Learn a new skill and relax with a fun class!
At Scrappy Elephant, you’ll find a range of art classes for all ages. From weekly toddler art and story time to adult only classes, there’s something for everyone. Learn watercolor techniques, try your hand at mosaics, improve your crochet skills, and so much more. There’s never been a better time to learn a new skill at an affordable cost.
Interested in teaching a class at Scrappy Elephant? Email us at info@scrappyelephant.com for the class form.
Gift Cards
Want to give the gift of a new skill? Purchase a gift card in store or call us at a (434) 207-2106 to purchase over the phone for the creatives in your life to put toward a Scrappy Elephant class!
Scholarships
Available for ALL classes. Please fill out the form below with all the required information and our team will be in touch.
Charlottesville Art Month
Arts Month is a new, region-wide celebration of creativity happening every May across Charlottesville! Check out events across town by clicking on the logo below.
Scroll past the calendar for a list of all upcoming classes.
Expressive Watercolor and Ink Florals: Tulips
Are you ready to get started in loose watercolor or uplevel your existing skills in a relaxed, supportive environment? Join this class and start gaining the confidence necessary to eliminate guesswork and paint intuitively and joyfully!
In this full-day workshop, we’ll explore ways to achieve the fresh, spontaneous quality of loose watercolor that gives this style its unique beauty. Heather will share insights and techniques for relaxing your approach to this challenging but compelling medium as well as key techniques for gaining control over the painting process.
Beginning with warm-up exercises to become more comfortable with our tools and the behavior of water, pigments, and ink, we’ll then delve into principles that will enable us to capture the essence of our floral subject. Principles involving shape, value, and color mixing will develop your compositional skills with any subject that you would like to paint, and hands-on practice in these areas will prepare you to create an expressive watercolor and ink painting of tulips showcasing your own individual vision. You’ll leave with a knowledge of best practices drawn from Heather's experience, strategies for continuing this intuitive style of painting on your own, and a new (or renewed) sense of joy in the creative process.
This extended course is perfect for both complete beginners and those with some experience who are looking for more targeted practice with this approach to expressive painting. If you’re new to loose watercolor, this immersive workshop will provide a supportive foundation that will help you bypass many frustrations. If you’re a returning student, you’ll be able to deepen your skills and receive more insight on your own process. (Students from Heather’s Color Mixing class series will be able to use the split-primary palettes from those classes to continue to hone their mixing abilities.)
Come enjoy a relaxed day of painting together as we exercise creative intuition and explore the exciting ways that watercolor and ink can interact!
ages 15 and up
$70
Sign up here!
Crochet for Beginners
Join Emma as she teaches you the basics of crochet. Leave with a crochet hook and a small crocheted washcloth.
$25
age 12 and up
Sign up here!
Oil Painting for Everybody! Landscape Edition
Learn oil painting in an approachable and organized format. Each week we will paint together in a process that will enable you to take those techniques and paint anything! For each class you will paint and bring home a different original oil painting. This class will be a landscape composition and we will paint the pictured desert landscape.
This is a class for people who have never oil painted before, or even people who have never painted before! However, experienced oil painters are also welcome and will learn to further their techniques.
Topics include color mixing, composition, values, simplification, and edges. We will also go over materials and supplies, choosing appropriate reference photos, and setting up your home studio.
This is a stand-alone class but will not be repetitive if you come back again and again! Please wear comfortable clothing. Smock or apron suggested if you do not wish to get painty. You can download the image above onto your phone or tablet if you would like to have the reference photo in front of you (not mandatory).
Oil painting is more accessible than you think! Come start or expand your creative practice in a casual and fun environment- all are welcome!
ages 14 and up
$45 per class
Sign up here!
Morning Toddler Time
Join the amazing Minou for an hour of toddler fun- singing, story time, and creative art exploration. Come in clothes you don’t mind getting messy!
Every Thursday morning at 10:30
$13
Sign up here!
Mending Workshop: Repairing Holes
The goal of this class is to learn techniques for mending holes with visible or invisible mending in clothes. Visible mending patches holes visibly with decorative accents. Invisible mending repairs holes with very little notice of the mend. Participants are encouraged to bring in their own articles of clothing in need of repair and learn to fix them during class time. Sewing notions will be provided. A basic knowledge of sewing by hand or by machine is ideal. Demo repair projects will be available for practice.
ages 15 and up
$20
Sign up here!
Learn to Knit
Join Emma as she teaches you the basics of knitting. No experience needed. Leave with a pair of knitting needles, the beginning of a scarf, and enough yarn to finish it!
ages 12 and up
$25
Sign up here!!
Indivisible Charlottesville Interest Meeting
Indivisible Charlottesville is dedicated to empowering citizens to oppose the Trump agenda and defend democracy by holding government accountable. Join Vanessa for this interest meeting to learn how you can get involved!
Sign up here!
