Ava Rakowski 
The new year brings a time for new hobbies and habits, meaning many are picking up their paint brushes and finding new crafts and creative outlets. There are plenty of opportunities to strengthen these skills in the new year, specifically with classes and workshops led by experienced artists in the area. If you’re interested in trying something new, but you’re unsure of where to start, JSG’s got you covered. Read on for more about trying arts and crafts on the Jersey Shore.
Belmar Public Library | 517 10th Avenue, Belmar
This free program on the first Thursday of every month is a great option for those who are interested in beginning their fiber arts journey, or for those who want to connect with other knitters. Instructor Kelly Cavanaugh hosts this event at the Belmar Public Library on the first Thursday of every month from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM. Bring your own yarn and needles to share your skills with others, or learn from those around you.
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Belmar Clay Project | 710 10th Avenue, Belmar
This studio offers a variety of classes for those who want to work with clay, from the total novice to the accomplished artisan. With a calming and intimate atmosphere, experiment with the potter’s wheel, handbuilding, or following specific projects designed by the teachers. Check out the multi-week courses and 1-day workshops, or reach out about hosting an event at this charming space.
Brighter Days Co. | 87 S Main Street, Marlboro Township
Brighter Days Co. is known for its chemical-free, vegan candles and opportunities for DIY workshops. Tickets to candle-making workshops can be found here, and BYOB is welcome + encouraged. It is also home to a boutique with home decor, cozy loungewear, musician-inspired merch, and more.
Hot Sand | 550 Cookman Avenue #103, Asbury Park
This staple of Asbury Park is a fun place for friends and family to gather and learn a new skill. Experiment with hot glass, making suntiles, or quickcasts with guidance from skilled professionals on Cookman Ave. The storefront is also filled with outstanding pieces, for a gift or for those who are looking for a new pop of color in their homes.
Jersey Shore Arts Center | 66 S Main Street, Ocean Grove
Located in Ocean Grove, this pillar of the community offers a wide range of introductory and advanced art classes. From Introduction to Jewelry Making to Watercolors, this option is great for those who thrive in group learning environments. Most classes include a small materials fee, but offer guidance from experienced craftsmen and a sense of community.
Monmouth County Parks System | 805 Newman Springs Road, Lincroft
The Monmouth County Parks System has several introductory classes for adults and children. Ceramics classes are the most popular, but workshops are also offered in drawing, painting, jewelry making, and more. Students will receive detailed and in-depth lessons about the various art forms offered through this program. These classes fill quickly.
Soule Culinary and Art Studio | 800 Ocean Road, Point Pleasant
The cooking classes at Soule Culinary take students through the step-by-step process of how to make specific dishes, which means students learn techniques to take home. This is a good choice for those looking for a way to expand their skills in the kitchen or a different kind of night out.
SwellColors Glass Studio | 1715 Long Beach Boulevard, Surf City
This Surf City glass studio offers walk-in classes during Take up mosaic, fused glass, stained glass, and beach glass projects in their supportive and instructive environment. This is a great place for families looking for a new activity, a solo artist looking for a new craft, or the experienced glass worker hoping to connect with local artists.
The Creative Knot | 48 Main Avenue, Ocean Grove
More on the topic of fiber arts, The Creative Knot in Ocean Grove offers a weekly meeting to connect with other crafters while working on a current project. Social Stitch runs on Thursday mornings from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM. These weekly meetings are a great way to build consistent crafting habits and socialize with other members of your community. Additionally, Creative Knot hosts a variety of classes to help beginner and advanced artists with specific projects. The adorable storefront is a JSG favorite, and the welcoming vibes make it an easy choice for a beginning crafter.
The Madd Potters’ Studio | 1250 Hornet Road, Cape May
Students can take a spin at the different classes offered through The Madd Potters’ Studio in Cape May and get to know a potter’s wheel. This studio offers a variety of class packages for beginners who are interested in learning more about ceramics. This studio is also offering a Recycled Silver Charm Workshop in March, for those who want to reduce and reuse while they try a new craft.
The Pretty Charming Co. | 17 Mechanic Street, Red Bank
The Pretty Charming Co. is Monmouth County’s first premier trucker hat bar, and gives customers the opportunity to create unique trucker hats with pins, patches, + embellishments. Once a visitor has assembled their personalized design, the bar staff creates their trucker hat using a heat press machine. For more information, visit their website here.
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