Latest reviews

Paul reviewed: Woodturning courses in Hampshire - Beginners and improvers wood turning courses - Turn British, all British lathes!!

"This course was received as a birthday gift and I found it to be an excellent day. Just walking in to Andy's workshop sent my mind spinning as to how I can develop mine. I had no idea what turning would be like, but with his excellent guidance and benefit of his experience I learnt the basics and produced a lovely cedar bowl. Turning is like alchemy for wood and I am now considering various tools and ways in which I can take the skills further."

Charles reviewed: English Longbow making in Cumbria

"I made a long bow! There is something very therapeutic about working with wood. Especially taking a piece of Ash, learning how to use the tools to turn that piece of wood, over the course, into the shape of a long bow that is sized for you. However, it’s not just the long bow, it’s also crafting your own bow string and firing your first arrow. A truly rewarding moment. Though it’s not just making this traditional and ancient weapon. There is also the expertise and experience that Tony shares with you in a gentle unhurried way, which allows you to progress at a rate you are comfortable with. All in all a thoroughly enjoyable course, well taught and with friendly, like minded participants. Thoroughly recommended."

Gill Schooledge reviewed: Table Loom Weaving Workshop - Dobby & Rose

"I spent a fascinating morning learning the basics of weaving which was perfectly pitched for a complete beginner allowing hands-on experience and some technical information to understand the process. It was absorbing and the time flew past. Rebecca explains the details without overwhelming you. I would highly recommend this course - it was fun and inspired me to consider learning more so the next course is being arranged."

Tanya reviewed: Beginners introductory pyrography course in Lincolnshire

"An excellent course that was delivered in a friendly and professional manner. Susan created a relaxed environment in which to impart her knowledge on pyrography. It was the first time that I've ever done pyrography and Susan was encouraging throughout and set achievable goals. Thank you."

Pauline Smith reviewed: Lino printing at Danywern

"A great day...Thankyou Rachel. Well organised and prepped.lovely lunch included . Techniques simply and patiently taught . Will def do more courses . Loved it all ."

Rachel Cadman Craft Courses responded:

"Thanks Pauline, I loved having you! It was a lot of fun, thanks xxx"

Keith Manvell reviewed: Wood turning courses in the Midlands

"So in a moment of madness late last year, I purchased a wood lathe on eBay! I then had to decide what on earth to do with it! Having recently joined a local and well renowned Woodturning Club, I spoke to several long standing members who all agreed I should book a day's tuition with Mark. I have just had a most enjoyable day with Mark and cannot praise him enough. Although I had spent a short time on my lathe I would still class myself as a beginner. Mark quickly ascertained what level I was at in the woodturning world by viewing my own tools and a few pieces of work I brought along with me, this enabled Mark to suggest what areas needed the most concentration - quite a lot I should add. Mark is not only a brilliant and professional woodturner, he is also a fantastic tutor and is extremely patient - fortunately for me. Mark dispels with jargon but does explain all aspects of the craft calmly, logically and at a suitable pace, that I suspect is tailored for each individual depending on their level of proficiency. If you are thinking of a woodturning day's course then I can highly recommend Mark."

Carole reviewed: Introduction to silver jewellery making workshop with Diane Lee

"No time-wasting on this course. A real hands on experience of processes and techniques and lots of help to produce something satisfyingly wearable at the end of the day. Thank you Diane."

DianeLeeSilver responded:

"Thanks Carole for your kind words - it's true, it is a fairly fast moving day this is why we need the endless supply of tasty biscuits & lots of tea. I'm so glad you enjoyed it & remember you are now eligible for supported bench time! Diane"

Wendy Robins reviewed: Needle felted puffin

"I had never done any felting at all before this workshop. I was delighted to have produced a landscape which my husband immediately recognised as Three Cliffs Bay. The atmosphere was very relaxed and friendly. Many thanks to Rachel and Rhian for such a productive day."

