Teaching pottery and wood turning, and creating unique ceramic, wood turned and silk gifts & art
Proud sponsors of the “Once Upon A Norfolk” Facebook group
DIAMOND AWARD
FOR BLENDED MONKEY
RATED EXCELLENT BY
CRAFTCOURSES.COM - HIGHEST AWARD
STUDENT REVIEWS
JULY - DECEMBER 2023
GILLIAN & TONY - PAIRS HALF-DAY WOODTURNING EXPERIENCE
December 2023
"We spent an excellent morning woodturning with Simon who has so much knowledge to share. He's an experienced teacher and we both came away with finished items - impressive! We wholeheartedly recommend his workshop to anyone interested in woodturning - fun and informative." - Gillian
DAVID - 1-2-1 FULL-DAY POTTERY EXPERIENCE
December 2023
"Readers - do not hesitate! Louise is a wonderful tutor, (complete with a relaxing background audio playlist!) willing and able to share her ceramics skills in a clean and welcoming atmosphere. A few pottery failures (too tall, too wide, too thin... oops!) going into the recycling tub, but with lessons learned, six classy pieces achieved from my own hands with Louise's guidance and encouragement. A fine lunch included, shared with Simon and his trainee allowed for free conversation and shared experiences. The peaceful concentration achieved throughout the day helped make this course one of the best learning/doing days of my life - using a sensual material that transforms from lump to artwork before your very eyes. Slab, coil, and finally to the wheel - where subtle skills are learned to centre, spread, and raise the clay to form stable sides of dish or pot. Thank you Louise for your friendly tutoring, light touch, and plenty of tea! A brilliant day - can't wait to see my pieces fired and glazed, each to my choice of colours."
TERRY & MOIRA - PAIRS FULL-DAY POTTERY EXPERIENCE
December 2023
"Absolutely brilliant day! Thoroughly enjoyed it. Louise and Simon are a fantastic couple who are passionate about what they do. Highly recommend a pottery day!" - Terry
ROZ - 1-2-1 FULL-DAY WOODTURNING EXPERIENCE
December 2023
"Great morning learning woodworking practices. I realise I have a lot to learn and feel inspired to explore classes nearer to me. I would love to come back for a whole day’s tuition but am delighted with the oak salt spoon we made today. Thank you Simon."
EDWARD - 1-2-1 FULL-DAY WOODTURNING EXPERIENCE
December 2023
"This course is well worth the price.
A relaxed, insightful experience learning the art of wood turning.
Simon was very welcoming and it was really interesting learning from a well experienced wood turner.
I would definitely recommend this course starting as a beginner to fast track yourself to creating some great pieces. Thank you Simon."
EGEMEN - 1-2-1 HALF-DAY WOODTURNING EXPERIENCE
November 2023
"Very enjoyable, and very informative.
It gave me really good experience and a great understanding of wood, as wood was a relatively new material for me, I normally work with 3d printers.
Simon, my instructor, was very friendly,
much more knowledgeable than what is taught in this course, so any questions I had, Simon could answer, and was open for ideas to make the outcome as best as possible.
I received this course as a gift, and before the course I was was concerned if I would be strong enough to mill the wood using the lathe. Turns out it doesn't require any strength, and it was harder to be gentle than it is to mill it, which surprised me. Also, you don't have to be a geek like me to apply any of the techniques, to get you started, there are 2-3 simple rules, if you apply them, you can make things.
Although at the start, watching Simon, made it look almost too easy :D but my hands got used to making curves after an hour I think.
Most of the course is doing practical work, which made it a joy. Thanks to the Blended Monkey team, it was a memorable experience, which probably will just be the start of my woodworking hobby :)
Hope to see you again. Kindest Regards, Egemen"
RICHARD - 1-2-1 HALF-DAY WOODTURNING EXPERIENCE
November 2023
"Fantastic!
Simon made me feel at ease. He has a wealth of knowledge. I gained a lot from the 1:1 session and looking forward to the next! Definitely recommend."
JANINE & VICKI - PAIRS POTTERY THROWING EXPERIENCE
November 2023
"Absolutely fantastic! Really friendly, relaxed, enjoyable course. I’ve done one before and this was by far the best! Thank you :-)" - Janine
HEATHER - 1-2-1 WOODTURNING EXPERIENCE
November 2023
"I had a Fab day yesterday, Simon and Louise were very welcoming. I enjoyed my wood turning experience, Simon was very patient and has given me the confidence to try using my lathe again. Plenty of tea and biscuits and a yummy lunch made the day even better.
Thank you for all the knowledge you passed on much appreciated."
RUSSELL - 1-2-1 "2 CRAFTS IN 1 DAY" EXPERIENCE
October 2023
"This course was a lovely experience that I received as a gift for my 60th. The morning was spent woodturning with Simon, who explained everything really well and I came away with a completed honey dabber.
