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 below for the creatives in your life to put toward a Scrappy Elephant class!

Scholarships

Available for ALL classes. Email info@scrappyelephant.com to ask for a scholarship or sponsor an artist below.

Sponsor an Artist

Scroll past the calendar for a list of all upcoming classes.

Holiday Clay Earrings
Nov
3

Holiday Clay Earrings

In this workshop Madi, an artist and employee at Scrappy Elephant, is teaching you how to make polymer clay holiday earrings start to finish. You will be able to make 1-2 pairs and take them home the same day! There are lots of fall and winter earrings you can make ranging from pumpkins and ghosts to grinches and gingerbread men, it’s up to you! All you need to bring is yourself (and maybe a snack)! Get into the spirit by making some adorable earrings!

Ages 16 and up

$35

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Watercolor Workshop: Succulents
Nov
3

Watercolor Workshop: Succulents

Join us for a peaceful and engaging watercolor session where we'll paint the beautiful echeveria, a popular type of succulent known for its rosette shape and vibrant hues. This workshop is beginner to intermediate friendly. Blake Bottoms will offer step-by-step guidance on watercolor techniques such as blending, shading, and creating depth to capture the unique textures and colors of this striking plant.

No prior watercolor experience is required, and all supplies will be provided. Come immerse yourself in a creative atmosphere and leave with your own stunning artwork of this resilient and fascinating plant!

Ages 15 and up

$35

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Needle Felted Opossums
Nov
6

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 at least one possum to keep or give as a gift, as well as a felting mat and needle of your own. - This class is suitable for beginners.

Ages 14 and up

$40

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Adult Sewing Class
Nov
7

Adult Sewing Class

Sharpen your sewing skills as you make a variety of projects in this sewing series with Becky. Good for both beginners and those with some sewing experience, we’ll cover all the components of using a sewing machine as well as 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 zipper pouches, tote bags, maybe even dip into some garment pattern sewing as we work at our own pace.

$150 for 4 classes, skipping November 28th and finishing on 12/5

Sign up here!

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Kids After School Sewing Class
Nov
7

Kids After School Sewing Class

Sharpen your sewing skills as you make a variety of projects in this sewing series with Becky. Good for both beginners and those with some sewing experience, we’ll cover all the components of using a sewing machine as well as 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 snack bags, tote bags, pj pants, aprons and/or stuffies.

for ages 10 and up

4 Thursdays from 5-6:30, skipping 11/28 and finishing on 12/5

$150

Sign up here!

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Decoupage on Glass
Nov
9

Decoupage on Glass

Let's create gorgeous works of art on glass. This very simple process will light up your life as we use water soluble markers, tissue paper and gel medium to turn clear glass jars into 'stained glass' candle holders.

ages 16 and up

$30

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Needle Felted Mushrooms for Beginners
Nov
10

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 14 and up

$40

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Needle Felted Owls
Nov
10

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 at least one owl to keep or give as a gift, as well as a felting mat and needle of your own.

Ages 14 and up

$40

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Printmaking Workshop
Nov
13

Printmaking Workshop

Join Sarah in the Scrappy Elephant Classroom for a fun printmaking workshop! You will learn the basics of linocut printing and have the opportunity to make countless prints and cards. Leave with the knowledge of printmaking, your linoleum stamp (or even two), and MANY beautiful handmade prints and cards.

for ages 15 and up

$35

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Paint the Northern Lights in Watercolor
Nov
16

Paint the Northern Lights in Watercolor

Luminescent sparkles of magnetic light can easily be rendered in watercolor. Join local artist, Donna Whitman, with Joyfully Rendered, as she shares with you from her visual journal of her excursion to Alaska while taking you on a journey to explore your own interpretation of the Northern Lights by creating this marvelous sight in watercolor. You’ll leave with a 5x7 of your very own. No previous art experience required and all supplies will be provided. Dress for play!

ages 15 and up

$35

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Printmaking Workshop
Nov
17

Printmaking Workshop

Join Sarah in the Scrappy Elephant Classroom for a fun printmaking workshop! You will learn the basics of linocut printing and have the opportunity to make countless prints and cards. Leave with the knowledge of printmaking, your linoleum stamp (or even two), and MANY beautiful handmade prints and cards.

for ages 15 and up

$35

Sign up here!

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Watercolor Foundations: Expanding Your Skills
Nov
17

Watercolor Foundations: Expanding Your Skills

Take your watercolor painting to the next level with Blake Bottoms’ Watercolor Foundations: Expanding Your Skills workshop, designed for intermediate painters. This class focuses on refining core techniques such as color mixing, layering, and controlling water flow, while introducing more advanced methods like glazing, wet-on-wet painting, and creating texture.

