Top Christmas Gift Experiences to Support Artists and Makers

The holidays are an important time for retail and it’s especially the case for artisans who own small businesses. You can help support the artists and makers with our Christmas gift experiences that open up an exciting world of creative workshops for everyone.

From Christmas craft activities that’ll help you make soy candles and hand-lettered Christmas cards to cooking classes where you can practice the festive meal before the big day, our workshops are a fun way to learn new skills from local creatives.

With so many exciting activities to choose from, it can be tricky to figure out which Christmas classes you want to try. So we’ve done the work for you by putting together a list of top creative Christmas activities that has something for everyone. 

Whether you’re planning a festive family gathering or you need work Xmas party ideas, you’re sure to find something you’ll love. At each and every class, you’ll learn from a talented teacher who’ll help you establish your confidence and try something new. Time to find things to do at Christmas that will have you leaving behind the stresses of the season and embracing relaxing creative experiences.

Learn DIY crafts

There are so many skills you can learn from artists and makers in your community. Does making a colorful tufted rug sound like a fun way to spend an afternoon? Try a tufting class near you and learn from a textile artist who can show you all the steps from beginning to finished project. Sure, there are YouTube videos you can watch, but it's not the same as being in the same room as a maker who can show you in-depth and slow down the instruction so you can absorb the details. If crafts are your jam, you can try woodworking, jewelry making, mosaics, and so much more! 

Make a Christmas wreath

Who doesn't love the sight and scent of a gorgeous Christmas wreath? They add so much festive energy, whether you hang one on your door or inside your home. You can take a wreath making class with a local floral artist and gain the skills you need to DIY wreaths for the holidays. You'll get the supplies you need in class and learn the techniques for filling up a hoop with deliciously fresh smelling branches and flowers. This makes a great workshop for gathering with your girlfriends or to take with your mom and sister. If your partner loves working with nature, you can give this as a gift experience to share.

Stir up the fun with cocktail classes

If you’re looking for experience gifts that’ll get your group of friends together, it’s hard to beat cocktail classes. You'll learn from an expert mixologist, who will walk you through all the techniques you need to master bartending.  Learn how to get the combination of spices just right for a sumptuous mulled wine or add a seasonal splash to old classics like hot buttered rum and cranberry martinis.

Paint and sip your way to a canvas masterpiece

Think you don't have the skills to paint anything, much less cover a canvas with beautiful art? With the guidance of a local artist, you'd be amazed at what you can achieve. Our painting with a twist classes are great for beginners and provide a relaxed setting for anyone to learn. You'll appreciate being able to have a glass of your favorite wine or beer while you learn painting basics. This is a great experience gift for anyone who's always wanted to nurture their inner artist but wasn't sure where to start. Paint and sip workshops also make fun team building activities if you want to show your appreciation for your team at the end of the year.

Throw clay and get messy

It's not easy to learn pottery on your own, so this is the ideal skill to gain with an expert. Get comfortable in front of a pottery wheel or pick up hand building skills with the help of a local ceramics artist. You'll love this tactile workshop and meeting other students excited about picking up this creative hobby. Be sure to wear clothes you can get messy in because clay can get everywhere! You won't mind when you successfully create your first vessel or plate to take home and cherish.

The holidays are a time when we can put our focus back on community and supporting artists in your city is another way to do that. You'll also get to meet people who are curious about art and expanding their skills, which makes our workshops a fun place to learn and an ideal spot to make new friends. Find even more experience gift ideas here!