Classes and Events
Mindful Mending
Every Wednesday
Join us every Wednesday for Mindful Mending. Bring whatever you need to mend, your jeans, your cuffs, your soul… We will provide sewing notions, conversation and small hand-sewing projects.
Suggested donation: $5
Street Photography Fundamentals
September 12 - 3:30-5 pm, September 19, 26, & Oct 3 3:30-5:30 pm
Age Group: Adults
Street photography is more than taking pictures in public—it’s about observation, awareness, timing, and telling authentic stories through everyday life. This workshop explores the art, ethics, and practical skills needed to photograph confidently and respectfully in public spaces.
We’ll cover what defines street photography, composition and anticipation, common misconceptions and bad advice, handling confrontations professionally, understanding etiquette and legal considerations, and selecting gear that prioritizes mobility and discretion over size and expense.
The workshop concludes with a guided photo walk, giving participants the opportunity to apply these techniques in a real-world setting while receiving practical feedback and developing confidence behind the camera.
Lars Jameson is a documentary photographer and journalist known for capturing honest, unscripted moments. For more than a decade, he has photographed concerts, city streets, demonstrations, overlooked neighborhoods, and quiet landscapes. His work prioritizes authenticity and storytelling and has appeared in newspapers and Docu Magazine.
Photography Essentials: Building a Strong Foundation
September 13, 20.27, Oct 4- 4:00-5:30pm
Age Group: Adults
Whether you’ve just picked up your first camera or have been shooting for years in Auto mode, this workshop is designed to give you the knowledge and confidence to take control of your photography. We’ll break down the technical fundamentals into clear, practical lessons that make sense, helping you understand not just how your camera works, but why certain techniques produce better images.
Topics include manual exposure using the exposure triangle (aperture, shutter speed, and ISO), composition techniques such as the rule of thirds, leading lines, framing, and visual balance, understanding lenses and focal lengths, autofocus systems, and choosing the right equipment for different styles of photography. We’ll also explore more advanced fundamentals like HDR bracketing for high-contrast scenes, focus stacking for maximum sharpness, long exposures, filters, and how to get the most out of your camera’s capabilities.
Rather than relying on presets or guessing your settings, you’ll learn how to make deliberate creative decisions that fit the scene in front of you. We’ll discuss common mistakes, practical shooting techniques, and simple workflows that can dramatically improve your images regardless of what camera you own.
By the end of the workshop, you’ll have a solid understanding of the core principles of photography, editing, and the confidence to move beyond automatic modes, giving you the technical foundation needed to continue growing as a photographer.
Lars Jameson is a documentary photographer and journalist known for capturing honest, unscripted moments. For more than a decade, he has photographed concerts, city streets, demonstrations, overlooked neighborhoods, and quiet landscapes. His work prioritizes authenticity and storytelling and has appeared in newspapers and Docu Magazine.
Drawing & Creative Arts
Grades 4-6
7-week session: Tuesdays, Sep 15-Oct 27, 3:30-5:30 pm - $300
7-week session: Tuesdays, Nov 3-Dec 15, 3:30-5:30 pm - $300
Each class will include a group drawing lesson for the first hour and will explore creativity with clay, papercraft, collage, reuse projects for the second hour. Teacher: Tina Kennedy
Fiber Arts
Grades 3-6
7-week session: Wednesdays, Sep 16-Oct 28, 3:30-5:30 pm - $250
7-week session: Wednesdays, Nov 4-Dec 16, 3:30-5:30 pm - $250
Explore sewing, embroidery, weaving, needle felting and more in this class. We will do simple projects to learn skills, make seasonal and personal choice items. Teacher: Mary McDonald
Learn to Draw and Create
Grades 2-3
7-week session: Wednesdays, Sep 16-Oct 28, 3:30-5:30 pm - $300
7-week session: Wednesdays, Nov 4-Dec 16, 3:30-5:30 pm - $300
Students will practice to accomplish their drawing goals, learning to draw animals, favorite characters and scenes from nature.Then use a variety of materials to create inventive projects like fairy houses and seasonal decorations. Teacher: Tina Kennedy
Drawing Exploration
Grades 5-8
7-week session: Thursdays, Sep 17-Oct 29, 3:30-5:30 pm - $300
7-week session: Thursdays, Nov 5-Dec 17, 3:30-5:30 pm - $300
We will explore inventive ways to use our drawing for projects with structure; cardboard, board games, comics, graphic novels, all while improving drawing techniques with perspective, detail and introducing pen and ink. Teacher: Tina Kennedy
The Art of Hair
Wednesday, September 30 - 6-7:30 pm
For adults and teens 15+
Learn how to create a variety of hairstyles and design hair as if you are a sculptor. Bring your own favorite hairspray, a pack of bobby pins, and a picture to recreate. There will be a variety of sizes and types of hot tools for a variety of styles, or bring your favorite tool. Tips and tricks will be shown as well as demonstrations.
