Your first paint-and-sip class is a chance to try something creative in a relaxed, social setting. You don’t need drawing experience or a plan for what to paint—the instructor guides the group through a finished image one step at a time. Most studios provide the basic painting materials, so you can focus on following along and enjoying the process. Knowing what to expect can make it easier to arrive, get settled, and start with confidence.
How the Guided Session Works
After you arrive, you’ll get a place to paint and a view of the instructor’s demonstration. The instructor typically breaks the image into manageable steps, such as sketching a simple outline, adding background color, and painting details. You can follow the same sequence as the group, while working at your own pace.
Expect to pause and look up often as the instructor explains a technique or shows how to mix a color. If you miss a step or need a quick repeat, ask. A beginner-friendly class is designed to make the process understandable, not to test your art skills. Your painting can look different from the sample and still feel complete.
What Materials Are Usually Provided
A studio generally supplies the essentials: a canvas, acrylic paints, brushes, and a palette or surface for mixing colors. Water and paper towels are often available for rinsing and wiping brushes. Check the class details before you go, since included items can vary and some studios may ask you to bring an apron or wear clothes you don’t mind getting paint on.
Acrylic paint dries relatively quickly, so instructors may suggest keeping colors separate until you’re ready to blend them. Use a small amount of paint at first; you can always add more. Keep your water cup away from your canvas, and wipe your brush before switching colors to help keep the paint clean.
Getting Comfortable as a Beginner
Arrive with enough time to find your seat and organize your supplies without rushing. If you’re unsure where to begin, tell the instructor you’re new. They can point out which brush to use or show you how to make a first mark. It’s also fine to watch the demonstration closely before painting each step.
Try not to compare your canvas with someone else’s. People make different choices, work at different speeds, and bring different levels of experience. If a shape looks uneven, you can often adjust it with another layer of paint. Treat small mistakes as something to work with, rather than a reason to stop.
Making the Most of the Evening
Wear comfortable clothing and tie back long hair if it might fall into the paint. Bring only what you need, and follow the studio’s guidance about food and drinks. If the event includes a beverage, check what is included and whether you need to bring anything else. You can also ask about accessibility, seating, or other practical needs before booking.
Focus on one instruction at a time instead of trying to finish ahead of the group. Take breaks when you need them, and ask for help before paint dries if you want to change a section. At the end, follow the studio’s directions for carrying or collecting your canvas; acrylic paint may need time to dry before it can be safely covered.
A first paint-and-sip class is guided, supplied, and welcoming to people who have never painted before. Give yourself permission to learn as you go, ask questions, and make the painting your own. When you’re ready to try it, Brush & Bloom in London, Ontario, can help you find a class that fits.