Latest reviews

26 Oct 14'

Charlotte Boersma reviewed: Plaster mould making for slip cast ceramics with Ed Bentley

"Several years ago I had the privilege of being tutored by Ed Bently at the Glasgow School of Art - Ceramic Design Degree course. Ed introduced us then to the world of designing plaster models as a base for making of plaster moulds and (re)production of ceramic objects. In april of this year it was the time to make my first commercial plaster model. Easy choice: Ed. With three other GSA graduates I enjoyed Ed's taylored 3-day Plaster Mouldmaking for Slip Cast Ceramics at Moniforld's Craft Barn. We had three really great days of super professional model making, mould making, design talk, tutoring, idea swapping, eating, drinking and shere fun. And of course I am now producing like a mad woman! :-) With love from Amsterdam, Holland"

26 Oct 14'

Phil W reviewed: Wood carving and Love Spoons

"I recently attended a two day course run by Sharon for our local U3A. Sharon is an excellent teacher who makes you feel comfortable whatever your standard and we were shown a wide range of carving techniques using our own tools wherever possible. We were also shown how to sharpen tools - it was worth it for that alone!"

25 Oct 14'

Jim Quinlan reviewed: Introduction to Leather Craft

"A Superb introduction to leatherworking by a great instructor. Bill has a wealth of knowledge and experience and the enthusiasm to get it across. The course gives you all the basic skills you can absorb and the confidence to put it into practise. Well worth the course fee and leaves you wanting to do more."

25 Oct 14'

Stephen Beasley reviewed: Introduction to Leather Craft

"An excellent 2 x days, I'm amazed at how much was achieved in such a short period of time. Bill's teaching style is natural and his enthusiasm for the art comes across within minutes of meeting him. His patience with a "senior novice" was remarkable and all helped by a sense of humour. Apart from Bill the other three members of the course were really good company and added to the overall enjoyment."

25 Oct 14'

Ginie Scott reviewed: Basket making in Norfolk

"Something I have always wanted to do and I am so glad I went on Julie's basket making course, I loved every minute of it.. so interesting and rewarding. It was a really enjoyable day and I would highly recommend it. Julie is an excellent teacher and with her patience and help we all managed to complete our baskets. I know I will treasure mine ! Julie is not only a brilliant basket maker/teacher but a pretty good cook as well !... all the cakes she provided were absolutely delicious !.. What a great day !"

24 Oct 14'

Brian Paterson reviewed: Creating ceramic animals courses - with James Ort & Alison Pink

"Would definitely recommend this course, a fun, creative and thoroughly enjoyable weekend with some lovely people. With his friendly and supportive style, James is a natural teacher and helps you create sculpture you can be proud of. Look forward to my next time at Phoenix."

24 Oct 14'

Elizabeth reviewed: Leather Mask Making

"The one day workshop was organised very well, equal time was spent with each of us and we were given so much information on the type of leather we were using, tools and techniques, and tips if we were to try mask making at home. It was a very relaxed atmosphere and I was really surprised that we were able to successfully create and finish a mask by then end of the session! I had a great day and would really recommend this course to everyone, even if they've never worked with leather before! It was such a great experience!"

23 Oct 14'

Simon reviewed: Firebird Forge Blacksmithing School

"I booked this course after meeting Mort at a craft fair and through his enthusiam I thought I'd like to give that ago, so I booked it, and what a fantastic day Mort is a great teacher, full of enthusiasm and his knowledge on the subject and his attention to detail is superb. All I can say if you are thinking about booking then don't wait just do it! Hope to come back soon. Thanks"

23 Oct 14'

Evelyn Hillier reviewed: Creating ceramic animals courses - with James Ort & Alison Pink

"James is an inspirational teacher, helpful & encouraging. When I first went to the Phoenix Studio I had no notion of being any good at ceramics: I was keeping my friend company on her course, but I continue to go back... I have developed my own style and ideas on how I want my pieces to appear; I'm still not very good but that's down to my essential lack of talent rather than anything else! It's always great there, and it doesn't matter whether you are good or bad at what you are doing as everyone's pieces have validity and indeed, artistic value - everyone is different, thank goodness. And the constant supply of tea and biccies helps the creativity flow as well!"

22 Oct 14'

Jean Foley reviewed: Mosaics for the home and garden

"If you've ever wondered how on earth the romans created those magnificent mosaics, and thought 'I couldn't do that', I can honestly recommend this course. You'll soon be creating mosaics you'll be proud to display in your house, as well as solving the Christmas present problem for that awkward Aunt and Uncle who seem to have everything! If like me, you can't draw anything, it's not a problem. Frances is a brilliant artist, who will take you through the entire procedure from beginning to end, and will indeed, even draw the design you want. This is a fun course for anyone wanting to try something new, whilst at the same time, giving you an opportunity to meet new people. One word of caution though. Once you try this course, you'll be hooked forever! WOULD I RECOMMEND THIS COURSE - YES DEFINITELY"

22 Oct 14'

sarah langton reviewed: Kiln formed glass day workshop

"had a great time, thoroughly enjoyed myself. I had a bit of experience previously but had forgotten a lot and Helen gave me confidence and great advice and direction in a friendly and interested way. She really is a superb teacher, I learnt more from her in one day than I had in the past over several sessions with someone else. Will definitely return for another class."

