Latest reviews

3 Feb 16'

Tim Peacock reviewed: Wood turning courses

"I booked this course primarily for my partner’s son, as he received a lathe for Christmas and we all felt he needed a little more help than his school were able to offer. Aside from anything else I wanted to make sure we both knew how to use a lathe safely. Given that the address was in Somerset, I was fairly convinced we would be working in a traditional barn, with flagons of cider and a ploughman’s provided at lunch time, but as it turned out, retired Scaffolding Contractor George and his charming wife Susan live in a neat bungalow in a quiet residential street with a selection of large sheds to the rear, one of which contains a whole host of woodturning equipment. George turns out to be a huge bloke, with fingers like Cumberland sausages, but don’t be deceived into thinking this is just another ex-tradesman looking to fill his twilight years with a casual hobby. He has spent thirteen years honing his craft, and is clearly very dedicated to turning what are some really quite remarkable pieces. As well as being on the Register of Professional Turners and offering this tuition, he hosts the local turning club, regularly appears at craft fairs across the country demonstrating his art, reviews new turning equipment for craft magazines, and has created pieces for public exhibition. He packs a lot into a one day session too, and each part of the process of turning a bowl is explained in rigorous detail. At one stage he spent 20 minutes demonstrating how to achieve some stunning effects on the surface of the bowl, with a whole host of curious revolving tools coming out of the arsenal, as well as various abrasives, waxes and dyes, and even a blow torch. Susan ensured we never far from a good cup of tea, and gave us some first rate homemade soup with warm rolls for lunch. By late afternoon we had completed our projects, and I have to say I was quite surprised at the quality of the work we both turned under his supervision. I was a jobbing carpenter for over 20 years, so I expected to turn out something fairly respectable, as I’m no stranger to wood and chisels, but I didn’t expect to be quite as pleased with the result as I am. He’s a very likeable chap too, and goes to great lengths to ensure his pupils get as much out of the day as possible. If you are looking for an opportunity to try woodturning, then this course is a rare opportunity to learn from an extremely well informed bloke who is as fiercely passionate as any creative artist when it comes to his craft."

3 Feb 16'

Jan Roberts reviewed: Traditional stained glass painting for beginners

"I thoroughly enjoyed the three-day course in traditional stained glass painting led by Nathalie. It was fascinating to learn about the range of techniques and Nathalie clearly explained the processes, providing demonstrations and one to one support. She was always patient and enabled us to learn through exploration in a very relaxing environment."

3 Feb 16'

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

"I'm addicted! As someone creative, in work and life, I feel frustrated by not being able to experiment enough. Coming to the glass workshop gave me an opportunity to play. I was able to design something and then create it without a need to have the pressure of being able to sell the end result. The day whizzed past, but I'm really pleased with what I achieved. The ambience was perfect. Can't wait to do more!"

3 Feb 16'

Trina Duncan reviewed: Container candlemaking course and wax melts with afternoon tea

"Fabulous thank you. Keep me posted on any other courses you're running, thanks for a lovely informative day. x"

3 Feb 16'

Lorna E reviewed: Crochet for Beginners (Adults) in Putney

"Dear Sowmya Thank you for a great class on Sunday. The time flew. I have made 2 flowers since Sunday and although a little more frilly they look like flowers. I've forwarded the video to Clair. I know she enjoyed the day too and will be glad of the video. Best wishes (reviewed on 10.7.2015)"

3 Feb 16'

Janet Omelia reviewed: Container candlemaking course and wax melts with afternoon tea

"I can highly recommend this course, very friendly teachers, in a relaxed, informal setting - no pressure! Great day learning a new skill, now need to put what I learnt into practice. Thanks Julie and Kay."

2 Feb 16'

Julia Thorpe reviewed: Can't crochet, won't crochet?

"Had a really good 3 hours being shown crochet stitches and came away having learnt the art of crochet. Time well spent, a good teacher, an enjoyable session with tea and biscuits thrown in. well worth the money."

2 Feb 16'

Sandra Anderson reviewed: Needle felting course with FURZIE at Trumpet Corner Tea Rooms, Ledbury, Herefordshire

"I have been on the course several times & have thoroughly enjoyed it each time. The lunch is excellent too."

2 Feb 16'

Pauline Hughes reviewed: Needle felting course with FURZIE at Trumpet Corner Tea Rooms, Ledbury, Herefordshire

"A brilliant day, interesting from the start, only a shame it wasn't longer! (Only because so enjoyable!). Great value and a fantastic opportunity to see and work with a really talented person. Needle felting was something absolutely new to me but at the end of the day I came away with a sculpture (nearly all my own work!) and the material for all my finishing touches - not to mention the feeling that I might have found something I really enjoy doing. What more could you ask for?"

2 Feb 16'

Cheryl Parker reviewed: Fusing glass - beginners - Witney, Oxfordshire

"I did this course on 28.1.16, and it was taken by a lovely lady called Ros. The day started with some safety information, then started the fun part of deciding what to make. Ros was very friendly and I made a bowl, some coasters and several other things. Due to the long process of the firing and cooling, the items are posted or collected after a few days. Further courses can be arranged to do more advanced techniques can be arranged. I would recommend this course."

2 Feb 16'

Cheryl Parker reviewed: 121 - An Introduction to Cold Process Soap Making

"Went on the intensive soap making course on 29.1.16. Emma was lovely and the theory part of the day was very informative. After having a delicious lunch we started the soap making part of the day. It was very exciting to see the soap making process progress from simple ingredients. I was able to make my own recipes from the massive choice of ingredients that Emma had that I could choose from. It was a great day and I would recommend this course."

