Learn to Use Your Sewing Machine

Do you have a sewing machine but don't know what all the knobs are for and how to use it? Or perhaps you sewed a long time ago and need a refresher? Come to this workshop and learn to use a sewing machine by bringing your own or renting ours! Topics we will cover include:<ul><li>How to thread your machine</li><li>Adjusting for the correct tension for the fabric</li><li>What's a bobbin and how to wind it correctly</li><li>Replacing a bobbin</li><li>When and how to change the Foot</li><li>When and how to change the Needle</li><li>Troubleshooting and maintenance</li><li>Exploring various stitches</li></ul>As practice, we will sew some simple projects such as coasters and placemats! Fabric is not included but is available for purchase in-store. Please bring:<ul><li>Your sewing machine and foot pedal</li><li>The manual, if you have one. If not, that's ok.</li><li>Any attachments that came with your machine, such as zipper foot, spare needles</li><li>Thread ('All Purpose' is fine). Do not use Quilting thread</li><li>Optional: Small piece of cotton fabric (half a yard) to practice stitches. Please make sure your fabric is not stretchy, knit or jersey.</li></ul>Duration:  1.5 hr Minimum Age Required: 13yrs Parking: Street parking or garage. Unfortunately, we don't validate parking vouchers. Location: Craft Loft 100 CambridgeSide Pl, 2nd floor near TJ Maxx Cambridge, MA  *Please see our refund/reschedule policy <a href="https://studio.gardenstreets.com/policies/refund-policy">here.</a> Tipping is not expected but always appreciated!

Craft Loft

Beginner Watercolor

During this painting workshop, we will introduce the fundamentals of working with watercolor, traditional bamboo and horsehair brush, mixing colors and several easy and fun techniques. We will show techniques to create unique and beautiful paintings that's fit for the season:<ul><li>Winter - Misty mountain, birch grove, hedgehog, wreath postcards (holiday only)</li><li>Spring and Summer examples - flowering cherry tree, poppy blossoms, desert cactus, florals</li><li>Fall examples - pumpkin, Fall foliage</li></ul>Our art host will provide general instructions on how to use simple &amp; easy dot and splash watercolor techniques along with the art of blow painting (using a straw to move paint around the paper). The results are always astonishing and unique. Every splash, dot, and stroke will create a personalized memento of this fun &amp; relaxing creative experience. Materials Included: Watercolor paint, straws, watercolor brushes, watercolor paper, palette, Q-tips Duration: 90min Minimum Age Required: 10 years old Location: Craft Loft 100 CambridgeSide Pl, 2nd floor near TJ Maxx Cambridge, MA  Parking: Street parking or garage. Unfortunately, we don't validate parking vouchers. *Please see our refund policy and minimum age policy <a href="https://studio.gardenstreets.com/policies/refund-policy">here.</a> Tipping is not expected but always appreciated!

Succulent Planting Workshop

During this workshop, attendees will get their hands dirty putting together a beautiful&nbsp;succulent terrarium or wine bottle planter using a curated selection of high-quality materials, including moss, rocks, and live succulent plants. Our expert host will guide you through the process, providing tips and insight on how to care for the plants to help them thrive. These plants are easy to care for and add a nice touch of nature to any indoor setting. See how everyone’s creativity and style comes through in their own personal, unique creation! Duration:&nbsp;60min Minimum Age Required: 6yrs Materials Included: Glass bowl or wine bottle planter, succulent plant(s), soil, decorative mosses, small and large decorative rocks, drainage gravel, pair of chopsticks (for planting), figurine. Location:&nbsp; Craft Loft 100 CambridgeSide Pl, 2nd floor near TJ Maxx, Cambridge, MA Parking: Street parking or garage.&nbsp;Unfortunately, we don't validate parking vouchers. *Please see our refund/reschedule policy <a href="https://studio.gardenstreets.com/policies/refund-policy">here.</a> Tipping is not expected but always appreciated!

