Newbury, Reading

4.9 (189)

The largest arts and crafts retailer in the UK, passion for crafting is at the heart of everything Hobbycraft does. This is reflected in the creative and knowledgeable colleagues you’ll meet in stores, as well as the vast range of carefully selected products for all types of crafting.

Throughout the year, Hobbycraft host a variety of workshops in stores and online, designed to give everyone the opportunity to master a new craft or refine a long-time favourite. Whether you want to enjoy crafting from the comfort of your own home or you’re looking to meet new people as you get making, these craft workshops offer something for everyone.

Most of our workshops are led by colleagues from Hobbycraft stores across the UK, including craft experts from our Hobbycraft Artisan programme. They use their expertise in specific areas of craft to create workshops that show participants new skills and inspire future projects.

Classes

Beginner's Guide to Acrylic Paint Pouring

4.9 (16)

Your choice of time

Newbury

2 to 5

£30

Beginner's Guide to Crochet

4.9 (12)

Your choice of time

Newbury

2 to 5

£22

Beginner's Guide to Brush Lettering

4.9 (10)

Your choice of time

Newbury

2 to 5

£25

Reviews

(189)

Janice Perry • Apr 2024

I had a lesson on threading an overlocker which proved very challenging and Nicki went above and beyond.

Hilary • Apr 2024

A very enjoyable way to learn crochet. Excellent teacher, very inspiring and patient. Thank you.

Anonymised ClassBento student • Apr 2024

Really fun class, lots of different materials to use and great value for money! Thank You!

Brenda Jones • Apr 2024

My Beginners Guide to Crochet with Liam was excellent and very enjoyable. He was very patient and taught us the three basic stitches we need

Alison Sloan • Apr 2024

A really enjoyable crochet class, I have no experience of crocheting. Liam (I hope that is his name) was very informative and happy to demonstrate techniques time and again. The time flew by, and by the end I felt confident to continue with the piece of work and practice the stitches by myself.
The workshop was very good value for money and it included materials. Hobby craft Newbury was a calm and warm environment to work in.
Happily recommend.

Isha Jayaprakash • Apr 2024

My daughter loved the session. Liam was the instructor and he was excited to teach kids. My daughter is looking forward for next workshops

Isha Jayaprakash • Apr 2024

Joanna was a great teacher. Isha enjoyed the class. She is eagerly waiting for next session

Katy Marshall • Apr 2024

Excellent. Kind, creative and fabulous. Was great working with my kids. Will book again. Bravo

Mrs Lorraine Madh • Apr 2024

I took my grand daughter who really enjoyed the workshop. All the materials were supplied. The teacher Joanna at the Newbury store was very nice and helpful

Alice Walker • Apr 2024

We did the Easter clay making workshop. We made a sheep in the class and were given the materials to make the bunny at home.

The teacher was amazing. He was engaging, made it fun and knew how to keep them focused.

I will definitely be booking another workshop.

Isha Jayaprakash • Apr 2024

My daughter enjoyed the session. She is looking forward for many more sessions like this

Kelly Prater • Apr 2024

Charlotte was great. The children had so much fun. Thank you. We will definitely be booking another workshop.

Anonymised ClassBento student • Apr 2024

The teacher was very friendly and engaging. Amazing with the kids! Really liked the value for money as its a taster to see it this is something suited for the kids.

Mrs Lorraine Madh • Apr 2024

Spending time with grand daughter in Easter Holidays. It was a really good workshop Tuesday afternoon 2.00 to 3.00 at Newbury. Hobbycraft is such a great store. All materials provided good value for money.

Ann • Apr 2024

Excellent instructor who interacted well with children and their adults. Really liked the Air Drying clay.

Joanna Reilly • Apr 2024

Our tutor was so very helpful and knowledgeable. I did have reservations about booking wondering if the session would be very basic but it was extremely informative. I would definitely book again for other classes.

Zahra Raza • Apr 2024

My kids loved the workshop and we recommend the club anyday. Kids love the sheep.

Helen Harris • Mar 2024

Liam’s instructions were clear and easy to follow. He is incredibly passionate about crochet and was well able to adapt to meet the needs of a total beginner as well as my intermediate level class partner.
Am totally hooked! Excuse the pun

Louisa Thom • Mar 2024

Nicky’s was fabulous. Thank you so much! I wanted to learn the basics and she did this so patiently and professionally yet also so kind and welcoming and fun when I needed that too.
I felt relaxed straight away and knew I could ask any question but also enjoy the session and smile.
She even found the exact machine I had and taught me exactly what I needed and wanted as beginner and then helped me shop for the few suitable items i wanted in store even after that session. I would highly recommend and hope to be back (only with her) once I try what I have been taught and am ready to move on. Enjoyed it even more than I hoped!

Wendy Howells • Mar 2024

The class was very useful to me in brushing up on my crochet skills which i had all but forgotten. The teacher was very helpful. It was a shame that the only yarn we were allowed to choose was one particular type of yarn. I would have preferred to be able to choose my own even if it was from a limited selection of different yarns. Given that we received 2 balls of yarn and a hook with 1.5hrs of tuition I think it was good value, although I think we could have been shown more in the class

Catherine • Mar 2024

We did the Easter bonnet session. Kids very much enjoyed. Did feel like we were cramped on the table in the middle of the store though. Other experiences we’ve had we’ve been in a separate room

Marina • Mar 2024

Absolutely loved my 1:1 session with Nicky today. She told me about lots of different sewing machines and we tried out three. She was so patient with me and so knowledgeable too. I highly recommend this service offered by Hobbycraft.

Maureen Cozzo • Mar 2024

I really enjoyed my one to one class with Charlotte. She was very friendly and helpful in explaining all the features and attachments on my new sewing machine. I feel much more confident now in using it. The class was well worth the money.

