Latest reviews

Sue Facherty reviewed: Indigo & Arashi Shibori workshop

"Still in a happy bubble from my Beginners workshop in Shibori and Indigo dyeing on Saturday! Lisa showed us beautiful examples of the skills she taught us. She was encouraging as we tried different techniques and dipped our scarves in the 'magic' indigo vat. Lisa helped me make some moons for a sewing project, which gave me a great sense of achievement. I now feel confident to make some dye and put my new skills into practice."

Liz reviewed: Indigo & Arashi Shibori workshop

"I had a great workshop with Lisa, she is enthusiastic and very knowledgable on the subject,and I really enjoyed the process and seeing the alchemy :-) I would definitely be back for more workshops in the future!"

Paddy Punnett reviewed: Woodturning courses in Hampshire - Beginners and improvers wood turning courses - Turn British, all British lathes!!

"I have always wanted to try my hand at wood turning but have never had the opportunity on the small Caribbean island of St Vincent where I live, so was delighted when my wife offered to give me a two day beginners course with Andy Browne, at his well equipped workshop in Sandleheath, while we were on a recent trip to the UK. It turned out to be a wonderful experience for me. Andy is an excellent tutor, very patient, knowledgeable, and made me feel comfortable using tools and equipment which were all new to me. I came away with a good basic foundation in wood turning which I now intend to pursue as a hobby. I can certainly recommend Andy for his expertise and teaching ability in wood turning. Thank you Andy for two interesting and informative days in your workshop."

Sara reviewed: Free-machine Embroidery Workshop with Dawn Ireland

"Fabulous course. Dawn is a great teacher, very patient and nurturing. She is so creative and inspires others to find their own creativity."

Margaret Squires reviewed: Glass appliqué mosaic workshop at Cakebread Studios, Central Manchester

"I'm not a complete beginner in this field, I have attended a glass applique workshop before and really enjoyed it. Lots of help and support, plenty of materials to work with and a lively friendly atmosphere. I don't know where the time went and had not finished but was sent home with appropriate materials and tools to finish the job!"

Tracey Cartledge Artist responded:

"Hi Margaret, Thank you for your wonderful review. It was a great pleasure to welcome you to the new studio at Cakebread Workshop and I'm glad that you found my directions so easy to follow. It really is a short walk from Piccadilly Station! It's already a great compliment that you chose to come along a second time to enjoy this workshop and your latest mosaic mandala is looking superb. We look forward to seeing the final result in due course. Thanks again for taking part in the workshop and for taking the time to write a review. Kind regards, Tracey"

Claire reviewed: Creative pottery decoration workshop

"I have thoroughly enjoyed this course and during the last 5 weeks have had the opportunity to create some beautiful pieces I never thought I would have had the ability to produce. I am not artistic in any way and was slightly nervous to start with but with the expertise and guidance of Gabriella I have ended up with some pieces I am chuffed to bits with. The best bit is I can carry on and produce some more wonderful things. An excellent opportunity to make presents or selfishly like me, keep them all for myself! Great value for money and great fun too."

Gillian reviewed: ‘Winter dream ' wool painting face-to-face textile art course in Worcestershire

"What a fabulous day! I've enjoyed every minute and have learned so much in one day. Raya is an inspirational Artist and experienced Tutor. She is so full of helpful advice and ideas. I can't believe how much stunning work was produced by the group today. I am so proud of what I achieved and looking forward to my next course with Raya at her studio . Thank you so much Raya Gillian ( Hereford)"

Sandy Telling reviewed: Introductory throwing course

"After handbuilding with clay for over a year elsewhere, I thought it was time to give throwing a try. I attended my first introductory throwing course in April and I am now on my third course. I have thoroughly enjoyed the courses. I was a complete beginner and even though there was much to learn, Sophie was attentive, encouraging and explained each step with patience and humour. Sophie is an excellent teacher. Her instructions, demonstrations and explanations are clear and informative. She is able to answer any questions and is on hand to rescue any mishaps with explanations and reasons for the mishaps. Sophie is keen for you to improve and experiment with different clays and glazes. The Clay Room is very well stocked with tools and equipment. It is organised and spacious. There is a relaxed atmosphere and everybody is made to feel welcome. I have grown in confidence, and the pots I have produced have certainly shown improvement. The course is fun, satisfying and the time just flies by."