1 Feb 16'

Jo Freeman reviewed: Blacksmithing Beginners day courses in Yorkshire and the North East

"My friend and I had the best day. We were met with a very warm (even though we were late), hot cup of tea and the most amazing flapjack. Adrian took us through the course and we set to work. Although the tasks were challenging both Adrian and Andy were always on hand to help, advise and support and I am so proud of my keyring and coat hook. Debbie set out the most delicious lunch and sat with the workers while we polished it off, ready for the afternoon's activities. The day was ended off with yet another cuppa and some delicious cake as we all sat satisfied and celebratory at our achievements. Everyone was lovely and it was a great way to spend a Sunday. Thank you to Adrian, Andy and Debbie for all your warmth, kindness and hospitality, a famtastic time was had by all. Can't wait for level 2. Jo"

1 Feb 16'

Jason reviewed: Blacksmith experience day in Tilford, Surrey

"I had a really fun time with Neil. He's a friendly, knowledgeable blacksmith. Neil is easygoing and helpful; he was fine going at my pace. It's a bit pricey, but worth it for a nice day out, using your hands, making something interesting and useful."

1 Feb 16'

Roy Donson reviewed: Traditional stained glass painting for beginners

"A really enjoyable and relaxed first class course. I would rcommend to anyone interested in taking the first steps in painting on glass."

1 Feb 16'

Peter Sharp reviewed: Introduction to Green Wood Furniture Making - 2 Day Course in South Devon

"OUTSTANDING Introduction to Green Wood Furniture Making on 30 - 31 January 2016. Having promised myself this treat some time ago - I thoroughly enjoyed the two days and I've got the bug now. I've ordered my left-handed axe (who knew!) and a froe and will be on the case for Japanese saw and drawknife shortly. Peter's quiet and authoritative delivery with conviction, skill, experience and encouragement is a great way to learn. The group of folk there were convivial and there was a quick sense of camaraderie as we all did our best... and all came away with a table or stool that came from fresh cut timber and all beginners at these techniques. If you fancy this - just do it, you'll be pleased you did. Many thanks - unreserved enthusiasm."

1 Feb 16'

Camila reviewed: The Natural Skin Care Workshop

"The course exceeded my expectations. It was fun and easy to understand. All the products are simple to make and look amazing and professional."

1 Feb 16'

Dennis Eldred reviewed: Wood turning tuition, New Forest, Hampshire (1 day) (2 people)

"Had a most enjoyable day with Graham. He was informative, patient and answered all my questions. As i do not have a lathe of my own yet I started from the position of a complete novice. Graham advised me on suitable lathes and has since answered my e.mail questions for further in formation on purchasing a lathe. I recommend this course for new lathe turners and those wishing to improve their knowledge."

31 Jan 16'

Heather Procter reviewed: From fleece to fibre 2-day spinning workshop

"I thoroughly enjoyed this two day course and left feeling confident to wash, card and spin fleeces from my own sheep, which is what I had hoped for from the outset. Can't wait to get my own equipment and start producing!"

31 Jan 16'

Dave,mark, rob reviewed: Blacksmithing Beginners day courses in Yorkshire and the North East

"What an excellent course,it was so friendly and informative with fantastic food can't wait to go back on another course we thank you all"

31 Jan 16'

Pat reviewed: Fused glass workshop - Plymouth

"Oh my what a fun lady! Not only does she produce excellent work, she encourages all the people that attends her workshop to do the same! Lots of ideas, lovely atmosphere in a built for purpose, log cabin. Excellent and real value for money. Nice cake as well, is there no end to this lady's talents?"

31 Jan 16'

Maggie Riley reviewed: Traditional stained glass painting for beginners

"I would highly recommend Nathalies traditional stained glass painting course.She is an excellent tutor who made learning new skills enjoyable and rewarding. I also gained an insight into and appreciation of her craft."

31 Jan 16'

Liz O'Driscoll reviewed: From fleece to fibre 2-day spinning workshop

"Just completed a 2 day beginners course with Elaine and have throughly enjoyed it. I can highly recommend it to anyone who wants to understand how to spin. I have tried to spin before and could not get it, but finally this weekend I have mastered it and produced a skien of yarn really chuffed. Thank you Elaine."

31 Jan 16'

Julie reviewed: CSM - Circular Sock Knitting Machine Course

"Had a wonderful day with Mia who was a very knowledgeable and patient teacher."

31 Jan 16'

chris pink reviewed: Blacksmithing, bladesmithing and metal craft

"Did the one day course. Nigel shows you what to do then you make stuff. Awesome. Really enjoyed it. Interesting course good company. A real eye opener to the work that goes into making things with metal. Recommend it."

31 Jan 16'

Lance Did-dell reviewed: Blacksmithing, bladesmithing and metal craft

"I spent a total of 3 days at the forge which I spread over 2 weekends and absolutely loved every minute. Fransham is a genuine real working Forge which contains some amazing tools and machinery and Nigel is dedicated to looking after you throughout your stay and will tailor the experience to suit your ability ensuring you get the most out of your day. Nigel demonstrates a technique and within minutes you’re off having a go yourself, it might take you a bit longer than him but he makes sure you get there in the end building up your confidence as the day progresses. I feel I have had a real insight into the life and history of the blacksmith and I can’t recommend it enough to those who want to experience the craft and have a go at making something unique for themselves."