Latest reviews

Charles reviewed: Box making weekend in Cumbria

"I made a box! The only thing I have ever before made out of wood was kindling and a fire, I left Mark's workshop with a fine wooden box of which I was very proud. The workshop was very well organised, Mark is a great tutor with a very "put you at ease" style which took any apprehension away. Having selected the style of box, received safety training on the machinery we set about cutting the wood and assembling the pieces that would eventually be the box. This was a practical hands on box making workshop, progressing at my work rate. I learnt to use various types of machinery and Mark was always on hand to advise if needed. I thoroughly enjoyed the workshop, I have confidence to tackle other projects and will be back to learn skills on a wood turning lathe. Having started with no knowledge I can thoroughly recommend this workshop as great value and giving a new skill to be proud of. Brilliant!"

Belinda Hearn reviewed: Fabric printing & lampshade making workshop

"I spent a lovely day recently in Ria’s lampshade making workshop. Ria was very supportive throughout the day and I learned lots of new skills. Even though I was an absolute beginner in this, I came away with a unique lampshade that now sits proudly in my craft room. I would definitely recommend this to anyone looking to try something new. Thank you for a great day, Ria."

Miranda Chamberlain reviewed: Creative Vibe - Glassblowing Sessions

"I had a wonderful day trying my hand at glass blowing with Creative Vibes. The location is idyllic, set in outbuildings of an old Rectory House along a quiet country lane and the groups are kept small. Despite having no experience the course was very hands on, always with Ricky's calm and knowledgeable tuition. I made three pieces on the day which I never dreamt I could have created before I started. I have already been recommending the course to others!"

Matt & Gemma Turvey reviewed: Beginners introductory pyrography course in Lincolnshire

"This is an excellent course. Neither of us had any particular artistic flare but Susan bought it out of us as we went through the course. This was our first time doing pyrography and Susan provided all the tips and techniques needed to get us started. Set in a relax environment you work at your own pace. Susan is really informative and so friendly we had such a god day."

Yvonne reviewed: Private One to One Stained glass by Le Breton Traditional (near Exeter/Crediton/Tiverton)

"Lost my stained glass course after many years when the local council made sweeping budget cuts. Couldn't believe my good fortune when my daughter booked me up for this while staying locally. Only wish it could have been a week! Thank you, Matt, for your skills, your enthusiasm and detailed support. Very much hope to come again!"

Bryony Franklin reviewed: Fused glass day course - beginners/intermediate

"This was a perfect day from start to finish. Nicky was very welcoming a her non directive approach allowed us to be as creative as we wanted to be but she showed us some examples to help give us some inspiration. She was there if we needed her but gave us space to experiment. There was plenty of equipment and materials to use and Nicky put no limits on how many pieces we wanted to make. Topped with a fabulous setting, I can't recommend this course enough. I would love to return. Thanks Nicky."

Bryony Franklin reviewed: Fused glass day course - beginners/intermediate

"This was a perfect day from start to finish. Nicky was very welcoming a her non directive approach allowed us to be as creative as we wanted to be but she showed us some examples to help give us some inspiration. She was there if we needed her but gave us space to experiment. There was plenty of equipment and materials to use and Nicky put no limits on how many pieces we wanted to make. Topped with a fabulous setting, I can't recommend this course enough. I would love to return. Thanks Nicky."

lesley reviewed: Fine Nuno Felted Scarf with 3D Embellishment Online Class

"I had the best day I was nervous initially but soon that left me after we introduced ourselves at the beginning. I came away with a scarf to be proud off and say I made it. It was hard work on your muscle but the aches after are worth it. Made new friends and now understand the love people get for this craft and cannot wait to do another project. Lena is a great teacher even with students that don't lisen fully and do the odd mistakes and course trouble like me."

Kate Inglis reviewed: Screen printing at Danywern

"This course was brilliant fun, and I was delighted with my finished set of cards. Rachel made everything very easy and shared her extensive knowledge and enthusiasm with us. All the equipment you need is provided and the setting is in such a beautiful location, it really was a treat to go there. I will definitely be back for another course!"

