Blended Monkey - pottery - woodturning - green woodworking - pole lathe - throwing reviews

Michelle reviewed: Beginners half-day pairs pottery / ceramics workshop

"This is a great workshop for anybody who wants to try out pottery. Louise was very welcoming and after a cup of coffee we felt very relaxed and ready to go. We started getting used to the clay by making pinch pots and then Louise patiently guided us through the process of making vases using the slab method. Louise had a variety of materials and suggestion which we used to create different decorative effects. We had great fun trying these out and adding our own ideas. And then we tried the wheel. We knew that throwing clay is a difficult art to master but wanted to give it a go. Louise gave us very good instructions, so we managed to see a lump of clay taking on some shape. I admit that my daughter was more successful than me, but it was great to try it. It was a great experience and we enjoyed it a lot. Louise is such a great and supportive teacher. I am sure we will be back. "

Blended Monkey - pottery - woodturning - green woodworking - pole lathe - throwing responded:

"Thank you for your lovely review Michelle :-). It was a delight having you and your daughter in the pottery studio - I've shown several students the rabbit vase; such a lovely piece! You both managed the wheel really well, despite your trepidation ;-) and it would be a pleasure to have you both back in the studios in the future. "

Phil and Harvey reviewed: Beginners 1-day pairs woodturning workshop

"When my son and I arrived, and Simon greeted us, we just knew it was going to be a good day! From the tools to techniques, Simon explained and demonstrated everything clearly, and was happy to help if we had any questions or were struggling in any way. We had plenty of hands on experience during the day, and had our bowls and honey dippers to prove it! We’ve definitely learnt a lot. With great food, plenty of drinks, story telling and banter, we were well looked after throughout. Thank you Simon and Louise for a thoroughly enjoyable experience, we hope to see you both again soon. Phil and Harvey"

Blended Monkey - pottery - woodturning - green woodworking - pole lathe - throwing responded:

"Hey guys, So glad you enjoyed the day - makes my day too! Any issues or questions, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. — Simon"

Martin Bass reviewed: Beginners half-day pairs pottery / ceramics workshop

"We had a half day beginners workshop and thoroughly enjoyed it. Louise is very friendly and welcoming. I would definitely recommend Blended Monkey. It has a real feel good factor to it."

Blended Monkey - pottery - woodturning - green woodworking - pole lathe - throwing responded:

"It was great to have you guys in the pottery studio. I think you both made some fab pieces and I know they'll look great after they've been glazed too! Maybe see you again in the future. "

Steve Hamlett reviewed: Beginners 1-day 1-2-1 woodturning workshop for 1 person

"Excellent day spent with Simon providing just the right amount of help, guidance and intervention. I could not have wished for a better tutor. He clearly has great levels of skill, not just in the craft but also in communication. It is a rare thing to have someone answer the questions you asked rather than just delivering an agenda. Highly recommended."

Blended Monkey - pottery - woodturning - green woodworking - pole lathe - throwing responded:

"Thank you, Steve, for a great review and I’m so glad you enjoyed the session. I hope your turning goes from strength to strength with your new sharpening skills; do get in touch if you need more assistance. Happy turning! — Simon "

Jason & Martin reviewed: Beginners 1-day pairs woodturning workshop

"An excellent, fun day and we each completed two projects! Simon is a very knowledgeable tutor, ensuring we got the most out of the day and helped out two novice wood turners as little or as much as we needed. We highly recommend this day - whatever your experience level. A big thanks to Louise for providing a lunch that matched up with some rather specific dietary requirements - it was greatly appreciated!"

Liz Bradley reviewed: Beginners 1-day 1-2-1 woodturning workshop for 1 person

"a brilliant 2 day woodturning course. Simon was extremely helpful and patient for a beginner with no prior experience. would highly recommend."

Blended Monkey - pottery - woodturning - green woodworking - pole lathe - throwing responded:

"Hi Liz, I’m so glad that the tailored course was a success. Any further questions or help required, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. — Simon"

Sandi and Mike Turner reviewed: "2 Crafts in 1 Day!" pairs - woodturning & pottery experience

"My husband and I attended the 2 in 1 craft day the woodturning and pottery day, and what an incredible time we had. Louise and Simon are so welcoming and are attentive and patient teachers. Although I was most looking forward to the pottery wheel, I thoroughly enjoyed the rest of the course and was surprised at just how much I enjoyed the woodturning, as a complete beginner. My husband had some experience at woodturning, but under Simon's expert guidance he learnt so much. We both loved the pottery afternoon and the different methods and, although the wheel was challenging, Louise is a fabulous teacher. It was a brilliant day and we will both definitely be returning. Thank you both so much. "

Otto reviewed: Beginners 1-day 1-2-1 woodturning workshop for 1 person

"Really good for beginners. I made a pen and now I am going to buy a lathe myself."

