Latest reviews

Shelley reviewed: Beginners Pottery Day Course

"For at least the last five years I have wanted to go on a course of throwing but have been plagued by illness and injuries. So last week when I was 'mended' enough I jumped at the chance to book something. I did a lot of research and even though there are many tutors closer to home I really felt I should follow my instincts not to mention glowing reviews. So glad I did!! Mathew and his wife Rachel are delightful. I had an horrendous journey and arrived flustered but Mathew immediately put me at ease and I knew we were going to have a great day. He is a exceptionally talented tutor - calm, methodical, friendly, knowledgeable and kind. Not every potter can teach how to centre clay or show a beginner the ropes. I was delighted with the results and absolutely know I want to learn more - in fact have thought of little else since I left his studio. Bizarrely every pot I have picked up since I have scrutinised and run my fingers through it's 'walls' I am now on a big drive to find funds for my own wheel. I seriously cannot thank Mathew enough."

Sue Earps reviewed: 'Glass for the garden' with the Cheshire School of Glass

"My sister-in-law and I had a great day. Jenny is an excellent teacher and she makes you feel like you're an expert. She was generous with the materials and the tea. I would highly recommend a course with her, even if you're not particularly artistic, this is a course you will come away from with a great sense of achievement"

Sue Greaves reviewed: One day silver clay course at Gallery in Heswall, Wirral

"We had a brilliant day. Georgina was a great teacher - she guided us really well, but also let us do our own thing, and we made some lovely pieces. It's not a cheap craft to do, but this course is very good value. Beautiful venue too. Highly recommended!"

Rachael Grant reviewed: Beginners candle making private workshop - Marlow, Buckinghamshire

"I absolutely loved this candle making workshop, it was the best thing I have done in ages! Made to feel very welcome and I learnt so much, got to take home all my candles, which were a lot! Cannot wait to have a go at home and I am looking forward to an intermediate course in the future after Christmas, was reallly good and I highly recommend this, Thank you so much ?"

Candle by Events responded:

"Thank you for your lovely feedback, keep me posted on how you get on making some at home :)"

Ruth Simpson reviewed: From fleece to fibre 2-day spinning workshop

"Where to start...? I booked a two day course for my daughter and I, and together with another keen beginner (a man) , we set off with Elaine to learn all about fleece, and how to make yarn. Elaine was endlessly patient and very informative, and it was fascinating. I had my own wheel, which I took with me, and it was great to actually make it work! At the end of the course, we all had yarn to take home, and a burning desire to make some more. Three days later I was at World of Wool in Huddersfield, buying fluff, and my daughter had already taken delivery of a drop spindle and wool! Thanks Elaine, for helping us discover a new hobby. ? Oh, and she makes a lovely lunch too!"

Alan Vickers reviewed: Stained glass weekly classes in Sheffield (South Yorkshire)

"I have thoroughly enjoyed my recent “stained glass” course and booked for the next one. Martin is knowledgeable and friendly making learning easy,his studio is large and well equipped. I would highly recommend him to anyone interested in learning stained glass techniques."

Mo Wood reviewed: Glass fusing private class - fun taster class for beginners

"Glass Fusing - Fun, Creative and Excellent Value A warm welcome was given to Heather and myself as we slightly nervously entered Sarah 's Studio . The organisation and availability of materials were impressive. We were taught well and give freedom to make a piece of jewellery . I thoroughly enjoyed making my Snowman Decoration and will think fondly of the course when I use my pretty cocktail stirrer in my gin! I valued being in a relaxing and creative environment. I learnt about the crafting skills needed and I valued the way we were led through the two hours Thank you and good luck for Sarah's next exhibition . I unreservedly recommend Sarah's class. Yours sincerely, Mo Wood"

Debbie Bywater reviewed: Glass Fusing and Slumping for Beginners and Improvers

"Would highly recommend this course. Janice and Jean are informative, helpful, encouraging and very knowledgeable. The day flew by and I was extremely pleased with the pieces I made. I was so impressed I have asked my children to book another course as a Birthday present. Foods really good too."

JJ Fused Glass responded:

"Thank you so much Debbie for taking the time to do this. It was really lovely to meet you and your enthusiasm! We’re so pleased you enjoyed your first experience of fusing glass. We look forward to your next visit."

Dan Howarth-Roffe reviewed: Spoon carving for beginners - morning

"Highly recommend doing this course as an introduction to carving. I learned some great skills and actually produced something that resembled a spoon!! Would probably recommend two sessions to complete although I came home and instantly ordered a spoon carving knife to finish the job. Stephen is an excellent tutor and the whole session was really fun yet set in a really relaxing atmosphere that takes you out of the busy life you may lead outside..The workshop is fully stocked with good quality tools and incredible ongoing works. Book now.. You won’t be disappointed! I can’t wait to do my next course."

Paul Burry reviewed: Green Wood Chair Making - 6 Day Woodworking Course in South Devon

"Thank you Peter for a wonderful, if strenuous, 6 day Green Wood chair making course. I had previously attended Peter's introductory course and wanted to try something more ambitious. There were 6 of us on the course of differing experience and ability and Peter ensured that we all went home with a completed chair, additionally I decided to make a child's chair with the attendant recalculations of sizes etc. but with the necessary guidance managed to complete the task. It is hard work but very rewarding working in such a wonderful medium."

Daniella reviewed: Paper Making - Hand Made Recycled Paper

"I really enjoyed myself and I'm so happy my mum brought me along! You can get through a lot, and it's very do-able at home. Thank you for teaching us and answering questions. Your store/workshop space is amazing also."

