Latest reviews

Andy Toogood reviewed: Blacksmithing Introduction courses in Yorkshire and the North East

"Adrian, Andy and Debbie made a cold day in March a more than warm and hospitable day. Friendliness exuded from every moment, I travelled for two hours having felt really jaded and worn out from work and wasn't sure if I had the ability to enjoy my 50th birthday present. But enjoy it I did, the teaching was excellent, informative, erudite and witty. I gained so much new knowledge and skills it was truly awesome. Then it was interspersed with Debbie mouth watering fayre, not to mention the array of distinguished cheeses (all with a wonderful local provenance). I am most definitely a late convert to blacksmithing, wished I had done this earlier and I can't wait to go back for my next course. A five star course given by five star people."

Garima Dhawan reviewed: Necklaces, handmade beads, ancient fresco-style, papiermache recipe

"Amazing workshop and some beautiful necklaces. Thankyou"

Xandra Gilchrist reviewed: Necklaces, handmade beads, ancient fresco-style, papiermache recipe

"Your workshop was excellent - both relaxing and intense. Thanks for sharing your creative skills and time."

Rachel Dixon reviewed: Floristry workshops using seasonal local flowers

"I absolutely love Catherine’s workshops and have been to several. They are well organised, really fun and you get to take home something beautiful that you have made yourself! I’m always amazed by what I can make with the right guidance on these workshops. The choice of flowers/foliage and accessories is impressive so there is always something for everybody. I would definitely recommend these workshops, once you have been to one, you will be hooked!"

Louise reviewed: Jewellery Making & Silversmithing - Weekly Evening & Daytime Courses at Studio Budgie Galore Sheffield

"The studio is well equipped with everything you need, spacious and always warm and welcoming. Following the introductory course which is taught and covers basic silversmithing techniques to get you started you can then attend 8 week terms. There is always plenty of excellent supervision and advice from very experienced teachers. The class sizes are small, the atmosphere is relaxed with enthusiasm and support in abundance. I look forward to my Monday evenings and Jules and Melissa won't be getting rid of me any time soon!"

Hilary Shuttler reviewed: Stained glass weekly classes in Sheffield (South Yorkshire)

"I have attended the classes with Martin for the last year. Martin is always encouraging and supportive, giving advice, praise and constructive criticism where appropriate. My confidence and skills have developed considerably since joining his course."

Martin Cavicchioni reviewed: Blacksmithing, bladesmithing and metal craft

"This was a birthday gift from my fiancee and what a cracker of a day it turned out to be! What can I say about Nigel that hasn't already been said, brilliant, funny, entertaining and of course a true craftsman and artist in every sense of the word. The workshops reflect Nigel's passion, filled with a fabulous collection of mechanical hammers and tools from a bygone era and the gardens with shepherd huts and sculptures. At the end of the day to walk away with several hand crafted pieces, ( which I was very happy with ) is a true reflection of Nigel's ability to convey his passion and wealth of knowledge to all around him. A huge thank you to Nigel for the best day I've had in years and look forward to booking my next course soon."

Rhian reviewed: 2 Day Silver Jewellery Making Course - Ely

"I discovered Jonathan’s courses via an internet search around a year ago. I’m so glad I took the plunge and went for it eventually. The two days went by so quickly - we had great fun and covered lots during our time working together. I came away with a beautiful silver ring and pendant, plus a copper pendant. Lunch was fabulous - even catering for my special dietary needs with no problems. Plus there was plenty of tea, coffee and flapjacks throughout the weekend! I’ve definitely discovered a new interest and can’t wait until the two day stone setting course I’m enrolled on later this year. If you’re interested in making silver jewellery, sign up on one of Jonathan’s courses - you won’t regret it!"

Paul Sykes reviewed: Spoon carving day with JoJo Wood

"As a complete novice this course was an excellent introduction with a chance to tackle two projects during the day. JoJo's concentration on correct holds and use of the tools in developing situations was most helpful and enable good progress during the day."

Laura wilson reviewed: Silverclay beginners jewellery workshop in Newcastle upon Tyne

"I booked the silver clay course with Claire and she offered me a one to one session and was very quick and prompt about this. The course itself was brilliant. I learnt everything I needed to know to start this hobby at home and Claire went above and beyond to get me the information necessary to do this. She gave me a pack with all the info I needed and even sent follow up emails with more info. She is very attentive and helped me make some amazing pieces. I would definitely recommend her to anyone ??"

Valerie Faulks reviewed: Oak stool making experience - rustic carpentry & green wood work

"This course is great, I enjoyed it very much. I had no experience at all of working with wood beforehand, but with Ian’s patient and encouraging tuition I was able to take home a very strong, attractive and useful stool, with which I am delighted. I went to the course on my own, there was one other student on the day, and it was a very relaxed and comfortable atmosphere with plenty of one-on-one instruction. Thank you, Ian."

Pat Glanfield reviewed: Jewellery Making & Silversmithing - Weekly Evening & Daytime Courses at Studio Budgie Galore Sheffield

"I chanced upon Studio Budgie Galore at 'Art in the Gardens', the Botanical Gardens in Sheffield. I loved the idea of the items it was possible to make and signed up for a Taster course, which amounted to 8 hours. This finished just before Christmas and was brilliant! Not only did I make a silver ring, but also some earrings that I was able to give as presents. Since then I have continued to attend weekly sessions and continue to learn new techniques. I have been asked to make things for friends, which is a lovely thing to do, as it means they like what I'm doing. Highly recommended."

