Latest reviews

Ruth Marchington reviewed: Upholstery and upcycling furniture and interiors

"Expert practical advice in a lovely environment. Lucy made sure we all progressed on our different projects and learned new skills. Thank you so much Lucy."

Yolanda reviewed: Candlemaking workshops for beginners in Hastoe, nr Tring

"Such a good morning, a nice small group and we made so many more candles than I expected. Well explained and refreshments provided."

Doug Robertson reviewed: Bowl carving day Green Fox Wild Crafts

"This was my first crafting course and I really enjoyed working with wood using a variety of tools, to axe and gauge a bowl from a tree trunk. Nadine is a marvellous guide, knowledgable, enthusiastic and a natural teacher. Everyone in the class came away happy with a bowl of their creation after spending an active day working and feeding ourselves on the continuos stream of knowledge bubbling from Nadine, and plenty of tea and biscuits. We were led carefully through the processes of wood selection and treatment, splitting, axing, gauging and carving. We were introduced to several useful topics such as tool sharpening and decorative styles, each of which would warrant a course themselves. I've booked to go back next month for another course with Nadine to learn spoon carving."

Pavla rebhi bartakova reviewed: Powertex art journal/canvas workshop

"I had an amazing time at Marie's studio. Due to some last minute cancellations, I ended up having 1-2-1 lesson! Marie is a great tutor, supportive, thoughtfull, friendly and understand her job and students really well. I would say, I am bit crafty myself, despite that, I have learned about new technique , aquired new skills and created great piece to be proud of. Thank you"

Mark Sewell reviewed: Weekly classes at The Clay Studio

"I attended a weekly Thursday evening class during 2017. I enjoyed the class very much. I had done some pottery previously but was rusty when I started. I was well supported by the teachers in making a teapot in the shape of a cyclist, as well as a wall hanging and other hand-built items. The studio is well stocked and has a nice welcoming atmosphere for people of all abilities."

The Clay Studio responded:

"Thank you for your review. Your teapot was memorable!"

Afton reviewed: Rag rug making

"Julie is a wonderfully warm and friendly artist that welcomes you with open arms. When I arrived I met the other attendees and we had a lovely cup of tea. It was a great bunch of crafters! We had a very informative introduction to Rag Rugging by Julie and she handed out workpacks and textbooks for inspiration. She also showed her previous works of art in different shapes and materials. Then helped us all prep with designs and fabric choices and start off. There were enough tools, fabric and cups of tea for everyone! In her cabin it was a great crafting atmosphere and we soon got going! It was lunchtime before we knew it, which was also a delicious little buffet. I was especially chuffed with all the vegan options Julie had especially got in for some of us :). After lunch half of the group learnt how to do the spider web embroidery and Julie was very attentive, they all did such a great job, but she didn't forget about is continuing with our rugs. Plenty of support and more tea! It was a shame when the day was over, I for one could have stayed in that craft cabin a while longer progging away. Overall it was an absolute delight hearing about Julie's crafting and canal life, meeting the other attendees, lunch! and coming away with a very good start to a Rag Rug. Thanks very much for a very happy birthday, Julie! See you soon xx"

Afton reviewed: Rag rug making

"Julie is a wonderfully warm and friendly artist that welcomes you with open arms. When I arrived I met the other attendees and we had a lovely cup of tea. It was a great bunch of crafters! We had a very informative introduction to Rag Rugging by Julie and she handed out workpacks and textbooks for inspiration. She also showed her previous works of art in different shapes and materials. Then helped us all prep with designs and fabric choices and start off. There were enough tools, fabric and cups of tea for everyone! In her cabin it was a great crafting atmosphere and we soon got going! It was lunchtime before we knew it, which was also a delicious little buffet. I was especially chuffed with all the vegan options Julie had especially got in for some of us :). After lunch half of the group learnt how to do the spider web embroidery and Julie was very attentive, they all did such a great job, but she didn't forget about is continuing with out rugs. Plenty of support and more tea! It was a shame when the day was over, I for one could have stayed in that craft cabin a while longer progging away. Overall it was an absolute delight hearing about Julie's crafting and canal life, meeting the other attendees, lunch! and coming always with a very good start to a Rag rug. Thanks very much for a very happy birthday, Julie! See you soon xx"

Canal Art by Julie responded:

"Thank you so much Afton for your lovely comments!"