Beginner Knitting: Knit a Scarf

Want to learn how to knit? This is the perfect class for beginners to learn with hands-on guidance. We will be using soft, large-gauge yarn to make it even more cozy and easier. At the end of the class, you will learn how to do every step to complete your project.  During the workshop, you’ll Learn: - How to cast on (or begin your project) - How to do a simple knit stitch - How to finish your project and weave in ends - Optional: learn how to purl stitch We’ll also discuss how to read a pattern, basic garment care, different types of knitting needles and their uses, different types of yarn and how to pick yarn for a project, how to make different sizes of scarves, and how to fix mistakes.  For the advanced beginner or the adventurous, we will also teach how to create a 'Keyhole' in your scarf to tuck in the other end! All materials are provided for this class (super chunky yarn, knitting needles). All you need to bring is yourself and your curiosity. We can’t wait to knit with you!   Note: Knitting is a time-consuming hobby because it takes time to make every stitch. Most people (unless you are making a small scarf) will not complete the project in 2 hours, but will finish it at home. Duration: 2hr Minimum Age Required: 12yrs Location: Craft Loft 100 CambridgeSide Pl, 2nd floor near TJ Maxx Cambridge, MA 02141 *Please see our refund/reschedule policy <a href="https://studio.gardenstreets.com/policies/refund-policy">here.</a> Tipping is not expected but always appreciated!

Monogram Embroidery for Beginners

Picnic and alfresco dining weather is just around the corner.&nbsp;Elevate the occasion with a monogrammed towel or table setting!&nbsp;These also make for personal gifts for weddings and birthdays. In this workshop, learn the basics of applying needle and thread to create beautiful decorative designs.&nbsp;We will cover:<ul><li>How to properly set up an embroidery hoop</li><li>How to split embroidery floss without tangling</li><li>Basic hand stitches</li><li>Popular decorative stitches such as French Knot, Satin stitch, Rose stitch and more</li></ul>Note:&nbsp;You are welcome to bring your own item to embroider.&nbsp;We recommend fabric with natural fibers such as cotton, wool or silk.&nbsp;Avoid stretchy fabric or anything that's super thick or fuzzy.&nbsp;Faux furs, denim, leather or fleece will be difficult to work with due to their thickness and toughness.&nbsp; Duration:&nbsp;90min Materials:&nbsp;A large square 100% cotton linen fabric that can be used as napkin or hand towel, needle, 1 skein embroidery floss (color of your choice), needle threader, embroidery hoop Min. Age Required: 10yrs old Parking: Street parking or garage. Unfortunately, we don't validate parking vouchers. Location: Craft Loft 100 CambridgeSide Pl, 2nd floor near TJ Maxx Cambridge, MA *Please see our refund/reschedule policy&nbsp;<a href="https://studio.gardenstreets.com/policies/refund-policy">here.</a> Tipping is not expected but always appreciated!

Hand Building Pottery Workshop

Get your hands on some clay and make a versatile trinket dish or incense holder. We will discuss the basics of rolling a slab, making a coil, and finally how to add texture to your piece. We'll also have fun add-ons such as seashells and pebbles to make your piece extra special. Best of all, we will be using air dried clay that you can take home and simply dry and harden. No long waiting times for kiln firing! The hardened pieces can be painted with acrylic paint if you want to add additional color later. Materials: Air dried clay (1 lbs, enough to make 2 pieces!). All tools are provided. Duration: 1.5hrs Location:  Craft Loft 100 CambridgeSide Pl, 2nd floor near TJ Maxx Cambridge, MA 02141 Parking: Street parking or garage. Unfortunately, we don't validate parking vouchers. *Please see our refund/reschedule policy <a href="https://studio.gardenstreets.com/policies/refund-policy">here.</a> Tipping is not expected but always appreciated!

Make Your Favorite Food Mini Fridge Magnets

What's better than your favorite food in the fridge? It's your favorite food on the fridge! Join us at this fun workshop and make delightful tiny food fridge magnets using polymer clay. We'll share pro tips for construction, baking and working with the clay.  Expect to be able to make 2-3 custom magnets, depending on your own working speed. Each ticket option is for one attendee only. Unfortunately, we are not able to offer the guest option for this workshop.  Materials: Everything you need! Clay, Magnets, Shaping tools. Clay will be baked during the workshop so you can take them home the same day! Minimum Age Required: 7yrs old Duration: 90min Parking: Street parking or garage. Unfortunately, we don't validate parking vouchers. Location: Craft Loft 100 CambridgeSide Pl, 2nd floor near TJ Maxx Cambridge, MA *Please see our refund policy and minimum age policy <a href="https://studio.gardenstreets.com/policies/refund-policy">here.</a>