Ashley Warden reviewed: Woodturning workshops - one day

"Just a short note to thank you for sharing your knowledge and showing patience and restraint when a complete novice makes a complete hash of it! Very much enjoyed the day and many thanks for sharing your skills with me. Regards Ash"

Gordon Ford reviewed: Blacksmithing Introduction courses in Yorkshire and the North East

"For anyone interested in a Blacksmiths taster day I can strongly recommend AW Blacksmithing Courses . Adrian and Andy provided excellent instruction with a very friendly attitude along with Debbie's catering which was absolutely wonderful. My thanks to the three of them for an enjoyable day, It was a great day that I'll never forget."

Graham HOWELL reviewed: Learn to Turn in the Dartmoor National Park

"Wow! Not just an outstanding introduction to wood turning but also a man (or equally a woman) shed experience. No fear of dehydration with copious tea on this two day course a mile or so on the moor side of Ashburton. Sufficient time to get to grips with basic principals and create two bowls with constructive helpful advice and guidance. Useful advice on what tools to start with and how to sharpen and maintain them. As for the "Crac" we covered most topics and the world's problems are sorted."

wendy reviewed: Intermediate throwing with Richard Heeley

"This course was excellent - I have come away inspired. Richard was positive and friendly, whilst being professional and disciplined. I highly recommend both Potclays and Richard Heeley as a teacher. I have learnt a lot and will be back for another potclays course in the future. Thank you"

Rebecca reviewed: Make your very own clutch bag/small tablet device case/sleeve

"The course was informative and practical. I left with enough information to feel confident enough to reproduce what I made with Richard, on my own. Everything you need is provided for and in my opinion the course would be suitable for anyone, regardless of your experience/inexperience working with leather."

Rowan Matthiessen reviewed: Pembrokeshire Maddie Janes Mosaic

"Thank you Maddie for running such an excellent class! Maddie facilitated 2 sessions of Creative Tuesday for Span Arts where students were able to make 2 pieces of mosaic. The classes were extremely popular and everyone rated them highly. Maddie is LOVELY! She's very skilled, good at teaching and extremely humorous. She is able to manage a group of mixed abilities well and encourages everyone to work at their own level. It definitely didn't feel too hard or too dumbed down. I will absolutely be recommending this class to others! Thanks."

Robin Howard reviewed: Introduction to traditional green wood turning course

"Great day's course at Snellsmore Common. Really great setting. Supreme welcome with a brew over a wood burning fire. Soon into creating our dibber for hole making. Simon was an excellent teacher, chatted the process through and yet was very much hands on with the wood. Good pace and very productive. Having just 2 on course meant lots of tutoring time. Superb value for money! Very relaxing. A supreme way to spend the day. Thanks very much, so enjoyed it. I would highly recommend the course to others. Bring on the bowl making next time!"

Shirley Begg reviewed: Stained glass sun-catcher workshop: Hampshire

"With a group of friends we booked a stain glass workshop at Swanwick Studio, the few days leading up to the workshop it snowed and I was concerned the workshop would be cancelled,but I was pleased to say it went ahead, what a fun day I had, we all had a great fun all day making our creations, Rachel on hand all the time showing us the next step, giving us encouragement and of course one of the most important things for me was the endless supply of tea and biscuits !!! I would thoroughly recommend it and will be going back. Thanks for a great day Rachel Shirley Begg"

Swanwick Studio responded:

"What a lovely review thank you Shirley, and the icing on the cake, was that yours, took me from a silver awarded tutor to a gold 'provider' so happy happy happy :-) see you again :-)"

Diane Rodger reviewed: Fused Glass Half Day

"I attended Julie's fused glass workshop with my partner & nine year old son. We had no clue what to expect. Julie was very welcoming, patient and passionate about the fused glass process and the kind of things that could be achieved. We all tried very different projects and were amazed with the results. Throughout the workshop Julie was very knowledgeable and encouraging. She really brought out our creativity (we surprised ourselves). Our fused glassware will be a beautiful reminder of the wonderful time we had and I would definitely recommend this course to others."

Susie Keskin reviewed: Pembrokeshire Maddie Janes Mosaic

"I attended Maddie’s rural studio for an introduction to mosaics as a birthday surprise this week and had had the most amazing morning. Maddie created a warm welcoming environment with clear and helpful guidance to producing a fabulous mosaic to take home and be proud of. It was fun and so relaxing and I will definitely be returning soon. Thanks Maddie. Susie Keskin"

Heather reviewed: The Pottery Cave - Evening beginners classes

"My sister and I were looking for a ceramics course that was relaxed and friendly and that is exactly what we have found. Caroline has created a lovely environment for a creative and relaxing two hours and she is there to offer help and encouragement when needed. We have met lots of lovely people and look forward to our class each week. Excellent value too."

Catherine reviewed: Crochet course "Complete beginners"

"An excellent course with a lovely, patient tutor - just what every beginner needs! The handouts were instructive and clear, giving the essentials of what we needed to know for the course; the class was an ideal size with everyone receiving the guidance they needed from Gaelle. I now have the confidence to tackle crochet patterns on my own and look forward to attending more of Gaelle's crochet courses in future."

Rebecca Binnington reviewed: Introduction to silver jewellery making workshop with Diane Lee

"Diane was a fabulous tutor, extremely knowledgeable and wonderful fun. It was a very enjoyable day and though I had some prior experience it gave me confidence afresh that I was doing things the right way with added tips to take home to make things a little easier! Diane offers a bench scheme and once I have enough pieces in the bag I will be following up to attend a few of those sessions. I can't thank Diane enough for her company and guidance. Becky"