Knitting 102
Join Emma in furthering your knitting journey! This class is perfect if you have taken Emma’s beginner knitting class or you’re trying to remember what you’ve learned years ago. We will learn how to purl, cast off and may get into patterns!
ages 12 and up, previous knitting experience required
$25
Sign up here!
Printmaking Workshop
Join Charlotte in the Scrappy Elephant Classroom to learn the art of Lino/Block Printing! You are not expected to have any prior abilities but you won't be held back if you've block printed before. All the materials will be provided and you will have the chance to make at least one linoleum stamp, and MANY prints to use for cards or decoration!
for ages 15 and up
$35
Sign up here!
Gelli and Lino Printing Workshop Extravaganza
A special collaborative printmaking workshop with Melanie & Charlotte! Learn the basics of Gelli printing AND Lino Printing in one 5 hour class! The beauty of this workshop is that these two distinct print styles can be combined to make some truly unique outcomes!
Gelli printing is a quick and easy method of printing that uses a gelli plate, paint, and paper to easily create monoprints. In this class, you will learn to use a gelli plate to create custom paper designs for display, collage, or scrapbooking and cardmaking. Lino printing is the process of carving into linoleum blocks to make your own stamps, these can then be used to make unlimited prints!
All materials will be provided, but if you have a gelli plate, fun textured items or paper you'd like to bring along you're welcome to do so!
ages 16 and up
$60
Sign up here!
Wine Glass Painting
Join us at Random Row Brewing (608 Preston Ave) for a Wine Glass Painting Night! We will have wine glasses available for you to paint or you can bring your own glass. All painting supplies will be provided, along with instructions on how to seal the paint onto the glass at home.
Sign up here!
Morning Toddler Time
Join the amazing Minou for an hour of toddler fun- singing, story time, and creative art exploration. Come in clothes you don’t mind getting messy!
Every Thursday morning at 10:30
$13
Sign up here!
Mindful Doodling
If you are looking for a fun, easy, and creative outlet to help you relax, spark your imagination, and express your thoughts and ideas with more clarity, this two-day workshop is for you. The course teaches basic drawing skills and how to think and communicate using simple pictures and words. Drawing skills are not required and any experience level is welcome to participate in this visual process.
Ages 12 and up
two Saturdays 5/2 and 5/9
Sign up here!
Expressive Watercolor and Ink: Butterflies
Come celebrate spring and explore the versatility of loose watercolor combined with ink through the delicate beauty of butterflies!
In this class, Heather will share techniques for capturing the essence of a butterfly by emphasizing movement and spontaneity over realism. We’ll focus on ways to simplify these dainty pollinators in ink and be inspired by the intermingling of the watercolor pigments on the page, letting go of the need to depict every detail and yet still conveying the exquisite nature of our subjects.
Starting with some exercises to become better acquainted with our tools, we’ll then create an ink drawing that conveys the defining qualities of our chosen subject, finishing with evocative touches of watercolor that enhance the effects of the ink. Techniques for depicting movement, enhancing contrast, and using background watercolor washes to add texture and interest will help create a gorgeous final painting that fuses the delicacy of ink with the energy of watercolor.
This class builds on the techniques practiced in Heather’s previous Expressive Watercolor and Ink classes by focusing on ink as the starting point and using watercolor as a support. It is also suitable as a standalone course, however: no prior experience is necessary.
Whether you are completely new to watercolor or are seeking to add a new way of working to your skillset, you’ll be able to enjoy this relaxed time of drawing and painting together as we exercise creative intuition and explore the exciting ways that watercolor and ink can interact.
Ages 15 and up
$40
Sign up here!
Intro to Double Knitting (Intermediate Knitting Class)
If you're able to knit and purl, and hoping to get into colorwork, this project will introduce you to one of my favorite colorwork techniques. In this class we'll be making small, double sided wall hangings or door signs to show off the double knit technique.
ages 14 and up
$25
Sign up here!
Oil Painting for Everybody! Floral Edition
Learn oil painting in an approachable and organized format. Each week we will paint together in a process that will enable you to take those techniques and paint anything! For each class you will paint and bring home a different original oil painting. This class will be a floral composition based on the reference photo below.
This is a class for people who have never oil painted before, or even people who have never painted before! However, experienced oil painters are also welcome and will learn to further their techniques.
Topics include color mixing, composition, values, simplification, and edges. We will also go over materials and supplies, choosing appropriate reference photos, and setting up your home studio.
This is a stand-alone class but will not be repetitive if you come back again and again! Please wear comfortable clothing. Smock or apron suggested if you do not wish to get painty. You can download the image above onto your phone or tablet if you would like to have the reference photo in front of you (not mandatory).
Oil painting is more accessible than you think! Come start or expand your creative practice in a casual and fun environment- all are welcome!
ages 14 and up
$45 per class
Sign up here!
