Latest reviews

22 Jun 15'

Silvia Siret reviewed: Introduction to traditional green wood turning course

"A wonderful, very interesting experience! My grandfather worked with wood all the time in his little workshop. In honor of him I had a one-2-one training on basic wood turning. I enjoyed it thoroughly. The 6 hours flew by. I learned incredibly much and - being completely new to this - feel I have achieved something extraordinary. I had never done anything like this at all and was a bit nervous. Simon eased me into this, which encouraged me a lot. I got lots of praise, which motivated me to give it my all. I really like the way he works and the good tips he gives. He knows so much about wood, it's amazing. Simon works very safely and gives a very good safety briefing. This was certainly not my last session. I will definitely go back and learn more. The location is also very lovely. I loved every minute."

22 Jun 15'

Hepzi Hickish reviewed: Pottery Workshops & Parties - groups

"I came with 2 of my friends for a ladies night recently and had a fantastic evening! Having never had a go on a wheel before it was really refreshing to be taught by Vanessa who was really calm and happy to explain everything. I'm really looking forward to seeing how my pots turned out! The parlour is a hidden gem in Blandford and defiantly worth a visit!"

22 Jun 15'

Jodie reviewed: One day introductory course to candle making

"I have had an amazing day with a wonderful teacher. Simply demonstrated and lots of fun in a relaxing environment. Thank you!"

22 Jun 15'

Jenny reviewed: One day introductory course to candle making

"Very well structured, inspiring and well taught. Lovely to learn so much in one day!"

22 Jun 15'

Van reviewed: One day introductory course to candle making

"I loved the course. I know that I want to go further on making candles. The course gave me confidence on starting a business."

22 Jun 15'

Kim reviewed: One day introductory course to candle making

"What a lovely way to learn, in a clear, concise manner, with a great teacher. Methodology, ideas and business ideas were included. I'm feeling very inspired. Thank you."

22 Jun 15'

Simon Tepper reviewed: Spoon carving (Two Day)

"I can't speak too highly of this course. It was excellent in every aspect: the location and venue, the course arrangements, the teaching and support, and the catering! I was given the course as a gift by my wife, having previously told her on a number of occasions that one day I'd like to have a go at spoon-carving. But I had no experience of woodwork in any form and was quite nervous of working with sharp tools. The first thing that Martin did was to teach us safe working techniques and to explain how, why, when to use the appropriate tool. The pacing and style of teaching suited me perfectly; Martin is highly knowledgable and communicates clearly, interestingly and with real enthusiasm. He's always happy to give advice and support to individuals within the teaching group (a class size of four was perfect), and generated a friendly and welcoming atmosphere from the get-go. Over the two days we each made a butterknife and a spoon, but more importantly I came away with a real desire to do more, and a good sense of how to go about it. What else could one want from a course? (And I write as someone who worked for many years in Adult Education, and therefore has a sense of what makes for a quality course)."

22 Jun 15'

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

"I enjoyed the peacefulness of the day and even though we were very productive, busily warping and weaving away it felt calm and relaxing. I appreciated Dunja's very thorough teaching that was very hands-on and at the same time hands-off as much as possible to give me the opportunity to try things out and 'feel' my way through. I left with a clear sense of this way of weaving being something I can do and would very much love todo more of: very empowering and encouraging!"

21 Jun 15'

MATTHEW RICHARDSON reviewed: Blacksmithing Beginners day courses in Yorkshire and the North East

"I have done three courses now with Adrian and I would recommend the courses to anyone. The content is well thought out and is managable for varying skill levels without been too simple or boring. The food provided by Debbie is always delicous and there is more tea and biscuits than an army could eat. For a fantastic day out with a course in a practical traditional skill you couldnt do any better."

21 Jun 15'

Chris reviewed: From fleece to fibre 2-day spinning workshop

"Took this course as a follow on having completed the Beginner's Course. Found it extremely useful in setting tension and drafting techniques to get the yarn I actually want to spin - not just what comes out. A fair amount of technical data to absorb but Elaine relates it to the end product making it more relevant. I feel fairly confident now about setting out to achieve my own ideals about yarn design."

21 Jun 15'

Louise reviewed: Hand spinning for beginners at Cartmel Handspun

"From a standing start knowing nothing this course ABSOLUTELY enthralled me. Learned so much in one day and had a super time in the process. Thank you so much for turning me into confident spinner."

21 Jun 15'

Ben Westaway reviewed: Firebird Forge Blacksmithing School

"A fantastic day out in a beautiful setting. Wasn't too sure what I was getting into, but couldn't have enjoyed it more. Came away with a great piece of work and a big smile on my face. Will definitely be coming back for more!"

