Tuesday Night Studio

Tuesday, March 18, 2025 7-9 PM The Local Hand 1912B Dorchester Ave Boston, MA 02124&nbsp; This is a welcoming, creative space where you can work on your latest craft project, chat with neighbors, and play around with new art supplies. Open to everyone -- from beginner crafters who want to make friends, to professional artists who need some dedicated time to work on their latest idea. Bring your own project to work on, or use our supplies to try something new. All participants will have full access to our art supplies, which include: - paints (acrylic + watercolor) - crayons + markers - graphite + colored pencils - collage materials - fabric swatches - stamps + ink pads - linocut/block printing tools - embroidery floss - air-dry modeling clay + more﻿! We will provide an (optional) creative prompt each week, like a still life set-up, collage project, or sculpture exercise. This week's prompt: junk journaling. Use our collage materials and let your creative juices flow.&nbsp; Complimentary seltzer and tea will be provided. BYO food. Get half off pizzas at Tavolo next door!&nbsp;Just show them your email receipt from us after signing up for Tuesday Night Studio. Come by and make new friends, get messy, and spend some time away from your screens. Drop-ins are welcome, but we always recommend signing up in advance. Tickets are non-refundable.

The Local Hand

Sewing for Beginners (4 Week Series)

Class Experience This introductory class will cover everything you need to know to use your sewing machine to sew simple patterns. We’ll start by learning how to thread the machine, adjust the tension and stitch to our needs, and practice sewing straight and curved seams. Later classes will build on these skills and participants will leave having made a simple wallet/business card holder and bag with a zipper. During the final class, participants can either sew a tote bag from a provided pattern or bring in a pattern of their choosing to get support with. Thread, fabric, and notions, will be provided and participants can also bring their own fabric to use. Guidance for selecting appropriate fabrics will be given in the first class. The Local Hand will provide sewing machines for participants to use in class. If you want to bring your own sewing machine, please let us know so we can make sure it is in working order before the first class. What To Bring No need to bring anything! Sewing machines will be provided.

Art Show: Material as Metaphor

This art show brings together the works of Cat Armistead and Michaela Flatley, offering an interplay between craft and contemporary fine art. Drawing from Anni Albers’s idea that “material is a means of communication,” this show emphasizes how each artist listens deeply to their chosen mediums — embroidery, watercolor, handmade paper, steel, recycled plastics, and more — to allow material to speak its own language. In their respective studio practices, repetition becomes both method and meaning: a dialogue with material, where form emerges through attentive tuning rather than rigid concepts. The works unfold gradually, revealing structure and texture as you move through them — inviting viewers to step into that same conversation, to perceive pattern not just as design, but as language. This event is FREE and open to all. Light refreshments will be served.

Mom's Night Out: Yoga + Watercolor

Class Experience Take a well-deserved break and treat yourself to a relaxing evening at The Local Hand! Join us for a gentle yoga session followed by a beginner-friendly watercolor workshop. First, Jenny will lead us through a restorative yoga flow, to help us feel grounded and energized. Then, Michaela will lead a relaxing watercolor activity, using geometric patterns to show you how to enjoy the meditative qualities of painting. Connect with other moms, unwind with a glass of wine, and enjoy some sweet treats while you create something beautiful. It’s the perfect mix of movement, creativity, and community. Come solo or bring a friend—either way, you’ll leave refreshed and inspired. Light refreshments will be served. All painting supplies are provided, but please bring your own yoga mat if you have one! What To Bring Please bring a yoga mat. All other supplies will be provided.

Pottery for Beginners: Hand-Building

Class Experience Learn a simple hand-building technique to create beautiful ceramic trays and shallow dishes. This class will also cover the basics of surface design using underglazes, stencils, transfers, and stamps. Each participant will have the opportunity to make about 3-5 different pieces, depending on size. All pieces will be bisque & glaze-fired by the instructor after the class and available for pick-up from The Local Hand a few weeks later. We will get messy, but the clay is non-toxic and washes out easily. All glazes used are also non-toxic and food-safe. No experience is necessary! Open to teens and adults. Your ticket price includes all supplies and light refreshments. All participants will also receive 10% off any shopping purchases at The Local Hand on the day of the workshop.

