Latest reviews

Jane Sherman reviewed: Stained glass beginners workshop, Cardiff, Wales

"I was given the course as a Christmas Present. After some discussion with Angelina I upgraded my course so I could make a design of my choosing - the extra cost was well worth it. The day and a half 1-2-1 tuition I had was absolutely brilliant. Angelina is expert, patient and a fantastic teacher. I was completely absorbed the whole time I was there. Nothing else in my life even entered the room, which is rare. And now I have a gorgeous bespoke piece of stained glass, beautifully framed and on display in my home. And now I also have the tools and glass to make some some more..."

Glass By Design responded:

"Many thanks. Your panel was great, and I am so glad that you got so much out of the 1 to 1 session."

victoria benedict reviewed: Glass fusion workshop, Cardiff, Wales

"I had a great experience on the glass fusion course. The tutor, Cathy was very good & informative. The studio was clean & light with great workspaces. The lunch was fab. I did the course with my sister, who lives away so it was nice to spend time together & do something creative. We are both art trained but you did not need previous experience. I can fully recommend the courses at Glass by Design. Angelina & Cathy are very kind & helpful. I am looking forward to doing a Stained Glass course next."

Glass By Design responded:

"Many thanks indeed. Hope we see you again soon."

Rebecca Hinton reviewed: Glass fusion workshop, Cardiff, Wales

"I recently attended the half day fused glass course and it was thoroughly enjoyable and totally absorbing. The class sizes are small so you feel like you can ask questions and get the most out of the class in a relaxed and friendly environment. Kathy was clear with her instructions and supportive with your ideas, helping you bring them from thought to action. I can’t wait to sign up for another course"

Glass By Design responded:

"So glad you had a good time. Hope we see you again soon."

Kay W reviewed: Green Man stone carving in Yorkshire

"Easy to contact for any questions I had before the course. Course was well thought out and I achieved so much, from never having done anything with stone to an amazing piece. Tuition was calm, supportive, enthusiastic and knowledgeable. I recommend this course to everyone."

Jay Price reviewed: Sheet copper sculpture workshops in London

"I went on a bronze course at London Sculpture Workshop first, then got so addicted I booked up this course in sheet copper sculpture, and my next one will probably be silicone mould-making. This course was incredible. I genuinely didn't want to leave on the final day, and the next morning was really disappointed I wouldn't be going back in. On the first day I learnt how to raise a bowl out of a small disc of copper (so happy about that), planishing (technique for smoothing the surface) and about and how to use patinas. On the next day I learnt soldering, brazing and riveting - and made a small saxon helmet. On the next days I learnt repousee and made a series of copper coins and artefacts using patinas to make then look ancient. Other people worked on one project all week. One person made a female bust, another woman made a copper water feature that looks like a dragon-fly, there was someone who made a huge abstract outdoor sculpture and a series of copper lilies for his garden when he had some time and copper left over at the end, another made an African mask.... so many amazing things. You get a mix of demonstrations and tons of one-to-one help. I couldn't believe how absorbed I got in it. When the tutor said it was time for lunch everyone would look shocked and sigh. Such a good sign. I can't rave about this course enough. I loved it. A few people I know are booking up places now after they saw my photos of my 4 days there. Also, some people on the course who lived in London signed up as members of LSW so they could continue making things in the workshops (which are really excellent - so large and so many amazing tools and machines). I always attend these courses on my own but there is always a warm, friendly environment. It's not daunting and it's always a mix of different abilities. I'm always a complete beginner so I really appreciate this as it stops it being daunting."

Jay Price reviewed: Bronze casting course

"This was the first craft course I ever booked. I have since done 2 more at London Sculpture Workshop. That's a recommendation in itself. This course was great, I couldn't believe how much I learnt! I was struggling to afford to have an artwork cast in bronze - with this course it was much more affordable to learn the skills and make it myself with excellent tuition from the hands-on teacher and all materials included. The tutor really went above and beyond for all of us. I dropped something at the last minute on one day so he stayed behind with me for an extra hour and half and we fixed it up and made it even better. That's so kind and generous. The whole atmosphere was warm and friendly (which was great as I was very anxious as I had no sculpture experience at all when I turned up). I went to LSW as a printmaker with a specific idea. Since then I have learnt sheet copper sculpture and mould-making. I warn you it's addictive. I've got my eye on more too. One woman on the course had almost done every single course they offered (even building furniture for her kid's room) and another man had flown over from Singapore to take 3 courses in 2 weeks then was flying back to open his own workshop."