Carol Turner • Mar 2024

I had this class as a Christmas gift it was a very enjoyable experience I also booked my friend on with me teacher very friendly and helpful the material were provided and really liked them we are looking to book another class in the future teacher very helpful in giving us information about other classes

Anonymised ClassBento student • Mar 2024

Only 4 people, plenty of space for the children to express themselves.
I was expecting more choices on different craft items but children did not appear to mind! Organiser was very nice and made everybody feel at easy. She had lots of great ideas.

Anonymised ClassBento student • Mar 2024

Would definitely recommend this one to one workshop as it was tailored to level of ability, pace and all the questions I had.

Caroline Bridger • Mar 2024

Really enjoyed the teaching session. Liam was fantastic and made the session enjoyable and we felt really inspired after the session. I’d definitely do another session to help with my continuing progress with crochet.

Heidi Clark • Feb 2024

2 ClassBento workshops attended

This is my second class I have taken with Liam. The first one was for reading and learning more crocheting techniques. Today’s one was to learn knitting skills and reading the patterns. He is absolutely amazing and has such a good way of explaining things so it’s easy to go away and carry on with projects. I will definitely be going back. Thanks hobby craft and thanks Liam ️

Fanny Svensson Lagergren • Feb 2024

I have been wanting to learn crocheting for a long time and when I saw that Hobbycraft offered beginners classes I was over the moon! Liam was super helpful and explained/showed all the steps in a very clear and easy way. He made us all fee very relaxed and it was just overall a wonderful way of spending my Tuesday. The 1.5 hour flew by and at the end I felt very eager and ready to start crocheting more. I can highly recommend taking this class for anyone who wants to get into crocheting but don’t really know where to start.

Sanchya Nayar • Feb 2024

Me and my daughter attended this session and it was good. however, i felt that kids who are beginner needs better introduction to colours and about canvas paint on how different ways it can be done. this class is good if you already know how to paint to canvas
little disappointed, something has been learnt

Anonymised ClassBento student • Feb 2024

I liked that there was someone to help me. The beads and the clay were cool to use.

Louise • Feb 2024

Really brilliant teachers Really positive approach. Happy to amend teaching style and content to suit. Very happy!

Sarah Olver • Feb 2024

Thank you Nicky. So helpful. Very useful to talk through the different sewing machines on the market.

Gillian Barnes • Feb 2024

I attended a one to one session to learn some crotchet stitches(I had very limited knowledge). Charlotte was a very good teacher - very friendly, patient and knowledgeable. It was the first time I had used chunky wool with a large hook which she advised would be best to use to start and she also provided and I was very impressed at how quickly the work grew using it. It was very helpful having hands on experience and being able to ask questions and get them answered to be able to practice the new skills there and then. The venue was good but a little more private space would have been nice but I would definitely recommend and would like to book another course in the future.

Anonymised ClassBento student • Jan 2024

Great teacher, very helpful and friendly.
Instructions were very clear.
Only way to improve might be to have a workshop area which is less prone to interruptions by other customers, but only a minor issue.

Anonymised ClassBento student • Jan 2024

This was a great introduction for an absolute beginner.
Liam was very knowledgeable and helpful, particularly with showing me how to crochet left handed

Jane Robertson • Jan 2024

Christine gave an excellent one to one and so friendly
Clear and precise instructions.
Hints and tips also given on sewing and the sewing machine I have that I was unaware of. Most helpful.
Would definitely recommend.

Beverley Dare • Jan 2024

Liam is very knowledgeable and patient! I went along to the class as a complete beginner and left having learnt the basic stitches! I feel confident that with practice I will be able to produce a decent piece of work. Thanks Liam, I really enjoyed myself

Joanne Maylen • Dec 2023

The workshop was great, both of our teachers (Liam and Charlotte) were really encouraging with our children, give great instructions and help and ensured the activity was tailored for their ages so it was achievable! The lightweight clay used was great and we were talked through what it could be used for etc. we brought some before we left as the kids enjoyed using it so much!

Amanda Miles • Dec 2023

Liam and Charlotte at the Newbury store nailed it as our teachers ! Great fun had by my two girls age 5 and 12 and the mum had a blast too ! Lots of giggles. We made a plethora of Christmas delights with air clay from Santas to wreaths, Christmas presents, festive prawns and even a mushroom house, now that takes me back !

Amanda Colling • Dec 2023

My girls loved their first craft activity with hobbycraft. Joana, our teacher, was warm & friendly and made the activity really fun and relaxing for the girls. I'll definitely be booking again

Becky Drew-Dare • Dec 2023

Had a really enjoyable time and luckily we were able to go way beyond the hour it was supposed to be! Charlotte was really lovely, so helpful and full of encouragement too! As we’re all the other members of staff who walked by as well which was really nice! Will definitely be looking at what we session we can do next!

Claire Evans • Dec 2023

We had a fabulous time! Charlotte was really friendly and helpful & gave us clear instructions. All three of us were happy with our results.
Recommend the bauble marbling workshop!

Karen Hart • Dec 2023

4 ClassBento workshops attended • 2 reviews

From the very start, Liam put me at such ease and was unfazed by my inexperience. He was patient, engaging and only too happy work at my pace. He thought carefully about how to explain things and was very careful not to take over. It was truly an enjoyable learning experience. What a wonderful teacher with a clear passion for all he does. Thank you so much Liam.

Caroline Lang • Nov 2023

Charlotte was very thorough in her description and showing of the Cricut website and how the Cricut Joy works creating 3 Christmas tags! I am very interested in getting one of these but will wait til they are on offer again!

Jill Northfield • Nov 2023

This was great value for money. To get tailor made tuition in the features needed to get started with crochet, especially in my case, the tension of the yarn. As a bonus you get a crochet hook and two balls of yarn, as well as a bag to keep it in. The notes are easy to follow and will be easy to use as a reminder at home. My tutor was very friendly and patient and taught with a very easy manner. I think this tutorial was extremely good and will certainly look at doing others in the future.

Sarah Somarakis • Nov 2023

Amazing time, the teacher Joanna was really friendly and great with the children. We really enjoyed it!