21 Oct 14'

Phil Helmore reviewed: Green Wood Chair Making - 6 Day Woodworking Course in South Devon

"I have wanted to do this course for quite some time and after finally finding the time I was worried that my expectations would exceed reality. I need not have worried, reality far exceeded expectations. Peter's workshop was the perfect venue tucked away in beautiful South Devon, it is the perfect location. Peter's calm instruction and patient coaching make him the ideal teacher. He conveys his passion for greenwood with enthusiasm and great knowledge. Two enhancements I would suggest would be:"

21 Oct 14'

Alison Pink reviewed: Creating ceramic animals courses - with James Ort & Alison Pink

"The course that I experienced has completely changed my approach to my own creativity. It's laughable now that I was so worried about my lack of artistic flair. James has perfected the balance of being inspirational but at the same time sitting back and allowing you to develop your own style. If you have any doubts about any stage of your work, he will 'chip in' and show you how to overcome the problem with his typical laid back style. I now attend one day a week and produce a steady flow of commissions thanks to James encouragement. There'll always be someone one stage ahead and one stage behind you and this gives you the perfect environment for creativity."

21 Oct 14'

Bob reviewed: Green Wood Chair Making - 6 Day Woodworking Course in South Devon

"Have wanted to make some greenwood chairs for ages, glad I chose this course as a starting point. Peter is an excellent tutor, unflappable, and has an answer for every 'challenge' (mistake). Lovely setting, a thoroughly enjoyable week in good company, the end products were really impressive!"

21 Oct 14'

Simon Evans reviewed: Green Wood Chair Making - 6 Day Woodworking Course in South Devon

"An excellent course in a lovely setting. Peter's skill in teaching, patience and depth of knowledge make for a great week of hard work and good friendship! And I've come home with (though I say it myself) a fine chair and a burning ambition to make some more. Highly recommended!"

21 Oct 14'

Annie Kinghorn reviewed: Mosaics for the home and garden

"Have now done a couple of courses and thoroughly enjoyed them. I was stunned to see how someone like myself with no artistic talent can actually produce something which I am proud to show off in my home. Would highly recommend to all, Frances is a patient teacher and makes the time fly by so quickly as the courses are fun and entertaining - the endless supply of coffee and biscuits didn't hurt! Can't wait to sign up for another."

21 Oct 14'

Johnathan Rowles reviewed: Leather Mask Making

"What a great day, I enjoyed every minute. Lots of very useful tips with a safe and friendly environment. The day was well constructed giving every one equal time with help using the many variations of leather craft."

21 Oct 14'

Nev Wiggins reviewed: Spoon carving (Two Day)

"I spent two enjoyable days in a lovely shed in a wonderful garden learning how to carve a spoon and a butter knife. Martin is a knowledgeable and enthusiastic teacher. He explains everything you need to do thoroughly then lets you get on with the task while keeping a watchful eye. I highly recommend this course."

21 Oct 14'

Heather Skee reviewed: Five day woodwork course - tools

"I attended the 5 day woodwork course tooland things in September 2014 and I'm so pleased I did. It is amazing how I, a complete beginner could turn lumps of wood into a beautiful piece of furniture! But under the guidance of R&M I have, and I am now the very proud owner of a wonderful, hand crafted chair. To achieve this I needed the correct guidance and support from enthusiastic teachers, an array of power tools, sharp hand held tools, a little humour and of course the wood. Though the atmosphere was relaxed and fun we were all made aware of the relevant rules of safety and were briefed on using tools and given clear instructions. I learned many skills and had a fab time whilst doing so. I highly recommend this course, the instructors are first class! Thoroughly enjoyable. Well done R&M! Thanks again, Heather from Newcastle"

20 Oct 14'

Sheila Herbert reviewed: Mosaics for the home and garden

"As a complete beginner to mosaics I couldn't believe that I was able to produce a beautiful mosaic in just one session! Frances gives everyone lots of individual attention...nothing is too much trouble for her. I had a wonderful time and cannot wait to do more ."

20 Oct 14'

David Bedward reviewed: Leather Mask Making

"A great course with lots of opportunity to learn new skills. Also a very friendly host who was able to provide information on the area and was even kind enough to arrange transport to and from the course location. A great day all round."

20 Oct 14'

Jason reviewed: Firebird Forge Blacksmithing School

"Thanks for letting attend the Firebird Forge!"

20 Oct 14'

Niki Clappison reviewed: Vintage furniture chalk paint techniques

"I went on this course with Amanda a few months ago now, it was fantastic. She is really hands on, explains things really clearly and will spend time just checking as you go along. It was very relaxed and friendly too so it was fun too. I was lucky as my brother gave me some furniture to upcycle and now I am doing all sorts, if I have a problem with anything i just pop into the shop or phone to just check I am doing the right thing. I have completed two pieces of furntiure now and am just on with my third which is a rocking chair. I am adding my own touches which is a bit of bling! This is the benefit of having the shop because she has so many lovely things you can buy to transform your old furniture. It does not have to stop there though I am now painting my cabin upcycling an office desk. Can't wait to go on more of her courses now. You don't need to spend a fortune to really update your home or a room. Go on a course I am sure you will get as enthusiastic as me too. Niki"

20 Oct 14'

Carol Rout reviewed: Kiln formed glass day workshop

"I have been wanting to try my hand at fused glass for a while and was so pleasd when I found Helen's classes. I decided to treat myself and a friend for my birthday and we could not have chosen a better way to spend the day! Helen soon put us at our ease and has a really good way of communicating all the skills needed to cut glass etc. We were soon cutting away for our designs without even giving it a second thought and she was so generous with the supplies. When we picked up our first time efforts we were amazed by how well they turned out! It's really got us hooked and when we get the time we are hoping to return for another creative session. We would both thoroughly recommend the classes to anyone!"

20 Oct 14'

Rosemary Roome reviewed: Rag Rug Full Day Workshop - Hertfordshire

"An excellent course which I attended as a complete beginner. Elspeth explained the techniques well and enabled attendees to rag rug successfully and to go home with enough confidence, and desire, to carry on with our projects. A thoroughly enjoyable day which I wholeheartedly recommend."