Creative Experiences: Alternative Art Classes in Austin

Have you ever wanted to pursue a new creative endeavor, but aren’t sure where to start? While some of us are drawn to painting or ceramics, others find joy in more unique art forms. We’ve compiled some of our favorite alternative creative classes around town.

You can also consider giving the gift of experience this holiday season by signing up a loved one or offering a gift certificate for a class to one of your creative friends or family members.

Coffee Class – Kick Butt Coffee

Thomas Gohring started offering coffee classes in 2008 at his local coffee shop, Kick Butt Coffee, located on Airport Boulevard. They were originally monthly through the University of Texas Informal Class program, where they were hugely popular and eventually increased in demand and frequency. When the UT Informal Class program was canceled, the Kick Butt Coffee team continued to offer classes privately for one to six people.

The classes start with a discussion about the history and origins of coffee. Then the crew gets on the machine to learn about pulling espresso shots and steaming milk to make a variety of drinks. You’ll walk away with a better understanding of what it takes to be a barista -or at least make some tasty drinks on your home espresso machine for a new morning art form. So get a group of friends together to take your coffee game to the next level!

Taste of Glassblowing – Ghost Pepper Glass

This crash course occurs Friday and Saturday evenings at the Springdale studio. It only takes 15 minutes to make each piece, so participants walk away with a unique souvenir they made with the one-on-one help of a skilled instructor. Students are encouraged to do as much of the glass-blowing works as safely possible and can observe others for the remainder of the hour-long class.

Sewing Classes – Sew Much More

Have you ever wanted to learn how to make your own clothes? At Sew Much More on West Anderson Lane, you can take classes on everything from how to read a pattern to beginning sewing to wardrobe essentials. The best part is that training classes are free if you purchase a machine with Sew Much More! The educators are constantly updating their techniques, so you’ll be receiving the best guidance on sewing, embroidery and quilting.

Thai Fresh Cooking Class – Confituras Kitchen

These classes were hugely popular before the pandemic, and now they’re back with the same cult following. Jam Santichat, chef and co-owner of Austin’s beloved Thai Fresh, has moved the classes to Confituras Kitchen to allow for more space. This intimate setting allows students to go back and forth from the kitchen to a dining area to cook, and then eat a variety of Thai classics.

Jam is energetic and funny – inspiring us to recreate traditional Thai cooking in our own kitchens. Even amid running Thai Fresh and her vegan ice cream shop Gati, Jam finds joy in cooking and continues to make time to lead these classics for the community.