What participants have said about our courses recently
Christine T reviewed: Two day wood carving at Compton Verney October 2023
"Just wanted to say how much I enjoyed the wood carving course at Compton Verney last weekend. You were so encouraging, patient and informative with me (and us all) Looking back over my photographs from the Saturday I can’t believe that I managed to carve an ammonite."
Many thanks
Joe Cork reviewed: Two day stone carving course at Chillington Hall
"The 2 days were a great experience! The location, the tools and set up provided, the other craft participants and of course Miranda’s patient and friendly guidance to help even the most novice of people such as myself. Came away with something to be proud of. I would definitely do it again. "
September 2023
Helen marshall reviewed: Two day stone carving course at Snowshill Manor
"This was a fantastic course, really well run and so enjoyable. Miranda was a patient and informative teacher . The setting was lovely, carving in the orchard was a complete pleasure with beautiful views across the valley. Would recommend to anyone."
September 2023
Sandy reviewed: Two day stone carving course at Snowshill Manor
"Had a great two days in a lovely setting. I learnt a lot from Miranda and came away with a sculpture of a seahorse which I’m very pleased with. Choice of 4 projects. I found it less physically demanding than I thought it would be. Highly recommend this course, a fun weekend! "
September 2023
Jane Davies reviewed: Two day wood carving course at Snowshill Manor
"What an absolutely super experience. Lovely venue & experienced, knowledgeable tutor. LOVE my hedgehog. ❤️"
September 2023
Jane reviewed: Two day wood carving course at Middleton Hall September 2023
"Excellent 2 day course. Geraint gave everyone individual attention and encouragement. Recommend."
Greg Barbosa reviewed: Green Man clay sculpture course at Middleton Hall September 2023
"My wife and I both had a fantastic day. Miranda was a great teacher and provided plenty of tips and advice whilst also letting each person express their own vision of their green man. I would thoroughly recommend the course"
Teresa Barrass reviewed: Green Man clay sculpture course at Middleton Hall September 2023
"Thoroughly enjoyed creating a ceramic green man. The course was really well organised with everything we needed supplied. Miranda was on hand to provide instructions and help when it was needed. Can thoroughly recommend. "
Kath reviewed: Introduction to portrait sculpture at Middleton Hall September 2023
"Just finished the 2day introduction to portrait sculpture course. Miranda was such a lovely patient tutor. I can’t believe how much we learned in just 12hrs, myself and my hubby were complete beginners having never used clay before. What we achieved was just short of miraculous. Thoroughly enjoyed the course and will definitely do more "
Alex and Becci reviewed: Two day wood carving course at Middleton Hall August 2023
"An excellent couple of days in a gorgeous setting, went from a complete novice to actually creating something artistic for the first time since being at school! Thanks so much for your time, guidance and patience"
Helen Oades reviewed: Two day stone carving course at Middleton Hall
"My partner and I attended, weather was good so it was all outdoors, lovely setting. We now have a great pair of Lizard book ends although my work colleagues thought it was a cactus 🙂. A really enjoyable two days, well instructed, excellent value. "
Grant reviewed: Green Man clay sculpture course August 2023
"A fun day with templates to help get proportions, some ideas on different designs if you wanted it, good clear instruction and if (like me) you occasionally requested help, then simple constructive advice. Everyone, came away really pleased with their results and had individual designs. Ultimately I'd say, if never done clay work before, wanting to re-introduce yourself or just wanting to come away with a great finished article to hang on a wall in just one day, this ticked all the boxes. Thanks Miranda"
Claire Bennett reviewed: Two day introduction to portrait sculpture course at Chillington Hall
"What a lovely way to spend a weekend. Miranda is a peerless teacher who seems to coax miracles. Sculpting my elfin version of Sinead Oconnor was a wonderful experience that was relaxing and engaging. I hope the work survives the kiln. Animal sculpture next."
Bev Benson reviewed: Two day introduction to portrait sculpture course at Chillington Hall
"This was a wonderful course. Miranda knows just what she is doing and passes on the techniques to ensure that everyone has some success. She works so hard! She was always there to offer guidance, but we also felt that we had the freedom to experiment for ourselves. We do feel that we know enough to have a go independently now. Thank you!"
Carol reviewed: Introduction to stone carving at Little Moreton Hall July 2023
"Loved this course. Clear instructions and equipment. Miranda was really approachable and encouraging. I would highly recommend "
Richard reviewed: Introduction to stone carving at Little Moreton Hall July 2023
"Great course, would recommend to anyone."
