If there's one thing this recession has taught us, it's that it's always a good idea to keep learning and bettering yourself in order to remain relevant in this ever-changing job market. If we've learned two things, the second is that you've gotta get your fun while the gettin's good. So, if you've ever wanted to try a craft you've never done before, like sewing, screen printing, or letterpress, or if you want to brush up on some new skills to add to your resume, there's no time like the present. Here are our picks for summer school craft and design classes that are happening around the city - we promise they'll be way better than that SAT practice course you took in high school.

The ART Weekend: August 13th through the 15th
Nicole Hill Gerulat has eight years as a professional photographer under her belt, and has been teaching the skills of her craft to novices since 2007. In addition to the Photo 101 courses that she regularly holds across the country, this summer she's organized a weekend-long event of inexpensive art classes open to the public. Teachers specializing in everything from Photoshop to letterpress will be offering classes at the Ferney Studio (located in the Mission) from August 13th through the 15th for $45 a pop, or less should you sign up for 3 or more. You can see the complete list of available classes here, but sign up soon as spaces are running out.

...And speaking of the Ferney Studio, owner, event planner, letterpress guru, and accomplished blogger Jordan Ferney will be hosting classes there this summer, as well. In addition to the letterpress class mentioned above, Ferney also teaches a more indepth version throughout the year where participants get to create their own business cards to take home. Most of the sessions are already full, but there are still spaces in the August 8th class.

If you can make it across the bridge to San Rafael, you might want to check out Delisa Sage's collage workshops. As the owner of stylish Potrero Hill home decor boutique Collage Gallery, it's obvious that Sage has got a wonderful eye, and if you've seen her artwork you know she has the skills to back it up. Summer workshops are scheduled for June 28th and July 26th - more information here.

Learning how to sew is a great hobby to pick up if you're interested in inexpensive ways to easily spruce up your home. After a few lessons you'll not only know your way around a Singer, but you'll be able to create your own throw pillows, napkins, and simple curtains that can perk up an interior in no time. Craft Haven Collective in Potrero currently offers classes ranging from a basic introductory course to specialized projects, such as creating an heirloom quilt or a yoga mat bag. Craft Haven Collective also offers classes on knitting and in the future will include other areas of crafting too.

Any other crafty classes that you know of around the city? We'd love to hear about them! Drop us a line in the comments below.