If you've never been, you can think of Workshop SF as a DIY/design lover's Chuck E. Cheese academy. The Etsy-meets-rock-n-roll lab is quietly nestled in Western Addition, and is fueled with the creative innovation of founder, Kelly Malone (SF's DIY do-gooder). The space is the perfect learning environment for all levels of hands-on DIYers, and the hip roster of workshops offer everything but your mom's home-ec class.
This August, Workshop is focusing on fun, stylish classes like the Blue Jean Rehab and Makeup Mastery: Smokey Eyes + Nude Lips. Every class is under $60 (most are $40), and they are conveniently held on evenings and weekends. Anyone can get in on the maker movement, just start with these awesome classes.
Sewing 101: Machine and Hand Basics, $36
Tuesday August 2 from 7:30pm-10:30pm; Friday August 5 from 1pm-4pm; Saturday August 13 from 12pm-3pm.
The art of sewing starts with a solid foundation -- just you and the machine. In this 3 hour class, you'll learn basic sewing skills, how to cut fabric and how to sew a simple pattern. You'll also learn how to operate a sewing machine (Your new bestie!) and will head home with three fabulous, hand-crafted goodies.
Sewing From a Pattern: Handbags, Totes, and Purses, $40
Tuesday August 2 from 7:30pm-10:30pm.
Okay, so you're a rockstar at threading a sewing machine, and you've sewn your fair share of simple pillows -- now you're looking for a bigger challenge. This class teaches you how to think up a simple, chic design, draft a pattern (So pro!) and then sew your own handbag. After this, the possibilities are endless!
Sewing Alterations: Blue Jeans Rehab, $40
Sunday August 7 from 3pm-6pm; Thursday August 11 from 7:30pm-10:30pm.
Save your beloved everyday denim with this wide-ranging class. Learn sharp techniques for altering, repairing and rehabilitating and turn those older loose-fits into your new favorite skinnies; patch that hole from that bike fall that one time; and repair the vanishing denim in the forbidden chaffing zone (You know what we're talking about!)! As an added bonus you'll also learn how to give your denim some hip ware-and-tare for that perfectly worn-in, vintage look.
Beauty School Rebel: Makeup Mastery - Classic Cat Eyes + Red Lips, $56
Thursday August 18 from 7:30pm-9:30pm.
Led by Shana Astrachan and Elizabeth Fox Fox & Doll Makeup, this class is about learning legit, insider makeup tricks. We're talking how-to fake having perfect skin, get the cattiest eyes from your favorite liquid liner, and that perfect, long-lasting red pout. Bonus: learn how to get the best skin of your life -- without make up!
Beauty School Rebel: Makeup Mastery - Smokey Eyes + Nude Lips, $56
Wednesday August 24 from 7:30pm-9:30pm.
It's no secret that smokey eyes and non-pasty nude lips are hard to master. If you've yet to perfect that sultry makeup duo, get in on this brilliant class, led by the Fox & Doll Makeup duo. You'll develop application techniques, get tips on products that really work, and you'll even learn a simple-chic daytime look for the office, or brunch!
DIY Jewelry: Feathers, Leather and Chains, $42
Wednesday August 31 from 7:30pm-10:30pm.
In this class, metalwork maker, Shana Astrachan, shares her skills for basic jewelry design. She'll cover how-to including: manipulating chains, creating loops and use different jewelry closures. Then, you'll create two pairs of earrings and one necklace from Workshop's finest selection of feathers, lace, leather and kitschy found objects. Best of all, these materials and skills are super easy to continue at home!
Screen Printing for Newbies, $38
Thursday August 4 from 7:30pm-10:30pm; Saturday August 13 from 4pm-7pm.
This one is a true Workshop favorite, and for good reason. You'll learn the whole one-color printing process, including image transfers, vacuum exposure and how to properly swipe that squeegee. With 18 colors to choose from, you'll work with the many different house screens (Trust us, they rock!) and walk away with some seriously brag-worthy art.
DIY Business: Craft Show to Cash, Yo!, $42
Saturday August 13 from 12pm-3pm.
Maybe you're a Workshop vet with some mad craftin' skills, or just an ex-tech/finance drone turned aspiring chef/DIY guru? You simply need to turn what you love into some oh-so lovely cash. In this class, Kelly Malone, founder of Indie Martand Workshop, will spill all of her hard-earned tricks of the trade. Learn how to work the trade show circuit, savvy up on self promotion and take the next step in launching your very own DIY business. Bon chance!
All classes are at Workshop SF (1798 McAllister St.), info @ workshopsf.org, (415) 874-9186.
Lily Ko (lily.7x7 @ gmail.com) studied fashion design and merchandising at Central Saint Martins and the Academy of Art University. In addition to writing for 7x7, Lily is an editor at SF Station, works as a freelance stylist and covers food, fashion and fun on her blog, Curated SF.