Through guided exercises and hands-on projects, you'll develop greater confidence and precision in your work, allowing you to achieve more complex compositions and artistic effects. Perfect for those looking to deepen their watercolor practice and explore new creative possibilities. All materials are included!

Ages 15 and up

$40

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Holiday Art and Craft After School Art Series
Nov
19

Holiday Art and Craft After School Art Series

In this 4 week afterschool art series students will create a variety of holiday themed arts and crafts for themselves or to give as gifts! Unique and interactive thanksgiving cards, mixed media sculptures, painted ornaments and more!

For 1st-5th graders

Every Tuesday after school from 3:30-4:30 starting on November 19- December 17 (skipping November 26)

Sign up here!

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Holiday Art and Craft After School Art Series for Middle School
Nov
19

Holiday Art and Craft After School Art Series for Middle School

In this 4 week afterschool art series students will create a variety of holiday themed arts and crafts for themselves or to give as gifts! DIY Stickers, polymer clay miniatures, and so much more!

For 6th-8th graders

Every Tuesday after school from 5-6 starting on November 19- December 17 (skipping November 26)

Sign up here!

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Movie and Crafting Night
Nov
20

Movie and Crafting Night

It’s time for a comfort movie to settle into the colder months! Bring some snacks and bevys and come watch the Miyazaki cult classic Kiki’s Delivery Service while crafting the night away. Bring your own project, or we will have supplies on hand to make some fun projects.

Ages 18 and up

$5

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Bee a Crocheter
Nov
23

Bee a Crocheter

Join Emma in this amigurumi class and learn how to crochet a bee. Basic crochet experience required

ages 12 and up

$40 includes instruction, supplies (including a bamboo crochet hook) and you will leave with an adorable crocheted bee!

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Beginning Watercolor Workshop: Autumn Leaves
Nov
23

Beginning Watercolor Workshop: Autumn Leaves

Discover the beauty of watercolor in this beginner watercolor workshop, where we’ll focus on painting vibrant, autumnal maple leaves. Led by Blake Bottoms (they/them), a Charlottesville-based watercolor artist, this workshop is perfect for beginners looking to explore the fundamentals of watercolor painting in a relaxed, supportive environment.

In this class, you’ll learn:

  • Basic watercolor techniques like wet-on-wet and layering washes

  • How to mix colors to capture the rich hues of autumn leaves

  • Simple brushstrokes to create natural textures and shapes

  • Tips on composition and adding finishing details

Blake will guide you step-by-step as you create your own stunning maple leaf painting, with plenty of room for creativity and personal expression. Whether you’re brand new to watercolor or looking to refresh your skills, this class is a great way to dive into the art of watercolor painting. All materials are provided, so just bring your creativity and enthusiasm!

Ages 14 and up

$40

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Watercolor Workshop: Ranculus
Nov
24

Watercolor Workshop: Ranculus

Join us for a relaxing and creative experience as we explore the beauty of painting a red ranunculus! This workshop, led by watercolor artist Blake Bottoms, is designed for beginner to intermediate artists, guiding you step by step through watercolor techniques to bring this vibrant flower to life on paper. Whether you're new to painting or looking to refine your skills, you'll enjoy a fun and supportive environment where you'll learn color blending, brushwork, and layering to capture the delicate petals and rich colors of the ranunculus.

All materials are provided, and no prior watercolor experience is necessary—just bring your creativity and enthusiasm!

Ages 15 and up

$35

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Beginning and Intermediate Gelli Printmaking
Nov
30

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

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Beginner Embroidery- Stitching on Patterned Fabric
Oct
30

Beginner Embroidery- Stitching on Patterned Fabric

Join instructor Ari (they/them) to learn the basics of embroidery materials and techniques while beginning a fun and flexible project. We’ll cover satin stitch, running stitch, and backstitch- possibly more depending on interest- and you’ll use your new skills to embellish a piece of printed fabric with your own stitches. - We’ll use 4 inch hoops, embroidery floss in a myriad of colors, and a choice of printed fabrics from the instructor’s stash. If you’d rather bring your own non-stretchy fabric (quilting cottons are great!) with a pattern that fits within a 4 inch circle, you are welcome to do so! Projects can be finished as a piece of hangable art using the hoop as a frame, or removed if you’d like to sew them onto something else. - Depending on the complexity of the design you choose, it is likely you will not complete the entire project in class. You’ll go home with the skills to continue embroidering on your own.