Instructor: Kristine Macrae
Art That Grows (at Port Vida Cantina)
Thursday, October 1 - 1-3 pm
Grab your friends, enjoy lunch at Port Vida and paint your own ceramic planter! Participants will select a ceramic planter and learn painting, design, and planting techniques. Each participant will leave with a completed decorative ceramic planter and a live plant.
Instructor: Denise DeLongis-Chesky
Location: Port Vida Mexican Cantina, 10 Center St. Newburyport
Paint & Sip Nights
Thursdays: October 1, 15 or November 12 - 6-8 pm
Unleash your creativity with a glass in hand (BYO). No previous painting experience is required. Participants will receive an 11" × 14" canvas, a palette of acrylic paints, and all the brushes needed to complete a finished painting. The project will be broken into easy-to-follow steps, with visual demonstrations showing participants how to build their paintings from beginning to end.
Instructor: Kristine Macrae
Adult and Teen Drawing
8-week class, Thursdays: October 1 - November 19 - 6:30-8:30 pm
Instructor: Tina Kennedy
Love to draw but frustrated with results?
Improve your drawing skills with advice and new techniques from experienced teacher, Tina Kennedy. Start with sketching practice each week and continue with work on a personal choice project.
Class takes place upstairs in the Maker Lounge.
Ribbon-Curl Christmas Tree Carving
Saturday, October 3 - 9 am - 4 pm
Ages: Adults and teens 16+
Learn to carve an elegant ribbon-curl Christmas tree from basswood using traditional hand tools. Participants will shape the tree and carve flowing decorative curls while learning safe carving techniques, grain direction, chisel control, and methods for creating consistent details.
No previous carving experience is required, although patience and attention to detail are encouraged. Each participant will leave with a completed tree, the skills to create additional trees in various sizes, and a deeper understanding of chisel control.
Instructor: Paul Bubert
Halloween Doormat Workshop
October 4 and October 17 - 6-8 pm
Create a personalized Halloween doormat using stencils or a freehand design. Each participant will receive a coir doormat and all the materials needed to complete the project. Kristine will demonstrate painting techniques and provide individual guidance throughout the workshop. Participants will leave with a decorative doormat ready to display at home.
Instructor Bio:
Kristine Macrae is a local artist with extensive experience helping people of all ages develop their creativity. She has taught visual art to students in kindergarten through grade 12 and has led community paint parties and creative workshops for more than 12 years.
Día de los Muertos Ceramic Plate Workshop
Monday, October 5 - 6-8:30 pm
Instructor: Denise DeLongis-Chesky
Participants will learn about Día de los Muertos, a holiday celebrated primarily in Mexico on November 1 and 2. Denise will introduce the history and traditions associated with the celebration before guiding participants through painting and decorating their own ceramic plate. Participants will learn painting and design techniques and leave with a completed decorative plate.
Location: Port Vida Mexican Cantina, 10 Center St. Newburyport
Toy Adaptation Workshop - Come Tinker with Us!
Tinkerhaus is partnering up with the “May We Help” organization to provide a fun and impactful volunteering opportunity! You will learn step -by-step how to adapt toys for children who are not able to play with toys in a traditional way.
Volunteers will take a toy that relies on buttons, cranks, levers or dials and adapt them so they can be activated with just a gentle push.
