Arts & crafts classes for groups and team building in NYC

Learn to create magic with clay on a potter’s wheel in this NYC group workshop. After you watch a short demonstration of how to make a cup or bowl shape on the pottery wheel, you'll be guided along as you try it yourself. Don’t worry, clay is forgiving; you'll be able to try and try again until you get a piece that you love. You’ll be able to have one piece fired per person and pick it up one week later. You don’t need any prior pottery experience for this beginner-friendly class. Whether you're looking for date night ideas, team building activities, or just something fun to try this weekend, this pottery wheel class is a great option.

Join the Ceramic Club for a beginner-friendly workshop where you’ll learn to build something special from clay. This class uses beginner-friendly hand-building techniques, like coiling, slab building, and the pinch pot method. You can shape and decorate your piece with drawing and sculpting tools, and then paint it for the finishing touch. You’ll be working with stoneware clay and food-safe glazes, so your finished piece will be entirely functional and food-safe. Once you’ve finished your masterpiece, it will be glazed & fired off-site and returned to you in two to three weeks. All materials will be delivered to your location.

You can also form clay into vessel shapes using hand-building techniques. In this class, you’ll create designs on a colorful slab of clay and then form it into a one-of-a-kind cup. Your piece will be fired for you and ready to be picked up one week after class. Anyone can create a beautiful work of functional ceramic art with this method. This is a fun event for your next team building event, holiday gathering, or friend party, and a fun way to learn something new in a low-stress environment.

If you are interested in providing your team with a more laid back, casual sculpting event, consider signing up for a sip and sculpt event. These events are built off of the same logic as a paint and sip event: everyone can have fun socializing in a low-stakes art event while enjoying a glass or three of their favorite adult libation. Like paint and sip, the focus here is more on the sip than the sculpt, but everyone will still have a chance to make their own personalized hand sculpture using simple hand clay sculpting techniques. Even if your team members have no experience with sculpting or working with clay they can still enjoy a fun evening by hanging out with their team members, enjoying some drinks and learning the basics of a new artistic skill.

Japanese neriage is a beautiful clay technique that results in swirled, different-colored patterns in your finished pottery. After you watch a short demonstration of how to make a cup or bowl shape on the pottery wheel, you’ll have a chance to try it yourself. The result will be a stunning combination of marbled streaks that are unpredictable. Whether you're looking for date night ideas, team building activities, or just something fun to try this weekend in NYC, this beginner-friendly class is a great option.

Learn a unique watercolor technique where you build up layers of paint and allow the medium to flow. Using this “wet-on-wet” technique, you’ll create a stunning and unique abstract watercolor painting in this virtual class. You can use the techniques you learn for a variety of painting styles, and it will be a useful foundational skill for further watercolor painting. Select the image you’d like to paint from a catalog of images or submit your own photograph or artwork. This class includes all the materials you’ll need shipped to your location, including 18+ watercolor paint colors, premium grade watercolor paper, and watercolor paint brushes in varying sizes.

You are probably familiar with Georgia O’Keefe, who is one of the most well-known and impactful Modernist artists of the twentieth century. In this virtual class, you’ll unlock her special techniques for capturing natural scenes and creating your own stunning work of art. By learning about the artist, her life, and her inspirations for her work, you’ll better appreciate her work and capture her magic in your watercolor painting. You’ll receive all needed materials at your location, including 18+ watercolor paint colors, premium grade watercolor paper, and two or more watercolor paint brushes in varying sizes.

This hands-on painting experience takes you through not just one but three different painting experiences. You’ll have 2.5 hours to create art by shooting and spinning paint, try your hand at fluid art with poured mediums, and indulge in the Art Room experience. All the supplies you need are provided, including premium clothes protection so the only paint you take home with you is on your canvas.

