look at thinking "did I actually make that!". Apart from the obvious teaching of correct working methods both Mark and Richard are quick to part with their little tips and knowledge gained from experience...things you won't get from books or online videos. And Richards 45 minute workshops are ...well lets just say they legendary! I can wholly recommend these courses if you wish to take up woodwork. As I have said the tuition is excellent and the atmosphere is very relaxed. Thanks to both Richard and Mark for giving me a new direction...workshop being delivered in November and a fortune being spent on tools ready for it! Lol! I would also like to say thanks to the other 'students' who helped make the workshop a great place to be."

Helen reviewed: Beginners Candle Making Course

"A very well organised candle making course with a first class afternoon tea! The course is well prepared, carefully resourced and very inspiring. I had the most relaxing day learning a new skill with a lovely group. I can´t wait to get started at home. Thank you."

Old Bexley Soap & Candle Co. responded:

"Thank you so much Helen. Good luck with those candles for Christmas!. Xx Paula"

Bernardette Patrick reviewed: Linocut printmaking at Bull Mill Arts Wiltshire

"Olivia is a gifted artist and a brilliant teacher....works into being fantastic on her subject. All that we needed was supplied, even marvellous biscuits. The studio is perfect for a class of 10 and accommodates a mixed group of abilities. The teaching was excellent, and we completed amazing piece of work to take home/school. My daughter had a specific need to understand the method more and had to follow the school defined route. She got it and feels so much more confident that when she has to do again at school, Oliver will be standing behind, to give her confidence. Olivia got the group to mingle and that makes the day go with more ease. Thankyou Oliver and all in the session,."

Caroline Tite reviewed: Needle felting class, workshop, party - make a cute animal in Bristol with Elaine from The Woolly Rabbit

"A really lovely way to spend some time. Elaine guided my daughter and I through making some beautiful needle felted animals, a rabbit and a hare. Relaxing and creative crafting."

The Woolly Rabbit responded:

"Thank you Caroline, I'm really pleased to hear that you found the workshop relaxing and creative and it was a pleasure to guide you and your daughter through the process of making your needle felted animals. Best wishes, Elaine"

Luisa turner reviewed: Basket making for beginners using traditional willow basketry techniques

"John and Becky good ,patient teachers, let us all stay til we had finished our baskets which took some of us longer than planned, delicious food ,great day, thanks"

Jane cantlon reviewed: Christmas willow wreath workshop Hemel Hempstead

"I attended a wreath workshop a couple of years ago. What fun it was and how much did i learn !! Helen cheerily demonstrated her considerable horticultural knowledge and expertise ably assisted by husband marc. The range of resources was enormous enabling maximum creativity and experimentation. Wonderful festive atmosphere and much excitement about the magnificence of the final result. We were also treated to homemade mince pies and hot drinks. Just a brilliant way to get ready for the festive season while learning or developing new skills highly highly recommended."

Helen Reeley Gardens responded:

"Thank you Jane for a wonderful review. It's always good to have you along if you can make it. Look out for spoon carving again next year."

Rachael Turbatu reviewed: Introduction to Kintsugi

"Absolutely every aspect of the day was wonderful. The course surpassed my expectations in every way. As someone who is not at all artistic, Pippa's teaching style and meticulous attention to detail in the preparation of resources ensured that I felt really delighted with the art work I produced. The pace of the day was just right and the amazing cakes provided as part of the experience were above and beyond what I think any of us expected. I have come home feeling thoroughly uplifted and inspired. Thank you!"

Nyree O’Brien reviewed: Christmas willow wreath workshop Hemel Hempstead

"My friend and I went along to our first workshop, not really knowing what to expect. It was such a lovely workshop and having the opportunity to make the wreath as well as decorate it was an absolute bonus. The workshop was a lovely calm relaxing evening full of being festive without the crowds and loud music. It was an wonderful treat!"

Helen Reeley Gardens responded:

"Thank you Nyree-we like to keep it calm & relaxing. I'm glad you can bring your daughter along this year."

Paul Bartlett reviewed: Wood turning courses

"Just a note to say a huge ‘thank you’ for yet another great day turning with George in Burnham on Sea last Friday. As ever his instruction was patient and informative and I came away with my turning skills refreshed and revitalized with the added bonus of a lidded pot with pewter medallion of which I am very proud. With George's brilliant instruction and Sue’s excellent catering the day feels like a mini holiday for me where I can forget any other issues and fully enjoy the day."