Morning Toddler Time
Join the amazing Minou for an hour of toddler fun- singing, story time, and creative art exploration. Come in clothes you don’t mind getting messy!
Every Thursday morning at 10:30
$13
Sign up here!
Watercolor Happy Hour
Do you enjoy painting but would like more opportunities to practice your skills? Are you intrigued by watercolor but would appreciate some gentle guidance on how to begin? Or would you just like some time to unwind from the week by exercising your creativity in a supportive environment? Join us for a relaxed, joyful evening of painting!
In this open painting session, a structured lesson won’t be provided, so you’ll be free to follow your own creative inspiration as much as you would like without any constraints. How you choose to use this time is up to you: you could work on a project of your own, gain additional practice in a certain technique, or simply have fun experimenting with pigments on paper. All supplies for watercolor painting will be provided, and you won’t need to bring any additional materials (but are certainly welcome to do so if you would prefer!). Heather will be available to provide one-on-one instructor feedback, targeted instruction if desired, or assistance with any projects or questions that you have. Some seasonal reference photos will be offered if you don’t have your own project and would like some inspiration.
This session is perfect for students who have taken one of Heather’s watercolor classes in the past and would like additional practice, but it would also be a good fit for people wanting one-on-one feedback on their work, complete beginners wanting to dip their toes into watercolor before joining a more structured class, or anyone just wanting to create without any desired outcome.
Come as you are! Uplevel your skills or simply experience the joy of painting and creativity for its own sake among like-minded people.
ages 15 and up
$25
Sign up here!
Beginner Hand Sewing
This class is designed to be an introductory course for those with little or no hand sewing experience. In this class students will learn three basic sewing stitches (running, back, and slip). These stitches will be practiced and then applied to a simple pincushion project done in class that students can take with them. Button sewing will be included. Sewing notions and project will be provided. This beginner hand sewing class is ideal to take before enrolling in the Mending Workshops offered.
ages 15 and up
$20
Sign up here!
Slow Stitch Techniques and Stitches: Cloth Weaving and Couching
This slow stitch session introduces Cloth Weaving and Couching techniques as a way to expand your slow stitching practice or use in other hand sewing projects.
This class will build on the Introduction to slow stitching class but is also open to all with a basic knowledge of hand sewing. In this class ,we explore and practice cloth weaving as a way to create interesting foundations for slow stitch or other hand sewn projects. We will also learn to “Couch” thicker and textures yarns to our woven foundation, adding texture and interesting form to your hand sewing projects.
In the spirit of slow stitching, we continue with a laid back, beginner friendly space, where the only rule is “you DO you”!
This class utilizes scrap fabric, left over yarn pieces, and other bits to create interesting and unique fiber art while teaching techniques and methods you can use and expand in your own slow stitch practice and projects. Feel free to bring your favorite fabric scraps to work with!
This class is for anyone with any level of hand sewing experience. If you know how to thread a needle and do a basic running stitch, you can do this. All are welcome!
Age 16 +
Sign up here!
Wine Glass Painting
Join Madi for a Wine Glass Painting Class here at Scrappy Elephant. We will have wine glasses available for you to paint or you can bring your own glass. All painting supplies will be provided, along with instructions on how to seal the paint onto your glass at home.
ages 21 and up
$20
Sign up here!
Blackwork for Beginners
Introduction to blackwork (outline only) embroidery. You’ll learn double running stitch, split stitch, backstitch, and stem stitch, and work from nature motifs inspired by the Tudor period.
Ages 15 and up
$30
Sign up here!
Beginning and Intermediate Gelli Printmaking
Are you interested in trying out Gelli printing but don't know where to start? Or have you dipped your toes into the process and want more guidance on how to take it further? Join us for this class on Gelli printing, a quick and easy method of printing that uses a gelli plate, paint, and paper to easily create monoprints. In this class, you will learn to use a gelli plate to create custom paper designs for display, collage, or scrapbooking and cardmaking. If you have your own Gelli plate, bring it with you! Gelli plate and other supplies are provided.
Ages 16 and up
$30
Sign up here!
Video Game Cross Stitch
We'll learn the basics of cross stitch, how to translate pixel art into cross stitch patterns, and mark up cross stitch fabric to use for a project to take home. Learning a basic cross stitch stitches will be the beginning of the class, but the majority of time will be spent transferring pixel art motifs onto paper.
12 and up
$20
Sign up here!
Morning Toddler Time
Join the amazing Minou for an hour of toddler fun- singing, story time, and creative art exploration. Come in clothes you don’t mind getting messy!
Every Thursday morning at 10:30
$13
Sign up here!
Fabric Mosaics: Create Your Own Kinusaiga Art
Bring your imagination and a love for color to this cozy, no-sew fabric art class! Using the Japanese technique of Kinusaiga, you’ll craft a 9” x 9” art panel from foam board and fabric scraps—turning leftover textiles into something beautiful. The studio will provide a variety of fabrics to choose from, but participants are also encouraged to bring their own special scraps or meaningful pieces to incorporate into their design. You’ll leave with a finished piece ready to hang and a newfound appreciation for fabric as an artistic medium.
ages 16 and up
$30
Sign up here!
