Training Reviews

Customer Reviews & Feedback for Workshops & Courses


“Thoroughly enjoyed the day. Very pleased with my belt and my second lot of saddle stitch!

Wendy and Clive are good teachers and leave you to get on with what you’re doing without standing over you all the time.
Definitely recommend this course. Thank you.”
 
Shelagh – (Introduction to Leatherwork – Belt Workshop)
 

“Great day with Clive and Wendy. My son and I learned a lot and really enjoyed the experience. Wendy and Clive are great teachers and have a perfect approach, being supportive but not taking over. We were really pleased with the end products. We are both wearing our belts as I type 🙂 Thanks very much!

PS. Clive and Wendy were great with covid arrangements and we felt very comfortable with the hygiene and distancing and it did not detract from the course.

Thoroughly recommend”

Gil and Tom – (Introduction to leatherwork – Belt Workshop)


“I have attended a course with Clive and Wendy. From the minute I walked through the door I felt comfortable and relaxed with them both. Because of the covid situation I was a little nervous of what to expect but in my opinion they couldn’t of done anymore from wearing the mask, to taking my temperature before entering. There was a screen to separate us for tutoring and all tools were cleaned continuously, and social distancing when the screen was not been used 10/10.

The bag I made with the help of the couple was lovely, I enjoyed it that much I’ve enrolled in another course for wet moulding and stamping, so see you guys soon, thanks for teaching me some great skills.”

 
Michelle – (Two Day leather Bag Workshop)
 
Note: This was our first workshop after gaining the Visit England “We’re Good to Go” accreditation and introducing our Covid-19 measures.
 

“I would like to thank Wendy and Clive for the recent wet moulding course I attended, leather work courses are few and far between and it was a shame only two people turned up for this course as although only a half day course there is still enough time to cover different aspects, and come away with some quality items, it’s a very enjoyable old craft, and a lot can be learned from a hands on course, I hope to make the journey for more of their courses in the future.”

Stuart J – (Stamping, Embossing & Wet Moulding Leather Workshop)

Note: This workshop was one of the final workshops before lockdown which potentially impacted on the numbers. We actually ran three workshops that day, the second of which was fully booked. The third workshop, in the evening, was specially arranged for two front-line health workers looking for an activity in their time off.


“I have just attended the bag making course. I really enjoyed it and would recommend it to anyone. Clive and Wendy are excellent at imparting information to their students. The course is split into manageable sections and because of this you never feel overwhelmed. They are always there to help you if you need it. The bag I produced is really beautiful and it is nice that you can choose what style you want and the colour as well.

An excellent course which teaches you a traditional skill which has been around for centuries.”

Ruth C – (Two Day Bag Making Workshop)


“I would like to thank Wendy and Clive for the pouch making course I attended recently, it was a great introduction as a beginner to leatherwork with a lot of processes and techniques covered, saddle stitching, dyeing, riveting etc , and good practice with a variety of tools.

I learned a lot in a short space of time, and feel more confident to continue with my own leatherwork projects, and would recommend the course to anyone that’s looking to get into working with leather”

Stuart J – (Leather Possibles Pouch Workshop)


“I’ve had such a good day and learnt so much from Wendy and Clive, who were great hosts and excellent instructors. The atmosphere was very relaxed and everyone was given one to one instruction when required and plenty of time to complete their belt. I can’t believe what we achieved and now have the bug to do another course. Thank you again”

Duncan W – (Introduction to Leatherwork – Belt Workshop)


“One of the best workshops I’ve attended. Professional teaching, delivered in a very relaxed, comfortable atmosphere. No pressure, just lots of advice and encouragement. I feel inspired to try my hand at something more challenging. Thanks to Clive & Wendy for a very enjoyable day.”

Sue L – (Introduction to Leatherwork – Belt Workshop)


“My wife and I were given two places on the course as a gift – we both absolutely loved the course!!

Wendy & Clive were both extremely welcoming and the atmosphere for the class was relaxed. The class was well paced and structured brilliantly so even as complete beginners, you could make progress quickly.

Would highly recommend (and we’ve already recommended it to friends).

Proper tea, great biscuits and some of the best views around from the workshop are an added bonus ;-).” The Walkers – (Stamping, Embossing & Wet-Moulding Leather.)


