The Spinning Barn reviews

Corrie Cuthbertson reviewed: Two Day Hand Spinning Workshop in Norfolk

"I can't recommend Theresa and her courses highly enough. I arrived with a whole host of bad habits and preconceptions, having fought my wheel for a number of years. But Theresa is so calming and patient, she's so positive and encouraging that I came away with a new love for my wheel, and desperate to get started on new projects. We were a perfectly-sized group so we got lots of feedback, support and encouragement, Theresa spots as soon as you go wrong, steps in and gets you sorted in a flash. We were a mixture of past spinners and newbies and she tailored the weekend to accommodate all of us and our needs. The location is perfect, gorgeous refreshments/lunches and you get to meet her lovely sheep. I can't believe how much I learned in one weekend but didn't feel overwhelmed at any point Perfect :)"

The Spinning Barn responded:

"Thank you so much Corrie. I am feeling rather humbled by your fabulous review. As you know I was just delighted to have been part of your spinning journey. You produced some fabulous yarn on your very lovely wheel and I just know that you will be continuing and that makes me very happy. Thank you x"

Yvonne Van Iperen reviewed: Hand Spinning For All - Norfolk

"I had a lovely day. Theresa informed me upfront very well and the course was really helpful. Her knowledge is very good and she knows how to explain and show the ins and outs. She is very friendly and we could drink as much tea and coffee as much as we wanted and she made some lovely cake and biscuits. I did this course so now I can get started and practice. Definitely recommend this course. Will apply for a follow up course when I get a bit more skilled."

The Spinning Barn responded:

"Yvonne, thank you so much for your review, it has made my day. You showed today that you are a natural spinner and I can't wait to hear about your progress. It would be lovely to see you on another workshop but in the mean time if you need any help then you only have to ask. xx"

Sarah Phillips reviewed: Hand Spinning For All - Norfolk

"The day was well structured and clearly presented. Theresa was a really good teacher, and full of enthusiasm. Theresa would demonstrate each different stage, and then help you to get over problems you had as you tried it. I was a complete beginner and I would thoroughly recommend this course. I will be booking up more with the Spinning Barn!"

The Spinning Barn responded:

"Thank you so much for your review Sarah, it is very much appreciated. I am so pleased that you enjoyed your day and found it helpful. I was most impressed with your spinning and really hope that you continue. It would be great to see you on another workshop but I am always here for advice in the meantime. Best wishes."

Jenny F reviewed: Two Day Hand Spinning Workshop in Norfolk

"Loved every minute of the two day workshop - and can't wait for Theresa to do another, and this time a longer one, please! It's taken me a bit of time to catch up since the workshop, hence the delay in writing my review. I found it so helpful to have two consecutive days devoted to learning more about sheep and fleeces, about the variety of spinning wheels we were using, and of course then the spinning. Having a good few hours to practice was phenomenally useful - and the time we spent sorting out our wheels and the hiccups with spinning has meant that I've felt confident to continue practising at home every day since then. Just the best and to find that it really is a peaceful-making experience, even when things go wrong, and the discovering that I can rather put them to rights again. Theresa is a very good teacher - showing us step by baby step to help get us comfortable with some very basic skills, and with these it's felt possible to build confidence little by little. She is wonderfully and widely knowledgeable, always happy to share - with delight and great humour. I also loved working alongside the other group members. I found them such interesting and delightful people - a terrific experience altogether. Which makes me very much hope that Theresa will want to add a four-day workshop or a week's retreat soon in the new year. This would be fantastic! Please, can we do that?!! And thank you - it was such a special weekend. I can't wait to come again."

Kate McGee reviewed: Two Day Hand Spinning Workshop in Norfolk

"This was an excellent weekend. I wasn't sure that I would be able to go from being a complete novice to producing a skein of yarn, but I did! Theresa is an excellent teacher, breaking down the process into simple steps that made sense, and combining them gradually together. She was able to give each of us individual attention, and help everyone at the level that they needed. There was plenty of time to try out different wheels, and to find the one that suited you best. I have now bought myself a spinning wheel, and hold Theresa entirely responsible!!! Theresa looked after us brilliantly - there was always food and drink there, and the weekend flew by. I would wholeheartedly recommend this course, and any others that she runs - I am sure that you will not be disappointed. I feel that this may not be my last visit to The Spinning Barn. Thank you Theresa for your help, your patience and your expertise!"

The Spinning Barn responded:

"Kate, thank you so very much for your review. I am so pleased that you enjoyed the weekend and found it inspiring. I knew from the start that you were determined to spin however determination was soon overtaken by natural ability. The fact that you have already bought a wheel has filled me with pride. This really sums up why I love what I do and I can't wait to see your progress. I am always on hand for help and admiration! Xx"

Val Campbell reviewed: Two Day Hand Spinning Workshop in Norfolk

"What a great two days. I took my old spinning wheel which had got the better of me ever since I bought it. Theresa, with the support of the other ladies, persevered and encouraged me until I produced a skein of yarn. Never thought I would make it. What a sense of achievement when the brain, head, hands and feet all work together to make what Theresa told us at the beginning of the weekend, we would achieve. Thank you Theresa for your patience, enthusiasm and knowledge. A wonderful two days."

The Spinning Barn responded:

"Thank you so much Val. I am so pleased that you enjoyed you weekend, I know I did too. I can't tell you how happy I was that you really persevered with your wheel and produced a wonderful skein of yarn. I really hope that you were inspired to continue and learn to love your wheel again. If I can ever be of any help please just ask. Thank you x"

Anne Dinsdale reviewed: Two Day Hand Spinning Workshop in Norfolk

"I had spun before but not for about 30 years and felt in need of a 'refresher' before taking it up again. Theresa was very welcoming to all 5 of us and the course proceeded very much according to the plan as described in the booking details. The atmosphere throughout was friendly and informal but nonetheless Theresa was a great teacher. She showed us the different new techniques and answered all our various questions with much patience and we had time to assimilate and practice at each stage. We had the chance to try out different types of wheels and also handle different fleeces and yarns. Tea and coffee flowed freely and we had some delicious cake and very warming soup. Above all it was a very informative, happy and enjoyable weekend. I most certainly look forward to visiting the Spinning Barn again. (In addition to the above, James went beyond the call of duty and very kindly attempted to revive my very neglected elderly spinning wheel.!)"

The Spinning Barn responded:

"Anne, thank you so much for such a lovely review. I am so pleased that you enjoyed your time here and I would be delighted to welcome you back at any time. I was so delighted to see how quickly your skills returned after way too long away from your wheel. Some people are just meant to spin and you are definitely one of them. Do let me know how you get on over the coming weeks and also when your new wheel arrives!! Best wishes and happy Christmas xx"

Laura reviewed: Hand Spinning For All - Norfolk

"Theresa is a great teacher and her enthusiasm and knowledge is terrific. We all had plenty of time and attention spent on each of us and I look forward to going on another course, and joining the Saturday morning spinning get together."

The Spinning Barn responded:

"I am so happy that you enjoyed your workshop Laura so thank you very much for your kind review. It was such a pleasure to help you and it would be lovely to see you at a Social Group too, which is this Saturday November 30th by the way!!"

Lesley Treadwell reviewed: Hand Spinning For All - Norfolk

"So so so glad that I booked the spinning course with Theresa as a birthday present for my mum and sister. We couldn't have had a better day with her! Theresa has so much patience, knowledge and a genuine, beautiful passion for wool, spinning and her sheep. From the moment we were greeted by James and welcomed into the cosy spinning barn with Theresa and Teddy, I knew it would be a fabulous day. It started with learning the basics of preparing wool, carding our own piece of North Ronaldsey wool and then spinning it into our very own skein in the afternoon. The course was well planned with plenty of time to practice at the spinning wheel. Theresa's delicious Victoria sponge was an added bonus. I would definitely recommend this course for anyone who has an interest in spinning, it's an inspiring experience. We all couldn't stop admiring our skeins! Thank you Theresa x"

The Spinning Barn responded:

"Thank you so very much for your review.I have to admit that I was reduced to tears when I read it as it just sums up exactly why I love teaching these workshops. It was such a pleasure to meet you and your mum and sister. I thought it was such a wonderful way to spend some special time together. I hope that you were inspired to continue spinning to build on the amazing start that you made on Saturday. If I can be of any help you only have to ask. Thank you again x"

Karen reviewed: Hand Spinning For All - Norfolk

"I would thoroughly recommend this course to anyone with an urge to learn this craft. Theresa is very knowledgeable & I thoroughly enjoyed my day! Thank you Theresa, keep up the excellent work, Karen"

The Spinning Barn responded:

"Thank you so much for leaving such a lovely review Karen. It was an absolute pleasure to teach you and to see that you produced some amazing yarn. We really needed another day to discuss all the other things we had in common!! Keep up the good work and remember that I am always here to help if you need it. Thank you."

Sue reviewed: Hand Spinning For All - Norfolk

"What a great day ! I have wanted to learn to spin for many years & decided that I needed to do something about it, I found Theresa’s work shops which was close to where I lived so booked up. All the way through Theresa was so helpful she has so much knowledge about spinning, wool different sheep breeds etc & a great way of teaching making it easy to understand. I would recommend Theresa’s workshops to anyone who wants to learn to spin it’s a great way to spend a day & learn a new skill."

The Spinning Barn responded:

"Thank you so much Sue for your review. It was the first email I opened today so has started my day off beautifully. I was so impressed by your natural spinning abilities and I know that you are going to continue as you are clearly meant to do. As always I am here for advice if ever you need it. Theresa x"

Karina Shire reviewed: Hand Spinning For All - Norfolk

"Really enjoyed the day - Theresa was very helpful and friendly and went through all the stages clearly without giving us too much information as she obviously has a tremendous knowledge of the subject.It was lovely to see the sheep out in the field and then card, spin and ply the wool to give us a skein to take home with us at the end of the day.I would definitely like to do more spinning very soon although work may get in the way for the next few months so I may have to do another course once I've bought a wheel - I would thoroughly recommend this course to anyone wishing to give hand spinning a try."

The Spinning Barn responded:

"Thank you so much for your review Karina. That really made me smile on a dreary, rainy day! I am so pleased that you enjoyed your day, and my little sheep. I really hope that you do continue to spin but realise how busy your schedule is. So get that wheel and allow yourself just a few minutes a day!! Hope to see you again soon. Theresa"

Roslyn Pittoni reviewed: Hand Spinning For All - Norfolk

"Theresa has so much enthusiasm for her craft that it spills over onto you. Her handouts were just what I needed to start off my journal on the fleeces I have collected. There was a good balance between technical and practical. My problems with carding were answered. I also learnt a different way of spinning to my technique I use already. All in all a great day with a lovely tutor in a fabulous setting."

The Spinning Barn responded:

"Thank you so much for your review Ros. I am so pleased that you enjoyed your day and found it informative too. I always say it but it never feels like work to me when I know that somebody else has enjoyed their spinning. As for your individually styled technique, don't stop! Crafting is all about your expression and enjoyment although a few 'extra tools' in the bag are always handy! Do keep up the good work. x"

Rose Wesley reviewed: Hand Spinning For All - Norfolk

"Fantastic course, well run. Theresa is very enthusiastic and knowledgeable, we had a good laugh and wonderful cake and I came away with my hand spun skein of yarn. Look forward to learning more."

The Spinning Barn responded:

"Thank you Rose for such a lovely review. That as made my day. I am so pleased that you enjoyed the workshop and I just know you are going to be hooked very soon - if not already! Looking forward to helping you whenever you need it."