Simon Ford reviewed: Raku, Saggar, Barrel & Horsehair Firing Weekend Workshop - 2025 DATES

"Such a great weekend learning under the instruction of Abi and Alison. Our group was an eclectic mix of professional potters, enthusiasts and in my case beginners. It just suited everyone! The skills we were able to take away with us are simply amazing, I had no idea I was to learn so much in a matter of days. The excitement when the finished product is revealed was just another aspect of the weekend I was not expecting. “Well done guys”! Just a beautifully designed and executed course that would suit anyone and the homemade lunches were to die for!"

Martin Baum reviewed: Box making weekend in Cumbria

"I had a fantastic time on the two day box making course......it didn't feel like a course at all. Mark and Richard have a great way of passing on the skills needed without making it too 'teachy'. Not only have I made a beautiful Oak and Walnut box that I am so proud of, but I have learnt great skills and added confidence to try making things on my own. I was originally going to spend the money for the course on a new router but I am so glad that I invested it in the course instead.....now I know that all the tools in the world will not improve my woodworking without the skills and understanding I learnt from Mark. I am sure I will be attending more courses with Mark and Richard in the future."

linda beggs reviewed: Free-machine Embroidery Workshop with Dawn Ireland

"Dawn welcomed me into her lovely home. The course was excellent and Dawn was very patient and helpful, feel a lot more confident now to do free motion embroidery. Her carrot cake was the best I have ever had. She also had beautiful cats. I want to go on another of her courses. Excellent."

Dawn Ireland Textile Artist responded:

"Thank you for such a lovely review Linda."

Sam Harwood reviewed: Paper Marbling Class Full Day at Portsmouth Museum

"I really enjoyed my workshop with James. I'd had some experience with marbling before but it was fascinating learning about Ebru and trying it myself under the friendly and enthusiastic guidance of James. I love the fact that this is something you can do without having very much artistic talent and you can still get reasonable results. Of course, the master artists spend years trying to achieve perfection in their art and that's another story entirely. The location of the studio is wonderful and it's a great atmosphere. A real pleasure to spend the day here and I wouldn't hesitate to recommend to anybody."

James Mouland Ebru Studio responded:

"Thank you for your kind words Sam, it was lovely to meet you and share the marbling experience, I hope you make wonderful progress back home! James"

Allison Strivens reviewed: Raku, Saggar, Barrel & Horsehair Firing Weekend Workshop - 2025 DATES

"Results were amazing. Another day of fun, good food, great company and expert instruction. I’m already thinking about a return visit."

Wendy Moir reviewed: Advanced Soap Making

"What a fabulous day. A full day that just went too quickly. Sarah and her husband are very generous with their time and expertise. Lots of support provided. Plus lunch and fabulous homemade cake was a bonus. I've come away buzzing and will definitely be back for more. I've been on a few soap making courses and this is by far the best. Would highly recommend this course to anyone."

Louise Allen Roberts reviewed: Fascinator making in Wellsborough nr Nuneaton

"Rachel was amazing; explained everything perfectly, made everything very easy to understand. I highly recommend to anybody. Rachel has to be one of the best teachers, totally lovely person and amazing class, thank you very much Rachel."

Pam Neaves reviewed: Raku, Saggar, Barrel & Horsehair Firing Weekend Workshop - 2025 DATES

"What a busy, fun packed weekend we've had! Lovely setting and great guidance in the techniques of Saggar, Barrel and Raku firing. It was amazing to learn, experience and reveal the effects from the different firings and be surrounded by lovely people sharing a love of ceramics. Wonderful food, beautiful surroundings and knowledgable fun hosts too! Highly recommended if you're visiting Devon or a local pottery enthusiast, don't just take my word for it...book your place now!"

Claire Fraser reviewed: Kiln fused glass taster day

"Absolutely loved this course. Don’t consider myself to be artistic but ready pleased with what I made. Want to sign up for the full weekly course, just need to find the time! Highly recommended."

Matthew Richardson reviewed: Blacksmithing Beginners day courses in Yorkshire and the North East

"Brilliant weekend doing the design and make course. Adrian and Andy are excellent teachers providing as much guidance as you need whilst allowing you to do your own work under their excellent tuition. The food included with the course made by Debbie is always fantastic and as always I left the course feeling I'd achieved a good amount and eager to do more."

