BOOKING INFORMATION AND COURSE FAQS
Why would I want to attend a course with you?
We’re very, very good at what we do, because we’ve done it every day for the last 15 years! Ongoing classes year-round at Eccles Farm and the vast experience the School of Stitched Textiles have in tutoring distance students mean that there’s very little we don’t know about teaching adults. Add to this the lovely surroundings of our converted barn premises and our two gorgeous studios and onsite shop and it’s a vastly superior experience to trudging to a night school at the local college for a whole term. We understand that you are busy and want to learn easily and quickly, in great surroundings, with friendly experienced tutors, lots of free parking and an upbeat, modern twist to the courses on offer. To find out more about a particular class or course, either email us on marj@squidgystuff.co.uk or phone 07502 162046 during office hours and we’ll be happy to chat it through with you.
What do I need to bring with me?
For the majority of our classes, we provide all materials all you have to do is show up. We do this so you have a hassle free experience without needing to pack up half your house the night before! If you happen to need specialised equipment for any reason, then do bring this along with you. The one exception to this is your sewing machine, which you will need to bring along. If any materials or equipment are needed, the course description makes it clear and we’ll email you a detailed list two months or so before the course date. Timing—plan to arrive around 9.45 am for a 10 am start and finish around 4pm.
How many students in your class?
It varies, depending on the subject and space needed, but usually between 8 and 12. We are only able to take students 16 years and over.
Will you feed and water me?
Ohhh yes! Morning drinks, afternoon drinks (both accompanied by a little something to take the edge off any hunger that may have crept in!) and a sandwich lunch with fruit and yoghurts to follow is usual. We also have outside tables and chairs in the summer if picnics are your style. The odd glass of wine has also been known to make a guest appearance!
Will you do corporate team building events or private classes for a particular subject?
We’re happy to do this for you, but private groups must have a minimum of 8 students, please drop us a line about this and we’ll chat with you further about your requirements.
How do I sign up for a course?
We have a full booking system here online at www.squidgystuff.co.uk, telephone bookings can be taken by phoning 07502 162046 during office hours. In the event of a class becoming fully booked your name will be added to a waiting list. Payment by Credit or Debit Card or by cheque made payable to Eccles Farm Needlecrafts. We reserve the right to cancel the course if bookings are insufficient. Students for whom places were booked will be notified as soon as possible and may transfer to another class if they wish or a refund will be given in full. Please note that to cut down on admin costs, all fees must be paid in full at the time of booking. We reserve the right to any reasonable alterations to the class programme or substitute tutors.
What happens if I'm unable to attend?
Due to the specialized nature of our workshops and the very limited enrolment numbers, classes are non-refundable and we cannot issue credits for future classes. This is because we need to confirm with our tutors a long time ahead to enable them to send for specialist items, prepare samples and notes etc. Please do check your diary carefully before you sign up. Of course, if you’re unable to attend, you may send someone in your place. For those attending a course lasting more than just one day, we would advise you to check that your travel insurance covers you or take out a specialist one-off insurance from as little as £10 for peace of mind. We will send you details of this when you book a course place.
If the course is longer than a day can I find somewhere to stay?
Yes—we have a full list of local hotels and B&B’s which we’ve used for a number of years and which range from basic but clean at around £30 per night to 4 star luxury, so the choice is yours ...........
What is there to do in the area for a short break, or if I bring a family or partner with me?
Lots actually. Southport is 7 miles away and Liverpool and Manchester are both easily accessible by train or car. Rufford Old Hall and Martin Mere wildfowl trust are very close. We have 2 fisheries on the same road and are close to at least 4 golf courses. For longer days out the Lake District is around an hours drive, as is the Peak District.