Blended Monkey - pottery - woodturning - green woodworking - pole lathe - throwing responded:

"Hi Otto, So glad you enjoyed it and (finally) got the car sorted out. If you need any advice, please don't hesitate to get in touch. -- Simon"

Robert Hood reviewed: Beginners 1-day 1-2-1 woodturning workshop for 1 person

"I can fully recommend The Blended Monkey one day 1 to 1 beginners woodturning course. Simon is a really nice bloke, who will quickly put you at ease. He takes time to explain in detail the tools and techniques used, so you can enjoy plenty of hands on experience, in a modern and well equipped workshop. My day was a really worthwhile and enjoyable experience, which has left me wanting to learn more. "

Blended Monkey - pottery - woodturning - green woodworking - pole lathe - throwing responded:

"Hi Rob, It was great having you in my workshop for the day. Please get in touch if you need further help with the craft. -- Simon"

Sally Tabor reviewed: Beginners 1-day 1-2-1 pottery / ceramics workshop for 1 person

"Fabulous Louise took on the challenge of a very ambitious project accepting me and my ideas. Being a very long time since I'd touched pottery clay, I was very excited to give it a go. My project brief was to produce a dinner service for 12 including large plates, side plates plus bowls... A 2 day workshop as a Christmas present given to me by my wonderful Darren. Think I might have bitten off more than I can chew and will be a tad longer to complete, whoops!!! However Louise is extremely patient and explained the techniques in a very clear and thorough way. Louise makes you feel at home and encourages you all the way. Just a few more days to go Louise..tee hee!!! "

Blended Monkey - pottery - woodturning - green woodworking - pole lathe - throwing responded:

"Thank you for the lovely review Sally! It was a delight having you in the studio and I look forward to part 2 next week where you'll be making the side plates and continuing with your throwing journey :-). "

Owen reviewed: Beginners 1-day 1-2-1 woodturning workshop for 1 person

"Couldn’t have asked for more from the day’s experience. I was initially met by both Simon and Louise, who immediately made me feel completely welcome and comfortable. Simon subsequently took me to his workshop, where after a cup of tea, biscuits, and a relaxed catch about anything and everything in life, we began the teaching session. Simon is clearly a very talented craftsman who is passionate about his work. His style of teaching is both thorough yet laid back. He seems keen for you to be able master his techniques for yourself, and will explain the reasons why they’re important to know. However, once taught, he’s just as happy to leave you alone to practice for yourself, something I personally really appreciated. Lunch was great (ploughman’s style). There was loads of choice and if felt like it had been done with a genuine sense of care. At the end of the day I came away with loads of new knowledge, a bowl and honey dipper that I love, and that good vibes feeling you can only get after doing something really enjoyable for a day. A final point that feels worth mentioning is how thoughtful Simon appears to have been to the types of people who might come to these sessions- the tools and lathe he teaches you on are the sort that a serious hobbyist would have (I.e. v high quality, but not the ridiculously priced equipment that a true professional might need - he has those use too!), As such, I left feeling as if I had a rare opportunity to try a craft under expert tuition, on equipment that was both accessible if i chose to take it up as a hobby, yet more professional than my skills would probably ever require. This final point was further demonstrated when Simon informed me that he sends out detailed handouts of all the techniques and equipment used, whilst also offering to be a source of contact if I needed any advice on buying equipment in the future. Thank you Blended Monkey for a great day. "

Blended Monkey - pottery - woodturning - green woodworking - pole lathe - throwing responded:

"Hi Owen, Thanks for a wonderful review - so glad you enjoyed your day and do get in touch if you need more assistance. --Simon"

Barry reviewed: Beginners 1-day 1-2-1 woodturning workshop for 1 person

"Brilliant experience!!! Having only tried woodturning at home- self taught from Youtube, this was a fantastic day. Simon was really helpful before the course allowing me to explain what i felt comfortable doing and what i wanted to learn. Simon was great at making each step understandable and helping if anything wasn't clear. He was great at giving advice and provided a relaxing and approachable environment. Simon was extremely patient, knowledgeable and an incredible teacher. I cannot recommend this course enough. Looking forward to booking another course with Simon. Great lunch also included! "