Learn to Sew for Ages 16+
Thursdays: October 8, 15, 22 & 29 - 6:30-8 pm
Learn your way around a sewing machine while making simple items that teach skills as you produce the piece. Start with a drawstring bag, advance to a zippered pouch, make a small set of napkins and finish with a chef’s apron. Fabric and notions will be provided.
Instructor: Amantha Moore
Early Release Art Program
Friday, October 9 - 11:30 am - 1:15 pm
Grades 4-8
Instructor: Denise DeLongis-Chesky
Día De Los Muertos Ceramic Painting
Students will learn about Día de los Muertos, a holiday celebrated primarily in Mexico on November 1 and 2. Denise will introduce the history and traditions associated with the celebration before guiding participants through painting and decorating their own ceramic plate. Participants will learn painting and design techniques and leave with a completed decorative plate.
Register by October 2
Woodworking 101 - October
2-Day Monthly Beginner Course
Sat Oct 10 and Sat Oct 24 from 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Skill level: Beginner (no previous woodworking experience required)
DAY 1 — Shop Safety, Measuring & Table Saw Fundamentals
Rip a board to width, make multiple pieces to identical dimensions, practice using push sticks, and crosscut practice, noting how to make a sled jig and construct a small hardwood serving tray / shop tray
DAY 2 — Miter Saw, Bandsaw & Joinery
Practice sample joints (Butt Joint, Rabbet or Dado and Miter Joint) and construct a small door
Instructor: Paul Bubert
Intro to Woodworking
SOLD OUT
Learn to use our shop tools safely, be certified to use the shop alone, and begin making a really nice cutting board. You will learn about choosing wood and doing a glue up. You can then learn to use the saws, planer and drill press.
Please note: Attendees under 18 must contact Tinkerhaus to set up specific arrangements.
Wind Blown Willow Tree with Ryan Kelley
Saturday, October 24 - 6:30-8:30 pm
Join award-winning artist Ryan Kelley to create a one-of-a-kind wire willow tree sculpture. Bring an adult closed-fist sized rock that will be the base of your artwork.
Watercoloring Coastal New England
A 4-Week Beginner Watercolor Series
Tuesdays: Oct 27, Nov 3, 10, 17 from 6-8 PM
Capture the beauty and charm of Coastal New England in this relaxed, beginner-friendly watercolor class. Over four weekly sessions, students will explore a variety of beloved regional scenes including peaceful salt marshes, iconic lighthouses, cozy cottages surrounded by hydrangeas, and vibrant fall landscapes.
Through step-by-step instruction, you'll learn essential watercolor techniques such as washes, color mixing, layering, and creating atmosphere and light. Each class will focus on a different subject while building confidence and developing your personal painting style.
Whether you're completely new to watercolor or looking to refresh your skills, this welcoming class offers plenty of guidance, creativity, and inspiration.
All materials provided, $200 per person + $25 materials fee
Toy Adaptation Workshop - Come Tinker with Us!
Tinkerhaus is partnering up with the “May We Help” organization to provide a fun and impactful volunteering opportunity! You will learn step -by-step how to adapt toys for children who are not able to play with toys in a traditional way.
Volunteers will take a toy that relies on buttons, cranks, levers or dials and adapt them so they can be activated with just a gentle push.
3D Design & Print
Grades 4-6
7-week session: Mondays, Nov 2-Dec 14, 6:00-7:30 pm - $250
Understand the basics of how 3D printing works and use beginner CAD tools to create simple designs. Students will leave with multiple printed objects and a starter “maker portfolio” of their designs. Teacher: Amanda Taylor
Early Release Art Program
Tuesday, November 3 - 11:30 am - 1:15 pm
Grades 4-8
Art That Grows
Students will select a ceramic planter and learn painting, design, and planting techniques. Each participant will leave with a completed decorative ceramic planter and a live plant.