Leatherworking - Intermediate Leather Wallet

Learn to work with leather in this awesome workshop.&nbsp;We'll cut, punch, sew, glue and also attach hardware to make your very own custom wallet.&nbsp;This wallet is a convenient size with two separate compartments to hold cash and cards separately.&nbsp;The finished wallet measures approximately 5.5"W x 3"H. You'll be able to choose from multiple colors of dye to work onto your wallet, or simply keep it natural.&nbsp;You can also inscribe with initials, names, dates or favorite quote to make it extra special.&nbsp;This workshop is perfect for Father's Day, date nights, anniversaries or to level-up your leather-working experience! Note:&nbsp;The leather we use is tanned using a vegetable-based process and is more environmentally friendly than industrial processing.&nbsp;We do use real leather (animal hide) in this workshop. Materials:&nbsp;All materials and tools are provided. Duration:&nbsp; 2 hours Min. Age Required:&nbsp;13yrs Location: Craft Loft 100 CambridgeSide Pl, 2nd floor near TJ Maxx Cambridge, MA 02141 Parking: Street parking or garage.&nbsp;Unfortunately, we don't validate parking vouchers. *Please see our refund policy and minimum age policy&nbsp;<a href="https://studio.gardenstreets.com/policies/refund-policy">here.</a> Tipping is not expected but always appreciated!

Basket Weaving 

Learn the basics of basket making (basketry) at this fun workshop. The finished basket is sized approximately 6-8" at the base and 5-7" tall, based on your own preference for shape. Its uses are quite versatile - Perfect as a fruit basket, bread basket, or to hold trinkets or small books around the house.  Add a plastic liner and you can use it as a decorative plant container too! Topics covered include reed sizing, styles, design of baskets, techniques for creating the base, shaping, continuous weaving and lashing.  Note: some grip strength is a plus! Duration: 2hrs Required minimum age: 10yrs Location: Craft Loft 100 CambridgeSide Pl, 2nd floor near TJ Maxx Cambridge, MA 02141 Recommended minimum age: 10yrs old

Beginner Knitting: Knit Your First Beanie

Want to learn how to knit? This is the perfect class for beginners to try out a new skill with hands-on guidance! Learn how to knit a basic hat in a chunky, soft yarn for the coming fall and winter. You’ll Learn:<ul><li>How to cast on (or begin your project)</li><li>How to do a simple knit stitch</li><li>How to knit in the round</li><li>How to finish your project and weave in ends</li><li>How to make and attach a pom pom to a hat</li></ul>We’ll also discuss how to read a pattern, basic garment care, different types of knitting needles and their uses, different types of yarn and how to pick yarn for a project, how to make different sizes of hats, and how to fix mistakes. All materials are provided for this class. All you need to bring is yourself and your curiosity. We can’t wait to knit with you! *Please note that the project will not be completed during the workshop. You will be given the necessary tools and skills to complete it at your leisure. Duration: 90min Minimum Age Required: 12yrs Parking: Street parking or garage. Unfortunately, we don't validate parking vouchers. *Please see our refund/reschedule policy <a href="https://studio.gardenstreets.com/policies/refund-policy">here.</a> Tipping is not expected but always appreciated!

Fresh Floral Arrangement Making - Cambridge

In this workshop we will discuss color theory, the three 'er's, basic design and color principles as well as floral handling techniques to make a beautiful arrangement. Vase and flowers are included! Perfect for celebrations, or just a moment to stop and smell the flowers. Note:  Our focus is to create a beautiful looking arrangement for you to take home by following a specific set of guidelines.  This is not a general purpose floral design or color theory class. Each ticket option is for one attendee only. Unfortunately, we are not able to offer the guest option for this workshop.  Materials Included:  Seasonal premium fresh florals and foliage, ribbons, clear glass vase, and flower food to last a week! *Please note that we cannot accommodate specific color requests or avoidances. Duration: 60min Minimum Age Required: 7yrs Location:  Craft Loft 100 CambridgeSide Pl, Cambridge, 2nd floor near TJ Maxx Cambridge, MA 02141 Parking: Street parking or garage. Unfortunately, we don't validate parking vouchers. *Please see our refund policy and minimum age policy <a href="https://studio.gardenstreets.com/policies/refund-policy">here.</a> Tipping is not expected but always appreciated!