Richard Holt reviewed: Beginners woodturning course

"Having done some of Ciaran's other woodworking courses I knew this course would be excellent and it was. Ciaran goes over all aspects of the lathe and the tools needed to produce quality items, whilst teaching you to do it in a safe manner. Very quickly you will be producing great items such as Honey Dippers, Pens, Seed Dibbers and Bowls. As there are four of you on the course Ciaran is always on hand to help as well as answer questions and most importantly you never feel rushed, which allows you to create your masterpieces. From someone looking to take up Woodworking more seriously Ciaran also goes over how to sharpen your tools, which is really really invaluable. And as a real treat Ciaran takes you to a local pub for an excellent lunch and it gives you time to reflect on what you have learnt and bounce ideas off the other students."

Paul Albrecht reviewed: Furniture making course: Fundamentals of Furniture Making Part 2 (beginner) - Surrey

"I enjoyed this course very much. Aidan was very attentive in giving us step-by-step guidance, and offered patience and encouragement, without pressure. His attention to detail was inspiring. Thank you!"

Richard Holt reviewed: Intermediate woodworking course

"Having done the excellent basic woodworking course with Ciaran last year I was really looking forward to the intermediate woodworking course to take my skills up a level. Ciaran didn't disappoint, I was able to do a range of more advance joints including Dovetails under Ciaran's guidance. The table you produce at the end of the course is really high quality and an excellent present for friends and family. And the class sizes are perfect as you really interact with the other students and Ciaran is always on hand to answer any questions. I just can't wait to put all my skills in to practice that I have learnt from Ciaran."

Paul reviewed: Four day intensive beginners woodwork course

"Ciaran is an excellent tutor, the course takes you from basics through to a finished piece of useful furniture - the main thing I got out of this course was confidence in having a go. I had all the books and tools but not necessarily the confidence to "go for it". Ciaran paces the course so no one is waiting or feeling pressured to catch up. His teaching manor is informative without being condescending. I positively looked forward to going in each day. I cannot recommend it enough."

Helen reviewed: Private One to One Stained glass by Le Breton Traditional (near Exeter/Crediton/Tiverton)

"It is a rare treat to be able to take a weekend “out” to spend crafting and I could not have wished for more convivial company or a more ideal location in which to do so. From being met on arrival to departure on Sunday afternoon the whole weekend was filled with high quality instruction in the art of stained glass, encompassing both copper foiling and leading, cutting techniques and glass painting. The latter was my particular interest as I have some experience of cutting and leading and my pre agreed project was designed around this desire.Matt gave encouragement and information in equal measure and I would feel confident to continue this type of work in my kiln at home now. I would not have been able to experience half as much technique had the gas kiln which he brought not been so amazingly quick for firing so that I could process the pieces through multiple firings each day, to accomplish colour and silver staining several times, so if painting stained glass is your thing then Matt is your man! Oh, and do stay overnight, the food at the Kingcombe centre was superb, plentiful, delicious and wholesome and the accommodation clean and comfortable, though WiFi and phone signal a little difficult to find. Maybe in hindsight another bonus as who wants to be distracted by the world from such a beautiful crafting bubble?"

Emma Forster reviewed: Business candle making workshop - one to one

"I spent a super informative day at can to candle! I would highly recommend this course to anyone interested or even considering candle making as a business. Kerrylyn was so organised and helpful! I thoroughly enjoyed it!"

Vicki reviewed: Private One to One Stained glass by Le Breton Traditional (near Exeter/Crediton/Tiverton)

"Rare to have the opportunity to work alongside a true master craftsman who has the patience and teaching skill needed to build creative and practical confidence in a short space of time. My 10 yr old daughter and I have loved making stained glass panels and learning glass painting techniques in Matt’s classes and now feel confident to try making stained glass at home. Highly recommend."

Emma & Helen reviewed: M

"My sister and I thoroughly enjoyed the day, we learnt so many new skills that we can’t wait to try out on some garden projects. Beautiful location, lovely big studio with lots of mosaics everywhere to draw inspiration from. Maddie was so patient and helpful and were pleased how well our first attempts turned out. Would recommend the workshop to anyone-FAB day!"