Lunch was amazing and it was then time for an afternoon of pottery with Louise. Everything was explained and taught really well and during the afternoon I learnt pinching, slab building and throwing on the wheel. I look forward to collecting my pots and vases once fired and glazed. Overall a really lovely day."
PAUL - 1-2-1 WOODTURNING EXPERIENCE
October 2023
"I had a fantastic day with Simon! The tuition was outstanding and I was shown all I needed to get started.
Simon then allowed me to execute a test piece, helping me as and when it was needed.
He then demonstrated the honey dipper, after which I made a dipper of my own. After a lovely buffet lunch, Simon got me started with turning a bowl, then allowed me to proceed with help from time to time. At the end of the day I had two pieces of work to take home."
RICHARD - 1-2-1 WOODTURNING EXPERIENCE
October 2023
"I really enjoyed the woodturning day. The session was well structured, with time to explain what was needed, progressing through from trial cuts through to finishing pieces. Both projects were timed well and the day went very smoothly. Thanks"
CLAIRE & JEREMY - PAIRS HALF-DAY POTTERY EXPERIENCE
October 2023
"We had a great time on the pottery afternoon with Louise.
We wanted to do something different together as an activity and as we had enjoyed Pottery Throw Down we thought let's have a go!
We really enjoyed the whole experience. Louise was a great instructor and we laughed lots and also felt proud of what we managed to achieve.
We will be going back sometime to have more time on the wheel and see if we can 'master' that. We highly recommend this experience."
JOHN - 1-2-1 WOODTURNING EXPERIENCE
October 2023
"I was very pleased to be on this course, having really nil knowledge of the craft. I was made very welcome on arrival and was swiftly installed in the craft shed. Where do you start as a teacher in such a craft?
Simon patiently explained about the lathes, tools and wood characteristics. Important aspects to help my understanding about carving, and the effects of the shaping and hollowing tools.
Simon is -fortunately for me- patient. I know in his position I would be wanting to step in correct the clumsy pupil, but full marks to him, the guiding hands are nearby to assist hand direction, posture and tool angles -not forgetting the bevel-leaving the carver with the illusion that he is not totally inept!
I had an enjoyable day intermittently refreshed with coffees and biscuits, and at halfway point a well laid out and prepared extensive ploughman's lunch.
There is a lot to learn and no pun intended....I know we only had time to scratch the surface in carving knowledge I know the next step is to get the gear, so I'm expecting to be back some time once I've had a lot more (behind closed door) practice."
DEBORAH & PHILLIP - PAIRS 2 CRAFTS IN 1 DAY EXPERIENCE
October 2023
"What a wonderful day!
Stated with woodturning with Simon and spent a lovely morning on the lathe and even managed to make a beautiful honey dibber.
The afternoon was spent experiencing 3 different types of pottery, free form, slab and using the wheel. I surprised myself! Spending time in the wonderful surroundings with very patient and passionate people was a joy.
I would thoroughly recommend this experience!"Â - Deborah
SUSAN & PAUL - PAIRS "2 CRAFTS IN 1 DAY" EXPERIENCE
September 2023
"My husband booked this for us for a surprise for our anniversary and I was not disappointed.
We did the wood turning first which was well explained and we got to take home our honey dibber creations.
We then had lunch in the kitchen which was delicious.
The afternoon was a mixture of pinch pots, slab building and using the wheel.
It was fun and in a couple of weeks we will see our creations when they will be posted back to us.
We would recommend this course as Simon and Louise were wonderful tutors and explained all of the elements before we got hands on. 5 stars" - Susan
JEREMY - 1-2-1 WOODTURNING EXPERIENCE
September 2023
"What a great woodturning course!
Did a day 1-2-1 with Simon, and learnt a huge amount.
The two projects went very well, and I got an immense sense of achievement. Simon is a really nice guy and excellent teacher, and it all felt nice and relaxed, but motivational.
Now to acquire my own lathe, and put the learnings into practice! Thanks Simon!"
ANDREW & MICHAEL - PAIRS WOODTURNING EXPERIENCE
August 2023
"Simon is an excellent tutor. He has found a great balance of teaching and humor.
I would definitely recommend anyone who is interested in woodturning in attending his course." - Andrew
GISELA & CHARLISE - PAIRS HALF-DAY POTTERY EXPERIENCE
August 2023
"My daughter and I attended a beginner's pottery workshop and loved every moment of it!
The atmosphere was very relaxed and Louise was very patient and brilliant at explaining everything step-by-step while learning a new skill.
Louise is very encouraging, creative and supportive and we would recommend this experience to all!
Many thanks again Louise :-)"
DEAN - 1-2-1 WOODTURNING EXPERIENCE
August 2023
"What a great day!