Vivien reviewed: Clay animal sculpture course at Middleton Hall July 2023
"This was a great course - well suited to beginners (which I am not - I have done a lot of work with clay) but also ideal as an introduction to sculpting in clay. Miranda the teacher was brilliant at judging exactly the right amount of support and advice to give out and was incredibly conscientious at getting around all the students to offer support continually. In spite of knowing a lot about working with clay already I learnt absolutely loads and would thoroughly recommend the course to anyone."
Jane reviewed: Introduction to portrait sculpture at Middleton Hall July 2023
"A superbly well planned and prepared workshop which enables everyone to feel pleased with what they managed to achieve in two days! Miranda was an excellent tutor, giving everyone the attention, support and challenge they needed. "
Louise Magee reviewed: Two day wood carving course at Chillington Hall July 2023
"I have just attended this course and had a really enjoyable experience. Geraint was a great tutor! Patient, encouraging and full of positive belief in our ability to complete the carving in the time we had. Would highly recommend to others including complete beginners! Venue was lovely and interesting! "
Lisa and Alan reviewed: Two day wood carving course at Middleton Hall
"Both my husband and I enjoyed the 2 days. It was great to spend time on a new activity. The tutor was lovely, very encouraging, helpful and kept going round the whole group to see if anyone wanted help. I was really thrilled with my wood carving at the end of the weekend, I didn’t expect it to turn out so well."
Charlotte Gringras reviewed: Portrait sculpture from photographs June 2023
"This was excellent"
Katharina reviewed: Two day stone carving course at Snowshill Manor May 2023
"Fantastic course, highly recommended! Started with a block of stone and left with a recognisable owl sculpture. Miranda was great at explaining what needed to be done step by step!"
24 May 23'
Sue Parry reviewed: Two day wood carving course at Snowshill Manor
"I really enjoyed the wood carving course at Snowshill Manor on 20-21 May. Geraint was a great tutor, explained everything carefully and came round all the time to show the technique and give advice. The setting in the orchard was beautiful looking into the hills and lovely cafe on site. It was a great mix of fun people. I would highly recommend this course to anyone. "
Dave Martin reviewed: Two day wood carving course at Snowshill Manor
"The wood carving, led by Geraint, was exactly the right mix of suggestions, encouragement, and showing techniques. The rate of work had to be focused in order to complete the project over the weekend. All in all, very well organised and a very satisfying weekend."
2 May 23'
Sue Skinner reviewed: Two day stone carving course at Middleton Hall
"I’ve just finished the two-day stone carving course at Middleton hall and utterly enjoyed it. Miranda who ran the course was a great teacher making the process really enjoyable explaining everything in such a clear way that made it possible for everyone to accomplish a finished sculpture in the set time. It exceeded what I ever thought I could achieve in stone; think I’ve now got the bug and I'm looking into buying my own tools and stone to have a go at home. Thank you very much for a memorable weekend, I’m sure I’ll be booking another course soon. Sue "
Nimmi reviewed: Two day wood carving course at Middleton Hall
"Fabulous weekend - doing something new and inspiring! Talented and encouraging tutor helped me make something beautiful to take home. Thank you for a rejuvenating and mindful weekend - wasn't expecting this as part of the benefits. "
29 Mar 23'
Steven Marwick reviewed: Two day wood carving course at Chillington Hall
"I attended the 2 day woodworking course this month after getting it as a present. I found it an excellent experience. As a complete novice the guidance and instruction provided was very good. The instructor was very patient and understanding and in the end I left with something I was very proud of. I would highly recommend."
Debbie Woodcock reviewed: Two day wood carving course at Chillington Hall
"I did the two day course, it was very informative and Geraint was absolutely brilliant, coming round to each of us to check that we were happy with our work, if there was a problem, he would correct it, if needed, or tell you how to do it, all the tools were there, as was the wood and a variety of stencils to choose from. I have never carved at all, but surprised myself at the end and produced a hedgehog curled up. I might do it again and choose a different piece. Thoroughly worth it."
26 Mar 23'
Annette reviewed: Two day stone carving course at Chillington Hall
"Fabulous instructor with lots of encouragement and support provided. Good range of items to make provided and will also cater for your own ideas. Great weekend - thank you"
Andrew reviewed: Two day wood carving course at Chillington Hall
"Attended the two day wood carving course with my sister. We both thoroughly enjoyed the course and found the instruction to be excellent. Though we were total beginners we came away with carvings that we are really pleased with. Would highly recommend this course to all."