“Because of how much I loved the belt making course, I was back the next weekend to learn how to make a cute pouch! Wendy and Clive taught this so perfectly that if you were a complete beginner you could still keep up whilst having fun, as well as if like me you had some knowledge they would push your skill a bit further and factor in your weakness’ to improve them efficiency. I thoroughly enjoyed coming back again, and can assure each visit gets even better !
On this course we got to fully personalise our pouch and I’m truly proud of mine. Thank you so much again ! I’m so happy I joined your leather workshops ! Jemima P – (Leather Possibles Pouch Workshop.)


“I cannot find worthy words of describing this course! The teachings are perfect for first time crafters and / or social hobbyists. There’s plenty of information you can take home to continue your own separate crafts. All of the tools are explained at a pace that is comfortable for you. The hosts / teachers Wendy and Clive are like family to me! They are very welcoming, funny and friendly and you;ll generally feel like your friends are teaching you. Also I’d like to point out that both Wendy and Clive are very talented with leather and their crafts will inspire you to try to make your own at home !” Jemima P – (Introduction to leatherwork – Belt Workshop.)


“5 stars are not enough! Wendy and Clive are fantastic tutors, the knowledge and skill they past on during this course was brilliant. I’m a complete novice in leather work, yet came away with a belt that looks amazing, looking forward to making more. The beautiful surroundings also helped make this a memorable day. Would definitely recommend, and look forward to booking more courses with them. Thank you for such a great day.” Tracey – (Introduction to leatherwork – Belt Making Workshop.)

 

“Can’t rate the course high enough, excellent learning environment, relaxed and friendly.  

I learned so many skills and techniques more easily than I thought, instructed perfectly and produced something amazing, testimony in itself to the teaching style and ability of a Wendy and Clive.

Has left me eager and excited to continue learning leatherwork and practicing myself.

Incredible, thank you.” Nathan – (Introduction to leatherwork – Belt Workshop.)

 

“Wonderful learning experience in a great workroom with glorious views led by really good tutors in a very friendly environment. What more could you want? By the end I felt confident in the skills required and had a really good quality belt to show off.” Rob B – (Introduction to leatherwork – Belt Workshop.)
 

“I thoroughly enjoyed my two day bag making course. It was a completely different approach from my recent course in Florence and feel it really rounded out my skills. Clive and Wendy are a great team, and run the course with skill and patience, keeping a close eye on us as we acquired and practiced new techniques. I would highly recommend it, and the setting, overlooking the North Pennines is amazing. Maggie – (Leather Bag Workshop.)
 

“Excellent tuition in a lovely setting. Clive and Wendy are tireless in their support, making sure you are comfortable with your work- very positive. I had no experience at all, but came away with something I feel proud of.
 
I recommend this course wholeheartedly.” Dorothy L – (Leather Bag Workshop.) 
 

“Wendy and Clive are a lovely couple who greeted us with a warm welcome. The venue, their beautiful house, was just as warm and welcoming and I cannot express just how fantastic the course was. Wendy models techniques so clearly that you feel like you could master anything by the end of it. I loved it and can’t wait to sign up to the next Christmas course. Thank-you for a thoroughly enjoyable afternoon!” Fay B – (Wire Wrapped Jewellery Workshop.)
 

“Thoroughly enjoyed this course!
Great range of materials provided and a lovely relaxed environment. So pleased with my end product thanks to the excellent demonstrations by the course provider. Will definitely be going back to more courses.” Kirsty S – (Wire Wrapped Jewellery Workshop.)
 

“Absolutely loved this course….
Great tuition given in a friendly fun way with a lovely range of craft materials to use and choose from. Refreshments given throughout to keep us going and a lovely group environment for relaxed chat and sharing of ideas and creation.
Would happily give a 5 * recommendation and was only sorry that it came to an end all too quickly.
Thank you Wendy and Clive. 🙂 x ” Helen B – (Wire Wrapped Jewellery Workshop.)
 

“Brilliant course thoroughly enjoyed it.” Fiona S – (Wire Wrapped Jewellery Workshop.)
 

“Attended this course with my 11 and 16yr old daughters – they absolutely loved it.
It was about a month / six weeks ago we did the course and still they are proudly showing off what they did to anyone who will look at it and telling me I must arrange days like this one.”  Stephen H – (Stamping, Embossing & Wet-Moulding Leather.)
 