I finally pinned myself down to a day to do the course i was purchased as a present last Christmas.
I had a great day learning the basics of something i have wanted to do for over 40 years.
Simon was very patient, as was Harry (the dog), and the keepsakes now have pride of place in our house.
Lunch and refreshments were more than expected.
Would recommend the course and experience wholeheartedly!!"
DEE & RYAN - PAIRS FULL-DAY WOODTURNING EXPERIENCE
August 2023
"We had a really great day learning to turn a bowl and honey stick with Simon, on a pairs wood turning experience.
Such a beautiful setting and welcoming home!
We both had a little previous knowledge but really wasn't needed.
Simon is a brilliant teacher and was happy to talk us through everything and answer all of our questions. We both felt confident and very relaxed, to just be able to enjoy the process.
Would highly recommend!
Was lovely meeting you both and will hopefully return soon to learn more!"
AL & DAWN - PAIRS HALF-DAY POTTERY WORKSHOP
August 2023
"Had a fantastic half day - pinch pots, slab work and some time throwing on the wheel - It was great fun, Louise was a fantastic host/tutor and we can't wait to see the results of our endeavours!" - Al
MARK & GARY - PAIRS FULL-DAY WOODTURNING EXPERIENCE
August 2023
"I’ve always wanted to do woodturning and finally got round to it. Couldn’t have asked for a better tutor than Simon.
So much more to it than I imagined but Simon instilled confidence through his knowledge and guidance.
If you’ve never done it before don’t worry, you will be in good hands.
Do it!" - Mark
MONIKA - PAIRS FULL-DAY POTTERY WORKSHOP & EXTRA HALF-DAY THROWING EXPERIENCE
August 2023
"I did a beginners all day workshop and then because it was so much fun I also did a half day throwing workshop.
I loved both of them, Louise is a great teacher, and there is a lovely relaxed atmosphere (and lots of biscuits and tea), and she’s very flexible in what you can make.
The pots and vases turned out very well and love the glazes that she put on as per our wishes.
Super fun, would definitely recommend!"
MICHAEL - 1/2-DAY 1-2-1 THROWING EXPERIENCE
August 2023
"It was a good introduction to the techniques of throwing pottery which I enjoyed immensely.
I had a good teacher in Louise who was very positive.
I came away relaxed and looking forward to seeing my glazed results.
If, like myself, you’ve ever wanted to try your hand at throwing clay, this is a really good starter. I would recommend the course."
ANN - 1-2-1 HALF-DAY POTTERY WORKSHOP
August 2023
"Thank you so much, Louise, for the 1-2-1 pottery workshop.
It was so relaxing - learning a new craft from you, with your great playlist playing. I am really looking forward to seeing my finished pots.
Hopefully next time I will be more successful on the wheel!"
STEVE & JAMES - 1/2-DAY PAIRS WOODTURNING EXPERIENCE
August 2023
"A great experience. Simon very clearly explains the key wood turning techniques. Instilling confidence. The summary booklet is an added bonus." - Steve
PAM & ALISON - PAIRS HALF-DAY POTTERY WORKSHOP
July 2023
"This was such a fun afternoon. Louise explained everything very clearly over coffee and biscuits, and then let us loose on the wheels so have a go ourselves. I think it's fair to say that my cylinders were not very cylindrical, but my bowls got better and by the end of the afternoon I was feeling quite pleased with myself. And even if my bowls had been completely rubbish, it would still have been great fun :-)" - Alison
VAL & VEDIA - 1/2-DAY POTTERY EXPERIENCE
July 2023
"Did the course with Louise, with a friend. We both thoroughly enjoyed it, and were delighted with what we made! She's a great and gentle teacher and I think anyone would enjoy this, if you want to explore your creative side." - Val
KEVIN - 1-2-1 WOODTURNING WORKSHOP
July 2023
"Simon made the day very enjoyable. He was very easy to learn from and packed a lot of content into the day. I will be booking again in the future."
WENDY - 1-2-1 POTTERY EXPERIENCE
July 2023
"Well!
I had such a lovely day.
Very relaxed and just lots of scope to develop and stretch ideas.
Super teaching with really positive feedback making you feel like you can achieve anything!
I still have lots of scope for achieving though …may have to come back a few times for throwing practice.
Would thoroughly recommend the 1-2-1 day … and have been boring anyone who’ll listen to me about what a thoroughly brilliant experience it is."
MARTIN - 1-2-1 WOODTURNING WORKSHOP
July 2023
"Thank you to Simon at Blended Monkey for a fantastic day being introduced to the delights of woodturning.
If you have been wondering what woodturning might be like, then I urge you to reach out to Blended Monkey - Simon's patience, direction and encouragement was the best way to experience wood turning for the first time. I ended the day with a fantastic sycamore bowl - something to remember the day and inspire further woodturning efforts.