2 Inspire You responded:

"Hi Wendy, I am so glad your husband recognised the image . You produced a beautiful piece of work and were a joy to work alongside. We hope to see you soon and at the festival of Stitch. I have your colours ready for you to look at for your next project! Best Wishes Rach"

Dominic Manley reviewed: ColourWheel art classes for adults - Maidenhead - Thursday

"I was one of ColourWheel's first students and have attended the course five times in Maidenhead. The course is brilliantly organised and run by Rene and very ably taught by Erica and Inge. All materials are provided which makes attendance so much simpler than taking one's own. The venues are very comfortable and well suited to the course: refreshments are always available and there is plentiful parking. Above all though, the course has a comfortable, calm, friendly, supportive atmosphere and feels like a group of friends. So, it is as much a social event as a course, which suits me perfectly in retirement. The pace of the course has been adjusted over the years to ensure that the three hours are not over crowded with exercises - there is just the right amount to do. No particular expectations are set by the teachers so it is not stressful! I painted with acrylics for some years but the course has developed and broadened my experience through many other media. I thoroughly recommend the ColourWheel experience!"

Craig reviewed: Alien spoon carving

"Really enjoyed the one-day spoon carving course and would highly recommend to anyone who's interested. Alan's very knowledgeable and his passion for both the craft and the coaching is infectious. As others have said, they're great hosts, providing good food in a relaxing atmosphere and the time flew in. Good chance you'll have a new hobby for life after this as well."

Brian reviewed: Blacksmithing for beginners - one day taster

"My wife treated me for my 64th birthday to Aaron's one day starter course and it has to rank as one of the best presents she has ever sorted for me. The course was informative and interesting and I came away with several, self made, useful objects including a wall hung triple coat hook and decorative poker that my daughter immediately stole for her wood burner! A brilliant day. Many thanks Aaron."

Jane reviewed: Pottery classes in Teesside

"I don't know where to start really because everything about this course is just simply amazing. I was over the moon when I discovered there was a pottery course near to me, then I was blown away with how fun it was once I started. I have made a range of different things, and Louise is fantastic at helping you through every step of the way if you are unsure. I look forward to this class every week, it is definitely a highlight! From beginners to advanced it is a place for everyone, so don't be afraid if you fancy giving it a go or even buying it for a friend to experience - just do it. I only just wish I'd done it sooner."

PoppyRose responded:

"Thank you for your kind review Jane! You are a pleasure to have in the class and have made some wonderful pots."

chrissie thompson reviewed: 2-Day Traditional Stained Glass Painting Course for Beginners

"had a wonderful time in the workshop. I asked so many questions and nathalie was so patient. After travelling from Canada to complete the course, i would recommend it to anyone starting as a beginner and i will hopefully be able to make the trip back for an advanced course. thank you nathalie"

Janet reviewed: 2-Day Traditional Stained Glass Painting Course for Beginners

"I thought I was going to learn about stained glass and lead work as a friend thought that is what the course was. It came as a great surprise to learn that we would be doing a workshop on glass painting. However, I thoroughly enjoyed it and learnt a great deal about a subject I had no prior knowledge of. Nathalie was very patient with a complete novice and the atmosphere was lovely and our group gelled really well too. I would definitely recommend this course."

Rob Martindale reviewed: 2-Day Traditional Stained Glass Painting Course for Beginners

"Thank you Nathalie for a really interesting and informative couple of days. This was something that i had'nt done before so it was all new too me. I hope to continue to work with glass and the variety of mediums that compliment. A great course. Thanks again`"

Ana Smith reviewed: Blacksmith forge experience day - introductory course with use of power hammer

"My son took the course with Chester and enjoyed it "immensely". It definitely fed his sparked interest in blacksmithing, and he'd love to do more. Chester was welcoming and patient, and I could see my son completely at ease by the end of the day. Thank you!"

Ian Crawford reviewed: Stained Glass Course for Beginners - 2 Days - Sat 7th & Sat 14th February

"My second course with Jude Stark and again it was excellent. The preparations and course materials were well thought out prepared and presented. The content for beginners at stained glass work were a sensible standard and well presented. Jude's experience and knowledge of her subject gave us a great insight into the history of glass and stained glass window making which made the course even more enjoyable. Jude's enthusiasm for her craft and her ease of communication brings out the best in all her pupils to ensure that they make the most of the 2 days by completing a most rewarding stained glass panel."

jane bowering reviewed: One day silver jewellery making in Worcestershire.

"I booked this workshop for my friend's special birthday and it was more than I was hoping for. We had a wonderful, calm day in Jonathan's beautiful boat and left with lovely bangles as a memento of a day to remember. A unique experience - you will not be disappointed. Thank you Jonathan."