Intro to Watercolor: Fall Blooms

This is a painting class for beginners, where you can learn the basics of watercolors -- perfect for those who have never tried painting before, or those who want a refresher on the basic techniques. Margareta will provide outlined drawings of flowers and plants for you to paint on top of, so you can relax and enjoy the meditative practice of watercolor painting. (You can also freehand if you prefer!) She will introduce the basic materials and how to mix colors. With one-on-one instruction, she will help you to handle the brush confidently and control the fluid paint to create something beautiful. Afterwards, you will have everything you need to continue painting on your own! All supplies are included in the workshop fee, so you will go home with paper, brushes, paints, and a palette -- plus your beautiful new painting! Suitable for adults and teenagers. No experience necessary. All workshop participants will receive 10% off any retail purchases made on the day of the classes.

Intro to Watercolor: Holiday Cards

Class Experience This is a watercolor painting workshop for beginners, where you can learn the basic steps and technical elements of using watercolors, while painting your very own set of holiday cards. Margareta will introduce the basics, and then you will be free to paint your cards using her outlined drawings. She will help you to handle the brush confidently and control the fluid paint to create something beautiful. Afterwards, you will have all the supplies and technical basics to continue painting your cards on your own. During this workshop, you will paint your very own set of holiday cards that you can send out to your loved ones. Margareta will provide outlined drawings for you to paint on top of, so you can just relax and enjoy the meditative practice of watercolor painting. All supplies are provided, including paints, brushes, a palette, and paper. No need to bring anything except yourself! All workshop participants will receive 10% off any retail purchases made on the day of the classes. Other Things To Know Regular Cancellation Policy All workshops and classes are non-refundible, as we purchase all of our supplies ahead of time. Thank you for understanding. What To Bring All materials are provided - no need to bring anything.

Sometimes Stormy - Storytime and Book Signing with Amanda Davis

Class Experience Please join us for a very special event with local author-illustrator Amanda Davis. Sometimes Stormy is a picture book about the struggles that children face when they live with people experiencing alcohol use disorders. When a young boy realizes his dad is plagued by a troubling storm—the Sometimes Storm—he must learn to cope with a situation that is out of his control. The book includes additional back matter, including coping strategies, a glossary of terms, a note to adults from clinical psychologist Dr. Anja Ullrich, and online resources. This necessary, empathetic book helps break down stigmas around mental health and substance use disorders, so children understand that it’s not their fault. This event will also include: - storytime with the author - an art-making activity for all ages - an opportunity to buy a signed copy of Sometimes Stormy - a Q&A period with the author Other Things To Know Adult Participation Required.

Gas Tank Art Workshop for Kids

Class Experience Kids of all ages are welcome to participate in this workshop about Corita Kent, the famous artist who created the Rainbow Swash Gas Tank in Dorchester. Corita's was also an activist, and her work spoke of hope, justice, and love. Kids will be able to explore Liliana's "mini museum" about Corita Kent. We will also each get to paint our own individual mini gas tanks! Through color and words, we will celebrate Corita's legacy and create our own messages of joy. Open to everyone, but ideal for ages 4+ Other Things To Know Adult Participation optional. Parents are welcome to drop off their kids for the class, or participate in the creative activity alongside them. Regular Cancellation Policy All workshops and classes are non-refundible, as we purchase all of our supplies ahead of time. Thank you for understanding. What To Bring Wear something you don't mind getting a little messy in!

Ashmont After Hours: Pumpkin Painting

Join us for a cozy Fall evening out in the neighborhood, where you can enjoy a fun creative activity, seasonal drinks, and delicious food with your friends and neighbors. We'll start at The Local Hand with some pumpkin painting, then go next door to Tavolo for pizza, drinks, and a DJ set courtesy of UNNO. Your ticket includes:<ul><li>a seasonal cocktail</li><li>a drink of your choice at Tavolo</li><li>dinner at Tavolo</li><li>all supplies for the pumpkin painting</li><li></li></ul>7:30 pm Meet at The Local Hand for pumpkin painting and a special 1-hour flash sale 8:30 pm Head over to Tavolo for dinner, drinks, music, and more fun. Spaced is limited -- reserve your tickets early! Tickets are non-refundable, because we purchase all supplies ahead of time based on headcount. Thank you for understanding.