Thanks again Simon - likely to be in touch soon to learn more about the craft. Ride the bevel and keep those tools sharp :)"
ANDREA - 1-2-1 HALF-DAY POTTERY EXPERIENCE
July 2023
"Fantastic afternoon. 1-1 my first introduction to using clay and Louise was very patient and clear. She is an experienced gentle teacher who guided my learning brilliantly. I am looking forward to seeing the pots we made fired and glazed."
SUE & JOHN - 2 CRAFTS IN 1 DAY EXPERIENCE
July 2023
"Had a fantastic morning on the pairs woodworking course. Simon was really helpful and struck the right balance between demonstrating and letting us have a try. So pleased to actually come away with a finished item. We would love to come back for another go." - woodturning review
JONAS - 1-2-1 WOODTURNING EXPERIENCE
July 2023
"I've had a great time doing the half-day woodturning workshop with Simon, thank you very much for this experience!
I have never done any woodturning before and Simon managed to give me a great overview of the tools, techniques and philosophy behind it and I even managed to take a piece home with me at the end of the day.
I highly recommend this course to anyone, it's very easy to get started and I couldn't imagine anyone better suited than Simon to get you excited about it!"
GREG - 1-2-1 WOODTURNING EXPERIENCE
July 2023
"Thank you Blended Monkey for a brilliant day's woodturning.
If you're interested in having a go at woodturning and getting a crash course in the basics, you will not do better than this.
Simon's tuition was excellent, allowing me plenty of hands-on time at the lathe, whilst also intervening when necessary to ensure I didn't ruin my projects!
I came away with 2 lovely creations (honey dipper and bowl), a set of photos which Simon took during the day, and a great set of pdf notes (provided by Simon) covering pretty much all we'd done during the day.
Simon and Louise are very friendly hosts, so I enjoyed chatting throughout the day, and over lunch / refreshments, which were also great. Thank you!"
RHODA & EVA - PAIRS WOODTURNING
July 2023
"We spent a very enjoyable morning attending a beginners' wood-turning workshop. Simon is a great teacher and was very encouraging. Many thanks!"
TONY & KIM - PAIRS "2 CRAFTS IN 1 DAY" EXPERIENCE
July 2023
"We did the 2 in 1 craft day, pottery and wood turning. Never touched a lathe or a potters wheel before and we came out with some high quality stuff. It was a fantastic day.
The attention and instruction we got from Louise and Simon was awesome, they really are passionate about what they do.
Also if you like a chat you wont be disappointed ,you cant shut them up (which is a good thing) always guiding, always positive, but leave you to your own creative talents.
The workshops are a lovely environment to learn and be in. The knowledge they leak out to you is so absorbing you cant help but be amazed.
I'm sat at home writing this and still recalling some wonderful information that you get from this very friendly couple.
You will get some lovely lunch in their kitchen and the encouragement about life skills and wellbeing are always on their mind.
Everybody who meets Louise & Simon will think I have the best friends in the world.
I encourage you all to book a craft class or two and defo stay at the Crafters Retreat Lodge.
The Lodge is a dream. Go and give it a go. All the best Louise & Simon. Tony & Kim x"
ELIZABETH - 1-2-1 CERAMICS EXPERIENCE
July 2023
"I really loved my one-to-one pottery lesson with Louise. She and Simon were very welcoming and their home felt a very secluded and calming environment to spend the day. As a complete beginner, I was able to go at my own pace and I found Louise very patient and encouraging. I was really pleased with what I was able to achieve in one day. I’d love to go back again and stay at their crafters retreat, which looked beautiful. Highly recommended."
AGATA - 1-2-1 FULL-DAY WOODTURNING EXPERIENCE
July 2023
"I had an amazing time during the pottery workshop! Louise created a wonderful, relaxed atmosphere, and was very supportive as we moved through three different techniques. She explained everything clearly, while leaving me fully in charge of my own creations.
We had a nice chat throughout and some lovely teas.
I left the session energised and inspired.
I would highly recommend this workshop. Thank you, Louise (and Simon)!"
RACHAEL- 1-2-1 CERAMICS EXPERIENCE
July 2023
"What a delight of a day, it will be one for the memory bank for sure.
Thank you to my Mum and Dad for such a fabulous birthday gift.
Louise is talented, patient and very encouraging especially as this was my first time in a potter's studio - my only other time working with clay was at uni but that will change now as today Louise has definitely shared the bug for it! Is it too early to start researching second-hand potter's wheels online...? : )
The day was so smooth, giving me opportunities to try so many different things and it was relaxed and ran beautifully, just sorry it had to end.
I can only imagine how much prep and clear-up it created too!
Thank you Louise for a wonderful experience."