Jenny reviewed: Hand Spinning For All - Norfolk

"Loved the course, enjoyed the Spinning Barn. Theresa is exactly what a beginner needs in a teacher: wonderfully and widely knowledgeable, great presentation, very supportive of each of us in the group - and a great group too of beginner spinners, with many laughs along the way. Would love to do more - learn more, so please... maybe a two or three day workshop?! I would absolutely want to do that, really to have the time to practise and gently to consolidate it all over a longer period. That would be terrific."

The Spinning Barn responded:

"Thank you so much Jenni. It was a fabulous group and I am so pleased that you enjoyed it. I just loved your wheel too! Your first spinning was so amazing and I totally agree that a longer workshop would really help to consolidate your new skills and build your confidence. I shall look at some dates and make sure that you are the first to know!! If you have any questions do just ask. xx"

Lynne Merryland reviewed: Hand Spinning For All - Norfolk

"An excellent days experience. Clear and helpful instruction. Lots of good information backed up with clear notes. I was very impressed by Theresa's consistent and helpful attention throughout the day. I really enjoyed her heart felt enthusiasm for her flock and their wellbeing. I didn't get to meet them which was a shame, maybe next time. Well worth the very reasonable cost and I thoroughly recommend it as a way to see if spinning is something you would like to learn."

The Spinning Barn responded:

"Thank you so much for your review Lynn. I am so pleased that you enjoyed your day and was delighted to see your progress on your fabulous wheel throughout the workshop. I really hope you are able to put your re-discovered skills to use and enjoy your new hobby. I'm here if you need any help."

Alex smith reviewed: Hand Spinning For All - Norfolk

"Had a great day learning how to use my spinning wheel. Theresa is extremely knowledgable. I would highly recommend this course to anyone, she is a fabulous teacher and very patient and it’s great to know if I need any further advice Theresa is just a phone call away, perfect."

The Spinning Barn responded:

"Thank you so much for your review Alex. I am so pleased that you enjoyed your day. It was such good fun and a delight to see your fabulous yarn at the end of the day. I can't wait to hear all about your progress with your spinning and your wonderful sheep. And you know where I am if you need any help along the way. I am always happy to help."

Charlotte Cozier reviewed: Hand Spinning For All - Norfolk

"Myself and my husband Chris were complete spinning novices when we arrived at the Spinning Barn, but with Theresa's expert guidance (and endless patience!) we were able to come away each with our very own skein of hand spun wool. Theresa was so welcoming to us; she made the whole process look effortless and her passion for her craft was quite infectious. We also got to meet her clearly beloved sheep who all bleated in unison when they saw her! A lovely way for these two London townies to spend a day in the Norfolk countryside and I would highly recommend this course."

The Spinning Barn responded:

"Thank you so much for your wonderful review. It was such a pleasure to spend the day with you both. I am so pleased that you enjoyed your experience and hope that you will continue with your new found skill. Theresa x"

Helen Riley reviewed: Hand Spinning For All - Norfolk

"What a fantastic day, the time just flew by so quickly! Theresa is such a great teacher. I arrived a complete beginner and rather nervous about what to expect. Theresa (and Ted) soon put me at ease and and then took us through the complete process of turning a fleece from a sheep into a skein of yarn ready to knit or weave. I quickly found myself carding fleece, making rolags and was then introduced to a spinning wheel and how to use it. Under Theresa's patient tuition I was able to spin my rolags into yarn and come home with a skein of yarn I had spun myself, (which I had not expected to do in one day). I can't wait to get a wheel of my own now and start practicing what I've learned. All in all a brilliant day - thank you Theresa and Ted!"

The Spinning Barn responded:

"Thank you so much Helen for your review. Receiving it was a lovely end to my busy day. I am so pleased that you enjoyed your day and that you produced a fabulous skein of yarn. That always makes me so happy at the end of a workshop. I do hope that you get your own wheel soon and can't wait to see what you produce after shearing time!! Theresa and Ted!"

Carol Byrne reviewed: Hand Spinning For All - Norfolk

"Had an absolutely fabulous day. I learnt so much and Theresa is an amazing teacher and so friendly, I felt relaxed straight away. Everything about the day was just brilliant and at the end of the day I took home my first skein of wool. So thank you again Theresa and a big stroke to Ted for his company. I would not hesitate a moment in recommending Theresa’s course to anyone."