Blended Monkey - pottery - woodturning - green woodworking - pole lathe - throwing responded:

"Hi Barry, So glad you enjoyed it and looking forward to seeing you again. You'll have to collect your face shield at some point! -- Simon"

Andrew & Sue Southgate reviewed: Beginners 1-day pairs woodturning workshop

"We had a fantastic day with Simon learning to do wood turning. He is so knowledgeable and passionate about the subject and a great teacher. He was also very patient with us and genuinely wanted us to take home lovely pieces, even if he did want to keep one of the bowls we made because of the fascinating grain through it! Thanks again for making the day special, we’ll highly recommend to others. "

Blended Monkey - pottery - woodturning - green woodworking - pole lathe - throwing responded:

"Hi Andy & Sue, So glad you enjoyed your day - it makes my day too. Are you sure you want to keep the bowl still? I can find a good home.... ;) -- Simon"

Tony Kelly reviewed: Beginners 1-day 1-2-1 woodturning workshop for 1 person

"This course was excellent. I’m not a complete novice but learnt so much about technique and how to relax whilst turning. Great tuition with extensive knowledge. Would definitely recommend to anyone looking to start wood turning. Many thanks Simon, I thoroughly enjoy my day. Kindest regards"

Blended Monkey - pottery - woodturning - green woodworking - pole lathe - throwing responded:

"Hi Tony, So glad you enjoyed the day and got good value from it. Happy turning! -- Simon"

Martin reviewed: Beginners 1-day pairs woodturning workshop

"Very enjoyable and interesting course. I highly recommend it. Simon is a very skilled teacher."

Blended Monkey - pottery - woodturning - green woodworking - pole lathe - throwing responded:

"Hi Martin (& Jason), Stop it! You'll make me blush :) Thanks for the recommendation - it was a great day and you were both excellent students. -- Simon"

Denise Moxon reviewed: Beginners half-day pairs woodturning workshop

"Pairs Woodturning Half Day Course Friendly and easy to follow tuition. Loved every minute, can't wait to book the next one. Thank you!"

Blended Monkey - pottery - woodturning - green woodworking - pole lathe - throwing responded:

"Hi Denise, You’re welcome! Look forward to seeing you again soon. — Simon"

Dave Gee reviewed: Beginners 1-day 1-2-1 woodturning workshop for 1 person

"An absolutely awesome experience !! Having always wanted to have a crack on a lathe this was a brillaint xmas present from my partner. Simon and Louise are such lovely people and immediately put you at ease upon arrival. In a beautiful setting and great workshop. Simon was extremely patient, knowledgeable and an incredible teacher. He covered all aspects from setup to completing a project in a very easy to follow way and makes you feel totally confident and comfortable in the environment. We had a delicious farm style lunch in there home kitchen and completed a second project in the afternoon. I could not recommend this enough to anyone and will be returning for a second course in the New Year. Amazing job guys ! Keep up the great work !! "

Blended Monkey - pottery - woodturning - green woodworking - pole lathe - throwing responded:

"Hi Dave, Thanks for a lovely review. Really enjoyed the session and look forward to seeing you again soon. — Simon"

Chrissimiddleton@gmail.com reviewed: Beginners half-day pairs pottery / ceramics workshop

"This was such a lovely and interesting experience. Louise is a wonderful host and teacher, and both my sister and I were free to create and learn some new technical skills. We came away feeling renewed, inspired and very proud of our creations. We will return!"

Richard Kenny reviewed: Intermediate 1-day 1-2-1 woodturning workshop for 1 person

"I enjoyed a great day with Simon and Louise last Thursday. I have done a little wood turning since buying my lathe earlier this year, but this showed how little I know about it and how much there is to learn. Simon's tuition is excellent, both in terms of content and technique. I was especially interested in tool sharpening, and this subject was covered very comprehensively, including both the theory and the practice. Many, many thanks, Simon and Louise."