“Wendy and Clive are highly skilled leather workers in their own right and their enthusiasm for the craft is infectious. This was my third workshop with them. We started by discussing possible designs, after which we set to, tearing beautiful water colour paper to our chosen size. Then Wendy taught us how to join the pages into a journal, using traditional bookbinding techniques. After lunch it was time to plan, cut and dye the leather covers before final assembly.  

Each stage was explained clearly and we made steady progress. I was delighted to end the day with not one but two beautiful handmade leather journals, one with stitched pages and the other loose leafed.

This was a very affordable one-to-one course, arranged at a time to suit me. If you are looking for enthusiastic and skillful tutors who will show you how to make very professional looking leather journals, this is the course for you. Thoroughly recommended.” Sarah – (Hand Bound Leather Journal Workshop.)

 
“This course was amazing. I was a complete beginner and achieved a beautiful bag under expert guidance.
Wendy and Clive, have such good knowledge and really instil confidence.
The spacious work room has a stunning view, and coupled with the peace and tranquility, you come away feeling renewed and rewarded.
I can not recommend this course enough, you will learn so many new skills, meet interesting people.
The biscuits and coffee are good too.” Elizabeth G – (Leather Bag Workshop.)
 
 

“This course is ideal for the novice. Tutors Wendy and Clive deliver hands on tuition which is both highly knowledgeable, sympathetic and they are both prepared to spend what time it takes with each student individually. They are both good fun too!
To be able to make a great belt in the time is a reflection on their teaching skills. I’d never thought I would come away with such a stylish completed product!
Excellent value and a wonderful day out.
Which of their Courses will I go on next ????” Bill A – (Introduction to leatherwork – Belt Making Workshop.)

“I spent a thoroughly enjoyable two days making a leather handbag from scratch. This is now going to be my every day bag and I will be using it with pride.
The tuition was excellent. Both tutors are very experienced leather workers. We were guided through every aspect of the process of making our bags and using the various tools. Through demonstration, gentle advice and lots of encouragement we all produced a very professional-looking bag.  

I recommend this course very highly.” Sarah – (Leather Bag Workshop.)

 

“Absolutely brilliant course. Never expected to be able to make a beautiful bag from undyed sheets of leather in 2 days. Wendy and Clive are warm and welcoming and great tutors, keeping everyone on track and responding to individuals needs as we all found different aspects of the work challenging. When I arrived, I thought the fact that there were 2 basic designs might be a bit limiting but this is far from the truth
The 2 bags are very practical designs so can be in daily use, challenging enough to teach a range of skills but able to be completed in the allotted time. The range of dyes and fittings meant we had 4 very different, unique pieces at the end of the weekend.
I would heartily recommend this for anyone who wants to learn how to start working with leather but also to anyone who just wants a fun weekend and a bag they can brag they made themselves.
And its not just for the ladies, one of our group made bag for his interest in botany.” Lynn B – (Leather Bag Workshop.)
 

“I thoroughly enjoyed the course run by Clive and Wendy and learnt so much in a short space of time. Their expert knowledge was clear to see and I will cherish the bag I produced for years to come!” Michael W – Leather Bag Workshop.)
 

“This was an amazing, enjoyable and quite intense course, Wendy and Clive are great tutors, the class size was small so everyone and the help and attention they required.
I had never worked with leather before, and am now the proud owner of a hand made leather handbag.
I will definitely be continuing to work with leather and am in the process of booking a second course with Wendy and Clive to help me make a bag and belt for re-enactment.
If you have any desire to make your own handbags or leather goods then you could not find better teachers.” Kay C – (Leather Bag Workshop.)
 

“This was a fabulous course! I feel that I have learned far more than ever expected to learn! The tutors were knowledgeable and patient and explained the various elements really well. I am really looking forward to going on another of their courses in the future!” Joe W – (Leather Possibles Pouch Workshop.) 
 

“A thoroughly enjoyable day in a relaxed atmosphere. Lots of information and tips for leatherwork with a great belt at the end of the day. This was my second course with Clive and Wendy and I’ve booked another for the spring of 2019 to learn more skills.” Glad H – (Belt Workshop.)
 

“This course was brilliant from start to finish. It was my first real experience of leather craft and I have been inspired to do more. An enjoyable day- very well planned, structured and delivered. I have come away feeling very confident with the basics of leather craft and a great belt. Excellent tuition and pace, complete with a fine selection of biscuits 👍. Thank you.” Jimmy A – (Belt Workshop.)
 