Alistair Love reviewed: Green Wood Creative Seating - 6 Day Course in South Devon

"I have long admired Peter's furniture and it was really exciting to build a piece with him. I have done a number of woodworking courses before and this was one of the best. Peter is an excellent instructor and patiently helped everyone through their designs, suggesting small changes where he thought they could be improved. The location is wonderful and we spent most of the weekend working outside in the sunshine in a fabulously rural location (the workshop is on the coast between Plymouth and Salcombe). All of the tools were sharp and I didn't have to spend time sharpening once during the week, which made a big difference to the pace and enjoyment of the course. I would highly recommend this course for any woodworker from novice to experienced."

Mandy reviewed: Rag rug making

"Had a great day in the cabin and learnt new skill. Great lunch and great company! Julie made rag rug making very easy!!!!"

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

"A fantastic weekend! Working with Matt in the forge to craft my own Viking axe over 2 days (handle and all!) was a truly satisfying experience. Matt is a great teacher, able to convey his knowledge and keep you on course throughout the process. Ali made me feel very welcome and kept us fuelled for the gruelling days! Heartily recommended and will definitely return."

Val Nichol reviewed: Jewellery making with silver clay - one day beginners workshop

"Charlotte was friendly and enthusiastic, and definitely knows her stuff. My earrings and pendants are lovely, and a triumph to Charlotte's help and advice over my cack-handedness!"

Felix & Reuben Jewellery School responded:

"Thank you for leaving us such a lovely review Val! It was our pleasure to teach you! The jewellery you made was fab. I especially loved the earrings!"

Rachel Knill reviewed: Upholstery and upcycling furniture and interiors

"A thoroughly enjoyable day was had at the upholstery workshop with Lucy. Lucy has created a lovely venue and a friendly and relaxed environment to work in. She was enthusiastic about her craft and willingly shared her experience providing valuable advice and encouragement to everyone. We were allowed to work at our own pace on our individual pieces sustained by an ample supply of excellent cakes and tea or coffee during the day. A tasty lunch was also provided in her kitchen. The day flew by and I was sorry when it was time to leave. I would definitely recommend this workshop - I left feeling more confident and inspired to attempt more projects in the future I would definitely attend again given half the chance!"

Joanna reviewed: Beginners sewing workshop - Garden sewing party with afternoon tea!

"I've had a great time on this course. I've learned how to sew and can enjoy using the sewing machine that I've bought 5 years ago and never used before. I've had lovely chats with everyone as well."

Jenny Trott reviewed: Business candle making workshop - one to one

"I've come away from the Business Candle Making workshop with all my questions answered and a clear idea of what I need to do to get started. The 1:1 attention is really valuable and it's reassuring to have the ongoing email support from Kerry as I start this exciting journey."

John Reece reviewed: Hawkmoth Wood - Woodland Venue, North Yorkshire

"Informal but very informative talk as we wandered around ancient woodland. David takes time to explain how ancient woodland developed, how modern need of wood has changed the landscape, and how careful management can restore balance. We learned how the flora and fauna is dependent upon a careful balance. David explained his vision for the future generations by thoughtful planned planting now. We listened and watched the birds of the wood and nearby fields. We even did a bit of foraging and learnt what not to eat while walking in the woods. We saw ancient dykes and furrows. We have no hesitation recommending this tree identification day if you care about the environment. We will be back in the Autumn when the colours will give a different aspect to the woods and we can examine the produce of the different trees."

Rachel Miles reviewed: Glass fusion workshop, Cardiff, Wales

"I attended the half day Glass Fusion Workshop run by Kathy. My friend and I thoroughly enjoyed it and the time just flew by as we were so absorbed. It was interesting learning how to use the glass and Kathy was superb with both her teaching and her guidance as to what would work and what would not."

Glass By Design responded:

"Many thanks - Hope you are very proud of what you made."