The Spinning Barn responded:

"Thank you so much Carol for your lovely review. I really do appreciate it. It was such a fun but busy day and you made a fabulous start with your spinning obviously aided by your gorgeous wheel too!! Do keep up the good work and I shall await pictures showing your progress! Well done."

Sarah reviewed: Hand Spinning For All - Norfolk

"As with the other reviewers I had a great day and learnt lots. Definitely worth doing as there are so many hints and tips that Teresa can pass on, including origins of sayings! Even though a wet day, the fire was on in the wood burner, dog on a sheepskin rug, us spinning away (yeh after a short time of practicing) made a lovely experience. If your wavering about going along don’t."

The Spinning Barn responded:

"Sarah, thank you so much for your wonderful review. I am so pleased that you enjoyed your day. It was such a pleasure to spend the day with you. I do hope that you have been able to sort the parts for your wheel so that you can continue your brilliant spinning. Best wishes from Theresa and Ted!"

Sarah STUART reviewed: Hand Spinning For All - Norfolk

"Where did the time go? I was already spinning and getting a result but with gaps in my knowledge and lacking direction. Theresa is a thorough and thoughtful teacher and knows exactly what you need to get you spinning the right way for 'you'. All my questions were answered and I learnt a lot more about what I was doing and what to do next. Her positivity, patience and encouragement never faltered. Add to that the lovely setting with sound of her sheep nearby, wool of all sorts surrounding us and plenty of coffee and conversation, it all made for a very rewarding and enjoyable experience. I would recommend this day for both inexperienced spinners or spinners of any level. Thank you Theresa."

The Spinning Barn responded:

"Thank you so much Sarah for your really lovely review. I am feeling very humbled. Your spinning was already so brilliant and I found your enthusiasm infectious too. I ended the day feeling inspired myself! I am really looking forward to seeing your progress in the future. Thank you x"

Val Tarrant reviewed: Hand Spinning For All - Norfolk

"I thoroughly enjoyed the course. Theresa's enthusiasm for her craft is infectious and her ability to tailor the course to the individual's own interests makes it even more special. I came away inspired to carry on especially as I was given a small amount of fleece from Humbug, one of Theresa's own sheep so that I could try spinning with a third different type of fleece. I will definitely be practicing what I learnt as I hope to return to take a more advanced class in the future."

The Spinning Barn responded:

"Thank you Val for such a lovely review. It is very much appreciated. Every workshop is a different experience for me too and I was so interested in your historic area of spinning. Do keep up the good work!"

Kelly reviewed: Hand Spinning For All - Norfolk

"I had an absolutely brilliant day with Theresa, she's very knowledegable, let's you go at your own pace and was just a great teacher. Just be warned, you might come away wanting not only your own spinning wheel, but also your own flock of rarebread sheep!"

The Spinning Barn responded:

"Thank you so much Kelly for your lovely review. I had a fab day too and was so delighted to see how quickly you progressed to produce a gorgeous skein of yarn. I can't wait to hear about your progress and your sheep!!"

wendy scanes reviewed: Hand Spinning For All - Norfolk

"After 20 years of owning a spinning wheel that I just dusted and oiled occaisionally, I can now actually use it. I couldn't seem to put into practice what I was reading in books, and, more recently, watching on videos. Now, after just a day spent with Theresa, it all makes sense and I'm looking forward to using my wheel regularly. If you are thinking of learning to spin, I thoroughly recommend booking a class with Theresa. It was a relaxed and enjoyable day, time flew but thanks to our very patient, and knowledgable teacher, we successfully produced our skeins of spun wool."

The Spinning Barn responded:

"Thank you so much for your review. I really do appreciate it. I was thrilled to help you to finally spin on your beautiful wheel and your first skein was impressive. I really hope that you continue to spin and that it gives you years of pleasure. Awaiting photos of the knitted result!!"