Sumi-e, also called Suibokuga, is a traditional style of painting that has been practiced in East Asia for well over a thousand years. It uses the fewest possible strokes of ink wash to capture the spirit or essence of a scene rather than depicting its outward appearance. Because this technique is so elegantly simple, the painter’s character shines through. Sumi-e is a contemplative practice and is enjoyed by artists around the world. While mastering Sumi-e can take many years, in this class you’ll start with the basics, like how to hold the brush and how to make brush strokes on paper, and you’ll complete a painting that you’ll be proud of. You’ll receive all the materials you’ll need, such as ink, brushes, and calligraphy paper, ahead of time.

Discover this centuries-old method of flower arrangement that is one of the most traditional art forms of Japan. Ikebana represents the “Appreciation of Nature” way to arrange flowers. In this floral design course, you’ll learn the Ohara style of Ikebana, which is one of the most established Ikebana institutions in the world. The basic Ohara Ikebana techniques show you how to associate nature with your everyday life. When you complete this course, you have the chance to receive an international certification at an additional cost. If you want to learn more about Ikebana, you can pursue the Ohara curriculum and class card system where you can receive certifications from the headquarters in Tokyo.

Add a touch of style and serenity to your office or home with a modern wall terrarium you made yourself. In this nature workshop, a professional instructor will guide your group through creating beautiful wall art with faux succulents, rocks, and moss. If you have a green thumb, you can add real soil and live succulents to your planter. This simple, elegant terrarium adds the perfect pop of greenery to any space, whether you hang it on the wall or set it on a shelf. All materials are shipped to your location, making it an easy, hassle-free activity.

Terrariums and indoor plants are enjoying a surge in popularity, and they add a touch of beauty and nature to any space. In this group class, you’ll learn to build a beautiful terrarium using the principles of feng shui. This miniature habitat is perfect to display on a shelf or table, or even make into a creative hanging display. This group workshop is a fun and peaceful way for your team to connect and add some greenery to their spaces. Feng shui is a Chinese practice of arrangement that creates balance and harmony with nature and brings good luck, prosperity, and health. Your instructor will guide you through creating feng shui by arranging succulents, moss, rocks, and soil into a personal miniature oasis. All materials are shipped to your location, including terrarium materials and two glasses of wine for each participant to sip as they create their miniature plant world.

Discover the ancient art of bonsai with a private group event in NYC, led by a resident Bonsai Master. This unique experience connects participants to nature and fosters personal growth through the intricate practice of miniature tree cultivation. Attendees will learn the artistic, philosophical, horticultural, and technical aspects of bonsai, including how to design, plant, and maintain their own sub-tropical bonsai trees, perfect for indoor apartment living. The event includes hands-on activities such as pruning, shaping, and repotting, all under Julian's expert guidance. Bonsai tools are provided for use during the class, ensuring a comprehensive and immersive experience. This bonsai workshop is an excellent opportunity for groups to bond over a shared interest in nature and creativity. It promises not only a beautiful keepsake but also a deeper connection to the art form and oneself.

Container candles are all the rage for decor or aromatherapy, and in this hands-on group experience, you’ll craft your own personalized candle that you can take home at the end of the class. Your instructor is an expert in aromatherapy and scent therapy and will help you select fragrance, color, botanicals, and additives for your candle. In this super simple process, all you have to do is pour melted wax and add-ins into a tin container. You’ll create a beautiful, customized candle on your first try. Take your candle home with a lid and an eco-friendly bag, perfect for transport or gift-giving. Plan your class in the Upper West Side Studio, or bring this experience onsite to your venue or office.

In this Brooklyn art experience, you’ll bring ordinary candles to life with vibrant colors and personal vibes. This candle painting experience is the perfect chill hangout with your friends or your team; it’s a laid-back evening of creative fun where you’ll simply paint, chat, and sip. Then, take home your awesome, uniquely you candles. This class includes three tapestry candles for you to paint.

You can create your own perfume that perfectly captures your personality and style. In this perfume blending workshop, you’ll explore natural fragrances and create your own unique scent blend. You’ll learn about the different scent families, the art of composing fragrances, and how to balance and layer different aromas to create a harmonious and long-lasting scent. You can experiment with ingredients, explore notes and accords, and customize the intensity, complexity, and overall character of your perfume. You’ll go home with bespoke perfume in a beautiful bottle and a fascinating journey into the art of perfumery.