Cricut 101
In this class you will learn the ins and outs of basic Cricut work. We will primarily focus on working with cardstock, however discussion will also cover vinyl, both regular and iron-on. You will also learn about Cricut Design Space, working with images and text; as well as cutting and writing with your machine.
It is recommended to bring your cricut machine and a compatible laptop for the class for hands-on work.
Compatible Cricut machines include all Explore and Maker machines. Please note that while we can discuss working with the Joy and Joy Xtra, functions and features are limited for those two machines as compared to the Explore and Maker machines.
ages 15 and up
$35
Sign up here!
Simple Keepsake Box
In this introductory workshop, participants will learn to construct a small handmade box from simple materials—discovering how thoughtful design transforms an everyday object into something beautiful for keepsakes or for gifting.
Ages 18 and up
$35- 100% of the proceeds will be donated to the Women’s Initiative
Sign up here!
Making Miniatures 101: Furniture with Wooden Materials
Bring your imagination and a love for detail to this cozy, hands-on workshop! In this series, we will learn the basics of making furniture, decor, and household items out of everyday materials. Each session will focus on a specific technique and will result in a miniature room. This week we will focus on making furniture with wooden materials
ages 16 and up
$30
Sign up here!
Oil Painting for Everybody! Animal Edition
Learn oil painting in an approachable and organized format. Each week we will paint together in a process that will enable you to take those techniques and paint anything! For each class you will paint and bring home a different original oil painting. This class will be a floral composition based on the reference photo below.
This is a class for people who have never oil painted before, or even people who have never painted before! However, experienced oil painters are also welcome and will learn to further their techniques.
Topics include color mixing, composition, values, simplification, and edges. We will also go over materials and supplies, choosing appropriate reference photos, and setting up your home studio.
This is a stand-alone class but will not be repetitive if you come back again and again! Please wear comfortable clothing. Smock or apron suggested if you do not wish to get painty. You can download the image above onto your phone or tablet if you would like to have the reference photo in front of you (not mandatory).
Oil painting is more accessible than you think! Come start or expand your creative practice in a casual and fun environment- all are welcome!
ages 14 and up
$45 per class
Sign up here!
Watercolor Happy Hour
Do you enjoy painting but would like more opportunities to practice your skills? Are you intrigued by watercolor but would appreciate some gentle guidance on how to begin? Or would you just like some time to unwind from the week by exercising your creativity in a supportive environment? Join us for a relaxed, joyful evening of painting!
In this open painting session, a structured lesson won’t be provided, so you’ll be free to follow your own creative inspiration as much as you would like without any constraints. How you choose to use this time is up to you: you could work on a project of your own, gain additional practice in a certain technique, or simply have fun experimenting with pigments on paper. All supplies for watercolor painting will be provided, and you won’t need to bring any additional materials (but are certainly welcome to do so if you would prefer!). Heather will be available to provide one-on-one instructor feedback, targeted instruction if desired, or assistance with any projects or questions that you have. Some seasonal reference photos will be offered if you don’t have your own project and would like some inspiration.
This session is perfect for students who have taken one of Heather’s watercolor classes in the past and would like additional practice, but it would also be a good fit for people wanting one-on-one feedback on their work, complete beginners wanting to dip their toes into watercolor before joining a more structured class, or anyone just wanting to create without any desired outcome.
Come as you are! Uplevel your skills or simply experience the joy of painting and creativity for its own sake among like-minded people.
ages 15 and up
$25
Sign up here!
Morning Toddler Time
Join the amazing Minou for an hour of toddler fun- singing, story time, and creative art exploration. Come in clothes you don’t mind getting messy!
Every Thursday morning at 10:30
$13
Sign up here!
Needle Felted Opossums
Join Ari (they/them) to learn how to make a soft little possum figure using a specialized notched needle to sculpt dyed wool. You’ll learn to create three-dimensional forms and add details, and you’ll develop the foundational skills to continue needle felting at home. You’ll come away with a possum to keep or give as a gift, as well as a felting mat and needle of your own.
Beginning and returning students welcome!
Ages 12 and up
$35
Sign up here!
Mending Workshop: Repairing Holes
The goal of this class is to learn techniques for mending holes with visible or invisible mending in clothes. Visible mending patches holes visibly with decorative accents. Invisible mending repairs holes with very little notice of the mend. Participants are encouraged to bring in their own articles of clothing in need of repair and learn to fix them during class time. Sewing notions will be provided. A basic knowledge of sewing by hand or by machine is ideal. Demo repair projects will be available for practice.
ages 15 and up
$20
Sign up here!
Crochet for Beginners
Join Emma as she teaches you the basics of crochet. Leave with a crochet hook and a small crocheted washcloth.
