Hammerspace
Hammerspace Community Workshop
Hammerspace is a self-proclaimed “gym for people who build stuff” located in the southeast part of Kansas City, MO. Their wide variety of hands-on classes will let you get your hands dirty in a safe and structured environment. Offering courses in crafts from blacksmithing to silver jewelry making and 3D printing, curious crafters can find options for almost any interest. It’s a great way to try new skills without having to invest in the machinery and equipment yourself, and typically all supplies are included in the cost of the class. You can find the full class schedule on Meet Up, along with all the details of what to wear and bring. They also offer membership options that allow you access to their stocked workshop spaces, perfect for someone who wants to create but doesn’t have the space for a full workshop at home!
Public Glassworks
Public Glassworks is a hidden treasure where complete novices and experienced glass artists alike can hone their skills. Owner Sara LaGrand and her husband (a marble maker) bring in internationally known glass artists to teach specialty workshops like folk art beads and sculptural faces for those who want to continue expanding their torchwork skills. Beginners can start with private or group bead or marble making classes to learn the basics. The full class schedule and online registration can be found on their website.
With several locations in the KC metro area, AR Workshop is the perfect option for groups who want to create together but have a variety of projects from which to choose. At this studio, there is a full schedule of almost daily classes in different mediums: chunky knit blankets, wooden signs, chalkboard displays and more. Multiple “pick your own project” sessions are open each week where you can select from the large list available. For those looking for options outside the group classes, they offer DIY to-go kits with all the materials needed and video instruction. If you want a more customized experience, they also book private group classes!
KC Maker Studio & Fabrics
For those looking to expand their sewing skills, KC Maker Studio hosts structured classes and open sew days at their studio in Mission, KS. If you’re looking for a comprehensive introduction to the craft, they offer adult learn-to-sew or learn-to-quilt classes that last for six weeks. They also host a Kids Club where kids ages 9-15 can complete three to five projects in a six-week span by working at their own pace with instructor guidance. If you’re looking to try a project on a shorter time frame, they offer one-time classes in subjects like t-shirt quilting, tote bags and pillows.
Hawaii Fluid Art
At Hawaii Fluid Art, located in Zona Rosa, you can create one-of-a-kind art for your home in just one session. Using canvas and paint pouring techniques, the instructors at Hawaii Fluid Art will guide you through the process of making your own piece that you can customize with your own color palette. All you have to do is select the canvas size you want to make and they handle the rest—from materials to cleanup! Real time booking with instant confirmation is available on their website, and wide availability makes it easy to get a group together for girls night or a birthday party, plan a date night or even book private classes.
For a hands-on culinary journey, Taste Buds Kitchen in Leawood, KS, hosts classes for both kids and adults. You can learn about any type of cuisine imaginable from Thai, to made-from-scratch noodles, to Sushi (and a lot in between). There are multiple classes each week focusing on different cuisines, so you can come back again and again to explore! For younger chefs, they offer age-appropriate classes, as well as cooking camps scheduled during school holidays and breaks. Many of the classes fill up quickly, and you can browse the schedule and book from their website.
For a completely custom experience from start to finish, make a reservation to pour your own candle at Embers Candle Bar in Lee’s Summit, MO. You’ll start by choosing a container for your candle (they also offer diffusers and room spray options). Next, you’ll test out scents from their list of 63 different options and design your own custom scent. If you’re looking for a certain scent profile (like fall harvest or clean linen), they can help you design just the right blend. After you pour your candle, it needs 60-150 minutes to set up, so you can either explore downtown Lee’s Summit and pick it up the same day or return another day.
Andrea Plunkett is a local writer and business owner with a passion for adventure.