Maddie Janes responded:

"Thank you Emma and Helen :0]"

Kate reviewed: Private One to One Stained glass by Le Breton Traditional (near Exeter/Crediton/Tiverton)

"What a weekend! Went in with very little glass experience and a vague design idea, came out with a lovely leaded piece and a couple of small copper foiled pieces I manage to make in extra time, as my design was fairly simple. But one of the main message of the course is... don't rush! Matt is a patient and very knowledgeable teacher, goes through every step, including different techniques, giving you the option to pick your own 'glass journey'. We went through everything from glass cutting, painting, leading and copper foiling. Some students made stunning intricate pieces and skill level ranged from beginner to advanced, so something for everyone. Have to mention the amazing Kingcombe Centre - a beautiful venue in a nature reserve, which allowed us to relax and focus on our work as well as unwinding in a beautiful setting. I chose the residential option; the accommodation was lovely and the food was incredible! All locally sourced, delicious, and huge portions. This really was a holiday as well as a workshop! I went on Matt's one day glass painting course previously and cannot recommend his classes highly enough."

Josephine Morris reviewed: Screen printing at Danywern

"The course was excellent, and it was so good to try a new skill. Rachel is such a patient teacher, and explained the whole procedure so well. The environment is so beautiful at the workshop, so peaceful and lovely. Rachel made the day fun and relaxing, and I enjoyed spending time with the others on the course. I hope to attend many more courses with Rachel in the future. Thank you so much for the great experience."

Rachel Cadman Craft Courses responded:

"Thank you Jo, I hope you come again soon! xxx"

Janice gray reviewed: Fine Nuno Felted Scarf with 3D Embellishment Online Class

"I have never felted before , but Lena made it look really easy. She explained everything really well and helped us as we worked . She was really welcoming and friendly, just what you need when you attend a course on your own. Small groups so Lena is able to help when needed. I loved it, and came away with a beautiful nuns felted scarf. I am amazed at how professional it looks. I really enjoyed it and would definitely attend another course, well worth the cost."

Gill Anderson reviewed: Realistic and Adorable Needle Felt Animals & Pets

"Thank you Sophie. What an amazing day and brilliant course. Sophie is an inspirational teacher and is very generous sharing her expertise and tips. Sophie takes you through the exciting process of fleece to animal, in understandable steps, explaining the tools and wools that are best to use. I have booked another day next month and am really looking forward to creating another dog. In addition to the great course, we were kept refreshed with coffee, tea soft drinks and snacks plus a super lunch. A+ rating from me , Gill"

SCREEN PRINT A BOXED SET OF CARDS reviewed: Half day workshop in lino, screenprinting, drypoint or collagraph.

"I leved every moment of this experience, from the drive up the land to the exquisite location, to putting the lid on my precious box of cards! Rachel was the best of teachers, drawing out hidden talents, and through her guidance I was astonished to find that I could draw. She made the process very easy to understand despite the fact that I had feared complexities - there were none. Id love to go back to do some printing on fabrics. Highly recommended!"

Rachel Cadman Craft Courses responded:

"I am so glad you enjoyed your day, your cards are lovely! Best wishes R"

Maggie reviewed: A fabulous introduction to fused glass - one day course

"Booked this day as a present for my sister and so that we could try something new! Soibhan explained each step clearly and her enthusiasm and sense of humour made the day fly by! We would both love to go again to build on what we learnt the first time. Highly recommend, especially if you’re a novice and think ‘I can’t do that’ - you can! Have a go!"

Elizabeth Boyall reviewed: Highland stool making course - Scottish Highlands

"This course was brilliant! I absolutely recommend it for a relaxing weekend in a beautiful location with a chance to get creative! You learn in a small group, so there is plenty of help available. I am so chuffed with my stool and can't stop admiring it! I have been showing it off to everyone! It is certainly something I would do again. Aaron is a thoroughly lovely young man."

John Dowling reviewed: Plaster mould making for slip cast ceramics with Ed Bentley

"I spent 3 days with Ed, what a great guy. I am a retired architect and wanted to take up slip cast ceramics, as the design, mould making and the possibility of repetition appeals to me. It was great to see how the professional goes about things and learn some of the 'wrinkles' that are not obvious to the inexperienced. I really enjoyed being able to discuss technicalities and possible alternative ways of doing things. An unexpected bonus was that I found turning plaster on a lathe quite therapeutic! I recommend Ed's patient and professional tuition to anyone wanting to learn the art of mould making in a fun and relaxed atmosphere."