Here’s your chance to create luscious natural scents for your home from all-natural ingredients. In this delightful-smelling workshop, your group will learn how to create beautiful, customized reed diffusers and room sprays. Your instructor is an expert fragrance formulator with 25 years of experience, and they’ll show you how to blend your own natural scents that perfectly complement your tastes. The workshop covers creating blends, fragrance testing, and more, and you’ll leave with both a reed diffuser and a room mist to enjoy at home. All materials are included, so you just show up ready to create a personalized fragrance.

Pouring resin is an acrylic medium used for creating beautiful art on canvas or wood. It dries to a high gloss finish that accentuates the rich colors and swirled designs you create. Each stunning piece is unique and beautiful and will be a memorable keepsake of your group event. In this workshop, you’ll learn how to mix, pour, and manipulate resin using pigments and floral materials to create an elegant tray that you’ll enjoy using and displaying. This is a relaxed space where participants can let go of worries and just focus on the joy of creating beautiful art.

Everyone in your group is sure to have a smartphone with a camera, and in this class, you’ll learn how to use the camera that you always have with you in your pocket to capture beautiful and memorable photos. You’ll unlock the secrets to vivid storytelling and learn the secrets to better iPhone photography, from mastering composition and lighting to delving into advanced features and editing tools. You’re sure to learn practical skills that will instantly enhance your photography. This is a fun, casual way to spend time with your group and share a skill that anyone can enjoy.

Sewing enthusiasts from beginners to advanced will love making these simple, stylish pillows. You’ll learn essential sewing skills like adding zippers and fringe, and you’ll get to create a custom design that enhances your room. The workshop takes place in a warm and inspiring studio that is filled with beautiful colors and materials. It’s not only a chance to grow your sewing skills; you’ll get to express your creativity and personal style in your pillow design. Sewing together makes a great team building or group activity as it provides a chance to support each other, collaborate, and reflect on your creative journey.

If your group likes to get your hands dirty and work with rugged materials, you’ll love trying your hand at stone carving. In this class, you’ll experience the tactile satisfaction of chiseling away at raw stone to uncover the hidden form within it. The process of carving in stone is mesmerizing, and it helps you release the stress and worries of your day. You’ll be able to connect with your team in new ways as you discover this ancient craft together.

You’ll quickly get up and running with a sewing machine thanks to your expert host in this private team building event. This is a supportive atmosphere no matter how much sewing experience you come in with. This fun class is designed to foster teamwork and creativity through hands-on projects, and it’s a great break from the office or your usual daily routine. You’ll learn about essential sewing equipment, master the necessary sewing terminology, and learn how to use over six different types of stitches and seam finishes using a sewing machine. Then, you’ll put your new skills to use to create a perfect tote bag that you’ll enjoy using every day.

Making wooden casks is truly an art form. It has stood the test of time for thousands of years while casks were produced to store and transport food, tobacco, and liquids, but it’s now becoming an almost lost art. The casks that hold alcohol help to shape the final taste, depending on the wood that’s used and the liquors that were previously held in the barrel. In this unique class, you’ll get to try your hand at crafting a barrel to age your own whiskey and craft cocktails. All the materials are provided and an expert host will guide you through each step of the process. This will truly be a group event to remember.

Custom-crafted glycerin soap bars made with natural botanical ingredients make special gifts or a delightful treat for your skin. In this hands-on workshop, you’ll work as a team to mix up a batch of cold-process soap. Then, you can personalize your bars with plants and other organic, natural ingredients, along with fragrance, color, and additives. You’ll pour your mix into soap molds to create your handmade bars, and pop lids onto the back of the molds for easy transport home.

If you love luscious body butters and creams from your favorite body shop, you can learn to make them yourself with simple organic ingredients. This fun, hands-on workshop will show you how to formulate incredibly rich body creams, lotions, and emulsified body butters for unbelievably soft skin. This is a fun and easy activity to enjoy with your group, and you’ll get to customize your own creams and take home two luscious body creams to enjoy every day.