Sam and Mari reviewed: Colourful stained glass panel making course

"We had a really enjoyable one day course learning how to cut glass and construct a multi-coloured stained glass window in a lead frame. Under Jo’s very friendly and expert guidance we were both able to get to grips with cutting the glass and soldering it in place and with a wide range of designs, colours and textures of glass to choose from we were able to be creative and individual in the look and feel of the final product. We thoroughly enjoyed our day and came away with a real sense of achievement and a couple of pieces of art we are both rather proud of! Many thanks to Jo for providing such an enjoyable experience!"

Jo Snowdon Stained Glass responded:

"Thanks for the lovely review Sam and Mari, really glad you enjoyed the course! Best wishes, Jo :-)"

Mary Turvey reviewed: Cloth and clay: Japanese themed craft day

"What a wonderful day and delicious sushi lunch. Both crafts were well taught and were so inspirational. Can’t wait to see my Japanese plate in two weeks and wow our napkins and scarves were all amazing, with instant gratification! Keep me informed of any other courses you are planning please Sara and Stephanie x"

Stephanie Le Cocq Studios responded:

"Thank you Mary!!! We so loved having you!!! We were seriously so impressed with all your results, so good to see you all getting so creative! ...going to frame your lovely review now and pin it on my wall! :) We will keep you posted of future classes! Steph & Sara"

Julie Norris reviewed: Glass Fusing and Slumping for Beginners and Improvers

"Just arrived home after my second time with Jean and Janet. The tutors are both friendly and professional and have a wealth of knowledge, the teacher to student ratio is a maximum of 1:4 so there is always help available! I learnt some skills in the morning and completed 4 coasters, each using a different method, and in the afternoon, I completed a fruit bowl and a wall plaque. The lunch was superb !! A choice of 2 home made soups, with a choice of home made bread, and a selection of cakes. I am looking forward to returning to pick up my pieces, and will definitely be booking to come again . I recommend this workshop to everyone - you won’t be disappointed !"

JJ Fused Glass responded:

"Thank you Julie for your kind review. It was good to see you again. We’re pleased you enjoyed your second visit and hope it helped to cement some of the techniques involved. We are always as excited as you to see the results of your labours. Kind regards Janice"

Linda Duckworth reviewed: Glass Fusing and Slumping for Beginners and Improvers

"A very enjoyable day as a beginner. The time just flew by with Jean and Janice providing their expertise, help and guidance whilst letting the students do their own thing. Learned numerous techniques in the morning which you could put into practice with your own ideas in the afternoon. Lunch in the garden was lovely. Had a laugh trying to test the tin in the cupboard ?. Maximum of 8 on the course so the tutors can provide as much time as you need. Will be returning."

JJ Fused Glass responded:

"Many thanks for your review Linda. We’re pleased you enjoyed the day and the way we teach. It’s always good when the weather is nice enough for lunch in the garden. Time in the Harry Potter cupboard looking for the tin side can be a challenge ? Kind regards Janice"

Zoe Taylor reviewed: Realistic and Adorable Needle Felt Animals & Pets

"Having never touched a needle before I was quite nervous about attending but I needn’t have been. Sophie was a pro at getting me settled and on task. Never overbearing but always there when you needed her to be. Sophie’s expertise shines through. The course was fabulous and so were the other ladies who attended. Food amazing too. I have already recommended this course to others who are looking. I was delighted and quite proud of coming away with something that actually resembled my dog. I don’t think anyone attending would fail to get something from it. I loved it and can’t wait until August for the next one."

All Things Felt & Beautiful responded:

"Thanks so much Zoe, that's really nice to read. I'm so pleased that as a beginner it was the right pace. You did so well and are clearly artistic - well done x Sophie"

Sharon reviewed: Beginners candle making workshop - London

"I had always wanted to do a candle making course and I am so glad I attended Sarah's course. I can thoroughly recommend it. Sarah made the course fun and engaging. She is really clear with her instructions, made candle making look easy. Thanks Sarah."

Candle by Events responded:

"Thank you Sharon, really pleased you enjoyed the workshop"

Gabrielle Read reviewed: Green Man! 1 Day Sculpture Workshop Using Pal Tiya Premium

"This is the 2nd course I've attended at the workshop. Brilliant day. I'm not very experienced in sculpture, but thoroughly enjoy it and find the course very confidence building. Always meet interesting people and get to work in a peaceful setting. Definitely recommend these workshops."