Latest reviews

Sarah reviewed: Beginners Weaving with the Rigid Heddle Loom - at All in a Spin

"I really enjoyed my time at Dunja's studio learning to weave. I was a complete beginner but under Dunja's patient and expert tuition I came home with a beautiful scarf which I'm really pleased with. A great way to spend the day learning something new in lovely surroundings. Thank you Dunja."

Kirsty reviewed: Bespoke candle making workshop - Edinburgh

"What an excellent way to spend a Saturday morning! Kerry is an excellent teacher and is very knowledgeable about candle making. We made our own candles after picking from some amazing fragrances. Whilst waiting for our candles to set we mixed our own scent from Kerry’s wide selection after learning about the scents, different types of wax and how to burn candles - yes there are right and wrong ways!! It was great to learn a new technique and produce our very own candles- can’t wait to burn it!"

Emma Whitlock reviewed: An Introduction to Spoon Carving

"A great day spent carving a spoon and learning the skills to take away and use in the future. We learnt about taking the bulk of wood away from the log using an axe and then knife work for the carving. It was tough on the hands but rewarding to see the spoon that finally came out of the wood. The setting is ideal in the barn workshop and we had a delicious home-cooked lunch and cake. Would recommend to beginners wanting to learn a new skill."

Nerys Osbourn reviewed: Hand spinning Advanced Level 3 accredited course at All in a Spin

"Having experienced several of Dunja's day courses I had no hesitation in enrolling for this one. I'm one of 6 on the course and we're just about half way through, with most of theory now behind us. The course has been quite intense so far but Dunja's calm, patient teaching style prevents it from becoming overwhelming. There is so much to learn but the comprehensive written material and course structure breaks it down into manageable chunks. From now until the end it's mostly practical spinning and design so there's still a lot to look forward to. Outside of the taught workshop days, Dunja is available by phone or email if we need help. She never seems to mind answering an endless stream of questions and her patience seems limitless. She is generous with her time, her beautiful studio and her equipment. I've certainly learned a huge amount over the last 3 months and hopefully will have a certificate at the end of the course. Hand spinning is an ancient craft and an enjoyable, relaxing way to spend your time. Anyone who would like to learn but has no previous experience Dunja also runs a Level 1 Certificated Spinning Course and several non certificated day courses as well. I have no hesitation in recommending the course to anyone interested in learning this skill. I doubt it can be bettered anywhere in the country."

constantine reviewed: Encaustic Art - What do you want to learn?

"Just had two great days working and learning with Mel. We chatted a lot at first and worked out areas of encaustic which suited my needs. Mel is agreat teacher and opened doors to experimention which I am sure will help me evolve my style and work."

Ashley and Emma reviewed: Wood turning courses

"We turned up to a warm friendly welcome with fantastic hospitality, George presented me with a fantastic piece of beech wood with lovely colourings and grain characteristics which has turned into a beautiful bowl. After a cup of coffee we went straight into the workshop where George taught me about the process of drying and sourcing wood ready for turning. It was hands on straight away with what looked like an easy demonstration from George, however trying it myself was a little more challenging. Not only did this experience teach me about turning but I also learnt about the sharpening of tools, sanding, paterning, colouring and finishing the bowl. We also made a lovely purchase of some handmade bowls by George from his fantastic well stocked show room. We definitely recommend this experience to anyone who wishes to learn a new skill, have a go, and create their own unique wooden item. Thank you Ashley and Emma"

Thomas Merrington reviewed: Blacksmithing courses

"I booked a blacksmithing course for myself, my partner and our Dads for Christmas and it was worth every penny. Lucille was a really welcoming and warm teacher. She made everyone feel very involved, from the orientation around the site to telling us all off when we didn't follow her instructions (it was a fun telling off!). She was incredibly patient and kind and really helped us all get the most of out of the day - including keeping us well fed with tea and biscuits. We all had different projects - a medieval feasting knife, a shoe scraper, a pair of coal tongs and a trivet. They all needed different skills and creative flourishes. I cannot praise this course or Lucille highly enough. Fantastic day out - really rewarding!"

Sarah Gravell reviewed: Box making weekend in Cumbria

"Great little weekend. Choice of boxes to create. Step by step help as required. No experience necessary. End result - something to be proud of, and some new skills. Relaxed environment. Many thanks."

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

"This really is a lovely way to spend a day. The course was a surprise present and I’ll admit that I was a little nervous because I’m not at all artistic. But I needn’t have worried, Siobhan expertly guided us through various techniques and was with us all day encouraging and lending a hand if needed. I’ve just picked up the 3 pieces I made and I’m delighted with them, just deciding which walls to put them on. Amazing! Thanks for a fabulous day."

JOANNE h reviewed: Introduction to Frame Loom Weaving

"Had wonderful time learning how to weave with Alice in her very inspiring studio. Alice is patient, engaging and is a skilled weaver as well as an enjoyable person to spend time with. I really enjoyed the class and it has motivated me to carry on to apply what I learned to future weaving projects. Great Experience. Would recommend to others!"

Pauline Reader reviewed: Mixed media workshops in Staffordshire

"Spent a thoroughly enjoyable morning with Mandy. Learnt a lot, had great fun and tea and biccies as well. Mandy does not rush you, is very patient and you come away with a lovely project. Will definitely be trying more of her classes."

