Latest reviews

Nick Rees reviewed: Make a Windsor chair

"I originally did a green wood turning course with Ben and loved it. I then signed up for the ten week chair making course. It was a small group of great people and Ben made us all welcome. He spent lots of time with us individually guiding us through each step of the process. The techniques were varied but all very achievable. The resulting chairs were all finished to a high standard and we were all left wanting more. Ben is flexible and really easy to work with and has even been known to give extra tuition for a packet of hobnobs."

Alastair reviewed: Make a Windsor chair

"Such a good course...I have in fact now signed up to build a second chair in August on one of Ben's courses in Wales. You start with a couple of logs, and 10 weeks later you have a very smart-looking formal chair. You get to use loads of challenging hand tools, foot lathes, etc. All well explained and supported by Ben. A small class of 4 means you always get enough one-to-one tuition if you're stuck. I really recommend it."

Lis Spence reviewed: Two leather long stitch journals in a day

"I booked two places on this course as a birthday present for a 'crafty' friend. We both had a great day and went home with two journals which were completely different and individual and of which we were inordinately proud. Lynne is a wonderful teacher, so patient and accommodating. Let's you do everything yourself but is there keeping an eye out to guide you where needed. Oh and the homemade cherry cake was delicious."

Mari reviewed: Stone Carving Workshop

"I attended a two day stone carving course with Oliver Coe. I thought the course was excellent. We learnt so many new skills and techniques. The setting was exceptional and it's a good team effort with Oliver and Rosina co-ordinating the day like clockwork. I have already expressed an interest in attending another course."

Leslie Eames reviewed: Acrylic Painting

"What can I say except an exceptional day of tuition with a great teacher John. He and his wife made me so welcome and relaxed as I was nervous as I have never painted. This is a course that is well worth having a go and learning something new for me. Thank you for the wonderful coffee break, then a delightful lunch, Highly recommended"

Glenda Hall reviewed: Make a Windsor chair

"As soon as I found out about Ben and his London courses I was super keen to make a chair. Over the last ten weeks I have had a great time, met some lovely people, learnt lots of new skills and made a really beautiful chair. Ben is an excellent teacher, giving you the freedom to work independently but always willing to help if you get in a pickle. His endless patience and positivity have made the course an absolute joy and I would really love to do another one soon."

Chris white reviewed: Free-machine Embroidery Workshop with Dawn Ireland

"Although I have been an enthusiastic sewer all my life I didn’t know how to do free machine embroidery. Within minutes Dawn explained how to set my sewing machine for embroidery. I would encourage any sewer to have a go. Many thanks Dawn."

Kim Chambers reviewed: Candle making course (introductory) - in the heart of the Ashdown Forest, Sussex

"We had the most amazing time with Simon, who was so knowledgeable and a great tutor - we all thoroughly enjoyed the experience and would highly recommend it - super excited that we came away with lots of lovely candles :)"

Frances Black reviewed: Table Loom Weaving Workshop - Dobby & Rose

"Loved this course. Rebecca is an excellent teacher, very inspirational and gave me lots of practical advice (I am planning to get some alpacas when I retire and process the wool myself). The day just flew by and I'm now completely hooked!"

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

"I attended this day course at the Forge Studio, what a fantastic friendly experience and really great fun, Siobhan Jones is a fantastic teacher, really enthusiastic she made the whole fused glass experience very interesting and understandable, to attend this course you require no experience and you finish the day with several completed pieces of work. I can't wait to book another days course"

Ian Cockburn reviewed: Firebird Forge Blacksmithing School

"I had a cracking day at the Firebird Forge. In the sweltering Summer heat, Mort the Smith taught, helped and guided us through the basics of blacksmithery. The six hours flew by in a flurry of planning, chatting, hitting, twisting, heating, more hitting, drawing, bending, correcting, chatting, and a little more hitting. To come out of the day with a passable item that passed the "allowed in the house" test was both a surprise and a pleasure. It was a joy to meet someone so passionate about his craft and chosen career. Go on, book a day."

Ann Goddard reviewed: One day silver jewellery making in Worcestershire.

"My daughter Hannah and I booked onto the course for Hannah’s birthday and had such a great day. Jonathan is friendly, welcoming and a very patient tutor. The boat is well equipped and comfortable- and Jonathan even moved it to a shadier spot in view of the recent hot spell. We had great fun working with the copper wire and trying out new techniques ready to start on our rings after lunch. We at both really pleased with what we achieved and inspired to try more. A great find and one we would both recommend"

Salt Way Silver responded:

"Thank you Annie, it was a good day. Well done to both of you. I hope you both enjoy further jewellery making adventures! Jonathan"

Bronwen Shepherd reviewed: Feltmaking OOH the choices!

"My husband and I both had a fabulous day with Barbara, making Nuno felt scarves....! My husband hadn't planned to come along - long story! - but was pleased he did. Barbara is a superb tutor - she inspires with lots of samples and ideas, and explains the process very clearly; she's very professional and very welcoming. I wouldn't hesitate in recommending this course/workshop - if you're on your own, with a friend of in a group, I'm sure you'd have fun...and you get to leave with a stunning Nuno felt scarf, too!"