The practice of making art will relax your mind and help you destress from your week. You’ll learn how to use your art-making to gain inner peace in this unique virtual event. You’ll begin with a simple breathing meditation while sitting in the comfort of your chair. Then, allow your creative spirit to blossom in a coloring workshop that’s designed for peaceful enjoyment and community spirit. You can choose your color palette and a mandala page from the provided kit and share a meditative coloring experience with your group. The class includes all materials shipped to your office or location, including a coloring book and a set of gel pens.

Take a walk through the renowned Graff Tours Mural Project in the Bushwick Brooklyn Neighborhood, where more than 25 multicolored murals transform a swath of warehouse buildings into a vast outdoor art gallery. Your group will learn the stories behind the walls and the process of how they are created while you help support the local artist community. The murals include some of the best street art in the world from the likes of Don Rimx, MenaceResa, and Jason Naylor. After the tour, you’ll go into the art studio for a hands-on graffiti workshop with an experienced artist. You’ll learn tips and techniques of aerosol art from fill-ins to masterpieces, and you’ll create your own piece of graffiti art. You don’t need any prior experience to create a unique personal artwork and learn about this still misunderstood craft. Paint, canvas, and gloves are provided.

Chelsea is at the heart of the art world and is known for its diverse and extraordinary contemporary art exhibits. This exclusive private gallery tour visits the most exceptional exhibits in Chelsea, including painting, sculpture, electronic media, and photography by artists of great diversity. Your knowledgeable guide will lead your group through the cradle of modern artistic expression. Tours take place no matter the weather, as the art is all indoors.

Why should you book a group arts and crafts event? 

Engaging in arts and crafts has been proven to offer many benefits for teams and individuals. It’s a great way to reduce stress and anxiety because it helps you focus on a soothing project in the here and now. It also provides a creative outlet and allows you to express yourself in a unique way. Arts and crafts improve fine motor skills like dexterity and hand-eye coordination, and the planning and troubleshooting you’ll do builds your problem-solving abilities. It even helps to keep your brain healthy and improves your mood.

Making arts and crafts gives you a sense of accomplishment when you can look proudly at the evidence of your hard work and use or display it every day. Whether you created a beautiful painting, a new favorite mug, or a nature-infused terrarium, you’ll have tangible evidence of your efforts and the experience you shared with your colleagues and friends. You’ll form stronger bonds with your group as you work together to learn new skills, and you’ll have a chance to forge new communication and problem-solving skills together. 

In today’s technology-intensive environment, arts and crafts provide a welcome relief from the digital world. They can be equally enjoyed by people of all ages and abilities, so they provide an inclusive environment for your group. Not least of all, you’ll build memories of the time you spent creating something beautiful or useful together. 

Whether you’re planning a birthday celebration, a family reunion, or a corporate team building endeavor, a group art class promises an unforgettable experience. Consider adding a splash of artistic flair to your bridal or bachelor party, or simply indulge in a fun gathering with friends. Group art and craft classes are a hands-on experience that gets everyone involved. Come to your group art event prepared to create your own work of art, and don’t forget to continue your artistic endeavors at home.

Why is arts and crafts a good group activity?

Making art or completing a craft project together encourages people to let their guard down and share. It shifts the expected dynamics for who is the expert or the leader -- everyone may be on equal footing to learn a new skill, or the newbie at the office may already be a real whiz at watercolor painting. Regardless of how much experience you have with art, getting your creativity flowing helps you relax and connect with others. It’s also an opportunity to share your personal background and your unique style. 

Arts and crafts classes offer ways to bring your group's unique background or preferences into the project. In a painting class, you may be able to select the image that you’d like to paint together, and then compare your work to see how unique everyone’s take is on the same idea. A scene may bring up memories for group members, whether it’s the forest where you love to camp or the pastoral farm where you visited your grandparents. These personal connections help your group get to know each other and relate in fresh ways. 

Creative pursuits offer a bountiful payoff for both individuals and groups. They lead to greater personal growth and satisfaction, and they nurture innovation, bold decisions, and out-of-the-box thinking. They help you approach problems in more flexible and intuitive ways, which leads to greater productivity and stronger personal relationships. 