Anabela Ventura • Nov 2023

I really loved the workshop. The staff was very friendly and showed me what I could do. I even bought smaller bags to decorate at home. Good value for the materials. The posca pens are easy to use and make a lovely effect.

Anonymised ClassBento student • Nov 2023

I am a complete beginner and cannot believe that I managed to knit during the class. The teacher was very knowledgeable, warm and patient. Thanks again for this initiation. I will now practice a bit more before booking my next class!

Caro Lang • Nov 2023

3 ClassBento workshops attended • 3 reviews

Elaine was wonderful showing us what to do and then just letting us get on with it which was just perfect for me. What an interesting person too.

Sue McLeod • Nov 2023

This workshop was brilliant! Thank you Charlotte. So informative about choosing a cricut machine and how to make the most of it. Lots of super tips as well. Can’t wait to get started

Rachel Sunderland • Nov 2023

10 ClassBento workshops attended

I had a really good time doing this workshop. The teacher was lovely and super helpful. There were loads of materials provided and I'm really happy with what I was able to produce. This was my first Hobbycraft workshop and I'll definitely be looking to do more in the future.

Christelle • Nov 2023

This is a fun course. Elaine was a great and enthusiastic teacher. She taught me the basic marbling techniques, and the 6 baubles I made all ended up looking different. This is a great introduction to this craft, and is very good value for money.

Lara Morris • Nov 2023

Thank, that was brilliant! Two young girls now know the basics of crocheting. Very good teacher! The two Mums stayed with their girls as they were under 16.

Jan Banks • Nov 2023

Hi I thoroughly enjoyed the class Charlotte was not expecting me as it was to do with the booking and she did not get the notification. I had an email back and so thought I was booked in, but the confirmation and payment did not arrive so I guessed you pay at the till. Anyway Charlotte said don't worry we can do the class now you are here and got the machine and material. I learnt how to use the machine and looking forward to making and sewing she was very good at explaining what to do and said if need further help just ask.

Caro Lang • Oct 2023

3 ClassBento workshops attended • 3 reviews

Kids loved this - discovered new product for creating clay figures and worked well for 8 and 11 year old

Hannah Lee • Oct 2023

Very good workshop and a lovely staff member helping . I would definitely recommend . Thank you

Deborah White • Oct 2023

My 7 year old grandson had a wonderful time. The teacher was very friendly and helpful. She encouraged his creativity and was very supportive. Harvey was the only student so benefitted from 1 to 1 instruction. It was well worth the £8.00 I paid for the lesson. I will definately book more workshops in the future.

Carol • Oct 2023

Liam was super. I'm a complete beginner. A couple of friends have shown me previously but unsuccessfully. At the end of the hour, I could create three different stitches and have the confidence now to progress

Margaret • Oct 2023

Really good session which went very quickly. Gave me the confidence to go home and finish off my knitting pattern.

Natalie Paterson • Oct 2023

2 ClassBento workshops attended

My kids loved this class and they can't wait to display their clay models at home.

Karen • Oct 2023

Liam (Newbury) was very engaging, knowledgeable and supportive during this session. It was a pleasure and for someone who doesn't like videos on crocheting it was nice to get the 121 support

Natasha Hart • Oct 2023

Excellent course, we were made to feel very welcome. Liam explained everything so well and helped us get to grips with everything. He was patient and took his time to make sure we were happy with what we learnt before moving on to the next stage. A really wonderful course as so pleased we did it.

Mandy Williams • Oct 2023

Liam our host was very friendly and knowledgeable. We had so much much fun creating our autumn wreaths. I was worried that there wouldn’t be enough accessories, but there was loads and we even had some left over to carry on on crafting at home! Would recommend!

Lyndsey Cunningham • Oct 2023

The teacher was amazing and very easy to follow her! Definitely come back again!
Thank you

Rebecca • Oct 2023

This was a thoroughly enjoyable workshop. We have already made more wreaths at home with the family using the bits left over from the workshop and further accessories bought from Hobbycraft.

I will definitely be booking further workshops in the future.

Thank you!

Rebecca

Veronique Gedeon • Sep 2023

I had a wonderful lesson with Liam. He’s a superb teacher, very friendly and very knowledgeable and explained it all very clearly. I learnt single, double and triple crotchet stitches. Liam gave little pointers as well such as counting and to check for errors and ways of fixing them. I learnt new techniques. Time went by so quickly. About to book my next lesson with Liam. Thank you.

Elaine Winn • Aug 2023

Nicky H was very friendly and knowledgeable. She taught me how to thread the sewing machine correctly and what could go wrong and how to fix it.
I learnt how to do buttonholes and to insert a zip.
Nicky then helped me to purchase the correct needles for my machine.
Overall experience was great.
Can’t wait to start my first project.

Sandra • Aug 2023

Great teacher about Cricut. Learned lots and also was given really helpful advice and tips.

Tracey Harvey • Jul 2023

What a great way to spend an hour on a wet and windy day. Great tuition, very patient and happy to share her experience and techniques. Goody bag is a bonus and contents really good quality. Booking was not very straight forward but after a chat with the staff it all got sorted. Thank you very much

Judy Connolly • Jul 2023

Our teacher was very creative and we enjoyed the painting class very much. Thank you.

Carla Gliddon • Jul 2023

Charlotte was fabulous and really explained all very well and now makes me want the printer even more Highly recommended….

Gulistan Boylu • Jul 2023

Charlotte helped me with my tote bag project and she is a great teacher. She gave me small tips about sewing and answered all my questions. I will book another session soon!

Beverley Elliott • Jun 2023

Charlotte was very helpful and approachable. I feel I now have a good basis to make a decision on which sewing machine to buy although more research is needed. First I need to decide what is important to me in terms of added stitches etc. It was well worth the time and cost. Would recommend to other undecided friends.

Sylviane Blouin • Jun 2023

I am absolutely thrilled to have had a tuition with Charlotte.
She was the sweetest, was extremely patient, all her explanations were easy
to understand as she has that particular talent that makes one comfortable.
Her good dispositions made all the difference!

Lesley Rutherford • May 2023

5 ClassBento workshops attended • 2 reviews

Great session and as an absolute beginner it got me up and running and able to follow a simple pattern - I found the tuition excellent and as 121, it was easy to ask questions and see first hand how to move forward with the crochet.

Samantha Hodgson • May 2023

The teacher, Charlotte was brilliant. Was very nervous about using a sewing machine she was so easy to understand, nothing was too much trouble and she built my confidence up. Was really impressed with her Knowledge and patience. Would definitely book another workshop. I love Newbury Hobby craft, nice store and well run.

Samantha Cole • Apr 2023

2 ClassBento workshops attended

Lady that run the workshop was lovely! However I think the workshop would work better with a step by step making an item…I could have just brought the clay and made it at home and that would have been better value for money as it cost £10 for the both and they only used about £6 of clay between the two of them.

Lynne Hutchins • Apr 2023

8 ClassBento workshops attended • 9 reviews

I went for an hour introduction to my Cricut machine and learnt a lot. Charlotte was great fun and I now understand a lot about my machine. I was provided with some card to practice with. I can't compliment you on your workforce enough. I have been to several on line and in store workshops and have never Bern disappointed. Keep it up please.

Miss Marshall • Apr 2023

2 ClassBento workshops attended • 2 reviews

Tali led the workshop brilliantly, kids aged 3-10, had a blast. Lots of great ideas offered and showed us what to do. Would recommend again.

Fjorela Sela • Apr 2023

4 ClassBento workshops attended • 4 reviews

Joanna was very good with my daughter. We had a very nice time and created a lovely bonnet

Rachel Salmon • Apr 2023

Nicky was very helpful and gave us lots of tips when making our wreaths. We had lots of materials and were able to take the leftovers home if we wished to add to our wreath. Loved the class and will be back again to try another one.

Georgina Fitzclarence • Apr 2023

2 ClassBento workshops attended • 2 reviews

I really enjoyed this workshop, it gave me the confidence needed to make a beautiful Easter wreath. Lovely lady taking the workshop and I was join by two other ladies, which was a super size. I would recommend this workshop as it was so enjoyable.

Clara Fenton • Apr 2023

The workshop was for my crafty 8 year old daughter. She was delighted with the craft box that needed unpacking to start. Nicky the teacher was welcoming and interacted with my daughter in an age appropriate way with easy to understand instructions and flexibility for creative interpretation! We both found the class fun and relaxing.

Lynne Hutchins • Mar 2023

8 ClassBento workshops attended • 9 reviews

Wow i had a great time, the lady that led the class was brilliant. She gave us little hints and tips but left it to us to do our own design. The extras we got were very good value for money, it always is with Hobbycraft. I have done several workshops with Hobbycraft both in store and on line and have always enjoyed myself and come away with something unique. I have learnt a lot with Hobbycraft. Brilliant workshops every time.

Valerie Vardy • Mar 2023

4 ClassBento workshops attended • 3 reviews

Supportive, very helpful and personable teacher. Suitable workspace for 2 of us plus the teacher, but not more.
Time allowed just enough.
All useful.articles supplied

Beverley Backstrom • Feb 2023

Charlotte was great, very knowledgable, gave great advice and gave me lots of hints and tips

Mariska Bassie • Feb 2023

3 ClassBento workshops attended

Great teacher learned different techniques and have some lovely ideas and artwork as a result :) can totally recommend

Diana Collns • Feb 2023

Wonderful friendly teacher who inspired us to be creative.
Supplied acrylic paint kit that we now take home to continue experimenting.
Brilliant fun evening
Thank you

Bernie Fleming • Jan 2023

Nick was amazing, we got on straight away. Loved the 3 styles she taught. The kit is great too. Would like an advanced one soon.
5 out of 5 stars

Monica Stone • Jan 2023

Charlotte was a very pleasant lady, who knew what she was talking about and covered all the points I raised with very clear and confident explanations. Would happily recommend her to anybody who wants to know her machine better or experience a machine before buying.

Susan Woosnam • Jan 2023

Niki was a very good teacher, lots of patience, explained painting techniques very well. All paints and items required for lesson was supplied, we had fun learning how to produce a picture using acrylic pouring method, would recommend this lesson and having a go at home.

Darcey Allen • Jan 2023

We arrived and greeted by a lovely young lady who patiently walked my daughter (10) step by step of threading machine and different stitches.

As complete novices this was exactly what we asked for.

Could not recommend it enough

Lynne Hanson • Jan 2023

4 ClassBento workshops attended • 2 reviews

Charlotte was extremely knowledgable about all things Cricut, I had so many questions about different things I'd tried and she jumped from one topic to the next without blinking an eye!
Feel so much more confident now, and even finished my first HTV project with her encouragement.
Fantastic value for money.
I will definitely book again :-)

Sylvia Sellwood • Dec 2022

The teacher was very good. She was familiar with the product I was interested in.
she could tell me everything I wanted to know and could demonstrate them as well. She was not 'pushy' about making a sale and was calm when I kept interrupting. An enjoyable experience, a nice, calm atmosphere in the Newbury Branch of Hobbycraft

Sharon Gillas • Dec 2022

Had a really good relaxing hour and a half. Learnt how to use the air dying clay.
The pack was good with a good size block of clay, would have been better if had a few other shape Xmas cutters though.

Lorraine Andrews • Nov 2022

Lovely lady called Joanna showed a variety of applications for crafting on the joy machine. The design space looked daunting but I was encouraged to have a go. Very happy with the demonstrations and even bought a box of starter goodies which was on offer!

Cathy Stagg • Nov 2022

The piles of fat quarters on display have always attracted me so I booked a workshop to find out how I could use them. Charlotte had printed out two Christmas projects for me. Later, after a bit of searching, I found others on the website - all free. She also had some books for me to look at.
For the 'hands on' part of the workshop we made some bunting. The Janome machine was similar to my Elna eXplore 220 so it was easy to use. Charlotte had some good tips about the difference between using ribbon or bias binding.
It was lovely to chat to a fellow crafter and although we had only just met, I felt as if I'd known her forever - despite a huge discrepancy in our ages!
With a Black Friday special offer, this workshop was brilliant value for money. But it did lead to me buying a lot of fabric and trimmings. I'm looking forward to days of creativity.

Caity Mortara • Nov 2022

8 ClassBento workshops attended • 5 reviews

1st time making a wreath and it was so easy to do. Got all the materials included and very impressed we could keep all the materials afterwards, including glue gun. The lady running the class was so helpful and friendly. Really recommend booking.

Gill Oliver • Nov 2022

Excellent tuition great value time and money well spent would recommend. Learnt lots relaxed tutors

Stephanie Garcia • Nov 2022

2 ClassBento workshops attended

Was absolutely lovely. I would just say a sink to wash your hands would be helpful, but other than that I was really happy.

Christine Alberry • Nov 2022

Good teacher. Gave good ideas but didn’t interfere.
Very relaxed atmosphere.
All materials provided.
Really enjoyed it and will do more
classes in the future.

Samantha Aldridge • Oct 2022

We had a great time doing the Kids Mache Pumpkin workshop in the Newbury store today. Nicky was very helpful and patient with the children, all materials were provided and the kids came away with a brilliant Halloween decoration that we will be getting out for years to come. Brilliant value for money as well! I would definitely recommend and we will certainly be back to do another workshop again!

Sandra Minns • Oct 2022

My daughter and her friend had a great time, they had more than enough materials to complete their pumpkin and the lady was so kind and helpful. We will definitely be back for another class. Thank you

Barbara Moffat • Oct 2022

3 ClassBento workshops attended • 3 reviews

Excellent course. The teacher was friendly and very knowledgeable. The time flew past the course was so absorbing. The materials provided were first class and I can thoroughly recommend the whole experience.

Laura Joel • Oct 2022

Great, friendly instruction. Tailored to the projects that I said I was currently working on. Very helpful and would recommend to others.

Marie Wordley • Oct 2022

Had a great getting to know your sewing machine class at Newbury, I will be definitely be recommending it! It’s great value for money, Charlotte our teacher was so friendly, knowledgeable and patient. She clearly explained every step and answered all our questions clearly. I can’t wait to book another class to help me learn.

Beth Trenchard • Oct 2022

6 ClassBento workshops attended • 3 reviews

We had a great time. Tutor was very kind and patient. Lots of lovely colours to choose from. Will look fabulous hung up! I would recommend taking an Apron if your little one is messy like mine!

Karuna Yeates • Oct 2022

Took part in the air drying clay workshop at Newbury. Sam the demonstrator was great my daughter and her cousin loved it and we bought 12 packs to take home. 5 stars ⭐️ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Beth Trenchard • Oct 2022

6 ClassBento workshops attended • 3 reviews

Great activity it was a brilliant material to work with for a small person. The class size was small, lovely teacher. We had fun!

Sophie Candy • Sep 2022

Teacher was fantastic, gave me loads of time and was really helpful afterwards. Very grateful. THANK YOU

James Erlam • Sep 2022

Brilliant one to one on a sewing machine. I felt with doing it for myself under supervision was way better than pausing and playing YouTube and getting demotivated. Sat in the shop, no problem with that, very knowledgeable teacher and patient. Great experience all round

Maria Arkwright • Sep 2022

Enjoyed all of it but knocked off a star as I do not think an hour was long enough; we did go over but it felt rushed

Teacher was lovely

Nicole Frost • Aug 2022

Charlotte was amazing at helping and guiding us through how to operate the sewing machine. Feel more confident now! Thank you

Barbara Moffat • Aug 2022

3 ClassBento workshops attended • 3 reviews

Very enjoyable afternoon activity for two boys. The materials provided were first class and the teacher was friendly, knowledgeable and fun to work with. Will definitely come again.

Judith Geddes • Aug 2022

2 ClassBento workshops attended

Ali was a great tutor. Very helpful and we learned a lot during the hour. Will definitely try out what we’ve learned at home.

Victor Reilly • Aug 2022

9 ClassBento workshops attended

My brother really enjoyed decorating his own mache animals and loved showing them to family

Komal Sandhu • Aug 2022

2 ClassBento workshops attended

Kids loved the activity and Sam was great explaining and doing it with them the hour went quick and came back asking for more.
Brilliant effort

Barbara Moffat • Aug 2022

3 ClassBento workshops attended • 3 reviews

Very good workshop. Excellent teacher full of ideas for new techniques. Children enjoyed experimenting with the great materials provided. Looking forward to the next one.

Sara Moseley • Jul 2022

Great value for money with calm, supportive staff and an excellent range of resources. Definitely recommend.

Sandra Ramirez • Jul 2022

2 ClassBento workshops attended • 2 reviews

Alison was very friendly and answered all our questions
Showed us exactly what we needed to know
Would recommend this course for beginners

Sandra Ramirez • Jul 2022

2 ClassBento workshops attended • 2 reviews

Lesson was good but a little rushed as don’t think one hour enough
But the teacher was lovely friendly and answered all questions

Laura Hutley • Jul 2022

6 ClassBento workshops attended • 2 reviews

Great value for money workshop. Nikki was a great teacher so knowledgeable and patient. The time just flew by. Loved the variety of pouring techniques explored.

Christine Rosher • Jul 2022

So worthwhile & great value for money.
Had never used a sewing machine before so to get hands on tuition is far more beneficial.
Has given me the confidence to practice on my mother's 50yr old machine.
Thank you Ali @ newbury

Lynne Hutchins • Jul 2022

8 ClassBento workshops attended • 9 reviews

I signed up for this beginners cross stitch course as I have always wanted to learn how to x stitch. My friend came with me and she was also a novice. The instructor was amazing and lovely to be with. her name was Nikki. She took us through all the preparation and got us started on our piece. She made learning fun, we were provided with a lovely picture of two parrots to sew and came away with something I was very pleased with, we had all we needed to complete the piece at home. I have done several courses with Hobbycraft and have never been disappointed. They are always very good value for money and they are always very generous with the stuff provide with everything you need. I look forward to booking my next course with you.

Val Spring • Jun 2022

A wonderful hour! Nikki was a great teacher - very helpful and talented. The whole session was very relaxed - just 2 of us in the class. The goodie box had everything we needed for the session and plenty more - lots to take home and carry on with a new skill of brush lettering. I learned a lot and thoroughly enjoyed myself. What a lovely store Newbury Hobbycraft is, with such friendly staff. Thank you.

Alice Denton • Jun 2022

I enjoyed the brush lettering class at Hobbycraft Newbury. The teacher was friendly and gave me lots of ideas. They provided a box of things to get started on brush lettering, including smooth paper and metallic pens, though a black pen would have been useful. The metallic pens were very pretty though. I think it was good value for money if you don't know where to start, good for complete beginners. You learn about when to make the writing thicker and thinner and how to join up the letters. Based on this one, I would consider trying a different class in future.

Jean Andrews • Jun 2022

Ali was amazing, patient and very helpful. Nothing is to much for her and what she can’t do she will go away and find out how to. I absolutely love having a 1-1 with her and came out with part of a project completed. I would highly recommend a 1-1 .

Jean Andrews • May 2022

Ali was absolutely amazing and has that patience of a saint. She was very accommodating and I would certainly love to come to one again. I would strongly recommend anyone who hasn’t got a clue to attend one and I even came away with a completed project.

Naomi Firth • May 2022

The teacher was lovely and the kit had a lots of goodies In it. A very enjoyable hour.

Jelena Makgridi • May 2022

Thank you for a wonderful class led by Ali. She was extremely friendly, helpful. You should run more courses like this one. I would like to go back again

Fi Taylor • Apr 2022

Hi third attempt at writing a review! Fab course and teacher just wished it was longer plus info on further courses would have been helpful

Charlee Foster • Apr 2022

Such a great intro to using the cricut, Alison was fabulous, so helpful. Would definitely recommend to anyone who is thinking about getting a cricut!

Simone Milligan • Apr 2022

This was great fun, Nicky the teacher was lovely and very patient, the material well organised and I was aloud to take the whole set home, to make some more mess at home. Good fun! The pictures actually surprised me most as they kept developing while drying, quite mesmerising actually. Loved it , good value as you got everything to do it again at home. Would recommend to everybody who does not mind letting things go there own way, nothing for control freaks, as every picture is a bit of a surprise

Emily Bernard • Apr 2022

4 ClassBento workshops attended

Ali was a wonderful help, both of my children thoroughly enjoyed the session & can't wait to come back. Amazing value for money. Thankyou

Mrs Mackney • Apr 2022

Ali is amazing xx soooooooo very patient and knowledgeable
Wished she was my friend as sooooo lovely

Valerie Vardy • Apr 2022

4 ClassBento workshops attended • 3 reviews

Excellent introduction to a new activity. Good selection of items in the box to place on the wreath. A strong piece of twine or something similar would have been useful.
Helpful and very encouraging teacher, Nicky.

Lesley Skeavington • Apr 2022

The workshop was excellent and extremely enjoyable. Nicky was very attentive and able to suggest ideas to improve the outcome. The venue was easily accessible. There was a wide variety of items to decorate the wreath, the only thing missing was the ribbon to allow for hanging. I would highly recommend the workshop.

Theresa Salt • Mar 2022

4 ClassBento workshops attended • 3 reviews

I was greeted by tutor Nicky H. Nicky gave me a large box which contained everything that I needed for course. There was paint,and tools needed with 4 flat canvases. Also a framed canvas that Nicky said is for my masterpiece when I was happy to do on my own. Nicky showed me three different methods - mixing paints , pouring paints , blending paints - using spatulas, clingfilm and by hand. The results of my three canvases were incredible. Had to lay canvases in box supplied to keep level. Nicky made the course interesting. Time flew by but I was never rushed. Nicky was encouraging and said their wasn't a right way or wrong way of doing things. Took photo of my canvases - unfortunately due to having to go downhill and over speed humps my canvases did run a bit I would recommend this course for all ages.

Jane Poynter • Mar 2022

The Cross Stitch Workshop was given to me as a birthday present. I have attended hobbycraft workshops before and have always thought them to be good value for money. My Tutor was great, very patient, I was very lucky as being the only one I had individual attention. I have worked cross stitch many years ago but I was talked through the importance of preparation and shown top tips, like marking off each square on the guide so that I can see what I have actually worked. I liked the pack that I was presented with and I hope to carry on and complete the parrots at my own pace. Would recommend this workshop.

Theresa Salt • Mar 2022

4 ClassBento workshops attended • 3 reviews

Myself and another lady got greeted by our tutor Nikki. We were given a box each which contained a pad, labels and brush pens to use. Nikki also gave us A4 sheets with the alphabet printed on in Caps and lower case to copy. Nikki had a great natural writing skill in brush lettering. I found it very challenging and kept holding my breath each time I wrote. Once I relaxed more and with Nikki's help and encouragement I got more confident in my writing. I will definitely carry on practicing to use my new skill to combine with my other craft hobbies. The hour went very quickly.

Ursula Curtis • Mar 2022

Had a very enjoyable class with excellent teacher, Nikki. instructions were clear and included craft pack was lovely, will have a busy time practicing, all in all a very productive hour…thank you.

Theresa Salt • Mar 2022

4 ClassBento workshops attended • 3 reviews

On my arrival I was a novice and nervous wreck I was greeted by friendly staff and introduced to my tutor Nicky H. Nicky chose a basic sewing machine for me to use. I was shown how to set up machine. Nicky was reassuring and put me at ease Once I got machine set up to use, I was given patterns on material to follow using different stitches. I was thrilled and overwhelmed with the results. The time went by quickly. I left course very happy. When I got home, I told my husband that I loved course and looking at purchasing machine I used on course. Great value for money.

Kayley Button • Mar 2022

2 ClassBento workshops attended

Nicky was great! I was a bit nervous when I realised I was on my own, but Nicky was so reassuring and encouraging! She really helped me to free myself from my usual control freakery!
Really good value for money and great fun! Thanks!

David Alford • Mar 2022

The teacher was good, and created a welcoming friendly and relaxed learning environment. The students attending are provided with a good-sized kit of paints & accessories (including a substantial stout box for transporting the finished paintings home). During the class a plentiful supply of paints was offered, (so that the student doesn’t have to use up their own paints from the kit-box during the class). A plentiful supply of gloves was provided to keep your hands clean during the paint pouring procedures. (Given that one takes home a good supply of unused materials, I think the class is good value for money). The teacher Instructed three different types of paint pouring technique, (so I left the class with three completed paintings). I now feel a bit more confident in the basics of how to do paint pouring, and the ways in which the paint can be manipulated, and learned to embrace the somewhat uncontrollable, random and surprising nature of the paint patterns that occur, when pouring paint. If you’re interested in paint pouring, I would definitely recommend attending this beginners class before trying to teach yourself techniques from a textbook.

Fjorela Sela • Feb 2022

4 ClassBento workshops attended • 4 reviews

The teacher was very friendly. There was plenty of material and my daughter (4.5years) had a lovely time. Looking forward to the next class.

Lauren McKinlay • Feb 2022

2 ClassBento workshops attended • 2 reviews

Delia was fab, very informative and helpful. Learnt about the machine and how to use it.

Lynne Clatworthy • Feb 2022

2 ClassBento workshops attended • 2 reviews

Ali was excellent with my granddaughter who we were really there for. She came away from the workshop more enthused than ever and eager to try our the new materials that she had worked with.

Sadie May • Feb 2022

2 ClassBento workshops attended • 2 reviews

I found this one to one session really helpful. The teacher was lovely and had great knowledge. I’m a complete beginner in using the Cricut but left feeling confident in starting to make some new projects.

Lisa Knox • Feb 2022

3 ClassBento workshops attended • 3 reviews

I thought it was great, very informative and lots of ideas were given, and advice on what to use

Lauren McKinlay • Feb 2022

2 ClassBento workshops attended • 2 reviews

Ali was great. Very helpful and informative, as I was a complete beginner to Cricut. Great opportunity to try the machine out and see how it’s done. Would highly recommend.

Carole McGuire • Feb 2022

Great tutorial many thanks to Ali. I had so many questions as a new cricut user! Ali was very patient, very knowledgeable with all the products available and offered loads of great advice.

Judy Stafford • Feb 2022

A very good experience, learnt allot about my new machine and what tension and settings to use, types of needles and cotton to use for what I wanted to do. Delia was very lovely who had time and patience with me. Would recommend this tuition good value for the money

Sue Dickson • Feb 2022

2 ClassBento workshops attended • 2 reviews

The class teacher was excellent, very friendly and engaging! I had 1:1 tuition and really enjoyed the workshop. I learnt a lot about infusible ink and the mug press! I think it was excellent value for money

Lynne Hutchins • Jan 2022

8 ClassBento workshops attended • 9 reviews

I thoroughly enjoyed my class, The teacher was lovely and friendly and we had assistance if we needed it or we could just get on and have fun. Everything that we needed was provided and if you wanted something different it was no problem. i came away with a wreathe that Iwas proud of and still have it up today. I would recommend your courses to anyone wanting to create something different and unique to them.

Lynne Clatworthy • Jan 2022

2 ClassBento workshops attended • 2 reviews

Ali is a very knowledgeable teacher. She has a very pleasant patient disposition. Her enthusiasm was contagious and I came away with lots of ideas to try out. Useful tips were given during the session. A large variety of examples were on display giving further ideas for projects to try. The venue was fine, with materials needed for projects easily accessible. Worth the cost. I would recommend this workshop to anyone whatever level they are at.

Linda McCulloch • Jan 2022

Had a lovely hour learning really useful tips on my new cricut machine. Teacher (sorry terrible with remembering names!) was fantastic, she was very patient and was very good at making sure I understood before moving on. I would recommend to anyone.

Jean Milford • Jan 2022

Friendly and so patient. Really glad I went. Thank you. I’m looking forward to using my machine now.

Christelle Petiot • Jan 2022

4 ClassBento workshops attended • 3 reviews

The workshop was great. Nicki, our teacher, showed us 3 different pouring techniques, achieving 3 items with different effects and patterns. The kit provided had everything we needed for the workshop, and more! Lots of different paint colours, including silver and gold, canvases, and other accessories. Nicki was very friendly and helpful, giving us lots of confidence to try the different techniques. I would highly recommend that course for anyone who wants to get that art a go

Fjorela Sela • Dec 2021

4 ClassBento workshops attended • 4 reviews

Great value for money. The lady is really lovely and very good with kids. This is our second workshop and they are so worth it. My daughter is obsessed with crafts so this is perfect to keep her busy and not having to do the cleaning after :)

Fjorela Sela • Dec 2021

4 ClassBento workshops attended • 4 reviews

O wow. So amazing. Such a great value. The lady that helped us was really pationate and helpful. Looking so much forward to the next visit. We also got to take home a huge box full of crafts, paint, cards, pens and so much more

Charlotte • Dec 2021

The lady we had the workshop with was really lovely. She talked through the steps with us and showed us some examples. She was very knowledgeable and clearly enjoyed the subject

Cheryl Chamberlain • Dec 2021

Fluid Art workshop was great and so was the tutor. A little more space to work would have been useful but was adequate

Sarah Edwards • Dec 2021

Excellent little taster class. Just the right length of time to get the basics down, great instructor and good value for money with the kit you get to take home.

Valerie Vardy • Dec 2021

4 ClassBento workshops attended • 3 reviews

Excellent class with very friendly and helpful member of staff. Learned new techniques with glue gun etc and wonderful box of supplies ready and waiting for me!
Definitely recommend.