Abstract Portrait Painting

Turn your favorite photo into a lovely piece of art made by you! You don't need to be an artist to make something cool. We'll follow an easy process to transfer your image from a photo printout onto a glass surface. Choose your picture frame color to match (white, black and natural)! This is perfect for Valentine's Day, Anniversary and Birthday celebrations! Materials: Please bring a print out of the portrait you want to use. A color printout is preferred, but black and white can work as well. We recommend no more than 4 individuals in the photo. The photo should show at least the upper bodies of the main characters and measure at least 6"x6". Main characters need to be at least 5" tall for enough details to show. Duration: 90min Min Age Required: 10yrs Parking: Street parking or garage. Unfortunately, we don't validate parking vouchers. Location: Craft Loft 100 CambridgeSide Pl, 2nd floor near TJ Maxx Cambridge, MA *Please see our refund/reschedule policy <a href="https://studio.gardenstreets.com/policies/refund-policy">here.</a> Tipping is not expected but always appreciated!

Bonsai 101

Come join a Master Gardener and learn about the ancient art of Bonsai, its history, fun facts and myth busters! Attendees will get hands on and creative with planting their very own bonsai tree!  We will show you all the crucial steps needed (and why) to transition a bonsai-tree-in-training into its first real bonsai pot, and provide tips for care so that it will flourish for years to come. Materials:  bonsai-tree-in-training (Juniper or Norfolk Island Pine based on availability), bonsai pot, wire, mesh, specialty bonsai soil, shale, humidity tray, humidity rocks, river rock, tools Duration: 60 minutes. Please book at least 24-48 hours in advance so that we can have the materials ready for you.  Location: 100 CambridgeSide Pl, 2nd floor next to TJ Maxx Parking: You can park on the street (meter) or in the garage in the building. CambridgeSide Pl is a mall and has a big "CS" on the building.  ﻿Note:  If you want a particular variety, please make a note during checkout and we'll do our best to accommodate, if available.

Chunky Knit Throw Blanket Making

Join us for a fun and easy workshop, where our instructor will guide you through the process of designing and creating your very own Chunky Knit Throw Blanket. This cozy blanket will look and feel amazing on your couch and lap, providing a moment of zen and peacefulness as you work on it. It's light enough for use during the summer months and cozy enough for snuggling up in the winter. Best of all, no prior knitting experience or any needles are required to make this!   Materials Included:  Soft Chenille Yarn in beautiful seasonal hues. Duration: 2 hours (most people finish the blanket in the time frame, but we don't rush you and some also decide to get more yarn to take home and make a larger blanket). You will know how to complete your blanket by the end of 2hours for sure! Location:  Craft Loft 100 CambridgeSide Pl, 2nd floor near TJ Maxx Cambridge, MA 02141 Parking: Street parking or garage. Unfortunately, we don't validate parking vouchers. *Please see our refund/reschedule policy <a href="https://studio.gardenstreets.com/policies/refund-policy">here.</a> Tipping is not expected but always appreciated!

Tufting (Make your own rug) 

Have you&nbsp;seen tufting&nbsp;on TikTok or IG and have been curious to try it out?&nbsp;Come to our fully equipped studio and make your own masterpiece!&nbsp;Our expert staff is on hand to guide you step-by-step and share tips for the best-looking product.&nbsp;&nbsp; Tufting is a creative activity using yarn and a tool called 'tufting gun' to create a cut-pile rug that can be used&nbsp;to hang on&nbsp;walls, decorate pillows, cushions and more.&nbsp;The best part of this activity is that you have complete freedom on the image choice.&nbsp;Anything you can think of... your favorite video game , cartoon, comic book, an abstract image, a phrase, logo, landscape, an original drawing, etc... can be created as a tufted rug.&nbsp;&nbsp; Here are what we will cover in the Tufting Workshop: - Safe handling of your Tufting Gun.&nbsp;It looks like a drill but has a sharp end.&nbsp;It does not shoot anything. - How to select and transfer your image. - Color selection -&nbsp;How to finish and display your rug We provide tufting gun, tufting frame, yarn and all supplies needed for you to successfully create and display your rug!&nbsp;&nbsp; You just need to bring an image that you'd like to use. Must be PNG OR JPG Format. We recommend something that does not have a lot of tiny details.&nbsp;Keep in mind that yarn expands and intermixes, so your 'pixel' size for tufting is quite large.&nbsp;Images with a clear edge between colors and easy shapes are best for tufting.&nbsp;Color blending or fading is not easily done with tufting unless you are already experienced or working with a Large or X-Large size.&nbsp; Workshop Duration:&nbsp;2 - 4 hours depending on the size of your image.&nbsp;If you are not able to finish your piece in one sitting, you can return to finish your piece any time during our open studio times within 30 days.&nbsp;It helps to call ahead so we can get your materials ready.&nbsp; Minimum Age Required:&nbsp;13 years old+ Note:&nbsp;Because tufting uses a power tool, we do ask that you sign a waiver in store.&nbsp;We also provide safety glasses.&nbsp;Anyone under 18yrs old must have an adult sign the waiver on their behalf and be accompanied and supervised by an adult at all times. You can review and sign the waiver<a href="https://waiver.smartwaiver.com/w/jd7qkwakxfmsjxk75cta76/web/"> here </a>or at the workshop when you arrive. Location: Craft Loft 100 CambridgeSide Pl, 2nd floor near&nbsp;TJ Maxx Cambridge, MA&nbsp; Parking: Street parking or garage.&nbsp;Unfortunately, we don't validate parking vouchers. *Please see our refund policy and minimum age policy&nbsp;<a href="https://studio.gardenstreets.com/policies/refund-policy">here.</a> Tipping is not expected but always appreciated!