How to choose the right class

Each group is unique, and you want to find the perfect art or craft class for your participants. Here are a few things to look for so you’ll enjoy a winning experience and delight in your newly crafty skills.

Consider how many people will be attending. Some art and craft classes are better suited for smaller, more intimate groups, while others can accommodate a crowd. Classes are offered both in the studio and on location at your office or venue of choice. Decide whether you can access a remote location, or if you’d like to have the class brought to you.

Some classes require teamwork and collaboration in the studio, while others focus on developing individual skills and techniques. Choose a class format that meets your goals for the event. If you are aiming for a team building experience or a fun group gathering, you may prefer a more collaborative event. If you are seeking personal enrichment or skill building, allowing each member to work at their level might be a better fit.

Choose an art or craft that will be appealing to your group members and a good fit for their abilities. While many painting classes focus on precise brushwork and careful palette mixing, others offer the wild abandon of experimental art. Some classes focus on photorealistic paintings, while others take a more interpretive or abstract approach to art. If you don’t mind getting your hands dirty, a wheel-throwing pottery class provides big challenges and even bigger rewards. You can create home decor like terrariums and candles, or create lush, all-natural skin care products that rival salon products. Choose an art style and technique that appeals to your group and that they’ll have fun displaying in their home or office, or enjoy using it every day.

If you plan to BYOB, choose a variety of beverages that everyone can enjoy-- whether a glass of wine or a non-alcoholic drink. If food will be provided, consider dietary preferences, like gluten-free, kosher, or vegetarian.

Choose a class location

When you’re choosing a class, think about the location and layout of the venue. Look for a spot that’s easy to get to, with plenty of parking or public transportation options, and make sure it's accessible for everyone in your group. Some classes can even come to you anywhere in NYC, whether it's your office or a venue you choose.

Check whether the class is held in a private space so your group can focus and work together without distractions. If you’re planning a team building or corporate event, consider if you can also host activities like team awards or recognition ceremonies. You’ll want to know whether you’ll have privacy in the space and if you can book extra time for your event.

Planning for your class 

Once you've chosen your group art or craft class, it's time to nail down the logistics. Planning and preparation will help your class come off without a hitch. How much preparation will your group art or craft class require? Do you need to arrange for supplies or special clothing, or do you need to prepare a space where you can hold the class? You may need to come dressed to make art, with clothes that you don’t mind getting a little messy. Many classes provide everything you need so all you need to do is show up. 

Allow enough time for class planning, and decide who is the point person. Depending on the kind of project you are working on, you may need to acquire some materials or prepare a workspace. Plan to coordinate with the instructor or venue before the class so you’re aware of any last-minute preparations or changes, and let your group members know what they need to do to be ready for the class.

Some venues have minimum or maximum class sizes, so make sure your provider has enough space for your group. If your group is too large for the class, ask whether you can schedule extra instructors or workstations to make room for everyone, or whether they offer alternate activities that would be a better fit. If you need to incorporate extra activities with your group class, like a company speech, awards ceremony, or social hour, check whether there will be time for these extras. You may be able to add extra time or meeting space to your class reservation. 

Know what the price for your class includes, and consider whether it’s a good value, both compared to other classes and for meeting your unique needs. Many art and craft classes include all fees upfront, but others may have additional taxes or gratuities. Clarifying the price structure prevents surprises on the day of the class. Look for experienced instructors who are accustomed to teaching your skill level and group size, and take a look at the projects you’ll be making to see whether they are appealing and use quality materials. Consider the overall value for the money-- while some classes may be more expensive upfront, they may offer a higher-quality experience with more hands-on instruction and better art materials. 

Ask whether you’re allowed to bring your own beverages to the class, or if beverages are included in your class. Some venues may have restrictions on outside food and drink, while others may allow participants to bring their own alcohol or non-alcoholic beverages. If you are bringing your own beverages, plan for what you’ll bring and who’s responsible for getting it there.

