Art’s Cool: Drop-In Craft Studios for a Rainy Day

Kiddo might not be ready for an intensive multi-week study on Matisse. But a one-off free paint session could be just what your pint-size art aficionado needs to beat a case of cabin fever. These drop-in studios give little ones a canvas, smock, plus use of paints and other art materials; all they have to bring is their imaginations.

KidsJamz by ArtJamz Dupont Studio
Located in Dupont Circle, ArtJamz hosts $15 walk-in sessions for all ages (weekdays 5 pm-6 pm and weekends 12 pm-6 pm). Junior gets as much paint as his palate can handle; you can bring a canvas or buy one. The largest ones are $20, but they also sell super-cute mini canvases for $6 and art dolls for $13. There’s a fun, kid-friendly vibe—music plays while “creative enablers” wander around suggesting ideas and doling out encouragement. And parents can paint along or enjoy beverages (alcoholic or otherwise) in the lounge.

1728 Connecticut Ave., NW
202-709-8096
Online: artjamzdc.com

Merlot’s Masterpiece
Given its wine-centric name, you’d be correct in thinking that this popular art activity caters to the grown-up set. A full wine menu comes with each adult single class held in a gorgeous row house on U Street. But kids can definitely get in on the action here, too, with scheduled private birthday parties with fun themes like tutu making, pirates, and princesses. Two-hour party packages start at $35 per kid, which includes art supplies, an instructor and an event coordinator; add-ons include special projects, pizza, cupcakes, and party goods like paper plates, napkins, and cutlery.

1512 U St., NW
202-387-4278
Online: merlotsart.com

Amazing Art Studio
At Amazing Art, kids can fill in a pre-printed canvas, create a mosaic, fuse glass pieces, or paint pottery (each piece ranges in price from $15-$60). In addition to the no-cover drop-in sessions, the studio hosts week-long summer camps for super crafty kiddos. Various weeks focus on different themes and skills, like “Frozen” the move, ocean-related projects, and refining technique.

5268-R Nicholson Ln. (North Bethesda, Md)
301-881-3133

All Fired Up
If your kids want to paint something three-dimensional, stop by All Fired Up in Bethesda and Cleveland Park, where recent pottery options include everything from mermaid figurines to dog dishes. There’s also mosaic picture frames to assemble, and week-long summer camp sessions, which this year include working with wet clay in addition to painting dry pieces.

3413 Connecticut Ave., NW
202-363-9590

4923 Elm St. (Bethesda, Md)
301-654-3206

Online: allfiredupdc.com

Where does your family go to show off their artsy side? Tell us in the comments section below. 

—Nadya Sagner

Photos courtesy of ArtJamz via Facebook, Merlot’s Masterpiece, Amazing Art Studio via Facebook, All Fired Up via Facebook