Register by October 26
MiniMakers
Grades K-2
7-week session: Tuesdays, Nov 3-Dec 15 3:30-5:00 pm - $250
Use cardboard, clay, fabric, paper, and paint to create everything from dinosaur habitats and doll beds to toys, puppets, mobiles, and more! Kids will strengthen their fine motor skills while flexing their creativity, imagination, and maker skills in this playful, hands-on class. Teacher: Mary McDonald
Woodworking 101 - November
2-Day Monthly Beginner Course
Sat Nov 7 and Sat Nov 14 from 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Skill level: Beginner (no previous woodworking experience required)
DAY 1 — Shop Safety, Measuring & Table Saw Fundamentals
Rip a board to width, make multiple pieces to identical dimensions, practice using push sticks, and crosscut practice, noting how to make a sled jig and construct a small hardwood serving tray / shop tray
DAY 2 — Miter Saw, Bandsaw & Joinery
Practice sample joints (Butt Joint, Rabbet or Dado and Miter Joint) and construct a small door
Instructor: Paul Bubert
Toy Adaptation Workshop - Come Tinker with Us!
Tinkerhaus is partnering up with the “May We Help” organization to provide a fun and impactful volunteering opportunity! You will learn step -by-step how to adapt toys for children who are not able to play with toys in a traditional way.
Volunteers will take a toy that relies on buttons, cranks, levers or dials and adapt them so they can be activated with just a gentle push.
Escape Winter: Create a Wire Palm Tree with Ryan Kelley
Thursday, December 10 - 6:30-8:30 pm
Join award-winning artist Ryan Kelley to create a one-of-a-kind wire palm tree sculpture. Bring an adult closed-fist sized rock that will be the base of your artwork.
Intro to Woodworking
SOLD OUT
Learn to use our shop tools safely, be certified to use the shop alone, and begin making a really nice cutting board. You will learn about choosing wood and doing a glue up. You can then learn to use the saws, planer and drill press.
Please note: Attendees under 18 must contact Tinkerhaus to set up specific arrangements.
3D Printed Electric Guitar
Two-session workshop held on Thursday, August 20 and August 27 - 6:30-8:30 pm
Ages 16+
Build a real, playable electric guitar with a 3D printed body — and take it home when you're done. In this hands-on workshop you'll assemble a complete guitar from The 3D Print Zone's modular kit system: a 3D printed body, solid maple neck, real pickups, and quality hardware. All electronics come pre-soldered, so there's no wiring or soldering — if you can use a screwdriver, you can build this guitar.
This class is designed for beginners, no guitar-building or 3D printing experience needed. We'll cover how the parts are printed, how the modular core-and-body system works, and walk step-by-step through assembly, stringing, and setup — finishing with your guitar plugged into an amp.
See finished builds, sound demos, and what to expect at The 3D Print Zone website at https://the3dprintzone.com/ or on their Instagram page at https://www.instagram.com/the3dprintzone/.
Sterling Silver HEART Ring and Earrings Workshop with La Belle Cove Crafts
Workshops offered on August 10 and August 18 - 6-8 pm
Ages 16+
Create two beautiful sterling silver jewelry pieces in this hands-on workshop! Join Ashleigh and Darci as they guide you through the process of making your own heart hoop earrings and matching heart ring.
Whether you're new to jewelry making or looking to try a new technique, you'll learn the fundamentals of shaping, forming, and finishing sterling silver while creating pieces you'll be proud to wear or gift.
No prior experience is necessary & all materials and tools are provided.
Embroidery Evening - Summer Linen Napkins
Tuesday, August 11 - 6:30-8 pm
Spend an evening with instructor Pam Marrese learning how to hand embroider napkins with classic New England summertime patterns. This set of four linen napkins makes a thoughtful gift or a great addition to your own table this summer. Beginner-friendly! We will learn how to split embroidery floss, thread a needle, use water soluble stabilizer to transfer the design, and a basic stitch or two.
Toy Adaptation Workshop - Come Tinker with Us!
Tinkerhaus is partnering up with the “May We Help” organization to provide a fun and impactful volunteering opportunity! You will learn step -by-step how to adapt toys for children who are not able to play with toys in a traditional way.
Volunteers will take a toy that relies on buttons, cranks, levers or dials and adapt them so they can be activated with just a gentle push.