Julia Knights reviewed: Silver Jewellery - Ring Making

"Absolutely brilliant course. Tuition by Jenny was excellent. She's extremely helpful and patient. I took my sister and we were both thrilled with the result of our silver rings. Can't wait to do another course with the Little Craftery. Julia K. 24.3.18."

Nicola reviewed: Weaving the cosmos: sacred geometry and hexagonal weave basketry

"A really wonderful experience. Loose your mind weaving, feel geometry with your hands."

Liz reviewed: Weaving the cosmos: sacred geometry and hexagonal weave basketry

"Fascinating, frustrating and addictive! I have thoroughly enjoyed devoting the whole day to understanding and consolidating the craft. Wonderful to take home some beautiful artefacts; ably and patiently supported by Daniel and Vija. Thank you. Liz"

Kerry McLellan reviewed: Introduction to candle-making as a business

"Great day spent with Jo learning the art of candlemaking. She was very warm, welcoming and full of knowledge. Would throughly recommend this workshop A+"

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

"Thank you so much for helping my 10 year daughter create her masterpiece! Very impressed with your workshop had the most brilliant day, my daughter was able to create a beautiful piece of work to show off in our home with your clear and helpful knowledge and instructions. Will definitely be back for more!! I want to thank you for your support and care to help make Libby's 10th birthday experience one to be cherished and remembered."

Nick Saffell reviewed: Firebird Forge Blacksmithing School

"This course exceeded all my expectations. Mort is a fantastic teacher, very encouraging and patient as well as extremely knowledgeable. I have never done anything like this before, and was therefore very surprised that I could jump straight in and make a coat rack with Mort's expert guidance. I would highly recommend this course to anyone, regardless of experience, and hope to return again in the future."

Edna reviewed: Make a silver ring or bangle

"Another day with Lucy and my pendant is complete. I don't have to worry as after we have solved the conundrum of what to do with the chain, I have so many other projects in mind. Although working with Lucy has enabled my knowledge skills and confidence soar. I realise I'm only scratching the surface of my jewellery making journey and I hope she will accompany me for a long time to come imparting her wisdom along the way."

Rob reviewed: A General Leatherwork Skill Day

"Just got back from an excellent day with Nigel. It was my first time working with leather but after today, I’m hooked! I’m now going to go away, practise the new skills I’ve learnt and apply them to my own projects. Nigel’s teaching style is brilliant - very patient, he explains everything really well so it’s easy to understand and his approach is very methodical. Lunch and endless cups of (real) coffee were nice too! Highly recommended."

Marie Oliphant reviewed: Introduction to candle-making as a business

"I had a 1-2-1 Workshop with Jo last week and it was the best Workshop I’ve ever attended (and I’ve done a few!) I made a large selection of candles, tealights, melts and Christmas hanging decorations. I was also able to choose a different fragrance for everything I made, so got to try fragrances I wouldn’t normally see in a shop. Jo is extremely helpful and knowledgeable and provided answers to all of my questions and I know she will happily help in the future. If you want an enjoyable treat for yourself or with some friends, you really couldn’t ask for a nicer day - even if all you want out of it is some beautiful smelling candles. Or, you can come away with knowledge to start a business (it purely depends what you are wanting from the experience). I cannot wait until I start practicing my new skills ? Thank you so much Jo xx"

Julie Elliott & Robyn Tadgell reviewed: M

"Thank you Maddie for wonderfully infomative, relaxing and hands on day. We really enjoyed the tuition, ambiance and practical nature of the day. Delving into all the boxes of tiles and treasure was bliss! We came away proudly with a variety of items we had made - with new skills and a desire to continue. Thank you Maddie."

Penny Murphy reviewed: One day bangle/ring workshop

"A fantastic experience! Jolene and her workshop are inspirational and I enjoyed every minute, so much so I am planning to return for a second course in the near future. The atmosphere was lovely, friendly and supportive as we made some original and very wearable bangles. I cannot thank Jolene enough and I thoroughly recommend this course."

Jane parsons reviewed: Stained glass sun-catcher workshop: Hampshire

"Spent the most wonderful day learning the art of copper foil work. Rachel was the best teacher you could hope for pushed us all into making some great work,will be going again thank you very much."

Swanwick Studio responded:

"Thanks Jane for your fabulous comments, really kind words :-) You all did a great job on Saturday & I really enjoyed the day :-) Very well done. R"

Lauren Rhodes reviewed: Pottery classes in Teesside

"Booked the pottery class as a gift for my Mums 60th birthday - great fun, a bargain, and Louise was a great tutor! Using the wheel was definitely a challenge but worth it - we made 2 pots each and returned to paint them. There was a large selection of unusual colours to choose from and they turned out fab as a first attempt - very pleased! The shop was filled with lots of interesting crafts - we’ll definitely be back to have a go at something else x"

Lindley fallon reviewed: One day bangle/ring workshop

"There aren't enough stars to say how brilliant the course was. From the moment I arrived in Jolene's amazing, fascinating workshop - I was hooked! Jolene's instructions were so clear and she gave huge encouragement and ideas to the three of us on the course, while allowing us free range to create our own designs. Endless cups of coffee and tea and biscuits were served during the day - which passed too fast. I am already enrolled for a pendant/ear ring course having done the bracelet course. Many thanks Jolene."