Ages 12 and up

$40

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Halloween Macrame
Oct
20

Halloween Macrame

Come join us and make some festive decor for the spooky season! We will be using cotton rope to create a macrame ghost or jack o’ lantern. This simple project is perfect for those who have never done macrame as well as those more experienced.

ages 12 and up

$30

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Printing with Legos!
Oct
18

Printing with Legos!

Join us for an exciting LEGO Printmaking Workshop, where participants of all ages can explore the art of relief printing in a fun and creative way. Perfect for kids and families, this hands-on workshop offers step-by-step guidance from our expert trainer, leading you through the entire process—from building the frame with LEGO blocks to creating stunning prints on paper. Using LEGO tiles to design unique patterns or images, you’ll learn about essential printmaking techniques, including how to craft a LEGO "plate," apply ink with brayers, and explore concepts like registration, layering, and more. It's a wonderful opportunity to dive into printmaking while enjoying a playful and artistic experience.

for ages 5 and up (and parents, you can drop your kiddos off!)

$35

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Embroidery Basics
Oct
16

Embroidery Basics

Come join us to learn some basic embroidery stitches. Whether you’re new to embroidery or wanting to practice and stitch with others, we would love to have you! You’ll be provided with supplies needed for class and written instructions to bring home with you for finishing your project or future reference. We will work on creating an abstract embroidery sampler, such as the one pictured.

Ages 12 and up (or younger with an assistant)

$25

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Drop-in Planter Party
Oct
16

Drop-in Planter Party

Pop by any time between 5 and 7 and upcycle an old Oui jar into a cute little planter. Fill it with dirt and a baby spider plant (while supplies last). Feel free to bring snacks, drinks, friends! No sign-up necessary, just stop in and pay when you’re finished!

$10

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Needle Felted Mothman
Oct
13

Needle Felted Mothman

Let's make a cryptid! Join Ari (they/them) to learn how to make a cute and spooky little Mothman 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 mini Mothman to keep or give as a gift, as well as a felting mat and needle of your own. Beginners and returning students welcome!

ages 14 and up

$40

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Autumn Birches in Watercolor
Oct
12

Autumn Birches in Watercolor

Join, Donna Whitman, local artist at Joyfully Rendered, as she leads you on an exciting watercolor adventure deep into a forest of warm autumn birches. You’ll be learning and practicing the wet on wet technique and employing a unique tool to help you paint realistic trees! No prior art experience necessary.

ages 16 and up

$35

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Kids After School Sewing Class
Oct
10

Kids After School Sewing Class

Sharpen your sewing skills as you make a variety of projects in this sewing series with Becky. Good for both beginners and those with some sewing experience, we’ll cover all the components of using a sewing machine as well as 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 snack bags, tote bags, pj pants, aprons and/or stuffies.

for ages 10 and up

4 Thursdays from 5-6:30

$150

Sign up here!

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Adult Sewing Class
Oct
10

Adult Sewing Class

Sharpen your sewing skills as you make a variety of projects in this sewing series with Becky. Good for both beginners and those with some sewing experience, we’ll cover all the components of using a sewing machine as well as 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 zipper pouches, tote bags, maybe even dip into some garment pattern sewing as we work at our own pace.

$150 for 4 classes

Sign up here!

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Beginning Drawing for Adults
Oct
3

Beginning Drawing for Adults

Have you been wanting to get into drawing, but don’t know where to begin? Join our amazing teacher Beth, as she leads you through a four week class that teaches you the basics of drawing with pencils, charcoal and pastels.

Thursday afternoons at 2pm

Ages 18 and up

$100 for all four classes

Sign up here!

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Beginning Drawing for Adults
Oct
1

Beginning Drawing for Adults

Have you been wanting to get into drawing, but don’t know where to begin? Join our amazing teacher Beth, as she leads you through a four week class that teaches you the basics of drawing with pencils, charcoal and pastels.

Tuesday mornings at 10am

Ages 18 and up

$100 for all four classes

Sign up here!

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Beginner Watercolor Workshop- Mixing Colors
Sep
29

Beginner Watercolor Workshop- Mixing Colors

Unlock your creativity and explore the beautiful world of watercolor painting in our Beginner Watercolor Workshop! This hands-on class is perfect for those new to watercolor or looking to refresh their skills. Led by the experienced instructor, Blake, you'll learn fundamental techniques, experiment with vibrant colors, and create your own stunning artworks.

Workshop Highlights:

  • Hands-On Learning: Engage in practical exercises and projects designed to build your confidence and skills.

  • Supportive Environment: Receive personalized feedback and encouragement in a friendly, relaxed setting.