Wood carving at Chillington Hall - October 2022
Brian Jardine reviewed: Two day wood carving course at Chillington Hall
"Great course in a lovely venue. I took part in the one day woodcarving course. Managed to create a piece of work that I am pleased with but I wished I had booked the 2-day course. Great workshop with excellent teacher. Can recommend to anyone who enjoys working with wood."
Wood carving at Middleton Hall - October 2022
Andrew Potts reviewed: Two day wood carving course at Middleton Hall
"Fantastic way to spend a weekend. Really professional tutoring and advice. Great sense of achievement to complete a carving that will last and be appreciated forever. Definitely recommended."
Stone carving at Middleton Hall - October 2022
Vikki reviewed: Two day stone carving course at Middleton Hall
"Middleton Hall is a lovely location to do this 2 day stone carving course and the weather enabled us to be outside for both days (8-9th Oct). Miranda the tutor is excellent and provides 121 guidance and encouragement. It was a great experience, you knew you’d spent 2 days carving and I was really pleased with my efforts. "
Clay sculpture course at Chillington Hall - September 2022
Gill B reviewed: Green Man clay sculpture course
"Thoroughly enjoyed the course. Miranda has a great eye for perspectives and gave some really helpful tips and guidance. I will definitely be considering future courses with her. "
Wood carving at Snowshill Manor - September 2022
Carolyn reviewed: Two day wood carving course at Snowshill Manor
"The nicest weekend I've had in a long time! I'd recommend it to anyone."
Stone carving at Snowshill Manor - September 2022
Anne Springett reviewed: Two day stone carving course at Snowshill Manor
"Great location with excellent teacher who gave everyone individual assistance. Struggled a bit on first day but was happy enough with the end result. An enjoyable experience."
Stone carving at Snowshill Manor - September 2022
Catherine Wickens reviewed: Two day stone carving course at Snowshill Manor
"A friend and I had a lovely time on the stone carving course at Snowshill Manor. Expert tuition from Miranda , beautiful location in an Apple orchard and a happy outcome as I was delighted with my finished owl statue with its kind ,wise face ."
Portrait sculpture at Chillington Hall - August 2022
Helen Kirk reviewed: Two day introduction to portrait sculpture course at Chillington Hall
"This was a fantastic experience. Miranda guided us just the right amount to allow us to challenge ourselves as well as teaching us a variety of techniques and giving us access to individual support throughout. I have never done anything like this before and it has whetted my appetite to try it again in the future."
Stone carving at Chillington Hall - August 2022
Chris Little reviewed: Three-day stone carving course
"Miranda is a wonderful teacher who differentiates well to match her teaching to each students needs. I will probably book another of her courses. "
Stone carving at Chillington Hall - August 2022
Sharon reviewed: Two day stone carving course at Chillington Hall"
My second course with Miranda and it was brilliant. A great teacher, so patient and I was really pleased with my finished piece. Miranda also welcomed my 15 year old neice who had a fantastic time on her first sculpture course. Many thanks. Highly recommended!"
Stone carving at Snowshill Manor - May 2022
Beryl reviewed: Two day stone carving course at Snowshill Manor
"A thoroughly enjoyable experience in a lovely setting, at Snowshill. Instruction was clear and supportive throughout. A really great way to spend a weekend learning and appreciating the art of stone carving. Thank you"
Stone carving at Snowshill Manor - May 2022
Catharine Fleming reviewed: Two day stone carving course at Snowshill Manor
"Will never look at stone carvings in museums and cathedrals the same way again! Spent two lovely days with Miranda teaching in Snowshill Manor's orchard, learning the skills required to pull something interesting out of a block of limestone. Instruction was expert and focused, and it was fun to learn a new way to be creative."
Wood carving at Snowshill Manor - May 2022
Hi Geraint
just to say how much I enjoyed the course at the weekend. Everything about it was great and i love my fish!
best wishes
Rob Mackay
stone carving at Snowshill Manor - May 2022
Dear Miranda,
Thank you so much for a great stone carving course this weekend, we thoroughly enjoyed ourselves and were pleased as punch with what we made!
Kind regards
Julie and Mike
Wood carving at Wightwick Manor May 2022
Thank you for a splendid and inspiring weekend and the company of nice people all starting a new hobby. Thanks for the photos
Ellen and Mike
Thank you for a wonderful, inspiring course. I enjoyed it so much.
Gillian
Thank you both!
Fab weekend.
Loved it.
Mike Fox
Thanks for this, really enjoyed the weekend, got home and have bought some Pfeil gouges and chisels and a couple of carving blanks.
Got me hooked.
Thanks again.
Matt
Wood carving course at Wightwick Manor
I found the two day Carving course an excellent introduction to a potential hobby. The tutors and pace were just what I needed
Sebastian Barnes
Stone carving at Wightwick Manor May 2022
Hi Miranda and Geraint,
Thank you so much for a lovely weekend and your guidance. I love my fox. Hopefully see you at another course.
Kind regards
Dawn
Hi both,
Many thanks for the photographs and the weekend. Special thanks to Miranda for your teachings and patience, I’d love to do more carving when I get the chance!
Best wishes,
Elinw
Wood and Stone carving Little Moreton Hall, April 2022
Wood carving course at Little Moreton Hall
This was pitched at just the right level, assistance when needed but also able to get on without interruption in between. Venue was lovely too!
Alison
Introduction to stone carving at Little Moreton Hall
Excellent standard over 2 days- highly recommended
Anon
"I was actually on the wood carving course; we worked along side the stone carvers. It was a superb experience and well worth the tuition fee. We learnt such a lot and created some fantastic pieces. Thank you so much!"
Beth
"I’ve just come back from the woodworking course. It was a great experience and I was very happy with what I produced. The tutor was very knowledgeable and helpful and I look forward to attempting a few of my own pieces. The location was also great, thanks very much."
Paul
Wood and Stone carving at Middleton Hall April 2022
This was a really enjoyable way to spend a weekend. The tasks are well-judged to be doable in the time, but still somewhat challenging, so you have a sense of achievement at the end, and well-structured so that by the time you get to the trickier bits, you have developed some skill with the tools.
LIz Garnett
"Thoroughly enjoyed this 2 day course, it was set at a great pace which worked for both the novice and those with a little woodworking experience."
Su Hampton
"This course was a Christmas present for a friend who has always wanted to work with stone. He absolutely loved the 2 day course that was in a beautiful setting. Luckily the weather was good so he could work outside. He did say it was hard work but thoroughly enjoyed the experience. I benefitted from his hard work and was given the beautiful piece of art."
Lina
"A well run course with expert tutor. Miranda was really supportive and encouraging and wanted everyone to get the best out of their respective sculptures. The bonus was lovely weather and working outside in a lovely setting."
Carol
"Very good two day course; value for money. Learnt a great deal and feel confident to continue wood carving. Garaint, our instructor, was very helpful and provided excellent direction on the use of the different tools to create a carving. It is held in the open air so there's a need to be prepared for the weather; cold wind or sun. It would be helpful if a fact sheet could be provided for those wishing to take up carving. 10/10. Would recommend anyone give this a go."
Peter
Clay sculpture at Chillington Hall March 2022
"I had the best time and would love to continue on a regular basis so will be booking again. If you're never done clay modeling before you will be learning in a tranquil environment and Miranda is a calm and intuitive tutor. I found this course excellent for all levels due to the tutorial guidance. Thoroughly enjoyed!"
L.N.
"Went to the green man class. Everything is provided. Very clear instructions. Inspirational day. Loved the way we all achieved our own individual results. Very clear instructions and support. Felt in good hands. You may need an apron and warm clothing. Tea and coffee available but bring your own lunch. You will come away feeling a great sense of achievement."
Pauline
"Fab day, helped further by the weather so that we could be outside in the sunshine under gazebos. Miranda came round with helpful hints and I think we all produced something to be proud of. I had time to do another small sculpture as well. I do hope that they survive the firing process, I was so pleased with them!"
Sian
"Hi I attended the clay course yesterday and was so pleased with how the day went. It was a treat to be outside on a lovely sunny day and Miranda was an excellent tutor. She finds a good balance between being instructive but also giving you the freedom to go at your own pace and with your own style. She was very generous with the clay and her tools and for making suggestions as to how best to use the clay and which tools to use when for best effect. She was very relaxed and there was no pressure but she kept good time keeping in encouraging us onto the next stage bearing in mind there was a lot to do in the day. Perhaps on a longer course it would be good to learn about different techniques for creating animals and the different ways that clay can react to kiln firing."
Margaret
Wood carving at Chillington Hall March 2022
"This was an excellent two day course with a very experienced and patient tutor - I learned a lot and came away with a finished piece that came out pretty well! Definitely recommended! Bring a hat/sunscreen if the weather's good, working outside is lovely but even in March was a bit hot."
David
"I didn't have any experience of carving and received a place on this course as a gift. I really enjoyed the course, and the instructor was very good. My husband was very impressed by my carving of a Hare."
Julie Keyser
"As a total beginner I found Geraint was very patient, and gave very clear guidance about how to approach what we were doing, one step at a time. We had a choice of projects, but it was clear that he had selected ideas that would be achievable over the two days so we all came away with a finished item. It was very enjoyable."
Cathy B
"This was my first time of woodcarving after a little bit as a youngster. Geraint gave a very good introduction and had carefully selected projects that were doable. The tools available were phantastic and his support made it possible for me to get a project done much better than I thought I could. The venue was excellent with a really nice athmospheric room with a beautiful view and courtyard for lunch. Nice company too. Excellent value for money. I wish Geraint would offer regular workshops to move on with his support. The only negative side is that I probably will spend a fortune on new toys to play with. Throughly recommend this, even if you think you have no talent for this sort of thing. Give it a go."
Joerg Niehoegen
"Fantastic day. Geraint was very friendly, informative and encouraging! Great value for money! Skills and techniques learnt to now have a go myself! On the look out for some chisels etc! New hobby created !"
Lisa
"I am not at all arty or crafty so I both looked forward to and dreaded the course. Geraint is a fabulous teacher and is determined to get you to leave with your own completed work, having learnt about wood, tools, and carving techniques. The atmosphere in the room was superbe with a sense of hard work and accomplishment. A very enjoyable and memorable 2 days! Thank you."
Aline Shand
Stone carving at Chillington Hall February 2022
Hi Miranda (and Geraint )
Thank you so much for a wonderful course .
We both loved it and are really pleased with what we produced in the time .
Thank you for your advice , patience and for making the experience relaxed and so enjoyable.
We will definitely have a go at more stone carving and will let others know about the course.
And thanks for the information on the tools - Peter has already ordered some !
Kim and Peter
Wood carving at Middleton Hall October 2021
Liz Garnett
This was a really enjoyable way to spend a weekend. The tasks are well-judged to be doable in the time, but still somewhat challenging, so you have a sense of achievement at the end, and well-structured so that by the time you get to the trickier bits, you have developed some skill with the tools.
Stone carving MIddleton Hall August 2021
john leahy-
Thank you for a most informative and enjoyable couple of days, I am delighted with the carving ( small dragon from the book of Kells) as are all my friends who have seen it!
Stone carving course Chillington Hall April 2021
Susanne Mooney -
Absolutely brilliant!!! Loved it all. Learning traditional skills and techniques, lovely tutor, and fabulous surroundings to work in. Support when you needed it but also freedom to experience the materials and work with the tools. Brilliant two day course ..!!
Wood carving course Chillington Hall April 2021
Bernard Wheeler -
This was an excellent course held in a lovely setting with a superb teacher, Geraint. He described all the factors you need to know, checked on progress at the right times, gave help and advice when asked, and all with a warm and friendly manner. If you fancy giving this a go, no matter what your experience or expectations, I can highly recommend it. This was a gift to me by my lovely wife, and it ranks right up there!
Bev -
Learnt new skills and conducted at a pace which gives you time and confidence to tackle the carving .
Tutor was excellent , location beautiful - very enjoyable weekend
Justin Taylor -
Not being the most arty or crafty person, I approached this course with some trepidation. I am so pleased with what I created.
The tutors were knowledgeable, kind and patient.
The venue was in keeping with the course and both peaceful and relaxing.
An excellent course, well worth the money.
Portrait course Chillington Hall 2021
James Stead -
An excellent workshop for any level of student. There are numerous tips to pick up, not just the tools and processes involved in sculpting. Having a tutor like Miranda helped to point out lots of insightful observations of the structure of the face and the small differences in form, which describe an individual face. I have come away knowing a lot more about the contours of the face and also the facial areas I have to work on in the future.
Miranda was very supportive and flexible in her approach to everyone. Her comments were always instructive and never critical, welcoming different working styles.
The sculpting room was comfortable and produced a lovely working and relaxed atmosphere between everyone.
Margaret P -
This course appealed to me as I wanted to learn how to sculpt a face so I can apply the techniques to cake making. I have learnt how to use clay (which I was a complete novice to), use of tools, how to look for lines to help build the model, the importance of muscles in getting the correct shapes and many more techniques. Miranda Wakeman is a brilliant tutor who instructs you through every stage and pointing out areas that need 'tweeking' so you come away with a life size facial sculpture. I thoroughly enjoyed my 3 days at this site.
Joan -
Miranda who teaches the class is a fantastic tutor with lots of patience!
The class is mixed ability and attended by regulars and new faces each time; the atmosphere is friendly and everyone is supportive and encouraging.
Peter-
Miranda took an effective step by step approach for those of us with little or no experience. Likewise, those with far greater experience were given minimal but timely intervention if it was required and additional little tips to take things to a higher level. I really enjoyed all three days and ended up with a special piece of artwork.