Who are group art and craft classes best for?

Many people love the mental escape of focusing carefully on an art or craft project, making these classes a great choice for a variety of groups and occasions. They're a fun outing for friends who want to share a creative experience, family members seeking to create lasting memories together, or colleagues who want to build teamwork and collaboration in a relaxed environment. Group art classes are also a fun way to celebrate special occasions like birthdays or anniversaries. Art and craft classes cater to all skill levels, so they’re suitable for beginners as well as seasoned artists and crafters. 

Art and craft classes can be a great option for group members with disabilities. Many classes take place in accessible locations and can be adapted for people with different abilities. You can plan an event in your own office or choice of venue, or look for studio spaces that offer wheelchair access. For work teams, art classes are great team building activities that promote collaboration, communication, and problem-solving skills. They’ll bring your team together over a shared novel experience and provide an outlet for creativity in the workplace.

Families have great fun bonding over a shared creative experience. It’s a terrific way to get together without anyone having to host or clean up, and you have the fun of making an art or craft project together that will remind you of a special gathering. Every time you view your terrarium, candle, or painting, you’ll remember the fun that you had together. For friends, group art and craft classes are a fun alternative to the usual bars, movies, or restaurants for a group of friends. You don’t have to be an experienced maker to have fun--classes are designed for every skill level. Many classes allow BYOB so you can even share your favorite drink while you relax and make art together.

Many art or craft studios are intimate spaces that work best for small groups, and everyone needs enough space for their materials and projects. If you have a large group, you could plan a custom art experience, divide into smaller groups for your class, or schedule a class at your workplace or chosen venue. 

There’s no age limit on making arts and crafts. Group classes work for any age, from young adults to seniors. Some art experiences are even open to children as young as three. Plus, you can plan a group art class for any time of year. During the summer you may opt for a class like plein air painting that is fun to practice outdoors, while autumn is the perfect time to cozy up with fragrant candles or soothing natural skin care routines. Since you’ll be indoors for your class, it doesn’t matter whether the weather is sweltering hot or kicking up a snowstorm. Many groups and workplaces plan a special gathering around the holidays, and art or craft classes are a fun alternative. You can create a seasonal terrarium, unique holiday artwork, or giftable items like candles or skin care potions.

If members of your group share an interest in skincare or pottery, taking a class together is a great way to share your passion and create lasting memories. If you are a group of creatives, opt for classes that explore new materials, challenging techniques, or unique styles. However, you don’t have to have a special interest in arts or crafts to enjoy a group class. Everyone has a creative streak, and art is a fun and life-enriching pastime for anyone. 

Compare group art and craft class options

Arts and crafts encompass a broad array of skills, from painting to pottery to candle making or soap crafting. If you can’t decide which class is best for your group, compare some of the features of each type of class. 

Group art classes offer a hands-on opportunity to learn art skills and techniques from an experienced instructor. You’ll create paintings, drawings, or designs that express your thoughts and ideas, and are a unique reflection of your individuality. Group craft classes emphasize functional items that add beauty to your space or enhance your daily routines, like skin care products or fragrant candles. Craft classes may focus on traditional or modern techniques, like ceramics, macrame, sewing, crochet, or wood crafting. In group pottery classes, you’ll craft vessels and decorative objects from clay, using a variety of clays for different effects and decorating the finished project with engraving, glazes, and paints. 

In contrast, paint and sip events explore painting techniques and subjects in a relaxed environment. The focus is on socializing and sipping on your favorite beverage rather than skill development or art methods. Experiential painting classes emphasize the process over the final product; here you might throw, shoot, splatter, or squeegee paint with wild abandon to create an unexpected work of abstract art.

Art and craft classes focus on hands-on projects and new creative skills. If you’d like to enjoy art without getting your hands dirty, you can opt for events like art tours or meditation art experiences that cultivate your art appreciation and provide a relaxing way to enjoy the benefits of art. Each type of class offers its own unique experience, whether you're looking to sharpen your art skills, explore new crafts, or simply enjoy a fun paint-and-sip experience with friends or colleagues.