$25
age 12 and up
Sign up here!
Needle Felted Owls
Join Ari (they/them) to learn how to make a soft little owl figure using a specialized notched needle to sculpt dyed wool. You’ll learn to create three-dimensional forms and add details, and you’ll develop the foundational skills to continue needle felting at home. You’ll come away with an owl to keep or give as a gift, as well as a felting mat and needle of your own.
Ages 12 and up
$35
Sign up here!
Learn to Knit
Join Emma as she teaches you the basics of knitting. No experience needed. Leave with a pair of knitting needles, the beginning of a scarf, and enough yarn to finish it!
ages 12 and up
$25
Sign up here!!
Slow Stitch - A Gentle, Meditative Approach to Hand Sewing
This session is a laid back, beginner friendly Introduction to Slow Stitching.
Slow stitching is a relaxing stitching practice which focuses on the PROCESS rather than perfection or a specific finished product. Yet, in my experience, results are beautiful and unique pieces of art that show the makers hand.
Slow Stitching can be a great way to reset, reduce stress or simply explore your own creativity.
We will explore the nature of slow stitching , several basic stitches, a bit about color, texture and how to select fabrics that enhance the meditative practice. Feel free to bring your favorite fabric scraps to work with. These are guidelines to get started - there are no rules or patterns.
Start where you are: Beginners …those with sewing/embroidery experience …those seeking relaxation and a fun way to “calm the chaos” and get grounded. All are welcome. Anyone can do this!
Age 18 +
$15
Sign up here!
Stitch and Snark: Create your own "F-bomb"
In this playful workshop, we’ll crochet an “F-bomb:” a small amigurumi sphere finished with a bold letter “F.” Equal parts cute and cathartic, it’s the perfect desk mascot or gift for a sassy someone who appreciates a little fiber-based pun.
We’ll use basic amigurumi techniques including working in the round, shaping, and simple appliqué. Along the way we’ll stitch, chat, sip on mocktails, and share stories about craft life—making this an excellent workshop for beginners and experienced hookers alike.
Led by Lisa Ha, a crochet comedian (yes, those exist) known as "Get to Hooking Crochet" with more than 280K combined social media followers, expect an afternoon of laughter and yarn.
The class fee includes all materials needed to make your F-bomb and a signed copy of Lisa’s debut pattern + joke book, “Snarky Crochet.”
Come for the stitches, stay for the snark!
Skill level: Adventurous beginner and up (must know basic crochet stitches)
ages 13 and up
$45
Sign up here!
Morning Toddler Time
Join the amazing Minou for an hour of toddler fun- singing, story time, and creative art exploration. Come in clothes you don’t mind getting messy!
Every Thursday morning at 10:30
$13
Sign up here!
Needle Felted Mushrooms for Beginners
Join Ari (they/them) for a beginner-level felting class. Learn how to make soft and colorful mushroom decorations using a specialized barbed needle to sculpt beautiful dyed wool. You’ll learn to create three-dimensional forms and add details, and you’ll develop the foundational skills to continue needle felting at home. You’ll come away with one or more completed mushrooms to keep or give as a gift.
Ages 12 and up
$30
Sign up here!
Needle Felted Sloth
Let's make a sloth! Join Ari (they/them) to learn how to make a cute and fuzzy little sloth using a specialized notched needle to sculpt dyed wool. You’ll learn to create three-dimensional forms and add details and how to use wire armatures to support your figure. Then, pose your sloth however you'd like. You’ll come away with a mini sloth, as well as a felting mat and needle of your own to keep.
This project is perfect for continuing felting students who want to add some new skills to their toolbox, as well as for first time needle felters who are up for a challenge.
ages 12 and up
$40
Sign up here!
Clay and Create: Spring Vases
Create a one-of-a-kind ceramic vase using slab-building techniques—perfect for holding all those spring blooms. Great for beginners, this relaxed, hands-on class will guide you through shaping, assembling, and adding your own personal details to a functional piece you’ll actually use!
Students will choose from a selection of glaze colors, and all pieces will be professionally glazed and fired for you. Finished vases will be ready for pickup approximately four weeks after the class.
What to wear/bring:
Wear comfortable clothes you don’t mind getting a little messy (clay washes out, but splashes happen). Aprons are encouraged if you have one. All materials and tools are provided — just bring yourself and a little creativity.
No experience needed — just a willingness to get a little muddy.
Ages: 12+ (participants under 16 must attend with an adult)
$45
Sign up here!
Oil Painting for Everybody! Still Life Edition
Learn oil painting in an approachable and organized format. Each week we will paint together in a process that will enable you to take those techniques and paint anything! For each class you will paint and bring home a different original oil painting. This class will be a still life composition based on the reference photo below.
This is a class for people who have never oil painted before, or even people who have never painted before! However, experienced oil painters are also welcome and will learn to further their techniques.