“I had a great time at the course arranged by my local craft group. I learnt lots and , as we given a choice of projects, learnt to stitch as well as embossing and dyeing. Clive and Wendy were great teachers, clear and supportive while always giving you the space to do it yourself. They have lots of equipment to give a professional finish. I would recommend this course and you certainly do not need to be particularly arty or crafty.” Susanna B – (Stamping, Embossing & Wet-Moulding Leather Workshop.)
 

“This is the second course I have done with Clive and Wendy, again thoroughly enjoyable pitched at the right level for all on the course. I came away with a beautiful handbag and the skills to be ready for the next adventure. A fantastic weekend, thoroughly recommended again! Thank you.” Chris B – (Leather Bag Workshop.)
 

“Another excellent course, which was a perfect follow on from the Evancliffe belt-making course earlier in the year. Clive and Wendy are excellent, patient, knowledgeable tutors. I am so thrilled with the bag I made, which was a version of a messenger bag. This course is suitable for beginners or people who have had chance to try leather-work before. Beware, you will be hooked!” Marianne L – (Leather Bag Workshop.)
 

“I enjoyed this course , Wendy and Clive were very good at imparting information in a relaxed and easy manner, I was able to finish the bag within the time, and took home something that looked good and was very functional. They were also able to supply a list of good Band B’s in the area. I left the course with enough skills to start my own project when I got back home.”  Paul C – (Leather Bag Workshop.)


“I enjoyed the course immensely and was delighted with the bag I produced. It was an intense course for me, but in a very relaxed atmosphere with plenty of refreshments. Clive and Wendy were excellent teachers.” Glad H – (Leather bag Workshop.)


“My husband and I enjoyed this course hugely! We learned so much during the session and were delighted by the things we made. Both bowls are being used regularly and have received several compliments!” Kat w – (Stamping, Embossing & Wet-Moulding Leather.) 
 

 
“Very enjoyable, learnt loads, nice group of people and Wendy and Clive made me feel very welcome, both very good instructors. Would recommend to anyone .” Oliver B – (Belt Making Workshop.)
 

“I had never done any leatherwork before this course. The tutors were excellent. Their instructions were clear and their demonstrations were spot on. They entertained us with interesting facts and details and kept us all on track so that each of us with a well-made belt at the end of the day. I will definitely be returning for future courses and will be continuing to develop my skills at home. Thoroughly recommended!” Sarah – (Belt making Workshop.)
 

“Outstanding day. Having no knowledge of leather craft I didn’t know what to expect. Clive and Wendy put everyone attending at ease and they both showed patience and understanding during the tricky bits (for me it was the hand stitching). This has given me a desire to try more advanced techniques and I will no doubt attend another course. The end result was pretty good as well.” Jon B – (Belt making Workshop.)
 

“What an enjoyable day. Amazing views from our workstation, excellent hospitality and a real sense of achievement when we finished our belts. I didn’t fully appreciate the work that goes into hand stitching a piece of leather.
Clive and Wendy were great hosts and very informative. Whilst the instruction is delivered in a very relaxed style, my wife and I both came away very proud of our work but exhausted. You do have to concentrate to make a good job.
I would heartily recommend anyone to give this workshop a go. At the end of the day you walk away with a hand made leather belt which you can brag about to your friends.” John – (Belt making Workshop.)
 

“I could not have enjoyed today more! Clive and Wendy took us through every step of making a hand-sewn leather belt. Their patience, knowledge and skill ensured we all left with a new craft and a belt we will treasure for years. Cannot wait to start practicing my new hobby and thank you for making this such an enjoyable and enriching experience.” Marianne L – (Belt Making Workshop.)
 

“I can’t recommend these guys enough! Wendy and Clive are both very knowledgeable and have tailored a course to suit all abilities. We were shown all the techniques to cut, dye, stitch and finish a belt and book mark I am so proud of. Thoroughly enjoyable -the 6 hours flies by. Definitely want to do more now. Thank you :-)” Chris B – (Belt making Workshop.)
 

“This is a well thought out course, and I was surprised by the amount of productive work we got through in the day. I would definitely attend another workshop by Clive and Wendy. This course is good value for money.” Val R – (Belt Making Workshop.)
 

“Excellent course. Relaxed atmosphere, easy pace of learning and instruction gave me the confidence to pursue working with leather on my own. Many thanks to Clive and Wendy.” Ian – (Belt making Workshop.)
 
