Latest reviews

19 Nov 16'

Deb and Mark McLaughlin reviewed: 'Art of Stained Glass' - Oldbury, Birmingham

"The course was fantastic. I would highly recommend it to anyone interested in arts and crafts. We learned so much in our time with Jamal it has inspired us to take it up as a hobby. 5 out of 5 rating."

18 Nov 16'

Viki Burton reviewed: Introduction to Frame Loom Weaving

"A great day at Alice's workshop in Portsmouth. The workshop was very informative and unrushed and we were all able to work at our own pace which allowed each of us to create a unique weaving to take home. I have been able to try out what I learnt at home and would love to come on another workshop in the future to get more ideas."

18 Nov 16'

Emma Knight reviewed: Weekend upholstery courses - Oxfordshire & Berkshire Borders

"I don't really want to tell anyone how good this course is as I would hate it to get so booked up that I couldnt get a place on it next time but if you want to learn how to do upholstery - this course with Philip is THE course to do! -I have been to three weekends and have loved every minute of them - Philip is an excellent tutor - he is very knowledgeable and explains things clearly - he is amazingly patient and encouraging. A great way to spend a weekend learning a new skill and meeting some lovely people!"

18 Nov 16'

Loraine Harris reviewed: Creative Vibe - Glassblowing Sessions

"Brought the course for my husband for his special birthday and then decided I wanted to do it too. Soooo pleased I did. What a fantastic day, Ricky is a funny, patient and skillful artist, who made the day really special. Who knew we could create such beautiful pieces on our first ever course! Thoroughly recommended"

17 Nov 16'

Sarah reviewed: Weekly pottery/ceramics classes

"An amazing atmosphere; Alison is warm, friendly and makes you feel at home. As a beginner, you start out making a range of basic shapes and items such as solid figurines, bowls and tiles - progressing to more complex and intricate designs. Alison allows you freedom to create, think outside of the box and play with your ideas; all whilst guiding you along the way, whenever required. Pottery and Ceramics are both a life-long career dream of mine and to be able to live it, see it, feel it and do it is amazing! If you are creative, enjoy projects and want to get lost in all things arty, this is definitely the course for you! *****"

17 Nov 16'

Sam Hill reviewed: Crochet workshop - Benny Rens Creations

"Great beginners course - I was struggling to teach myself with internet videos and books but Bethany's instructions and demonstrations helped a lot and were very clear ."

17 Nov 16'

Liz Strong reviewed: Introduction to Glass Fusing with Enamels - Full Day Workshop

"This was my second workshop in St.Davids...once again a great experience, Steve has such enthusiasm for his craft and is always encouraging, even in times of panic and indecision-you couldn't ask for a nicer tutor."

17 Nov 16'

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

"I have enjoyed the course very much. The day began with some basic skills and techniques for fusing and we had a look around the gallery for ideas. Siobhan is a very good instructor, she'd help you to create your pieces and develop your ideas."

17 Nov 16'

David Morgan reviewed: Wood turning courses in the Midlands

"Wow what a day. For a complete novice I was given confidence to achieve a bowl from apple wood which would grace any home. Mark is a patient teacher who imparts knowledge and demonstrates technique. His notes are very comprehensive, essential if one is to go further with turning. Every aspect was covered all in all a wonderful day"

17 Nov 16'

Dan Faulkner reviewed: Beginners 10 week woodworking course NO LONGER RUNNING

"Just finished the beginners course - enjoyed it thoroughly and would highly recommend! It has taken me from someone who has never ever made anything at all before to someone who is now starting my own projects in my garage! Thank you Ciaran, not only have you taught me a lot but we had a great laugh along the way!"

16 Nov 16'

Ian Welland reviewed: Wood turning courses

"I would like to thank George (Sir ) for a wonderful day , I really enjoyed making my bowl that now sits in pride of place on our dining table. George is a patient, informative and very safety conscientious tutor with more than a sense of fun thrown in for good measure. I would happily recommend George to anyone thinking of giving wood turning a go . Thanks also to Susan , George's wife who kept us supplied with coffee and biscuits and provided a light lunch. Kind regards Ian"

16 Nov 16'

Julia reviewed: Felt Making Workshops - Stratford upon Avon

"A brilliant introduction to felting and a lovely morning of craft, cake and chat. Lesley is passionate about what she does and shared her knowledge and expertise generously. I thoroughly enjoyed my morning, learned loads and have definitely got the felting bug. I'm already planning my next workshop."

16 Nov 16'

Mary Halbert & Ian Taylor reviewed: Blacksmithing for Beginners - Full Day Forging for One

"I booked this course as a gift for my boyfriend Ian. Chris is an extremely gifted blacksmith combined with excellent teaching skills - this rare combination makes working with him not only instructive but also a pleasure. His love for his craft is obvious and he worked with us really well so that we got even more than we expected out of the day. Thank you so much - Ian is going back in January for another dose!"

16 Nov 16'

Anna Hollingworth reviewed: Half day: 3 Leather Accessories

"I had the most entertaining and creative moments while I was doing Rosanna's course. I did two days as I enjoyed it so much. She is a great tutor, lovely energy, patient and calm and she certainly knows her craft. Her studio is located in a beautiful area in the countryside, easily accesible and well worth the journey. I certainly reccommend Rosanna's craft course to everyone!"