21 Jun 15'

scott/ryan reviewed: Blacksmithing, bladesmithing and metal craft

"Nigel thankyou .a great day Its nice to know that people are still willing to give time to others. we both had a great day.Made a poker and shovel which was good .Made a small acorn key ring . inthe afternoon he asked any ideas of what we would like to make. after some thought made a lantern stand. in learning some skills in the morning we started .in the forge we heated some square bar and done some twisted on one end we curved a arc of 7 inches and heated up end and flattened and made a leaf. Then some round bar same leaf on one end.we then run the bar though a air hammer along to give texture then we wrapped them shorter bars around the main square upright. the base is made from a round cultivator disc which underneath we welded three round balls on for feet.with some squashed tube and a big washer which we hammered impression into .then welded the uprights and wrapped the other leaves around the main square . looks great and a big Thankyou See you soon . Ryan my son has been so inspired he is seriously pursuing a career as an Blacksmith artist Thank you"

19 Jun 15'

Sue Elliot reviewed: Tapestry weaving workshop for beginners

"Really enjoyed Jane's landscape tapestry course on Wednesday. I had never done any weaving before and Jane instructions were so clear and she made sure everyone had help as and when they needed it. She also provided a very clear instruction booklet and I can't wait to have another go. The day was a lot of fun and I really enjoyed playing - I tend to want to get ahead of myself but Jane was very patient and encouraging and I was very pleased with the piece of tapestry I took home. Jane's studio is so warm and inviting with beautiful views. Food wonderful - Graham very kindly adapted the lunch to suit my dietary needs. Sue Elliot - 17.6.2015"

19 Jun 15'

Anon reviewed: Leathercraft Workshop Belt Making Skills 1 Day Saturday 26th November 2016 Make Your Own Belt Or Dog Collar LAST CRAFT DAY OF THIS YEAR

"This is a must course for anyone interested in learning about how to work with leather, and a really fun day. I completely agree with other reviewers, David was a knowledgeable and patient tutor. He helped us understand about the different types of leathers and their uses and guide us in constructing professional looking pieces to our own designs. One thing that really set this course apart was that David also allowed us to choose our materials from his stock of leathers so we each made something (or in my case several things) that was very unique, lovely and we could be proud of."

19 Jun 15'

Emma Purton reviewed: Autumn Fascinators Workshop 2018

"An informative and useful course. Beth was attentive and a good tutor. Thank you!"

18 Jun 15'

David Munn reviewed: Firebird Forge Blacksmithing School

"A fantastic day - possibly the best birthday present I have ever had. With no previous experience, Mort was an excellent and very tolerant teacher. Watching him demonstrate techniques makes it clear that he is a very talented blacksmith - lots to live up to but no pressure when it comes to your turn! I was surprised, and very pleased, with what it is possible for a complete novice to achieve and I would recommend that anyone who has even vaguely thought about having a go to do so. My billhook will become a treasured family heirloom :-/"

17 Jun 15'

Geoff Pratley reviewed: Introduction to Greenwood Spoon Carving

"A really good day despite the rain! Dave and Sam gave excellent instruction and help throughout the day. I learned a lot, a most enjoyable day."

17 Jun 15'

Shelly Fleming reviewed: Autumn Fascinators Workshop 2018

"I travelled from Tamworth which was a 2 hour journey and it was well worth it.Beth explained everything clearly and showed us how to make flowers and petals for the fascinator. All the materials were provided and my fascinator is stunning.I would highly recommend doing this course as you can easily make a fascinator at home after your course.Well worth £25 for such a stunning unique piece."

16 Jun 15'

Stephen Wragge reviewed: One day blacksmithing course

"I have just completed a very enjoyable two day course with Julian. Over the two days I made a really nice poker & a bracket for a hanging basket that looks very arts & crafts . My family are very impressed and I cannot believe that I made something so amazing. Julian is a very talented Blacksmith and I could only describe him as the Rick Stien of the Blacksmith world (not that old though). He is an excellent teacher, good company & very patient. I would highly recommend him if you would like to try a Blacksmith course."

16 Jun 15'

Dan Wride reviewed: Woodturning in Devon with Colin Simpson

"I was given a two day course by my wife for Christmas and as this is something I had always wanted to try I was delighted and couldn't wait to book it. I thoroughly enjoyed every aspect of the course. I was a little apprehensive when it came down to it but Colin soon put me at ease and before long I had forgotten my nerves. His patience and ability to judge the level at which you are comfortable at whilst also pushing you a little out of your comfort zone was perfect, I learnt loads and hope to continue my new hobby. Very much recommended, thank-you Colin!"

16 Jun 15'

Ray Forester reviewed: Firebird Forge Blacksmithing School

"What a fantastic day spent with Mort who had such knowledge and enthusiasm. Gentle and enjoyable tuition and good value for money. As the day progressed so did my skills and confidence progressing to the makingof a drawknife. I would thoroughly recommend this course and can't wait to return for another workshop and take my wife along to enjoy the day. I would advise all those who do one of these workshops to go along with plans and ideas of what you would like to create. Have a fantastic time.....I certainly did! Ray"

16 Jun 15'

Mandy Sutter reviewed: Introduction to Greenwood Spoon Carving

"I very much enjoyed the day. The centre was beautiful, the tutor and his assistant Dave and Sam were great, and the other course attendees were really friendly and good-humoured. Although it was harder work than I expected, I was delighted to make the spoon and a spatula and hope to return for other courses5."

16 Jun 15'

Esther (Colombia) reviewed: One day introductory course to candle making

"The course was brilliant. I enjoyed it very much. It made me feel confident to start my business. All the questions I had were answered very clearly. I'm very happy with this course. Lovely to meet you."

16 Jun 15'

Yvonne reviewed: One day introductory course to candle making

"Was not sure what to expect but it surpassed my expectations. Really enjoyed the experience. It was such a fun day but learnt a lot about making candles. Looking forward to getting home and experimenting."