 

“My first ever experience of leather craft and in all honesty it was excellent. Clive and Wendy are very welcoming and great tutors. Working through the step-by-step process from cutting the hide to the finished piece was fascinating. Using the wide array of tools was very rewarding and the course has certainly inspired me to try some small projects.All in all I am frankly delighted (and very surprised) that I have a belt that looks and feels superb, if I do say so myself.A big thank you Clive and Wendy.” Gary L- (Belt Workshop.)


“Just finished a leather craft belt making course today. Was very interesting didn’t realise the work involved and how l enjoyable it is. Clive and Wendy are truly very lovley people and showed our group step by step the making of a hand made leather belt from the sheet of hide to the finished product. This is definitely worth doing if your interested in leather craft.
Thanks very much Anthony” – Anthony E -(Belt Workshop.)


“This was an excellent course in every respect. Wendy and Clive gave expert tuition and support to the five participants throughout. The learning and social atmosphere was very enjoyable. I was delighted to have produced a belt.” – David B. (Belt Workshop.)


“Thought the day was really organised, very interesting and I enjoyed it very much.” – Margaret A. (Journal Workshop.)


“Really enjoyed the day. Wendy and Clive were very welcoming and provided great tuition. The course was at the right pace and good for somebody who has relatively few leather-craft skills, but the results were very good, a beautiful leather bound, hand crafted journal. It would be really useful to have a photo-copy step by step guide to take away with you. That would be the icing on the cake! By the way, gorgeous surroundings and views from the kitchen, a very enjoyable day. Worth the journey from West Yorkshire. All the best, Helen.” – Helen W. (Journal Workshop.)


“The course was fantastic. The tutors were friendly, helpful, supportive and skilled. They provided everything required and maintained a sense of humour throughout the day, with bucket loads of support and advice. Well worth the money.” – Louise H. (Journal Workshop.)


“Never done anything leather working before and with Clive and Wendy’s guidance produced a leather belt I am really impressed with. Both were extremely knowledgeable and demonstrated and taught the techniques in a really effective manner, really enjoyed the day.” – Philip C. (Belt Workshop.)


“What a great we had today learning how to make different types of straps for our felt handbags. Two superb tutors welcomed us into their home and took us from basics to finished product in simple steps throughout the day, allowing us the freedom to explore our own designs and adapting their teaching accordingly. A relaxed, informative and productive workshop feeling the warmth of the sunshine through the window and enjoying the spectacular view. I will definitely be recommending to others who may want to learn similar things too. Thank you both. Lx” – Louise C. (Bespoke Strap Making Workshop.)


“Attended a leather belt making workshop and it was excellent. Very friendly and professional, taught by two lovely people. Highly recommend this course for starting off, as it covers all the basics. Thank you xx”  – Julie B. (Belt Workshop.)


“I would encourage anyone to try this course. Clive and Wendy are such enthusiastic and knowledgeable teachers, you can’t go wrong! I thoroughly enjoyed every minute of this course and I’m delighted with my finished item [I’ve showed it off to everybody I know!!] Thanks for your patient tuition Clive and Wendy.” – Karen B (Leather Waterbottle Workshop.)


“My wife and I went on this course; I made a simple belt which was in itself good value. My wife used a simple clasp buckle which she had inherited, which meant the belt was more complicated in order to allow adjustment. Clive and Wendy spent the time to make sure the design worked well. We came away with beautiful, durable belts which we simply couldn’t have bought.” – Mike G. (Belt Workshop.)


“If any one is thinking about doing a course, do so, very good guidance. and fantastic product to take home, great value for money and lovely peeps too …” – Amanda B. (Hand Bound Leather Journal Workshop.)


“The hands-on leathercraft workshop that Clive and Wendy offer are first class. They explain everythingin an easy to understand manner, making the course idea for total beginners. The cost of the workshop includes all material so there are no surprises or extra costs.” – Jayson G. (Introduction to Leathercraft – Belt Making Workshop.)


“Thanks to Clive and Wendy for a great course today. Karen really likes the leather belt I made for her and I now know that I will be spending any Xmas money on tools to make some more.” – Bill W. (Introduction to Leathercraft – Belt Making Workshop.)


“I went on a very enjoyable course to make a wet moulded leather flask. I learnt the basics of leather stitching and wet moulding and having almost no experience before came away with a brilliant little flask. Highly recommended!” – Djamel H. (Leather Waterbottle Workshop.)


 

 

Follow our Social Media: