Reviews
Raku Course Reviews
"I attended a 6-day workshop at Garden Stream Pottery with Ursula and Sonja. I booked it as my holiday in the summer of 2025."
"The working spaces are well equipped and generously provisioned. I very much enjoyed working in the shade in the garden on one of the hottest days of the year! The activities were well thought through to allow for creative exploring of different making techniques, along with glazing and firing. Both of the tutors had heaps of knowledge which they shared with us."
"I loved the physical raku firing process and the effects it has on the glaze which are only revealed as you clean them. It really brought the things I had made to life and I took home beautiful objects. I hope to visit again in 2026"
(Julieann 2025)
"The Raku pottery course was a delight. I was a complete beginner but booked the course wanting to expand my range of creative expression. The environment that Ursula and Sonja set up was conducive to learning the techniques but also to exploring, playing and trusting the process. They were able to support each person according to their experience and ability. The raku was done with all necessary intention to safety but without cutting us off from the exhilaration of such an alchemical and elemental experience. I was pleased and satisfied with the results. I also felt I was able to have a holiday immersed in Welsh life, people and landscape."
(Pauline Sayhi who attended the raku course in 2023)
"I had a wonderful week in the beautiful environs of Llanfachreth doing things I never thought I could do. I have never done pottery before, let alone raku! The tuition was excellent. Much to my surprise I made some lovely pots and tiles. Incredibly for a complete beginner not one cracked in the kiln. On top of that , the whole atmosphere was really spiritual. I will certainly do another course."
(Sue Townsend who attended the course in 2023 and 2025)
"Excellent course in a beautiful location in South Snowdonia. Ursula and Sonja are knowledgeable and inspiring tutors, always happy to give tips and individual help whenever needed. I learned so muc in a lovely relaxed atmosphere with wonderful people. I thoroughly recommend Ursula and Sonjas courses."
(Annie Seddon who attended the course in 2024)
"To be able to learn new skills and create beautiful pottery whilst enjoying good company and food Set in Snowdonia National Park. Bliss."
(Clive Shellard who attended the course in 2024)
"What an absolutely wonderful raku/holiday experience in a fantastic location with knowledgeable, helpful and encouraging hosts – the most delicious homecooked food it’s a five star review from me"
(Linda who attended the course in 2024)
"Thankyou again for the wonderful pottery adventures last week. It was great to finally have a go with raku. (Ingrid raku course 2025)
An amazing week, full of variety"
(Raku Course 2025)
"This year I took part in a small group for Raku firing ceramic course at Garden Strem Pottery, Dolgellau. Although the weather was quite mixed for June we still managed to make, glaze and outdoor fire some beautiful pieces, with iridescent and crackled surfaces. The location at Ursulas place is stunning and working in the garden enhanced the experience. The homemade lunches were included, as well as the materials.
It was well worth the money, and I would definitely recommend experiencing tis course for yourself."
(Belinda raku course 2025)
Mandala Ceramic Course Reviews
"The Mandala Course offered a unique blend of creative exploration and practical learning, immersing participants in hands on activities that deepened their understanding of both art and technique. The supportive environment encouraged experimentation, fostering both confidence and camaraderie among the group."
"The field trips were very good and informative."
"The food was excellent"
"The excitement of seeing the final kiln opening with our work displayed was a great experience."
"New skills were achieved and a good experience was enjoyed overall."
(Clive Shellard Mandala Course July 2025)