Salt Way Silver responded:

"Thank you Jane. And well done with your jewellery making despite the hot weather and your long journey. It was a pleasure to meet you both. Jonathan"

Kasia reviewed: One day stained glass workshop London for beginners and enthusiasts

"Tejal is friendly, charming, inspiring and dedicated to her teaching. I had a great time in her cosy studio making butterflies. She made it fun and easy. Plan to attend another workshop with Tejal soon. Highly recommended!"

Helen Carey reviewed: Millefiori Beads with Polymer Clay

"I have just spent the most enjoyable day learning how to work with polymer clay. I am now the proud owner of a rather lovely (if I do say myself) handmade bead necklace, pendant and earrings. Jo is a fantastic teacher, amazingly patient and reassuring. Her studio is bright, airy and full of inspiration and I can't wait to go back and try another of her courses."

Jo Hunter Wearable Art responded:

"Thank you Helen. It was lovely to meet you and Denise and to work with you both. Enjoy wearing your necklace!"

Sue Matthews reviewed: Stained glass weekly classes in Sheffield (South Yorkshire)

"The stain glass courses are well run. Martin leads each student step by step through the stain glass process methodically making it seem (relatively) straight forward. He is amazingly patient and happy to repeat information as required. Each class contains a variety of "students" with different skill levels and experience that are working on different projects. Martin treats you as an individual and provides you with the level of support that you require. The studio is well stocked with all necessary equipment that is well maintained. Students just need to purchase their glass for their personal projects. I would highly recommend these courses."

Tracy Field reviewed: Mosaic Making Day in the Cotswolds

"I love doing new things and when I got a craft voucher for my fiftieth birthday I searched through all the courses available and Gill’s Mosaic course really appealed to me. It was something Id always wanted to try ? I loved my day, Gill was a lovely host and tutor. She was very informative patient and offered advice about our piece of Mosaic rather than say what she would do she encouraged our creativity with a practical knowledge of how much more complicated this craft is than it might look to begin with. It’s ignited a definite flame for a new hobby I’d like to pursue and I’d recommend this course to anyone who wants a relaxing day chatting in a friendly atmosphere and producing a totally finished piece of artwork at the end of the day to take home."

Azhar reviewed: Contemporary Furniture Refinishing & Upcycling with Woodcare - 1 Day Beginners

"As someone new to wood finishing and not sure where to begin, I contacted Jay Blade from Jay and Co asking him for some tips on how to get started. Jay highly recommended Ollie from OP Woodcraft. I contacted Ollie and completed the two-day French polishing course with him at his workshop, which I found extremely valuable. Over the two-days I learnt how to remove existing finishes from wood, how to prepare wood to get a flawless finish and then moved on to work through the different stages of french polishing. We went through different techniques on how to stain, grain fill, french polish and finish wood to achieve a high quality gloss and matt finish. I also learnt painting techniques that showed me how to get a high quality factory finish using a brush. Overall the course was excellent. Ollie expertly explained different techniques and also gave me a list of materials to purchase along with details of suppliers. I would recomend this course to anyone wanting to get started in wood finishing techniques. I would also recommend that you take along a small piece of furniture that you would like to work on and you will be amazed at the stunning results that can be achieved."

TRACEY LOTT reviewed: Glass fusing private class - fun taster class for beginners

"I booked a 2 hour Taster Lesson on a one to one basis with Sarah on the spur of the moment. Sarah was so welcoming and put me at ease immediately. I was apprehensive about glass cutting, but I need not have worried, I actually only cut glass twice during the lesson and that was only to see if I could! There are so many different forms of glass not to mention colours to use I was spoilt for choice! Sarah explained the process extremely well and I made my first pendant which went in the microwave kiln! Brilliant as you get to see the results before leaving the two hour lesson, although it does need to continue cooling and Sarah attaches a bale to complete the pendant for your collection or packaging and posting to you. I became quite creative! I had plenty of time to make two suncatchers and two pendants in my taster. I would recommend the lesson to anyone who is either not sure if they will enjoy it or perhaps is unsure of being able to do it. Sarah is very knowledgeable and a very good communicator which results in a very enjoyable and creative atmosphere. I cannot wait to collect my pieces and have another go! Watch out...it is addictive! I'm thinking of getting a kiln now!"