Classy AF: The Best Workshops for Folks Who Like to Learn Stuff

I'm not sure how many times I've written articles explaining that society's priorities have shifted away from material goods and toward experiences, but suffice it to say I'm sick of typing variations of that phrase. Still, there's a reason it has become a common refrain when writing about the retail sector's struggles. Like it or not, it's true.

Wanna skip buying more stuff you don't need and learn how to make cool sh!t? There are oodles of interesting classes from local makers, artisans, and entrepreneurs that you can give to someone you love. Not sure where to start? Here are five ideas to help you get inspired.

Anything Crafty at Workshop

Another hotspot for DIYers, the pros at workshop will teach you how to sew, dye fabrics, arrange flowers, tool leather, brew your own beer, and more. This Western Division maker space has two studios with classes running almost daily. Prices vary by what you want to learn, but start around $36.

Succulence Gardening

Have you tried pricing out succulent terrariums? That shit is expensive! Why not learn how to make your own at one of the Succulence workshops? Topics include Discover Succulents!, Vertical Gardening DIY, and the Terrarium Class. Sessions start at $68 each.

Jenny Lemons Workshops

If there's something crafty you want to learn, there's a decent chance you can learn it in a  Jenny Lemons workshop. Local crafty person Jennie Lennick just opened a new studio (3043 24th Street) in the Mission where you can take classes in everything from print-making, watercolor painting, and macrame to herbal medicine blending. Group class prices range between $60 and $125. Want to schedule a private workshop? No problem! 

Denim sewing with Holy Stitch Denim

In addition to designing insanely cool custom denim pieces, Julian Prince Dash also hosts workshops in denim sewing, cutting, and customization. (Check out his Instagram for examples of his super-detailed denim designs.) Classes are $120 each, and run about 3-4 hours.

Paloma Leather-crafting Lessons

Make the bag of your dreams, or smaller leather goods like folios and coasters. Paloma owner and local leather artisan Laureano Faedi offers private leather-working lessons from his eclectic work/shop in Hayes Valley. Faedi will teach you how to select and use the tools you need for your projects, and send you home with a DIY wallet. Lessons last 3-4 hours and cost $150.

FaceWest makeup lessons

For anyone who has amassed a large collection of makeup and needs direction, FaceWest makeup lessons are an excellent excuse to learn something new. FaceWest offers a 90-minute lesson option with step-by-step makeup instruction. Bring in your makeup bag and one of the FaceWest pros will show you how to master multiple makeup tricks with what you have. (You could also leave your bag at home and use the studio's makeup.) Lessons are $150. 

Clay by the Bay Pottery Classes

Whether you’re trying to make your own dishes or summon a sexy lover from the beyond, pottery classes are always a good idea. At Clay by the Bay in Russian Hill, one-time classes start at $95 and six-week workshops start at $325.

Wood Thumb Woodworking Class

You, yes you, could be a woodworker. At SoMa’s Wood Thumb workshop, you can master the basics of woodwork with workshops on how to make a slab cutting board ($68), a wedge table or deco shelf ($84), and more. Harboring dreams of building a log cabin in the mountains? You should probably start small with learning to use a saw.

San Francisco is full of learning opportunities, so these are by no means the only options  for leading a craftier life. Know of a class that we should know about? Ping us here.