Turquoise Ring Class
with Mary Fougere of MareMetals
Make + take your own turquoise ring ! No experience needed. The price includes all tools and materials needed for the class. You will have the option of adding silver wire borders or silver ball embellishments for an additional $20 the day of class.
Students will be selecting a genuine turquoise cabochon to make a ring from start to finish in solid sterling silver. This includes making the bezel, sawing, filing, shaping of the ring band, soldering all the pieces, stone setting and polishing.
Please tie your hair back if you have long hair and wear closed toe shoes. Students must be 18+ or teens accompanied by an adult.
Sterling Silver Ring and Earrings Workshop with La Belle Cove Crafts
August 4 - 6-8 pm
Ages 16+
Create two beautiful sterling silver jewelry pieces in this hands-on workshop! Join Ashleigh and Darci as they guide you through the process of making your own staple earrings with beads and an adjustable ring.
Whether you're new to jewelry making or looking to try a new technique, you'll learn the fundamentals of shaping, forming, and finishing sterling silver while creating pieces you'll be proud to wear or gift.
No prior experience is necessary & all materials and tools are provided.
Scrapbooking and Zines
Workshop offered on July 17 and July 24 - 6-8 pm
For teens 14+
Document your summer adventures with a mixed media workshop featuring mini magazine "zine" making and scrapbooking with Calli Taffel. Snacks and scissors!
Stained Glass Basics
Thursdays: July 9, 16 and 23 - 6-9 pm
In this 3-session beginner workshop, you will be guided step-by-step through the process of creating your very own stained glass piece.
You’ll work with vibrant colors and learn the essential techniques of cutting and soldering. Taught by experienced maker, Cheryl Weston.
Please bring safety glasses.
Basic soldering irons and shared solder will be available for use during class. Participants are welcome to bring their own soldering iron and glass cutter if they already have them.
Glass cutters, 60/40 solder, and personal irons will be available for purchase from the instructor.
Intro to Woodworking
Learn to use our shop tools safely, be certified to use the shop alone, and begin making a really nice cutting board. You will learn about choosing wood and doing a glue up. You can then learn to use the saws, planer and drill press.
Please note: Attendees under 18 must contact Tinkerhaus to set up specific arrangements.
Art Exploration Week
July 6-10 - 9 am-2 pm
Age 7+
Clay, Paper Mache, Painting, Printing and Tie Dye! Try one of these each day as well as small personal projects like beading, working with yarn and thread and some silly surprises, too!
Exploring Alcohol Inks
Taught by Alison Odle - Materials included.
3 sessions - Thursdays: June 11, 18, 25 from 6-7:30 pm
Alcohol ink is a beautiful, meditative experience for all levels. This course will start with basic techniques and move on to more advanced styles.
Master the “wispy billows” style of flowing ink and find your own personal look.
In this class we will use a variety of waterproof surfaces from Yupo paper to ceramic tiles of various shapes and sizes.
By the end of the class, you'll have created a beautiful, personalized piece of art, whether it's a colorful ink coaster or a one-of-a-kind wall art piece that you can proudly take home. Throughout the course, you’ll not only gain technical skills but also enjoy a relaxing, creative process, making it a perfect way to unwind while discovering the endless possibilities of alcohol inks.
No prior experience is required, and you’ll leave the class feeling inspired and confident in your ability to create your own unique alcohol ink masterpieces.
Embroidery Evening
Come join Pam Marresse for an evening of embroidery for all levels. We will help beginners get started, have refreshers for returnees and have some new materials for sale.
Intro to Woodworking
Learn to use our shop tools safely, be certified to use the shop alone, and begin making a really nice cutting board. You will learn about choosing wood and doing a glue up. You can then learn to use the saws, planer and drill press.
Please note: Attendees under 18 must contact Tinkerhaus to set up specific arrangements.
Tour and Craft Tuesdays
Join Us on Tuesday Mornings in June!
Come see us for an hour, try a simple craft, have a cup of tea and find out what Tinkerhaus is all about!
Watercolor Botanical Illustration - For Beginners and Intermediate
3-week course - Wednesdays: May 20, 27 and June 3 from 6:30-8:30 pm
$175 per student plus $25 materials fee
Alison Odle’s relaxing hands-on course will have you painting beautiful florals and botanical watercolor images in no time. This workshop is for those who want to learn watercolor or expand their skills.
