Latest reviews

James reviewed: French Polishing & Woodcare - Beginners Course - 1 Day

"I would recommend taking the 2-day or 5-day courses to really give yourself the time needed to upgrade antique furniture. Having said that, the one day course is fully comprehensive, and teaches you how to turn your old furniture into something that you will be proud to show your friends and family. Oliver is a great teacher, all the materials are top quality (all mixed and prepared by Oliver), and the class sizes are small so you get more time to ask your own questions."

Bob Clayton reviewed: French Polishing & Woodcare - Beginners Course - 1 Day

"I found the course superb! The amount of knowledge gained was excellent and it has helped me enormously in developing my own skills. Ollie was tremendously helpful and knowledgeable. I would definitely go back for additional courses. Thanks Bob"

Diane reviewed: Try Enamel workshop - suitable for all abilities

"My friend and I spent the morning with Teresa two weeks ago. We thoroughly enjoyed the whole creative experience, including Teresa's relaxed, but expert, approach. As a total novice I felt inspired by what I could create, - and in a relatively short space of time ( just over 2 hours). Teresa was so encouraging of our own ideas, but readily gave advice on designs if we wanted this. We were equally thrilled by the pendants we each produced - which have attracted many positive comments from friends and family. Thank you so much Teresa for a wonderful morning, we will definitely be returning for another treat of an experience."

Sam Davies reviewed: Wood turning courses in the Midlands

"My second day course with Mark was even better than the first! I ended up with a bowl which my partner still thinks I bought!! It's not just the course he imparts, but the asides and info' that is so useful. I can't wait for my next day!"

Joanne Hall reviewed: Candle making course (introductory) - in the heart of the Ashdown Forest, Sussex

"Very practical advice from Simon and a fun day. I definitely came away with the confidence to try this at home."

Ed Dunning reviewed: Axe or bladesmithing weekend workshop – 2 days making your choice of a seax, bushcraft, bowie or chef knife

"As an avid viewer of Forged in Fire or 'Bake Off for Blokes' as I call it, my sons got me the experience for my birthday. My eldest son and I had an absolutely fantastic weekend. Matt is such a good instructor, easy going and patient, his passion for his craft is so infectious. Expertly teaching all the techniques required, but at the same time he fully encourages you to be creative and add your own artistic flair. Ali kept us fuelled throughout, a big 5 stars for her homemade lemon drizzle cake. It was such a unique experience, made even better by our hosts. Would highly recommend it to one and all."

Cynthia reviewed: Introduction to Indian block printing with Wobbly Pins

"I attended one of Jacqueline's Indian block printing courses on Thursday evening. The course was very well organised, we had sample items to try out printing on different mediums, paper, card, envelopes and material sample pieces before we graduated to larger items. Jacqueline started by giving a really good demonstration full of instructions and tips on printing techniques. Everyone was eager to get started and have a go. She was enthusiastic and supportive throughout and really encouraging. It was a lovely fun evening and I came away with a lovely selection of printed samples and was very happy with my own printed craft/knitting bag. I would definitely recommend trying a course, I'm sure you will soon be hooked, I know I am. Thank you Jacqueline."

Elysian Creativity and Wellbeing responded:

"Hello Cynthia, so glad you enjoyed the evening and thank you for your kind review. Looking forward to welcoming you at another workshop later in the year. X"

Rebecca Appleton reviewed: Creating shadows and light in your collagraph prints, course in artists studio near York

"I thoroughly enjoyed every minute of this course! Emily was very friendly and immediately made me feel relaxed. Her instructions were clear and precise and she gave us lots of time to practise techniques. She gave me 1:1 advice without being overbearing so I was able to learn and explore freely but also benefit from her expertise. The large studio gave us plenty of space to work, and the use of two printing presses meant that we didn’t have to wait long to print our pieces. Luckily the sun was out so we were able to eat lunch in Emily’s beautiful garden. An outdoor table and chairs meant the group could sit together in the sun, but there were also plenty of grassy areas where people could sit and lots of trees if anyone needed to sit in the shade. It was just a short walk through the garden to access the toilet in the main house and hot drinks and biscuits were available at break and lunchtime at no extra cost. Emily asked us if we were ready for breaks and lunch or if we were happy to continue working for longer and it was nice to be involved in this decision as it meant that we didn’t lose momentum or motivation. Overall, I really enjoyed this course, learnt lots of new skills and met some lovely people. I would recommend Emily’s courses to others and am already saving up to attend another."

Emily Harvey Printmaker responded:

"I'm glad you enjoyed it Rebecca - keep on printing!"

Chris Luker reviewed: Creating shadows and light in your collagraph prints, course in artists studio near York

"I had tried cement collagraph on my own with no success. Emily's knowledge and experience of the medium is very extensive and she soon showed me where I had gone wrong. A very enjoyable 2 days and I think we all came away with some good results."

Emily Harvey Printmaker responded:

"Thanks Chris"

Jan Luker reviewed: Creating shadows and light in your collagraph prints, course in artists studio near York

"Thoroughly enjoyed the two days and came away inspired to continue. Emily is an excellent teacher. She intuitively knows when help is needed and encourages us to use our 'stronger points'. I have attended several workshops and thoroughly enjoyed each one. The groups are always friendly. I hope to join more in the future."