Topics include color mixing, composition, values, simplification, and edges. We will also go over materials and supplies, choosing appropriate reference photos, and setting up your home studio.
This is a stand-alone class but will not be repetitive if you come back again and again! Please wear comfortable clothing. Smock or apron suggested if you do not wish to get painty. You can download the image above onto your phone or tablet if you would like to have the reference photo in front of you (not mandatory).
Oil painting is more accessible than you think! Come start or expand your creative practice in a casual and fun environment- all are welcome!
ages 14 and up
$45 per class
Sign up here!
Morning Toddler Time
Join the amazing Minou for an hour of toddler fun- singing, story time, and creative art exploration. Come in clothes you don’t mind getting messy!
Every Thursday morning at 10:30
$13
Sign up here!
Beginning Watercolors: Spring Florals
During this five week session beginning watercolorists will learn techniques to create a beautiful spring paintings of and dogwoods and lilacs. We will practice different watercolor techniques as well as discussing on botanical drawing, composition and use of light and shadow and highlight.
ages 18 and up
$150 for five weeks, no class on 5/13
Sign up here!
Spring Into Summer Arts and Crafts
Students will learn and use basics of drawing with different pencils and pastels, and different paints to create fun, Spring themed artwork in this fun after school class!
$150 for six weeks
Sign up here!
Oil Painting for Everybody! Still Life Edition
Learn oil painting in an approachable and organized format. Each week we will paint together in a process that will enable you to take those techniques and paint anything! For each class you will paint and bring home a different original oil painting. This class will be a still life composition and we will paint the pictured citrus fruit.
This is a class for people who have never oil painted before, or even people who have never painted before! However, experienced oil painters are also welcome and will learn to further their techniques.
Topics include color mixing, composition, values, simplification, and edges. We will also go over materials and supplies, choosing appropriate reference photos, and setting up your home studio.
This is a stand-alone class but will not be repetitive if you come back again and again! Please wear comfortable clothing. Smock or apron suggested if you do not wish to get painty. You can download the image above onto your phone or tablet if you would like to have the reference photo in front of you (not mandatory).
Oil painting is more accessible than you think! Come start or expand your creative practice in a casual and fun environment- all are welcome!
ages 14 and up
$45 per class
Sign up here!
Mosaic 201: Pretty Planter
Eileen has been installing community mosaics throughout Charlottesville in schools and Habitat for Humanity buildings. Her work can be seen at C’ville Arts Coop on the Downtown Mall.
This workshop will challenge your skills and creativity with shaping, placement and intentional design making a personal and unique garden planter pot for your home with outdoor-proof materials. Bring at least two printed images for inspiration and let’s see what beautiful mosaic pieces emerge.
No prior experience is necessary.
Ages 12-122.
5 hours with a 40 minute break to eat your packed lunch & let the tiles set before grouting.
$65
Sign up here!
Beginner Hand Sewing
This class is designed to be an introductory course for those with little or no hand sewing experience. In this class students will learn three basic sewing stitches (running, back, and slip). These stitches will be practiced and then applied to a simple pincushion project done in class that students can take with them. Button sewing will be included. Sewing notions and project will be provided. This beginner hand sewing class is ideal to take before enrolling in the Mending Workshops offered.
ages 15 and up
$20
Sign up here!
Spring Break Mini Camp
Drop off 1st-5th grade students for fun, colorful and creative morning of arts and crafts! Every day is different, so sign up for as many as you like!
Materials and Snack included.
$75
Sign up here!
Spring Break Mini Camp
Drop off 1st-5th grade students for fun, colorful and creative morning of arts and crafts! Every day is different, so sign up for as many as you like!
Materials and Snack included.
$75
Sign up here!
Fabric Mosaics: Create Your Own Kinusaiga Art
Bring your imagination and a love for color to this cozy, no-sew fabric art class! Using the Japanese technique of Kinusaiga, you’ll craft a 9” x 9” art panel from foam board and fabric scraps—turning leftover textiles into something beautiful. The studio will provide a variety of fabrics to choose from, but participants are also encouraged to bring their own special scraps or meaningful pieces to incorporate into their design. You’ll leave with a finished piece ready to hang and a newfound appreciation for fabric as an artistic medium.
ages 16 and up
$30
Sign up here!
Morning Toddler Time
Join the amazing Minou for an hour of toddler fun- singing, story time, and creative art exploration. Come in clothes you don’t mind getting messy!
Every Thursday morning at 10:30
$13
Sign up here!
Pysanky Eggs
Using a real egg that is blown out, Beeswax, fire, a copper kitska (writing tool) , and Ukrainian egg dyes, you will create a beautiful keepsake. No artistic ability necessary. You can play with color and design in free form way and end up with a beautiful result.