Blended Monkey - pottery - woodturning - green woodworking - pole lathe - throwing responded:

"Hi Richard, Thank you so much for a heart-felt review and really glad we could help you improve your turning. Do get in touch if you have any questions or need any help. -- Simon & Louise"

Maya reviewed: Beginners half-day 1-2-1 pottery throwing workshop for 1 person

"Brilliant! I learnt absolutely loads and really enjoyed my course. Louise gave a demonstration, and then I got straight in making loads of my own pots, plates and bowls with helpful tips as I went. I really look forward to picking up my finished items soon. Many thanks Louise - I hope to be back again. "

Tracy Drinkwater reviewed: Beginners half-day pairs pottery / ceramics workshop

"Absolutely loved my pottery course. Learnt so much and Louise was a fantastic teacher. If you have never tried pottery before I definitely recommend Blended Monkey. I'm Looking forward to more courses in the future. Thank you for a great morning "

Daniel & Anne-Maria reviewed: Beginners 1-day pairs pottery / ceramics workshop

"I purchased the 1 day pottery experience for my wife's 40th birthday. We had the most amazing time with Louise in her wonderful cosy ceramics studio. My wife has been developing an interest in pottery over the last couple of years with adhoc evening lessons. Being able to spend a full day was an entirely different experience and we were able to cover a range of techniques and produce a bunch of creative end-pieces that we were pretty proud of (even if mine were rather wobbly!). Louise was super friendly and flexible in terms of how structured the day was. Anne-Maria had a personal project she wanted to work on and was given the space to do so, treating the day as part tutorial and part studio time. My favourite part was the potter's wheel - tougher than it looks but super satisfying! A nice farmer's lunch was put on where we met a nice fellow doing the wood turning workshop with Louise's husband (also super friendly). At the end of the day, Louise took our glazing requests and offered to do various touch ups on our pieces that needed to be done once more dry. Really going beyond what we expected from her. We are set to pick up our fully fired work soon and can't wait to see how they turned out! We loved it. A very highly recommended experience. Thank you Louise!"

Gyles Westcott reviewed: Beginners 1-day 1-2-1 woodturning workshop for 1 person

"As a complete beginner, this one-day introduction to woodturning was just perfect. Simon is a great teacher - skilled, articulate and patient, with a great instinct for recognising when to step in and offer guidance, and when to step back and let the student learn. He's also great company - my only regret is that the day passed so quickly! I'm thrilled with the pieces I completed on the day, both of which are now in use at home. I now feel confident that I can work on a lathe safely and look forward to booking my next course (probably Simon's half-day sharpening clinic - sharpening his beautiful tools looked almost as much fun as working on the lathe!). Simon is also really generous with his advice, giving practical, sensible advice on tools and equipment, and which items to prioritise when starting out. Louise and Simon were lovely to deal with - friendly and welcoming, but also very professional in the way they run their business. If you're wanting to try something new, or looking for an original gift for someone special, I would thoroughly recommend Blended Monkey."

Blended Monkey - pottery - woodturning - green woodworking - pole lathe - throwing responded:

"Hi Gyles, Thank you for such a thoughtful review and for the company on the day. It was a fun day for both of us! If you need any help in the future, please get in touch. -- Simon"

Chris Stevens reviewed: Beginners 1-day 1-2-1 woodturning workshop for 1 person

"This course was a lovely surprise for a significant birthday. Was made very welcome by Simon and Louise and their great hospitality. Had never really got the opportunity at school to do much that was practical and creative so was a bit nervous to start with, thinking there was little chance of me creating anything in wood that I'd let another person see. Simon instantly puts you at ease and is patient and an excellent teacher. The day passed quickly, and after a short time of demonstration and practice, you find yourself focusing on the wood, the tools and releasing the object in your mind from what starts as a block of wood. It's like magic and good for the mind and the soul. Very proud of the sycamore bowl I took home. Thank you for a great day, and I hope to try woodturning again."

Blended Monkey - pottery - woodturning - green woodworking - pole lathe - throwing responded:

"Hi Chris, So glad you enjoyed the day; you should be very proud of your bowl. Really enjoyed your company - please shout if you need any help in the future. Kind Regards, Simon"

Josie Thompson reviewed: Beginners half-day 1-2-1 pottery / ceramics workshop for 1 person

"My husband and I really enjoyed our wood turning and pottery sessions. Simon and Louise have a lovely relaxed approach to their sessions, allowing you to learn at your own pace and enjoyment. We are both delighted with our achievements and would highly recommend attending either course. "

Blended Monkey - pottery - woodturning - green woodworking - pole lathe - throwing responded:

"Thank you for your lovely review Josie! It was a delight having you in the pottery studio, and Simon enjoyed having Jeff return for his intermediate woodturning workshop too. You made some beautiful pieces that you should be very proud of :-). I'll let you know as soon as your creations appear from the kiln!"