Catherine reviewed: Love your loom tapestry weaving 1 day course for beginners - Devon

"Great fun! Alana is a warm and friendly tutor. Wonderful range of yarns and materials to choose from. Masses of lovely weaving examples and ideas. Highly recommended."

Johanna reviewed: Fascinator making workshop, Leeds

"Amazing workshop. Learnt great techniques and Rachel was very helpful and passionate about millinery and teaching. Thank you so much and I hope to see you again soon for another workshop."

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

"Given to me as a birthday present and would absolutely recommend (not just for the lunch, flapjack and cake, which were awesome). The day was great - from the start it was just get stuck in and give it a go, under Adrian and Andy’s guidance. It’s as challenging as you want to make it, great fun and really opens your eyes to what goes into working with metal - (you’ll never look at a hook the same way again), and of course you get your creations to take away. Really recommend the course and the forge. Brilliant day thanks!"

Lucie reviewed: Introduction to candle-making as a business

"I would 100% recommend this course to anyone. Me and my friend did the Saturday course and had so much fun. It is very personal and you can ask Jo anything! You get to pick your own scents for your candles and take so much stuff home that you make. I was interested in starting a little business on the side and Jo was so helpful and informative and answered all the questions I had. If you are looking to do something different and fun - I would say this is definitely the course. Thank you so much Jo for a really fab day!! Lucie xxx"

Chaz reviewed: Beginners sewing workshop - Garden sewing party with afternoon tea!

"A lovely day spend with a small group learning how to sew simple projects and rediscovering skills I hadn’t used in many years. It made me dust off the sewing machine and enjoy being creative again. And a lovely lunch provided too."

Kate reviewed: Sew a padded wine bottle bag (with divider & personalised quote) in Derbyshire

"After I lost my husband I found my evenings long and needed to find a hobby that fitted in with my 3 children and that I could enjoy perhaps every couple of months. This is where Lou comes in! I've completed a range of workshops with Lou and they have all been fantastic! Simple instructions for someone who has never sewn before or has a little more experience, lots of encouragement and guidance, a super friendly atmosphere with fabulous cake and coffee, you go away with a completed project and a night out! I am now completing projects at home and have a hobby I really enjoy. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend Sew Need a Drink! I'm looking forward to a workshop later this month."

Sew Need a Drink responded:

"Thank you for your lovely review Kate :) Looking forward to seeing you again soon!"

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

"What a fantastic day, stunning location, really good directions provided. Andy has a great workshop (man cave) and has the patience of a saint. Very quickly got hands on and covered in sawdust and had a great experience. My bowl is the best bowl ever :) Smashing lunch provided my Mrs Andy (thanks!). Lots of hints and tips, guidance, support and a helpful hand at the complicated bits. Thanks Andy, hope to come back one day. Colin"

Carole reviewed: Sew a padded wine bottle bag (with divider & personalised quote) in Derbyshire

"I love Louise’s courses. I haven’t done the wine bag, but made a number of other items. The session is so enjoyable and I come away with something I have made myself. Louise is a very good tutor, and always there to help. I met some lovely people, and there was cake to eat! I recommend Louise's classes for those who have not used a machine to those with experience."

Sew Need a Drink responded:

"Thank you for your review and amazing feedback. So pleased to hear that you have enjoyed the classes!"

Timber Turner reviewed: Blacksmithing Beginners day courses in Yorkshire and the North East

"Absolutely amazing day, best Christmas present ever, wish I lived nearer!!! The course was very informative and hands on (can’t wait to book again). The guys went out of their way to give me the best blacksmith experience beyond anything I thought it would be!!! Big thanks to Debbie for refreshments and lunch. Hopefully see you all soon ."

Izzi reviewed: Sew a padded wine bottle bag (with divider & personalised quote) in Derbyshire

"Sew Need a Drink courses are brilliant. I dabbled in sewing when I was younger and made some of the kids clothes and curtains etc but hadn't done anything for years. The course gave me the confidence to have another go; I made some Xmas presents and things for the house. Looking forward to the 2019 new list of courses!!"

Sew Need a Drink responded:

"Thank you so much for your lovely review. So pleased to hear that you enjoyed the classes. Please get in touch if you would like to find out about my upcoming classes :)"