The class begins with an intro to basic watercolor techniques followed by step-by-step instruction for paintings of flowers and botanicals on watercolor paper. You'll be amazed at what you can do! Past students have been delighted with their finished work and have enjoyed the process.
This course is lead by artist Alison Odle, local artist and instructor in several mediums, whose patient and calm nature and belief that anyone can create beautiful artwork make for a relaxing and fulfilling experience.
Build a Wooden Planter Box
Join John DeNardo for this skill building afternoon. Cut and join pieces to create a raised, trimmed out planter box to beautify your entry.
Several different tools will be involved in this build, so lots of experience gained in one afternoon.
Embroidery Evening with Pam Marrese
An introductory class for folks with no embroidery experience or those that haven’t stitched in a while.
Learn to embroider a mini, four-inch floral spiral. Pam will guide you through 5-6 basic stitches to help you begin the project. Materials will be provided.
Frame Building Class
Create a custom frame
In this hands-on, beginner-friendly workshop, you’ll learn the essential steps of frame making.
Copper Soldering 101
Under the direction of Ryan Kelley of Wire by Ryan, learn to snip, shape and solder copper sheet into a small sculpture, garden ornament or piece of jewelry. So much fun and learning in one evening.
Kentucky Derby–inspired Hat & Fascinator-Making Workshop
Get Derby-ready! Join Tinkerhaus at Port Vida for a Kentucky Derby–inspired hat and fascinator-making workshop. Design your own track-worthy look with our “Run for the Roses” supply bar—feathers, florals, ribbon, tulle, and plenty of flair.
Ticket includes your hat/fascinator base + materials. Want extra sparkle? BYO bling (brooches, gems, mini toys, vintage finds) and go for Best in Show!
3D Printing Exploration for Kids: Design, Build & Create (Ages 10+)
Wednesday, April 22 9-noon
Teacher Matt Guy, Print Process Engineer founder of Niche 3D Inc.
Ever wondered how things are made with a 3D printer? In this hands-on workshop, kids will learn the basics of 3D design and additive manufacturing while creating a small object of their own.
Participants will be introduced to how 3D printers work, how digital designs become real objects, and how these tools are used in fields like engineering, manufacturing, and product design.
Kids will explore beginner-friendly design software and learn how to turn their ideas into simple printable models.
During the session, students will:
Learn how 3D printers work
Explore the basics of 3D design and modeling
Create a simple object to print
Watch a printer in action and understand the printing process
This workshop focuses on creativity, problem-solving, and hands-on making, giving kids a fun introduction to modern fabrication tools used by engineers, designers, and inventors. Class limited to 10.
April Vacation Woodworking Mini Camp
Monday-Tuesday, April 20-21 - 9 am-3 pm
Must be 10+, teens welcome
(Materials included)
In this class students will have the opportunity to look through photo albums of 20 summers of projects to help them decide what they would like to make - a bookcase, Plinko, Skeeball, knockhockey, pirate's chest and more.
Sketches with measurements will help make accurate material lists to ensure we know how much lumber will be needed. Then wood selection, measuring, cutting and sanding followed by double checking to make sure all pieces are ready for assembly.
Finally a discussion of possible finishes (paint, varnish, polyurethane, etc which can be done at home with parental supervision) and photographs so they can be in the next photo album!
Watercolor: Try Before You Buy
April 11 - 11 am - 3 pm
$100 + $15 materials fee
This workshop encourages people who have always wanted to try this amazing medium and those who have some experience. We will cover the basic differences among paints, brushes and papers. You will learn about brushwork, core techniques, and making good color choices.
Don’t worry if you do not have supplies as a variety of professional watercolor paints, paper, brushes and palettes will be on hand. Should you wish to pursue watercolor, you will have better knowledge of what quality materials to buy at the best cost. If you have your own materials, bring what you have so that you can compare them with the available samples to try.
Demonstrations and individual instruction will be offered as students try their hand at simple nature studies and small landscapes. You will be amazed at how rewarding and accessible watercolor really is!