Emily Harvey Printmaker responded:

"Thanks Jan - looking forward to seeing you again soon"

brenda alvarez-wilkinson reviewed: Raku - learn the exciting art of rapid Japanese glaze firing

"Best birthday present ever! A wonderful experience, I enjoyed meeting people from all walks of life. Relaxing but extremely exciting and inspiring day. Richard is a brilliant, informative encouraging tutor. Lovely lunch provided by Richard's wife. I was so so happy with the results of my pieces. I learnt loads and I went home buzzing thinking about when I can come back and do more! Recommended to all my friends, money well spent. Thank you very much."

Fiona reviewed: Spoon carving at Walderchain Wood, Canterbury

"I bought this as a present for my husband, Kevin. We both had a great time. The location makes for a special setting to learn wood carving. Mark was very good and very generous with his knowledge. He was patient throughout and ensured everyone had something resembling a spoon at the end of the day. There was something very restful about working in the woods and all you could hear was the tools tapping on wood. With the smell of wood smoke coming from the fire pit (on which your elevenses was brewed) just added to the whole atmosphere. I would recommend this to anyone who is interested in learning how to wood carve."

Walderchain Wood responded:

"Fiona, Thank you for your review. We're glad you both enjoyed your day here and that Kevin is keen to continue with the spoon carving. Maybe we'll see you back here sometime. ATB Mark"

Jan page reviewed: Pyrography Delites London

"I thoroughly enjoyed my beginners session. I produced three pieces to take home and tried different techniques in a small class so had lots of individual attention. Jane, with her passion for pyrography, has inspired me to carry on and I look forward to going back to learn more. The scones were lovely too!"

Greg Shimmin reviewed: Spoon carving at Walderchain Wood, Canterbury

"I had a brilliant day and can't recommend this enough. Mark and Christina are great hosts. You learn so much in a fantastic setting. Mark knows his stuff and passes it on in a very relaxed but informed way. Lunch was brilliant too. I loved it. If you've any interest in this kind of thing just book it. You won't be disappointed."

Walderchain Wood responded:

"Greg Thank you for your review and so glad you enjoyed your day. All the best Mark and Cristina"

Georgina reviewed: Everlasting, never fading beautiful acrylic resin flowers to make at home.

"My friend and I really enjoyed the resin flower course today. Abi and Melody were fun, provided tasty treats, and gave good instruction. Something a bit different and value for money. Highly recommended!"

Emma Goodwin reviewed: Pyrography Delites London

"My daughter and I had the most wonderful, fun filled morning...we learnt a lot and thoroughly enjoyed how hands on the workshop was. There was plenty of time to experiment and learn, and we have definitely got the bug now! We will return for other courses Jane runs and cannot recommend her workshops more...such a treat! A warm, friendly, personable experience topped off with a gorgeous slice of homemade cake...yummy! Thanks again x"

Claire milligan reviewed: Landscapes in Fleece

"Amazing day. SallyAnne is such a patient teacher with a passion for what she does."

Patricia Stubbs reviewed: Make a beautiful sgraffito decorated pottery tile in a lovely seaside studio

"A lovely day, very clear instructions, beautiful setting, I shall be going again."

Chris Ryder reviewed: One to one pottery throwing class in Worksop

"This was the first time I had done any craft since high school. Harriet was a brilliant host and an amazing tutor. She explained everything very clearly and when we made mistakes, explained what went wrong and guided us into correcting it. Fully knowledgeable and a wonderful lady. I would recommend to anyone who would like to learn how to do this."

Nicole reviewed: Leather Crossbody/Messenger or Tote bag

"The bag pattern is designed cleverly so you can get a professional looking result from your very first attempt. There are options to personalise the look using different leathers and thread, and to customise the size to suit your needs. Good class size, just three people, so everyone could get some individual attention when required. Richard was a very patient and enthusiastic teacher and provided lots of information on sources of leather and equipment if you want to continue with leather work. I had such an enjoyable day and I've have loads of compliments on my satchel, and most people have been surprised to learn that I made it myself in just a day. Highly recommend this course."

Sarah Dent reviewed: Landscapes in Fleece

"Just returned from a fantastic day with SallyAnne. Never having weaved before I was slightly nervous, however SallyAnne very quickly puts you at your ease. She’s patient and brilliant at talking you through tricky stages of the weaving process, amazingly I actually came home with a hare. Would highly recommend and can’t wait to do another course."

Anne Whick reviewed: Linocut printing workshop in Warwickshire at Bonds Lifestyle

"A super day with really good guidance from Alix. Everything was provided for the group of six which was the perfect size for this activity. The standard of work was high, thanks to Alix with her help and advice. Would definitely recommend to anyone wanting to have a go at linocut. Good venue as well."

Alix Almond Art responded:

"Hello Anne, it was a great day, and yes, the standard of prints was excellent - I am really pleased you enjoyed it. I hope you get your 'Geese' print framed and up on the wall! Thank you for your kind words. Alix."

Josef Aquilina reviewed: 5 Day Professional Furniture Refinishing Workshop - Traditional & Contemporary

"Oliver is a very dedicated and knowledgable professional with whom I had the pleasure to work and train for a whole week in July 2019. I highly recommend this course to professionally trained furniture conservators like myself as this insight into the craft sheds light onto the manufacturing process of wood polishing. I felt extremely welcome and Oliver was very keen to share his knowledge and experience with his students."

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

"My daughter and I had a thoroughly enjoyable day. Sara is an excellent tutor, both informative and attentive. It was a lovely opportunity to try a variety of techniques and we would definitely recommend the workshop."

Pam Cin reviewed: Bespoke candle making workshop - Edinburgh

"What a fantastic morning I had with this lovely, informative and funny lady. I came out grinning from ear to ear. Highly recommended!!!"