Feltworld - Creative Arts responded:

"Hi Bron. Thank you for your lovely and very encouraging review. At times this business can be difficult but I like you love to teach and inspire. Best wishes Barbara"

Jan Russell reviewed: Sunday afternoon watercolour painting florals - with Artist Laura Andrew

"I had the best day with Laura, having dabbled with a little bit of watercolour, and a little acrylic, and went along to begin to build my skillset, knowledge and approach, and to have some fun. Laura is highly talented, extremely student centred and I felt really encouraged and bold enough to try new things. Lovely feel in the studio, and lunch was tasty with a little indulgence. Excellent value, and I am going back again in a month, treating my sister as I think she will enjoy it too! I thoroughly recommend Laura's course."

Sue Stow reviewed: Stone carving for beginners - one day course at Sculpture by the Lakes with John Davey

"I did the two hour workshop with John during Dorset Art Weeks and was so inspired that I signed up for the four hour course three weeks later. I now have two stone carvings in Portland stone which have pride of place in my garden. John is an excellent teacher who manages to get the best out of his students. I am really disappointed that I won't be able to do the one day course at Sculpture by the Lakes as I would really like to develop my technique. Here's hoping for more courses!"

Art & Inspiration at Sculpture by the Lakes responded:

"Thank you so much for letting us know about your course with John and so glad you enjoyed it. Although you can't make his one day course on 2nd September, we will certainly be holding another stone carving day with him, so please do keep in touch with us via our website or through Craft Courses."

Chris Allin reviewed: Introduction to traditional green wood turning course

"I can only re-iterate what the reviews point out. A very enjoyable, instructive and productive day from Simon, who is very patient and encouraging to a student with no previous knowledge of woodturning. A new enthusiasm is born !!! Highly recommend !!"

Jack Armitage reviewed: Blacksmithing Introduction courses in Yorkshire and the North East

"Fantastic day ( flowers ) my 4 th course Adrian and Andy are on hand to solve any problems. Debbie provides fantastic food from home made cakes and biscuits to a fabulous vegetarian lunch followed by cheese and a gorgeous pudding. I can't believe what can be created under the expert tuition of Adrian and Andy Brilliant Brilliant day . Be warned you lot I'll be back along with Dax . You have been warned lol XXX"

Lyn Jones reviewed: Eco Printing and Dyeing at Sweet Nothings in South West France 7 day Rural Retreat

"A fabulous relaxing week. Natalie and Lawrence are the perfect hosts-nothing is too much trouble for them. Excellent food, comfortable beds, rooms en suite, lovely bathrooms . House and gardens full of rustic charm."

Sweet Nothings Arts and Craft Retreat responded:

"Thank you for your kind words, we are thrilled that you had a good experience at the retreat and look forward to seeing you next year!"

Debra F reviewed: Candle making class & bubbly in Brighton & Hove

"Brilliant course. I have some experience with candle making but was able to fire loads of questions at Charlie who was very informative. Very personal and would highly recommend!"

Edward reviewed: Make a Welsh stick chair

"I think the other reviews here cover things nicely - I'll only add that I've done a few woodwork courses and this wins hands down - in terms of setting, teacher, and finished product!"

Ginette reviewed: Introduction to candle-making as a business

"What a truly fantastic day! I highly recommend attending this workshop. Its fun, informative, interesting and above all very enjoyable. Jo is not only a wonderful person, she builds rapport quickly and puts you at your ease before imparting a wealth of knowledge borne from her own experiences. You will come away armed with a bag full of your own beautiful homemade candles, a reference sheet full of useful information and a head full of ideas. I also purchased a bag full of gifts for special occasions plus a treat to help remember a fun packed day. Thank you Jo and have a super time at the markets selling your beloved Christmas candles! Am sure you will sell out fast!"

The White Candle Company responded:

"Thank you so much Ginette. It was really lovely to meet you - what a great "first class" I had with the 3 of you. I hope you don't mind, but I've put a copy of this on IG, about time we all celebrated positive things I feel! Take care and best wishes for the future. xx"

Monika Jones reviewed: Glass Fusing with Enamels - Two Day Course

"I had been looking forward to this course for months since booking last year. The course not only lived up to my expectations but exceeded them. Steve Robinson apart from being a brilliant glass artist is generous with his knowledge and experience and can make comparative beginners feel as if they have achieved something amazing , which of course we did. Mistakes notwithstanding, I was very pleased with my glass pieces, which certainly would not have been achieved without Steve's help, advice and enthusiasm to keep going when mistakes were made - he has a wonderful vacuum nozzle which can transform an error into something of which to be proud. I would advise anyone to try his courses and when one realises the cost of materials, the course costs can be very acceptable. I loved it enough to consider going again"

Rachel Glasgow reviewed: Table Loom Weaving Workshop - Dobby & Rose

"Excellent course, I can well recommend it. Rebecca is lovely and the setting is idyllic."

Karen Russell reviewed: Copper Foil Technique Stained Glass

"We had such a lovely time with Amanda who was patient and helpful with complete beginners. We came away with beautiful glass window catchers and inspired to do this again."

Adele Edgar reviewed: Needle felted Dogs and Cats in Hebden Bridge

"Lovely relaxed atmosphere, loved my felt dog, great to spend a day in Hebden too."