16 Nov 16'

Julian reviewed: Blacksmithing Introduction courses in Yorkshire and the North East

"Great day. Learned a lot and had fun. Lovely food. Great support from Adrian and his colleague."

16 Nov 16'

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

"After being wowed by the beautiful pieces of fused glass art in the Forge gallery, I decided to have a go myself and signed up for a one day course. Despite being 'out of my comfort zone' working with such an unfamiliar material, I had a fantastic time. Siobhan is a wonderful teacher who mixes patience with inspirational instruction. Everyone was friendly, and lunch was yummy. I would recommend this course to anyone who wants to explore a new medium in their creative journey."

15 Nov 16'

Tom reviewed: Blacksmith forgework Learning Experience Day

"Me and my brothers had an amazing day. Blacksmiths are magical. They basically created items for our progress through history using a mixture of science and art. Robin and Daren were so skilled, knowledgeable and friendly. Having never done anything like this to walk away with a completed project was inspiring. (Now want to set up my own forge!) Would highly recommend."

15 Nov 16'

Bryan Hollier reviewed: Willow Reindeer Sculptures - 2 day course

"Sue Kirk is an excellent teacher and gave all of us a great deal of confidence that we could actually make this Reindeer ! I guess that nearly all of us were of a certain age and this was something many of us had not tried before. Also excellent facililties at Stanwick Lakes. I would recommend this course and others at Stanwick. So 5 stars ( can I give them more !! )"

15 Nov 16'

Gerald Shirley reviewed: Willow Reindeer Sculptures - 2 day course

"This two day course is held at the very picturesque nature reserve of Stanwick Lakes in Northampton-shire. The course in held in a purpose built oak framed building complementing the rustic feel of the willow weaving. As this is an autumn event the addition of the roaring log burner and the free tea and coffee is very comforting. The course starts with the very talented Sue Kirk describing how the willow is grown, harvested, dried and then readied for use by soaking. Sue also describes different forms of willow sculpture before getting us started on our own unique creations. On the morning of day one you learn the basic skills and create the form of the body. After a light lunch or a proper meal in the visitor center cafe the afternoon is spent creating the head and blending it to and filling out the body. Day two is where you get to create the character or you Reindeer. The tail, antlers and ears are now added. The antlers can be as big or small as you like and turn your "animal shape" into your very own "Rudolph", "Donna" or "Blitzen". Again, after lunch you get to put the final details to your reindeer. Using stripped willow which is white you can add colour to your antlers and highlight the facial details and eyes. When we were all finished a marvelous group photo was taken of us and our reindeer. My course was a surprise birthday present from my wife. It was not anything I had ever thought of doing but was eager to get started. I enjoyed it immensely and have learnt a new skill which I am eager to try again at home. I will be back to Trading Places soon for another of their brilliant courses."

15 Nov 16'

Martyn Perkins reviewed: Blacksmithing Introductory Workshop - One Day

"My son attended a one day introductory blacksmith course. Firstly the course is reasonably priced, and not over subscribed. Jack came home with his hook and candleholder and explained in detail the processes involved in its making. I have never seen him so pleased with himself. He has already said he wants to go on any other days that are available. On a personal note the Smith showed me around the forge when I arrived and talked with enthusiasm to me. Can't rate this highly enough. EXCELLENT"

15 Nov 16'

Dean C reviewed: Blacksmithing Introductory Workshop - One Day

"A great day out and a wonderful experience with still lots more to learn! I would gladly go on another course, the instructor, Stuart, was very patient and could fix any mistakes a novice like myself might have made. A long day, that will leave you feeling proud of what you have achieved. 5/5"

15 Nov 16'

Dom McIntyre De Vitto reviewed: Firebird Forge Blacksmithing School

"Brilliant day ! Really was far better than I expected - actually designing things (roughly), then heating, hammering and bending metal (like it's toffee!) into shape. Some joints made through literally banging to orange-hot pieces of metal together, others by twisting or jointing/riveting. My wife made a saddle stand, and I made a fire cradle (only just - time ran out). He saddle stand is amazing, really functional but pretty and extremely unusual! 'Mort' is an excellent teacher, who's passionate, knowledgeable and has amazing skills. He's also very patient with those, like me, who aren't anywhere near as capable. Fun, interesting and productive day - totally recommend it !!!"

15 Nov 16'

Emma C reviewed: Bespoke candle making workshop - Edinburgh

"Had a great morning at Kerry's workshop, loved pouring my own candle and making pine cone firelighters. Interesting session that was relaxed and very friendly, scones were a bonus. Also learned lots about the 'science' of candle burning"

15 Nov 16'

ROBERT BRIGGS reviewed: Introduction to Glass Fusing with Enamels - Full Day Workshop

"A thoroughly fascinating, enjoyable and rewarding day. Steve introduced us to the materials and how they behave, then demonstrated the basic techniques that a beginner should try to master. Pre lunch we all concentrated on 20cm square pieces of glass to prepare for the main event of the afternoon working with 60cm x 30cm glass. Steve patiently helped all advance quickly and encouraged experimentation. All five participants produced several very different pieces and all were delighted with the outcome when the kiln was opened on Sunday. I think that all of us intend to take part in another course next year."

15 Nov 16'

Kay Featherstone reviewed: Furniture painting workshop with Annie Sloan chalk paint

"This course was great - Lucy being the perfect tutor. I learnt so much - and more in the bargain. Thank you Lucy. Can you do any more??"