Basket Weaving: Cat Head Basket

Class Experience This 5-hour workshop is a great introduction to basket weaving and structure. This class is designed for the individual who wants to try this craft without feeling overwhelmed. You will learn how to make this beautiful "cat head basket", to use yourself or give someone special as a gift. This cute four-foot basket would be great in any room or on the table holding muffins. It’s a 6”x6” woven base which extends out to a 10” diameter. Learn the secret to making feet on a basket. Each student will select their own color of webbing and reed. There are six different webbing colors and over twelve reed colors to coordinate. Your ticket includes all materials for this basket, and individualized instruction from William Krier, a local Dorchester basket weaver. Space is very limited. We recommend signing up early! What To Bring No need to bring any supplies; everything will be provided!

Corita's Rainbow - Art Inspired by the Gas Tank

Class Experience I this hands-on workshop, you’ll reimagine Dorchester’s iconic Rainbow Swash using reclaimed materials—transforming scraps and fragments into something meaningful and lasting. Inspired by Corita Kent, the artist behind the landmark design, you’ll work boldly with color, texture, and message to create your own tribute to her vision. Along the way, we’ll explore themes of sustainability, creativity, and social justice that were central to Kent’s practice. Together we’ll learn about the history and significance of the Rainbow Swash—a 140-foot mural painted on a Dorchester gas tank—and use repurposed materials to design miniature versions of this celebrated public artwork. Other Things To Know Regular Cancellation Policy All workshops and classes are non-refundible, as we purchase all of our supplies ahead of time. Thank you for understanding. What To Bring Wear something you don't mind getting a little messy in!

Pour Art: Make Your Own Coasters

Class Experience Get messy, get creative, and design your own set of 4 ceramic coasters! Whether you make them for your home or as a one-of-a-kind gift, this workshop is all about color, play, and personal expression. Led by local artist Rahim Gray, you’ll dive into the vibrant world of Pour Art. Rahim will guide you through the materials, demonstrate how colors move and blend, and share techniques to bring your vision to life. With three live demos to inspire you, you can try out different approaches—create a matching set or mix it up with four unique designs. Your ticket includes: - All materials (coasters, gloves, paint, and sealant) - Three live demos - One-on-one guidance from Rahim - Light refreshments - A fun, creative afternoon with friends and neighbors No artistic experience is needed—just come ready to experiment! At the end of the workshop, you’ll have a set of 4 handmade coasters to keep or gift. Everyone that signs up for this workshop will also recieve a FREE pour art magnet! Note: Each participant will go home with non-toxic, triple-thick gloss glaze to seal and waterproof their coasters once dry. Coasters take about a day to cure; you can take them home in a box or leave them at The Local Hand for later pick-up. Other Things To Know Regular Cancellation Policy All workshops and classes are non-refundible, as we purchase all of our supplies ahead of time. Thank you for understanding.

Little Hands: Toddler Art Class

Join us for Little Hands, the weekly drop-in art workshop for toddlers and their caregivers.&nbsp; This class will inspire your little one's imagination, develop their fine motor skills, and introduce them to a wide range of art-making materials. Each week, we will explore a different theme or prompt using non-toxic materials. This workshop is held every Friday at The Local Hand.&nbsp;You can "drop-in" for one session, or come every week to build on your child's artistic development. Our weekly Little Hands workshops are taught by experienced child arts educator Emily Tehan, an experienced art teacher and childcare professional. Caregivers are welcome to hang out in our seating area, or join in on the fun and make something with your little one.&nbsp;&nbsp; SIBLING/FRIEND DISCOUNT:&nbsp;Use code BUDDY at check-out for $10 off when you purchase 2 or more tickets.&nbsp; We kindly request that you register by 8 PM on the Thursday before.&nbsp; ﻿Workshop tickets are non-refundable. Thank you for understanding.

Kids Collage Workshop

Class Experience Join our collage workshop on September 21, designed for children and their caregivers to create together. This hands-on session encourages creativity, bonding, and fun through collage art. Perfect for sparking imagination and making lasting memories in a supportive environment. Ideal for kids age 5+ What To Bring No need to bring anything, unless you have some old magazines or photos you want to collage with.

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

thelocalhand

Experiences