  • Comprehensive Guidance: Benefit from detailed demonstrations and clear explanations of each technique.

  • Materials Included: All necessary supplies are provided, so you can focus on learning and creating.

Who Should Attend: This workshop is ideal for beginners with little to no experience in watercolor painting. Whether you’re an aspiring artist, a hobbyist, or simply looking to try something new, you’ll find this class both enjoyable and enriching.

for ages 15 and up

$40

Sign up here!

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Beginner Watercolor Workshop- Techniques
Sep
22

Beginner Watercolor Workshop- Techniques

Unlock your creativity and explore the beautiful world of watercolor painting in our Beginner Watercolor Workshop! This hands-on class is perfect for those new to watercolor or looking to refresh their skills. Led by the experienced instructor, Blake, you'll learn fundamental techniques, experiment with vibrant colors, and create your own stunning artworks.

What You’ll Learn:

  • Introduction to Materials: Discover the essential tools for watercolor painting, including different types of paints, brushes, and paper.

  • Basic Techniques: Master foundational techniques such as wet-on-wet, wet-on-dry, and color mixing through guided exercises.

  • Intermediate Techniques: Elevate your skills with more advanced methods like gradients, layering, dry brushing, and correcting mistakes.

  • Creative Applications: Experiment with various textures and patterns, and create a simple landscape painting with step-by-step guidance.

  • Individual Project: Apply what you’ve learned to create a personal piece of art with one-on-one support from the instructor.

Workshop Highlights:

  • Hands-On Learning: Engage in practical exercises and projects designed to build your confidence and skills.

  • Supportive Environment: Receive personalized feedback and encouragement in a friendly, relaxed setting.

  • Comprehensive Guidance: Benefit from detailed demonstrations and clear explanations of each technique.

  • Materials Included: All necessary supplies are provided, so you can focus on learning and creating.

Who Should Attend: This workshop is ideal for beginners with little to no experience in watercolor painting. Whether you’re an aspiring artist, a hobbyist, or simply looking to try something new, you’ll find this class both enjoyable and enriching.

for ages 15 and up

$40

Sign up here!

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Macrame 102
Sep
15

Macrame 102

Join us as we create macrame wall hangings using some basic macrame knots. All skill levels are welcome as we will be working at different paces, learning and perfecting different knotting techniques. In this class we will create a decorative wall hanging for you to take home.

for ages 12 and up

$30

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Mosaic 101
Sep
14

Mosaic 101

Eileen has been installing mosaics throughout Charlottesville in schools and Habitat for Humanity buildings. Her work can be seen at C’ville Art Cooperative on the Downtown Mall. This very beginner workshop will focus on tools, materials, and basics of cutting tile and glass, how to properly adhere mosaic bits to a substrate, make a curve from a square, and grouting. You’ll have a fun, relaxed time making your first impressive mosaic art piece at your own pace. You will go home with a ready to hang wall hanging with bright and shine glass and ceramic tiles. 5 1/2 hours with a 40 minute break to let the tiles set before grouting.

ages 15 and up

$56

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Kids After School Sewing Class
Sep
12

Kids After School Sewing Class

Sharpen your sewing skills as you make a variety of projects in this sewing series with Becky. Good for both beginners and those with some sewing experience, we’ll cover all the components of using a sewing machine as well as 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 snack bags, tote bags, pj pants, aprons and/or stuffies.

for ages 10 and up

4 Thursdays from 4-5:30

$150

Sign up here!

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Adult Sewing Class
Sep
12

Adult Sewing Class

Sharpen your sewing skills as you make a variety of projects in this sewing series with Becky. Good for both beginners and those with some sewing experience, we’ll cover all the components of using a sewing machine as well as 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 zipper pouches, tote bags, maybe even dip into some garment pattern sewing as we work at our own pace.

$150 for 4 classes

Sign up here!

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Adult Beginner Sewing Class
Sep
11

Adult Beginner Sewing Class

Students will have taken their machine out of the box and played with it a bit, they should be able to turn it on, maybe thread it, and maybe have even sewn with it a bit! You will learn additional sewing machine basics, including how to wind a bobbin, stitch straight seams, how to back stitch, etc. From there, you’ll learn basic construction, we'll start with a basic tote bag and wind up with a simple pair of pull-on shorts or PJ Pants or top from a pattern.

Students need to bring a sewing machine in good working order (including power cord and pedal) but if you don’t have one, it can be provided. You'll also need a basic sewing kit (pins, measuring tape, marking tools, fabric scissors, ruler, etc.)  Students will be given a short list of tools and materials at registration.

$200 for 4 classes

Sign up here!

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