Firasat Shukla • Nov 2021

I had an excellent - Sew Simple: One-to-one Sewing Workshop. Feel so confident to use a sewing machine now. Thanks a ton Hobby Craft for these workshops.

Michelle Bailey • Nov 2021

Charlotte was friendly, great teacher. Didn’t rush and clearly explained instructions. Good demonstration of techniques.

Christelle Petiot • Nov 2021

4 ClassBento workshops attended • 3 reviews

The workshop was great. Ashley (our teacher) was super nice , and there were lots of other materials provided on top of our wreath kit, so plenty to choose from.
The group was small (2 attendees + the teacher), and felt safe and friendly.
I thought it was good value for money, and highly recommend this workshop.

Gemma Newton • Nov 2021

Really fun class with a great box of goodies to play with. Lovely instructor too

Becki Killingsworth • Nov 2021

2 Lovely, knowledgeable teachers. Items included are really good the brushpens are great quality, I was worried they might bleed into normal a4 paper was pleasantly surprised that they didn't even go through.
Having more lettering sheets available to download from hobbycroft website is brilliant as not enough space to practise the lettering.

Kayleigh Williams • Nov 2021

Was a little daunting when I realised I was only 1 of 2. However, the staff were lovely and the company was great. Really enjoyed the setting and the box was lovely to open. The contents were great value for money but I did use a discount code for the course. Would book on to another course.

Zuzana Golisova • Nov 2021

It was a little bit cold in the shop and as we were writing, my hands took a while to warm up and be able to use the pens. Also, one hour is not enough. 90 minutes up to 2 hours would better. It would give us time to look at different things rather than rush. But overall, really enjoyed it. Our young instructor was very professional and helpful. Thank you

Keira Dixon • Nov 2021

Great course, lovely teacher and the training sheets provided were great to practice different sized buttons. Extremely good value for money.

Lorraine Rickard • Nov 2021

Our workshop leader was great & good quality materials were provided. Will look at other workshops for the future.

Lian Hopkins • Oct 2021

I took my two girls. The staff member was extremely kind and patient. Engaged with the kids the whole time. My kids loved it and can't wait to do it again. It was good value for money.

Sandra Cunningham • Oct 2021

2 ClassBento workshops attended • 2 reviews

Great friendly tutor, helped to clear up a few issues I was having. Would recommend.

Barbara Leatham • Oct 2021

This was my first ever workshop with HobbyCraft and it was excellent. Nikki was the lady who ran it and it was quite obvious that she as passionate about the workshop, helping us with lots of great ideas and suggestions.
It was super friendly, and I'm really pleased with the final piece I designed.
I'm already thinking about a future workshop that I can do with my daughter

Tracy Tiltman • Oct 2021

Teacher was great and I have never used a glue gun before so, and enjoyed that. Really pleased with my wreath

Shabana Garnish • Oct 2021

Really enjoyed the workshop. The teacher was great and gave lots of ideas which was very helpful. It was nice it was a small group too as it felt like a relaxing atmosphere to do a craft. Thank you.

Sharon Lupton • Oct 2021

I was daunted but Charlotte was brilliant, very patient, clear instructions and encouraging. I feel set up to practice now. Thank you!

Mrs Kozlowski • Sep 2021

Ali was very helpful and went through the use of my sewing machine for quilting perfectly. She then went on to discuss quilting with me and gave me some good tips. It has left me with lots of confidence to try quilting.

Mary Donnelly • Sep 2021

Absolutely excellent experience. One to one class on cricut vinyl. Left know how, much more confident and with a new project made. I was really encouraged and would highly recommend. Thank you

Angela Gregory • Sep 2021

Brilliant class, both children really enjoyed it and the teacher was lovely. Will book again although I feel the recommended age is quite high and my 6 year old was desperate to have a go

Polly Fraser • Aug 2021

I had a fantastic time, Joana who helped me make it was really helpful and kind she showed me how to make my very own dream catcher! The kit I got from her has a different variety of things so I can make more if I like

Emily Potter • Aug 2021

Very patient and kind staff member walked our daughter through creating a dream catcher. A great experience in crafting and opening the concept of dreams as something that happen to everyone. A lovely experience recommended.

Lee Muir-Stokes • Aug 2021

2 ClassBento workshops attended • 2 reviews

Unbelievable value. Superb teaching. Kids loved it and have a new skill. Blown away by these courses

Lee Muir-Stokes • Aug 2021

2 ClassBento workshops attended • 2 reviews

Brilliant class , well lead with some great ideas for continuing the craft. Perfect. Very happy, great value

Natalie Davis • Aug 2021

2 ClassBento workshops attended

My daughter was lucky enough to be the only one booked on to the course, the teacher was lovely and chatted with us throughout giving my daughter great ideas and tips. Excellent value for money, I wasn't expecting to come away with so many materials, my daughter absolutely loved it and I'll be looking to book another very soon.

Natalie Port • Aug 2021

Nikki was very friendly and welcoming from the outset. We were lucky enough to be the only ones at the workshop so we were able to have her undivided attention. She talked to and asked questions to my daughter offering suggestions on how she could colour the canvas. We also had many conversations about our shared love of crafting.

The items were beautifully presented as if they were a gift and included a photo box, a canvas to colour in, paint brushes, little pots of acrylic paint, a well pallete and a mixed media paper pad. The value of these items exceded the cost of the workshop and my daughter was delighted she got to take them home with her.

During the workshop my daughter decided that she would colour in the canvas using the felt tips provided by the store. She was very happy to be chatting as she coloured in.

In one of her conversations she mentioned to Nikki that she read Rainbow Magic books and Nikki drew her an illustration of a fairy for her to take home and colour.

I would thoroughly recommend attending a workshop at the Newbury store as everyone was really friendly and it was a perfect way to spend an hour with my daughter doing an activity she loves. Will definitely be attending more.

Hobbycraft Newbury

location_on Newbury, Reading

Reviews

Newbury, Reading