Margaret reviewed: Spinner rings and bangles workshop

"It’s always a special treat and great fun to attend one of Jo’s workshops, especially as we try and go as a group. Jo is very patient with us, explaining every step carefully. I was so pleased with my bangle, my latest achievement!"

Joanne Tinley Jewellery responded:

"Thank you for coming on another workshop Margaret! Your bracelet was lovely."

Laura Mella reviewed: Introduction to traditional stained glass (1 day) in Sheffield, South Yorkshire

"I attended the one day traditional stained glass workshop with Kate, and it was fantastic! Kate explained all the techniques really clearly and was patient and helpful with all the students. I really enjoyed the day and am very pleased with the panel I made. I hope to be back again soon!"

Stuart Main reviewed: Two person 'Have a Bash' at Blacksmithing course in Shropshire

"Really informative and thoroughly enjoyable practical day with Jake’s easy-going, friendly and reassuring guidance. So absorbing that the day disappeared all too quickly and would not hesitate to go again sometime and recommend to anyone else too."

Justina reviewed: Machine made lined curtains

"I have now attended 2 different workshops at Make for Home. I only had a little experience of sewing previously, but Janet has taught me how to make my own curtains and roman blinds. I thoroughly enjoyed my days spent with Janet and would really recommend her classes. She is an excellent teacher, very knowledgeable and willing to share all her knowledge. Her home-made lunch was also delicious. Thanks Janet"

Nick Hiltunen reviewed: French Polishing & Woodcare - 2 Day Beginners/Intermediate Workshop

"5 star recommendation ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Ollie is a great tutor, he is extremely knowledgeable & patient. I enrolled on one of Ollie's French polishing courses. Extremely glad I did as I have now come away with the skills and confidence to strip and refinish wooden furniture to a high standard. Highly recommended, thanks Ollie ?"

Julie Depledge reviewed: Weave your own shopping basket with Hilary Burns

"An excellent, inspiring 2 day introduction to basket weaving. Hilary is an experienced teacher and her expertise in terms of skills and her wide knowledge made it possible to achieve a basket that I'm very proud of, in fact my husband refused to believe I'd made it myself! The preparation for the course was thorough. All materials were generously provided and necessary tools available. The number of participants meant that instruction was never far away. Hilary also provided handouts with additional information and her knowledge of local and international networks will be helpful as I begin to find out more about growing willow and making things."

Sharon Greene reviewed: Christmas willow wreath workshop Hemel Hempstead

"I've been to a number of Helen's workshops now and always have a great time. There are lots of beautiful materials to choose from, all from our local area, and plenty of help for beginners or those lacking inspiration! The willow wreaths survive the winter and can be used again and again, but I enjoy the workshops so much I go back every year with a group of friends for the fun, excellent mince pies and coffee. I thoroughly recommend them."

Helen Reeley Gardens responded:

"Always good to see you & your chums Sharon."

Deborah reviewed: Private or private group silver jewellery making / silversmithing workshop day at Silver Designed Personally

"My friend and I had a brilliant time at the silver leaf jewellery making day with Sara. Sara took us through the techniques to make a beautiful leaf pendant each, which we are wearing with pride. Sara made it very interesting, fun and safe."

Silver Designed Personally responded:

"Thanks so much for taking the time to write a review Deb, it was lovely to meet you both and I really enjoyed the day as well - you both made a lovely pendant. Hoping to see you again sometime. Sara"

Ruth Middleton reviewed: Rag rug/rag wreath making day in North Herefordshire

"Great course very inspirational"

Isobel reviewed: Christmas willow wreath workshop Hemel Hempstead

"Helen's workshop's are a real treat. Spending the day with friends and making new friends whilst creating a beautiful, unique wreath. A lovely day spent"

Helen Reeley Gardens responded:

"Thanks Isobel-would be great to see you again!"

Ron Irving reviewed: Blacksmithing Beginners day courses in Yorkshire and the North East

"Another cracking day with Adrian and Andy at the forge. Bit more tricky and a lot more hammer work than the other courses but made a pretty good set of tongs, a punch and a drift. Learned some more techniques as well. As ever the hospitality and food were spot on. Roll on the two day design and make course!"

Diane Cross reviewed: Introduction to felting techniques with Gill Baxter

"Had a lovely enjoyable day at GillyGetsCrafty work Shop Class, Wet Felting. Very Friendly and professional . would love to do more courses in the future. Diane Cross"