Michi Mathias reviewed: Spoon carving for beginners - morning

"When someone really knows their craft, and has an obvious love for it, and a kind and gentle way with people... what more could one ask for? Twelve students is a small enough group that Stephen could show us tricky bits individually as needed. We started with small logs, and all created recognisably spoon-shaped objects in the 2.5 hours, learning the techniques with each of the various tools. I'm definitely doing more of this!"

Jane Pettican-Boyes reviewed: Upholstery and upcycling furniture and interiors

"I totally enjoyed every moment of The Upholstery Course I attended, the venue was fabulous, Lucy was a knowledgeable instructor and a lovely lady. She made learning really enjoyable and was able to demonstrate what needed to be done in an enjoyable way. Homemade cake and coffee on arrival was a hit with me, and homemade soup for lunch was very tasty. I finished my project on the day, and I am now eager to learn more and would love to attend another course."

Sandra reviewed: Stacking rings Warwickshire

"If you have never made silver rings before, don't be daunted - Kate is an excellent tutor who demonstrates how to do everything and gives everyone a hand if they get stuck! It was a lovely relaxed day and we all made 4 stacking rings to be proud of. I would definitely recommend this course."

Eddie R. reviewed: Full day leather craft workshop

"I had no previous experience in leatherwork, and I have to say, this course was amazing! Rosanna was very helpful and very good in explaining things. After this course I have enough confidence to start with my own little projects. I would recommend this course to anyone! Thank you very much Rosanna, I had an amazing day!"

Teresa Davies reviewed: Felted art or 3d bear or hare with 2 Inspire You

"Yet another excellent workshop with Rachel and Rhiannon. Managed to produce a reasonable copy of my collie Rosie. A friendly and enthusiastic class, lots of laughing and comparing of dogs. Is really incredible how a bundle of wool can transform into an actual animal. There was a variety of dog breeds being recreated and at the end we were all pleased with the replicas of our precious pets. This is my second class with Rachel and I can honestly say I have enjoyed every minute and learnt so much about this craft. I will be booking future classes and recommending to family and friends. Thank you both xx"

2 Inspire You responded:

"Thank you so much, I would love to see your Collie now that you have added more fur to your wonderful creation. Great that you enjoyed yourself so much and we very much look forward to seeing you again soon - remember to let me know if there is something in particular that you would like to make xx"

Helen Marr reviewed: Crochet With Crafty Sal

"Fantastic classes once a month. Great projects to complete for the beginners to the more advanced and everyone in between. Crafty Sal has such wonderful patience. She always has a smile and never gets frustrated when we "just don't get it" first or second time around. We never make mistakes just embellishments We crochet, chat, laugh and enjoy each others company and have a lovely cuppa and a piece of cake too. Really enjoy the classes"

Sylvia reviewed: 'Pick & Stick' China Mosaic Workshop

"What a great morning. I have been on two of these workshops and really enjoyed both, I have found a new hobby! I met some lovely people and will be back for more soon. Thank you Pat for making me feel welcome."

Blue Jelly Moon responded:

"Thank you Sylvia, so glad you enjoyed the morning. I hope to see you again soon"

Olga Edridge reviewed: Learn to Turn in the Dartmoor National Park

"I have just had one of the best days ever. I had a one to one day learning to turn a bowl. Chris is a great teacher and I felt totally safe using all the tools in his workshop. His studio/Worksop is perfectly equipped and most importantly Chris, this very talented artis/craftsman, has the patients of a saint. Wood turning is a very relaxing, zen and wonderfully rewarding experience. I shall do it again. Thank you Chris."

Ann Harrison reviewed: Crochet With Crafty Sal

"Crafty Sal's classes are fantastic, 1:1 teaching (when it's required) by a truly talented woman, I always come away from a class feeling that I have learned something & I'm becoming more confident & accomplished, Selina always has a smile on her face & has a fab sense of humour which believe me is definately a plus when you're struggling with a stitch or technique"

Lesley reviewed: Upholstery 1 day workshop - make your own footstool

"Having never tried upholstery before, thoroughly enjoyed the experience. Sue is a fabulous teacher with a vast amount of experience. I made a footstool which has been complimented on numerous times. I am now looking at attending another course and bringing along a couple of friends. Every step is explained and demonstrated. A very worthwhile course."

Tuffett responded:

"Thank you so much for your lovely review Lesley. It was a pleasure to have you on the workshop and I look forward to you coming again on 30th March with your two friends. We shall have another fun day!"

