With the holidays over and summertime in the distant future, the time is right to dig deep into a cool new hobby. Ever thought of giving DIY a try? Whether you’re wanting to macrame your way to total relaxation or low-key weld your own car parts, there’s a hands-on workshop out there for just about everyone. Check out these ten crafty classes around the U.S. for some serious schooling in all things DIY!
CRAFT – Austin, TX
What to expect: “Like a gym, but for making stuff,” as put by owner Eli Winkelman. Try your hand at embroidery, brush lettering, marcrame, watercolor, and more.
“I reserved half of the studio for a macrame lesson/birthday party and it was so much fun! The studio concept where you come and you can use any of their tools and materials is so cool. We will definitely be back for fun group activities or personal crafting!” – Katherine H
Brooklyn Brainery – Brooklyn, NY
What to expect: Casual classes for curious adults–topics range from screenwriting to food photography to indigo dyeing.
“They have cooking classes, art classes, sewing classes, tye dye classes, lectures – you name it, they have it. I have taken Pickle Making and Charcoal Drawing classes so far. Each time I left the Brainery, I had that great feeling of accomplishing a little something.” – Jennifer S
Manitou Candle Co – Cincinnati, OH
What to expect: Mix and pour your own custom candle in a dreamy mid-century workshop. Make it a date night with BYO snacks and wine!
“What makes it really cool is that if you buy a candle in-store, it is just a single scent (they have 100), but if you make your own, you can combine scents. Also, two candles of this high a quality for $40 is a great deal! The class was really fun and the candles smell so good.” – Elizabeth N
Chicago School of Shoemaking and Leather Arts – Chicago, IL
What to expect: Self-sufficiency at its finest. Learn to make your own leather clutch, belt, or even a high quality pair of boots.
“Took the leatherwork 101 class this past weekend and had a blast. I’m not generally a super crafty person but still had a really good time and ended up with a beautiful new accessory. Naomi was our instructor and she was great at explaining things step-by-step and working with each of us on our different projects at different paces.” – Sadie A
The Craftsman & Apprentice – Denver, CO
What to expect: Workshops for both adults and kiddos, plus a BYOB craft social every Friday night.
“I came here for a knotty good time (macrame class) and thought it was a ton of fun. I have a new-found appreciation for all of the beautiful macrame pieces I see on Instagram and for the macrame plant-holders my parents had from the early 80s.” – Brenda L
Ocelot Print Shop – Detroit, MI
What to expect: Intro- and intermediate-level screen printing classes. Warning: may result in an entirely new t-shirt wardrobe.
“They offer all kinds of screen printing classes and they also have membership opportunities. They are very professional and put out a great product.” – Derek F
Garage Door Studio – Atlanta, GA
What to expect: All things creative for all levels (and ages!). Check out some of their more unique classes, like metal stamping or arm knitting.
“The studio is multi-functional with a boutique selling handmade items from local artisans as well as an art studio for adult workshops, girls night out, birthday parties and even kids camps during the summer and holidays.” – Candice O
Molten Metal Works – Los Angeles, CA
What to expect: Roll up your sleeves–this ain’t your average crafting class. Learn to weld your own furniture, chandelier, or custom motorcycle parts under the supervision of some (very hip) professionals.
“Not only have I achieved more cow bell, I welded it myself! Welding class last night was so much fun. Totally safe yet laid back environment. The other people in the class were cool. Total win all the way around. Thanks to Molten Metal Works for a kick ass time and a little dose of welding humility.”- Chris A
The Goddess of Glass – Minneapolis, MN
What to expect: Looking sharp! Learn the art of stained glass, mosaic pieces, glass fusing, and more.
“Connie, The Goddess if Glass herself, teaches this beginning class of glass fusion fun. She herself is a colorful personality! Knowledgeable, personable, funny, and helpful. She gives you all of the instructions and tools needed and still entertains as she does it. The hardest parts are choosing which kind of glass to make and waiting for your masterpieces to see how they turn out!” – Michele B
DIY Bar – Portland, OR
What to expect: Choose from a “project menu” of crafts listed by level of difficulty. Make your own leather koozie, concrete coasters, or passport holder while sipping a boozy bev.
“I love the projects that they have, and I love that they put everything so nicely in a bag for you. The instructions for each project are clear, but if you do need help then whoever is working is friendly and attentive and will help you out. I have never had so much fun, seriously.” – Jillian C
