The 6 Best DIY Workshops in Calgary That’ll Help You Find a New Hobby to Obsess Over
A few weeks ago, I saw something that made my blood run cold. It was a notification on my phone saying I had clocked in more than 6 hours of screen time in one day.
I was so horrified; I couldn’t believe that I had wasted so much of my free time just scrolling through social media. For a moment, I was tempted to just throw my phone away, but I knew that wasn’t really a solution.
Instead, I focused my attention on finding a new hobby. I needed something that would keep my hands busy, but I wasn’t sure what. I asked around and found out that several of my friends had been going to local classes.
If you also need a fun activity like me, or you just want to learn something new, I’ve listed a bunch of amazing DIY workshops in Calgary below.
1. Workshop Studios
– Media credit: workshopstudiosyyc
Address: Bay 3, 2501 Alyth Rd SE
Contact details: +1 587 707 4511
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Sunday – By appointment only
If you’ve seen the 90s movie Ghost or just love movies in general, then you’re probably familiar with that iconic pottery scene. Well, Workshop Studios may not have Patrick Swayze, but it can give you a pretty similar experience.
In their Date Night workshop, you and your partner can join a 2-hour lesson on the basics of ceramics. It comes with a live DJ, wine, and some hands-on practice with the pottery wheel.
And that’s just one of the many classes they have. Unlike other places that only offer beginner courses, they also have advanced programs for those with a higher skill level.
These sessions tend to focus on specific components of ceramics. So while some classes involve wheel throwing, others are about surface designing or glazing.
For me, though, the best thing about being a student here is that you get free access to the studio. This’ll help you practice and get much better at handling clay.
| Pro tip: For those who prefer learning in small groups, Workshop Studios also offers private ceramic lessons. You can do this solo or bring a group of up to 5 friends with you. |
2. Milk Jar Candle Company
– Media credit: milkjarcandleco
Address: 1450 28 St NE # 7
Contact details: +1 403 454 5451
Operating Hours:
- Tuesday to Friday – 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Saturday – 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Sunday to Monday – Closed
I think most people would agree when I say that a scented candle can instantly make any space feel cozy and magical. So, when I heard all about Milk Jar Candle Company’s Candle Making workshop, I wasted no time before signing up.
When it comes to scents, there’s no doubt that this brand has some of the best in the market. They’ve got candles that smell like a pancake breakfast, lemonade, fresh laundry, and other whimsical things.
Naturally, their workshop will help you learn how to produce certain fragrances. Their helpful instructors will tell you all about how to layer oils to make a unique scent.
You won’t be limited by their product line either. It’ll be completely up to you to decide on what to make. Whether you want to recreate the smell of a summer morning or a quaint library, their experts will be there to guide you in the right direction.
| Pro tip: Since you’ll be handling a lot of hot liquids at Milk Jar Candle Company, it’s mandatory to wear closed-toe shoes during your workshop. |
3. STASH Needle Art Lounge
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Address: 1237 9 Ave SE
Contact details: +1 403 457 0766
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday – 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Saturday to Sunday – 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
STASH Needle Art Lounge is where all of the city’s avid knitters go. It’s one of Calgary’s best sources for yarn, thread, hooks, patterns, and basically everything else related to the craft.
It’s not just a supplier, though; It’s also an entry point for most. So many newbies were able to begin their knitting journey with the help of STASH’s workshops.
They host a variety of classes that’ll teach you the fundamentals of knitting, crochet, and embroidery. But if you’re already quite skilled, they also offer advanced classes that tackle more complex patterns and colorwork.
Believe me when I say that the teachers here are amazing at what they do. After just a few classes, I already have a pile of knitted hats, socks, and mittens. In fact, I can’t wait for it to get colder so I can use them already!
| Pro tip: Everyone at STASH is super accommodating. Even if you’re just practicing making one of their patterns at home, you can email them about any questions, and they’d be happy to help. |
4. Passion For Glass Gallery & Studio
– Media credit: passionforglass
Address: Skyline on 17th, 1534 17 Ave SW
Contact details: +1 587 353 2153
Operating Hours:
- Wednesday to Friday – 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM
- Saturday – 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM
- Sunday – Classes & Booked Events
- Monday to Tuesday – Closed
Glasswork is one of those things that has always looked super complicated to do. But Passion For Glass Gallery & Studio is here to change that.
This contemporary gallery is all about making glass more accessible to everyone, from newcomers to passionate collectors. They even have school programs that aim to introduce the craft to young students.
But no matter what age you are, you’re welcome to join their many courses. They teach everything, including soldering stained glass, making ornaments, and forming vibrant coral bowls.
These sessions usually run for 2 to 3 hours and will have everything you need provided. You can also choose your own design, as long as you send it to them ahead of time.
I promise you, you’re not ready for how much fun you’re going to have. So many people go here during their birthdays, and by the end of the lesson, they’re already itching to do it all over again.
| Pro tip: You can buy any of the equipment you need for glassmaking from Passion For Glass Gallery & Studio. They offer mosaic runners, molds, primers, safety gear, and other materials. |
5. Moonstone Creation
– Media credit: moonstonecree
Address: 1219 10 Ave SE
Contact details: +1 403 261 2650
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Saturday – 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Sunday – 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM
Moonstone Creation keeps traditional Native American art alive and thriving. And with their guidance, you can partake in this beautiful culture as well.
In their gallery, you’ll be able to see a wide array of Indigenous crafts, with some being available for sale. Their products include colorful apparel, fabric, art, and jewelry.
But if you want to learn more, they also offer in-depth lessons on how to make Native American artifacts. Some of the things you can learn to craft are ceremonial drums, dream catchers, talking sticks, traditional beadwork, and fish scale art.
Take it from me: this is such an entertaining and insightful class to join. Not only will you be making beautiful things, but you’ll come out of it with more appreciation for their history and practices.
| Pro tip: All the classes at Moonstone Creation have very limited slots. It’s highly recommended to reserve your spot at least a week before your desired schedule. |
6. Tuft Love Studios
– Media credit: tuft.love.studios
Address: 4029 8 St SE Unit 106
Contact details: +1 403 629 4536
Operating Hours:
- Thursday – 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM
- Friday to Sunday – 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM
- Monday to Wednesday – Closed
Tuft Love Studios is for those who love combining practicality with creativity. Here, you can transform an everyday rug into something more vibrant and full of character.
They host a tufting workshop for all ages and skill levels where you can craft your own rug. Their staff will be there to instruct you every step of the way.
The fun thing about it is that you get to choose your own design, and the sky’s the limit. In the past, I’ve seen people do cartoon and video characters, as well as recreations of famous paintings.
Don’t worry if you don’t have any experience, though. This is one of the workshops where everyone says the final product always looks great. What’s more important is that you enjoy your time here and learn something new.
| Pro tip: It’s better to go to Tuft Love Studios with friends. If your workshop group has at least 4 people, you can get a 10% discount on your total. |