Juliette Haines-Currie reviewed: Stained glass leading for beginners

"A very interesting day was spent in Jamal's workshop for a leading workshop. You cannot dispute the knowledge and experience that Jamal has and takes you through during you workshop. It was extremely enjoyable and interesting learning about the stained glass process and I have a greater found new respect for artists in this field. We were able to take away our pieces that we had made during the day with pride. I would highly recommend this to anyone who has ever been interested in stained glass and its techniques."

Susan moffat reviewed: Introduction to making mosaics (Beginner level)

"Really enjoyed this mosaic day. Sally made it a very informative and relaxing day with a small group of us. She gave individual support and advice as needed but allowed us to be as creative as we wanted. We had lots of different materials to use and everyone completed at least one item to take home. Sally has a good sense of humour and created a very interesting workshop. Good to be able to help ourselves to tea ( as well as biscuits!!) as we needed. Definitely recommend mosaic workshop and just signed up for felting ."

Craft Workshops responded:

"Thank you for your review Susan - it was lovely to meet you and I am looking forward to catching up with you again over some felting (and tea and biccies!)."

Mike Bonnici reviewed: Make a chef's knife

"Just spent two wonderful days @Anvil forge on a knife making course. We were “broken in” to the process by making a poker in order to gain an understanding of basic skills immediately followed by work on our knives. At the end of day one, it suddenly occurred to me that, although freely available, I only had stopped for one tea break because I had become so involved and was really enjoying the work. Thanks to the superb help of John, Spencer and Steve (master blade smith) for their patient teaching, help and support (and good pub lunch) for a memorable two days. Highly recommended."

Clare reviewed: Introduction to herbal medicine - weekend courses

"I highly recommend attending Rowans herbal courses. Rowan is an expert in her field and a huge asset for Herefordshire. At a time when we all need to improve our self care & reduce dependence on the NHS/social care services which are so stretched, I feel attending Rowans courses & using the skills she teaches you, will massively improve your health & well being for the future"

Renae Bell reviewed: Needlefelting workshop at Dalkeith Country Park

"This was a fabulous way to bond with my daughter and we both got to walk away with a beautiful picture that we're very proud of :)"

Cathy Hurman reviewed: Paper Marbling Class Full Day at Portsmouth Museum

"Wow what a day. I have just had the most amazing day spent with a talented artist and a very friendly person. I was a bit apprehensive about undertaking this course as I am not artistic whatsoever (you should see my attempts at even drawing a cat!) but as it was a gift from my husband I thought nothing ventured nothing gained. I was so nervous as even though I have admired James' products over the years, I have never tried to to it myself and never once thought that I would get a chance to design something even half as beautiful. On arrival I received a huge smile and such a welcome that my nerves just flew away. James is a very peaceful and patient person and not once throughout the day did I feel unwelcome or useless. After a short basic explanation of the history of the artform, it was time for me to have a go. Well let's just say my first few attempts were acceptable! However by the end of the day, I now consider myself a master (well in my own family I am!!). I now have 3 wooden items that can be used for various decoration around the house and I also have some lovely A4 sheets that I am going to have framed and put on the wall at home. I can certainly recommend this course. Beautiful location, talented artist, a new friend has been made and best of all I have some amazing mementos of my day. Give it a go everyone, you have nothing to lose and everything to gain. In fact in a few months I am going back to learn even more techniques. Cathy, Manchester"

James Mouland Ebru Studio responded:

"Thanks for leaving such an enthusiastic review, I am so pleased you enjoyed your day, you did a great job, welcome back any time. Can't wait for you to share some snaps of your framed work! :)"

Tony and Melanie reviewed: Silverclay beginners jewellery workshop in Newcastle upon Tyne

"As complete beginners Claire explained everything really well which enabled us to make five lovely pieces between us to take away. Claire is patient, knowledgeable and full of ideas and tips which she gladly shares. Attending this has given us the confidence to go it alone. We would recommend a visit to Claires studio for anyone thinking of attempting silver clay work."

ToDot Handcrafted Goods responded:

"Thank you! It was a pleasure to teach you yesterday and I had a lovely morning!"

Gosia reviewed: Flower crown workshop & bubbly in Brighton

"It was an absolutely perfect afternoon! Charlie was a very kind, warm and professional host. She made me feel very comfortable during the workshop. Everything was perfectly organised and I had great time! I highly recommend the Flower Crown workshop, 5 stars"