5 Craft Classes in Chicago You Need to Try

In adult life, extracurricular activities might seem like a thing of the past, but with craft classes in Chicago, it can be easy, fun, and positive for your mental well-being to take part in creative hobbies! Craft workshops are a great place to find a new hobby, socialize, and find creative stimulation. These qualities will ultimately allow you to recharge and eliminate some stress from your life. 

Not sure where to start? We have a wide selection of hands-on workshops in Chicago that you can explore to find your new passion. Whether you’re looking for a slow-paced textiles class with many paths to dive into or you want to jump on one of the latest satisfying craft trends, such as resin art or tufting, there’s something for everyone. Join solo, with friends for a birthday party idea, or even your colleagues for an interactive team-building day! 

The best part of these craft classes is that they are beginner-friendly workshops with no experience necessary! That means you’ll have a friendly instructor to guide you through every step which will make you feel like a confident creator! We chose five classes you’ll want to learn more about to get started! 

Explore pottery techniques in beginner workshops

Ceramics classes in Chicago make some of the most fun craft workshops in 2024. It seems like everyone is itching to try their hand at pottery. Why? Because it’s fun, creative, and you can even get a little messy. 

We offer pottery classes in every subject: hand building, wheel throwing, ceramic painting, and more! Find the method that fits your needs best! Hand building will allow you to create stunning handmade pottery without needing many tools. This is great for beginners looking for a slow-paced and controlled activity. Jump into wheel throwing and learn how to mold clay on a potter's wheel. This exciting and hands-on class will show you just how fun crafting can be! Looking for something a little more colorful? Join a pottery painting class, where you can spend time decorating pre-made pottery! These painting classes are great for bachelorette parties or team building activities, where you can relax and maybe even sip on a glass of wine. 

Learn tufting in Chicago

Tufting is one of the craft world’s newest crazes! The satisfying process of tufting is proving to be both calming and exciting. Learn how to turn some of your favorite designs, symbols, or logos into handmade rugs! If you’re an artist at heart, you can even bring in your own illustrations to turn into gorgeous tufted creations. 

Your instructor will help you project and trace your design. Then you will learn how to use a tufting gun and away you go! You’ll quickly fall into the zone of creating your rug and enjoy the therapeutic benefits of creating something from start to finish and engaging in a hands-on project. 

Make meaningful connections and items in a leatherworking class

If you’re looking to add a little originality to your crafting journey, try a leatherworking class in Chicago. In one of these workshops, you can learn to create custom leather goods such as wallets or even sneakers! Imagine the pride you’ll feel walking around with your handmade belt, shoes, or accessories. 

This class also makes for great date ideas or gift ideas that create an experience you can share with your friend or loved one. You’ll create handmade and lasting tokens to remember the amazing day spent together. Learning something new alongside a loved one will make the outing that much more special.  

Color your world with handmade resin art

Dive into the magical world of resin! Learn how to make resin jewelry that will elevate your accessories and add a personal touch to your outfit of the day. You can incorporate pressed flowers, glitter, and more into your custom resin jewelry. 

Looking for less of a statement piece to wear? Learn how to add some color to a charcuterie board. In a resin charcuterie board class, you can decorate your snack board with swirls of colors and metallic powders that will wow your guests at your next dinner party. These make for great gift ideas if you find you love the craft!

Practice sustainability in a textiles workshop

If you’re looking for sustainable craft ideas, try knitting and learn to create your own sweaters, blankets, and more! In a knitting class in Chicago, you can learn knitting basics to start your new hobby. First choose a method, finger knitting, chunky knitting, or go traditional! You’ll learn from step one: how to cast on. Then your teacher will take you through easy knitting stitches and techniques so you can make a finished project. Soon you’ll be wrapped up in a hand-knit scarf or blanket and ready to create more knitting projects for your friends and family. 

There are also many other kinds of textile workshops in Chicago, from crocheting to embroidery. These fiber arts have limitless possibilities. You can create customized and wearable art in one of these classes which will make you feel proud and more sustainably minded. If you're curious about finding ways to relax with craft projects for adults, take a look here!