Lisa Heller reviewed: Stained glass weekly classes in Sheffield (South Yorkshire)

"I really enjoy the class. Martin is an excellent teacher, giving clear instruction, guidance and help and enabling students to work at their own pace with friendly support and encouragement. There is always a positive and friendly atmosphere, and Martin is always happy to provide extra help when needed. I look forward to starting the classes again in the New Year."

Vikki reviewed: Paper Making - Hand Made Recycled Paper

"This class was really good value, it is amazing what you can learn in a couple of hours. Wendy was a friendly teacher that explained things well as she talked us through making a deckle ( frame to make paper in) and did a demonstration of what we were going to do to make our paper. It was great fun deciding what to include in each sheet and exciting to see how each piece came out. Wendy was on hand to remind us of the steps and we were given a handout detailing the process as well as our deckles to take home. We were a small group of 4, it was nice meeting the others taking part. Wendy also packaged up our still damp creations ( I made 3 pieces others made 4/5) so that we could take them home to let them dry out properly. I loved what I made and will be turning my paper into gift tags. I will be making more at home but would definitely like to visit The Little Craftery to do some more craft courses with Wendy. Thank you Wendy!"

Kat reviewed: Beginners lino printing

"5 stars - a lot of fun"

Jan reviewed: Beginners lino printing

"I was a complete beginner to working with lino but this was thoroughly informative - I'm pleased & will book again. Thanks to Anne for the biscuits!"

Sarah reviewed: Beginners lino printing

"I've always wanted to learn lino and came on this class in September. It's a great introduction to the process, taught in a small class in a large space, so plenty of room for working. I enjoyed using the presses, but am glad that this is an easy one to do my Christmas cards in at home this month!"

Kate reviewed: Beginners lino printing

"I learnt a lot on this valuable course. All of the steps to complete a reduction lino plate and print it in two colours. I chose something quite ambitious, but managed to fit it in, just in time. Great teaching & fab space x"

Miranda Lambourne reviewed: Lino Printing Day with Oxford Linocut Workshops

"Claire is inspirational - from the moment you walk into her studio, you are surrounded by her incredible work and her calm, warm energy. Claire was so encouraging and patient, and through her gentle support and guidance I was able to produce a piece of work I was thrilled with, and which was completely my own. I entered the course a complete beginner and left with the confidence and enthusiasm to carry on independently. What a wonderful way to spend an afternoon!"

Lynne Booty reviewed: Needle felted Dogs and Cats in Hebden Bridge

"Thoroughly enjoyed the course. Never done needle felting before. Was a nice relaxed atmosphere, had an enjoyable day & went away with a needle felted dog that resembled my own dog."

Christine Potter reviewed: Needle felt landscapes workshop on Orkney, including lunch

"As a complete novice to needle felting I wasn't sure what to expect - but with Catherine's wonderful explanations, demonstrations and guidance throughout the day I was able to produce a landscape picture that I am very proud of. Her enthusiasm has given me the motivation to continue with this craft and develop my skills further. She is an excellent teacher, with great sensitivity - she knows when to offer help and when to leave us to develop our own imagination and creativity. hank you for a lovely day!"

Annette reviewed: Batik your initial in Ripley, Derbyshire

"I had the most amazing day learning batik. Located in the town with free parking just across the market square. Stylish studio with great feel, big windows for lots of light and a very warm welcome. Sue did short demonstrations and encouraged questions. It was lovely having the day to relax, explore and learn techniques used in this craft. I still am blown away by the versatility and scope reflected in everyone's work on the day.....I have the batik bug!"

Attic Batik responded:

"Thank you Annette. I'm so happy you've caught the batik bug! The possibilities with Batik are endless. Hope to see you in the studio again soon."

Emma Bavin reviewed: Weekend introductory blacksmithing course 'B' at Quinnell School of Blacksmithing

"This was a fantastic course! Ambrose was a great tutor, stepping us through various techniques and supporting us when we had a go ourselves. Some students had previous experience and others were total beginners but Ambrose and Eammon were there for us all, giving expert guidance both and helping hands where needed. Dick also joined us on Sunday, further adding to the expertise. Delicious cakes, lunch and good strong tea kept us going all day! It was great to work with friendly, like-minded people and a pleasure to see people's visions brought to life by the end of Sunday. Planning another visit soon!"

Audrey Elliott reviewed: Fused glass Xmas decorations: morning workshop YOU MAKE YOUR OWN GROP UP

"I first attended Julie's workshop last year to make Christmas Decorations. I had such a great time and loved my decorations so couldn't wait to make more. Julie is so welcoming and friendly and very helpful. Everything was laid out ready, including excellent refreshments. A great afternoon making decorations, chatting and laughing amongst friends and I love my new decorations. Very good value for money. I would definitely recommend one of Julie's workshops, two hours of relaxation and fun."

Lesley W reviewed: Oak stool making experience - rustic carpentry & green wood work

"Just enjoyed a 'mother and daughter' day making lovely oak/ash stools' at Ian's workshop. It was a truly brilliant day learning this craft, which we both thoroughly enjoyed. Even though I was a complete beginner working with wood Ian was very patient and supportive throughout the process and we came away with a treasured piece of furniture and the memory of a fabulous day. Thank you Ian!!"

Dawn Cottam reviewed: Learn to Turn in the Dartmoor National Park

"Great one day course! I was given this as a gift and it couldn't have been better. Chris is extremely informative and gives just the right guidance for you to create your own piece of functional art work. He gently guides you on a journey to turning a block of wood into a beautiful bowl that you can be proud of, with no experience necessary. Safety is at the forefront of Chris' instruction, so using the tools and machinery become second nature. I would highly recommend this course with Chris."