Ages 15 and up
$25
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Product Photography: Getting Ready for Craft Shows
Planning to apply to any craft shows, markets, or exhibits this year? Want to take your application to the next level? In this intro to Product Photography class, Scrappy’s resident photographer will take you through the basics of capturing good photos of your work, whether 2D or 3D. After a run through of camera and lighting basics, there will be a live demo to practice what you’ve learned.
Please bring either a digital camera or a phone with a camera so you can take part in the demo portion of the class. You are welcome to bring some of your work to practice photographing.
$20
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Expressive Watercolor and Ink Florals: Spring Daffodils
Do you love the fluid beauty of loose watercolor florals but aren’t sure how to begin? Or are you looking for a way to relax your approach to watercolor and achieve a fresher, more intuitive style? If so, this class is for you!
In this class, Heather will share techniques for capturing the essence of a floral subject by emphasizing movement and spontaneity over realism. We’ll focus on ways to simplify the subject and be inspired by the intermingling of the watercolor pigments on the page, letting go of the need to depict every detail.
Beginning with some warm up exercises to become more comfortable with our tools and the behavior of water, pigments, and ink, we’ll then create a vibrant floral painting that combines loose watercolor with the structure of ink. All materials will be provided, and you’ll leave with a completed painting as well as principles that will enable you to create future paintings in this expressive style.
Whether you are completely new to watercolor or are seeking to add a new way of working to your skillset, you’ll be able to enjoy this relaxed time of painting together as we exercise creative intuition and explore the exciting ways that watercolor and ink can interact.
Ages 15 and up
$40
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NO KINGS protest free sign making
Poster board and markers will be provided. All you need to do is bring your creativity!
Kids Sewing 102
This series is for the sewist that has some sewing experience but still wants some instructional help while sharpening their skills. Led by Becky, students will work on a variety of projects based on their ages and skills, including learning how to self-draft clothing. Students will bring a working machine (including power cord and pedal) but if they don’t have one, we can provide one. A sewing kit (pins, measuring tape, marking tools, fabric scissors, ruler) is suggested, but not required.
Ages 8 and up
$200 for 6 Thursdays, no class on April 9th
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Adult Sewing 102: Garments
Interested in making clothing but slightly intimidated by pattern speak? Let Becky walk you through the process of reading patterns, picking sizes, laying and cutting out your pattern and lastly, sewing your own garment! This class is geared towards those with some experience using a sewing machine. Students will choose their own patterns but must clear it with the instructor before beginning class.
Students should bring their own working full size machine with power cord and pedal as well as a sewing kit, although one can be supplied to you if needed. Students are welcome to use fabrics from Scrappy Elephant or bring in their own.
ages 16 and up
4 Thursdays, $150, no class on April 9th
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Morning Toddler Time
Join the amazing Minou for an hour of toddler fun- singing, story time, and creative art exploration. Come in clothes you don’t mind getting messy!
Every Thursday morning at 10:30
$13
Sign up here!
NO KINGS protest free sign making
Poster board and markers will be provided. All you need to do is bring your creativity!
NO KINGS protest free sign making
Poster board and markers will be provided. All you need to do is bring your creativity!
Kids Intro to Sewing
Geared towards beginners, this series with Becky will cover the components of working with a sewing machine as we make a variety of items as you learn basic techniques. Students will bring a working machine (including power cord and pedal) but if they don’t have one, we can provide one. A sewing kit (pins, measuring tape, marking tools, fabric scissors, ruler) is suggested, but not required. We’ll use items from Scrappy Elephant for our projects, including tote bags, zipper pouches and more.
Ages 8 and up
$200 for 6 Tuesdays, no class on April 7th
Sign up here!
Beginner Sewing Class for Adults
Geared towards beginners, this series with Becky will cover the components of working with a sewing machine as we make a variety of items as you learn basic techniques. Students will bring a working machine (including power cord and pedal) but if they don’t have one, we can provide one. A sewing kit (pins, measuring tape, marking tools, fabric scissors, ruler) is suggested, but not required. We’ll use items from Scrappy Elephant for our projects, including tote bags, zipper pouches and more.
Ages 16 and up
$150 for four weeks, no class on April 7th
Sign up here!
Ten Miler Sign Making at Random Row
Join us at Random Row Brewing* to make your signs supporting the runners of the Charlottesville Ten Miler: http://www.cvilletenmiler.com.
Sign-making supplies from Scrappy Elephant will be available at the brewery. All sign makers who sign up will receive the Run Club drink deal ($3 Mosaic cans and $2 off pints)! Grab a beer and let's cheer for the Ten Miler Runners!
*please note this event is not at Scrappy Elephant, it is at Random Row Brewing Company, 608 Preston Ave
NO KINGS protest free sign making
Poster board and markers will be provided. All you need to do is bring your creativity!
Morning Toddler Time
Join the amazing Minou for an hour of toddler fun- singing, story time, and creative art exploration. Come in clothes you don’t mind getting messy!
Every Thursday morning at 10:30
$13
Sign up here!