S22: conversations

Wondering what to do in Boston? Places to eat? Free activities? Good for a group? Date night spot? Girls night out? The best things to do? Ask Joyraft!

Best places to go in Boston? Things to do? Places to eat?

Questions & answers about things to do in Boston

Recs 💬

Community recs 💬

S4: top picks

The most fun, cool and unique things to do in Boston. Can’t miss events, shows and experiences. Concerts, restaurants, bars, free things in Boston and beyond.

The most fun and cool events happening around Boston

Hot and new things to do in Boston

Hot & new

Hot & new 🔥

S11: happening this weekend

What to do in Boston this weekend? From festivals, concerts, performances, free events, screenings and more, Joyraft has the best things to do in Boston.

25+ things to do in Boston/Cambridge/Somerville this weekend

Things to do in Boston this weekend

This wknd

This weekend for you

S21: roundups

Our top picks: outdoor dining, free events, spring festivals, best bars, upcoming concerts, museum parties - the latest in and around Boston.  Slug: joyraft-top-picks-best-things-to-do-boston-ma

Top picks of the best things to do in and around Boston

Joyraft picks: Boston’s best things to do

Roundups ⭐️

Curated by Joyraft ⭐️

S28: calendar experiences

This week in Boston

This week in Boston 📆

This week 📆

S20: c+d experiences

Discover new, unique events and experiences happening in and around Boston. Perfect for date night, good for a group or with a friend. Be the first to know.

The newest events happening in and around Boston

The newest events on Joyraft

Just added

Just added to Joyraft

S16: editor picks

The most unique and can’t miss things coming up in Boston / Cambridge / Somerville and beyond. Festivals, food, drinks, fairs, concerts, art and free activities.

Unique and Can’t Miss Things to Do in Boston

Can’t-miss things to do in Boston 🚨

Can't-miss things to do 🚨

S2 (A): top experiences

The most popular things to do on Joyraft. Concerts, restaurants, bars, events, parties, openings, kid friendly, date ideas, free things in Boston and beyond.

Top 20 things to do in Boston

Top 20: Joyraft’s most popular

Top 20

Top 20 on Joyraft

S3 (A): trending experiences

Discover can’t miss events and things to do in Boston. The most fun, unique and cool events coming to the Boston area this spring and summer.

The hottest events happening in Boston

Trending events on Joyraft

Trending 📈

S17: interest based

Your guide to everything free in and around Boston. From events, to fairs, to festivals, to outdoors. Joyraft has all the free events happening near you.

100+ free things to do in Boston and beyond

Free things to do in Boston

Free things to do

S19: interest based

Kid-friendly events in Boston

S18: interest based

Where to eat and drink in Boston? Joyraft has Boston’s newest bars, restaurants and specials. Drinks and pre fixe dinner menus. Cambridge & Somerville too.

Where

craftloft_studio

Experiences

Bread Basket Weaving

Stamp Carving Workshop

Leatherworking - Advanced Beginner Custom Leather Koozie

Craft + Sip: Fresh Floral Arranging

Tufting (Make your own rug)

Sea Wave Resin Serving Tray

Make Your Own Trucker Hat Decorating

Moss Art Workshop

Abstract Pet Portrait

Make Your Own Dungeons & Dragons Dice Set

Chunky Knit Throw Blanket Making

Learn to Use Your Sewing Machine

Beginner Watercolor

Succulent Planting Workshop

Beginner Knitting: Knit a Scarf