For some folks, getting crafty or putting a paintbrush to canvas can be a little daunting. They might think they lack artistic talent or maybe painting is just out of their comfort zone. If this sounds like you, help is on the way. There are DIY and open-session paint and sip sessions scattered around Scottsdale that have instructors and artists at the ready to help you fashion a fabulous work of art. Even if you already have mad skills, these instructor-led classes can be a fun way to build on your expertise.
Here’s a quartet of DIY and art classes in Scottsdale to inspire your inner artist.
AR Workshop Scottsdale
If you’re feeling creative, head over to AR Workshop in Scottsdale for a fun afternoon or evening of DIY! Meet at the studio for instructor-led, DIY sessions on everything from crafting and knitting to wood-working projects and more. Most sessions allow you to customize your project with your choice of designer paints and non-toxic stains. AR Workshop is a BYOB, so feel free to bring wine and snacks to enjoy during the workshop!
Carrie Curran Art Studios
This McCormick Ranch art studio, run by mother-and-daughter duo Carrie and Maggie Curran, offers a full complement of creative experiences for children, first-timers and fun-seekers. Classes, all taught by experienced art instructors or professional artists, include Van Gogh Vino, where guests paint step-by-step alongside a local artist, and Paint Your Pet, a session to capture your furry best friend on canvas. Bring your own food and drinks, and the studio will provide the wine glasses for your paint and sip session. Snuggled up to Lake Marguerite, the studio is a scenic setting for bachelorette and birthday parties, corporate events and bridal showers. Carrie also teaches Mimosa & Monet Mornings at The Hermosa Inn, where you can paint amid the resort’s desert gardens while sipping champagne.
The Brush Bar
Unleash your creativity at The Brush Bar in Old Town Scottsdale! Check the studio’s calendar for instructor-led classes featuring landscapes, whimsical motifs and holiday-related themes, as well as open-studio sessions where you can paint and make crafts freestyle without an instructor. The Brush Bar provides everything you need - all you have to do is show up and be ready for a good time. Private, corporate and team-building events are available.
Pinspiration
At Pinspiration you can select a project from dozens of craft options, including art, home décor, gifts, and accessories. Each person in the group can select a different DIY based on their unique preferences, and most projects can be customized to your liking. There's also the Splatter Room, a fun and immersive painting party experience where you can really let your creativity run wild. Best of all, most Pinspiration locations feature a wine and beer bar or offer BYOB.
Marilyn is a freelance writer and longtime Scottsdale resident who has a stack of unread books on her nightstand, sings in the car and prefers sunsets to sunrises. Marilyn’s Faves: Old Town Farmers’ Market, Pilates at Studio Allonge, wine and bruschetta at Postino Highland.