Move, Meditate, and Create
Join Kara Snapp, yoga and meditation teacher, in a mindful movement practice and meditation to spark your creative flow! Themes vary but it's always something fabulously introspective that helps you know yourself better, forge a deeper connection with something greater than yourself, and you leave with a new piece of mixed media artwork!
Bring a yoga mat if you have one. Zero experience with yoga, meditation, or art required. All are welcome!
ages 16 and up
pay what you can, suggested $40-$60
Sign up here!
Color Mixing with Confidence in Watercolor: Mixing Greens
Are you new to watercolor and unsure how to create a usable palette of colors? Or do you have a painting practice but are frustrated by not being able to consistently mix the exact colors that you want? Does color theory intimidate you? If so, this class is for you! This course series is designed to demystify the essential elements of color theory as applied to watercolors and equip you with the ability to use these principles confidently in your own painting. In this class, we will focus on mixing different shades of one of the trickiest but most important color families: greens!
Following an overview of the basic concepts covered previously in the color mixing series, we will begin our deep dive into greens by using various combinations of primary colors to mix a range of natural landscape and botanical greens from a limited palette. After experimenting with the greens that can be achieved from a few base primaries, we will expand our green repertoire by learning how to alter some premixed green pigments to achieve an even greater range of options and to save time. Finally, we will put this new knowledge to use by painting a simple spring landscape showcasing the range of natural mixed greens that you will be able to create. You will leave with a range of strategies for mixing the specific color that you want every time, best practices to integrate into your own painting, and a solid foundation on which to refine your mixing skills.
Some experience in watercolor is helpful, but beginners are welcome! If you are just starting out, the knowledge that you gain from this course will accelerate your learning by helping you feel better prepared to mix any colors you need (not only greens!). And if you are a more experienced painter, this course is a wonderful opportunity to level up your practice by improving your color mixing skills. While each class in the series is designed to function as a standalone, taking the classes together offer the most learning benefits as the concepts covered build on each other.
Come join us as we explore the world of creative possibilities made possible through a deeper understanding of how to mix gorgeous greens!
ages 15 and up
$40
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Crochet for Beginners
Join Emma as she teaches you the basics of crochet. Leave with a crochet hook and a small crocheted washcloth.
$25
age 12 and up
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Oil Painting for Everybody! Landscape Edition
Learn oil painting in an approachable and organized format. Each week we will paint together in a process that will enable you to take those techniques and paint anything! For each class you will paint and bring home a different original oil painting. This class will be a landscape composition and we will be painting the image below.
This is a class for people who have never oil painted before, or even people who have never painted before! However, experienced oil painters are also welcome and will learn to further their techniques.
Topics include color mixing, composition, values, simplification, and edges. We will also go over materials and supplies, choosing appropriate reference photos, and setting up your home studio.
This is a stand-alone class but completion of the four Sunday classes in January is most beneficial to learn the fundamentals of oil-painting. Please wear comfortable clothing. Smock or apron suggested if you do not wish to get painty.
Oil painting is more accessible than you think! Come start or expand your creative practice in a casual and fun environment- all are welcome!
ages 14 and up
$45 per class
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Morse Coded Messages in Style
Please join Michelle to create a stylish Morse coded bracelet or necklace that will say either F@CK TRUMP or F@CK Cancer. We will be using natural semi precious stones in various colors and sizes. Examples include labradorite , aurora quartz, amethyst, citrine, fresh water pearl, sodalite and so much more! The chains and clasps will be in various styles and lengths, depending on your preference in silver or gold tone.
Every participant will get to take home the materials for a bracelet with seed beads from The Scrappy Elephant OR letter beads if you want to make a Taylor Swift style bracelet.
If you want to make a statement, literally and figuratively, please come join Michelle. As a Thank You to the community, a donation to Local Cville Now will be made with the proceeds from this event.
ages 18 and up
$50
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Learn to Knit
Join Emma as she teaches you the basics of knitting. No experience needed. Leave with a pair of knitting needles, the beginning of a scarf, and enough yarn to finish it!
ages 12 and up
$25
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Sit, Stay, Slab Pet Bowls
Create a one-of-a-kind ceramic bowl for your favorite dog or cat using slab-building techniques. Great for beginners, this relaxed, hands-on class will guide you through shaping, personalizing, and decorating a functional pet bowl that’s food-safe, pet-safe, and dishwasher-safe.
Students will choose from a selection of glaze colors, and all pieces will be professionally glazed and fired for you. Finished bowls will be ready for pickup approximately four weeks after the class.
What to wear/bring:
Wear comfortable clothes you don’t mind getting a little messy (clay washes out, but splashes happen). Aprons are encouraged if you have one. All materials and tools are provided — just bring yourself and your love for pets.
No experience needed — just a willingness to get a little muddy.
Ages: 12+ (participants under 16 must attend with an adult)
$45
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