Art Workshops

I invite you to work with your hands and rediscover the joy of getting crafty and making art. Workshops are designed to inspire curiosity in adults and help you feel at ease in your own creative process.

What people are saying

  • “This is true self-care that feeds your soul. I got into a flow state while painting and I so rarely can find that state anymore in the midst of life’s chaos.”

  • “Jill makes everyone feel welcome and capable with a laid back attitude that puts you at ease instantly. Each step in the class intentionally built on the one before so even total novices could make something beautiful that also felt easy and repeatable.”

  • “That was such a lovely evening. You are a VERY good teacher, it was such a joy to watch everyone’s confidence build. Thank you!”

  • “I had so much fun at your workshop. I can’t believe I had it in me to hand draw such a pretty wreath! You truly have a gift for teaching, art, and hosting. You created such a magical evening with your calming, motivating, creative energy. I felt so taken care of the entire evening and was in a flow state the whole time. Perfection. Worth every penny!”

  • “I am an artist myself and I learned many new techniques I had never seen done before and left feeling excited to take more classes and experiment at home. I would highly recommend her class to beginners and experts alike!”

  • “Jill’s instruction is thoughtful and easy to follow, while still allowing for creativity and personal style. Highly recommend these workshops to anyone looking to explore their creativity in a welcoming, approachable, and inspiring environment!”

Art à la Carte

Themed craft nights and culinary bites. A collaborative partnership with Another Banger

Art à la Carte is a monthly event where culinary craft meets creative expression. We invite you to gather with us for an immersive evening as we explore flavor, texture, and form. Each event is built around a unique theme and includes culinary bites and artisan drinks by Sandra Martinelli, owner of Another Banger, and a guided art workshop led by Jill Nelson, owner of Pinwheel Creative. Come solo or bring a friend, either way, you’ll leave with something you made and a little more joy than you arrived with.

Reserve your seat at the table—space is limited to 7 people.

Theme: Salt & Water
Salted Honey Whipped Feta on Crostini and Watercolor Seascapes 
Date: Wednesday May 20, 2026
Time: 6:00 - 8:00 PM
Location: Another Banger
8040 Soquel Dr. Aptos, CA
Price: $60 per person

Reserve My Seat

Theme: Herb Garden
Using gouache paint (opaque watercolor) on black paper, you’ll learn how to create bold yet delicate botanical paintings with depth, contrast, and a soft modern feel. Sip on lavender lemonade and snack on herb infused cheeses with flower crackers.
Date: Thursday, June 18, 2026
Time: 6:00 - 8:00 PM
Location: Another Banger
8040 Soquel Dr. Aptos, CA
Price: $60 per person

Reserve My Seat

Theme: A Taste of Portugal & Tile Designs
Date: Friday July 10, 2026
Time: 6:00 - 8:00 PM
Location: Another Banger
8040 Soquel Dr. Aptos, CA
Price: $60 per person

Reserve My Seat

Art Workshop Menu

Below are workshops Pinwheel Creative offers throughout the year. Don't see one on the calendar yet? Subscribe and you'll be the first to know when it's scheduled.

  • Creative Writing Course

    This 4 week course offers dedicated time to write, experiment, and reconnect with storytelling. Through guided prompts and thoughtful discussion, you’ll generate new work and learn how to give and receive meaningful feedback. Whether you’re returning to writing or deepening an existing practice, this workshop blends creative courage, craft development, and a generous, engaged community.

  • Botanic Tiles with Stamps & Paint Pens

    In this relaxed, hands-on workshop, we play with pre-carved rubber stamps and ink to create floral designs on paper and wood tiles. You'll layer in details with paint pens and try your hand at drawing folk art–inspired blooms. Along the way, you’ll learn about color harmony and balance in design, all while embracing the spirit of wabi-sabi—welcoming the organic, imperfect marks that make handmade printmaking so beautiful.

  • Holiday Card Party

    We had a blast in 2025! This workshop will be scheduled in November 2026.

    Get into the holiday spirit with a cozy, creative night out where we’ll sip, craft, and celebrate the season. Create beautiful handmade holiday cards to send to friends and family. We’ll be playing with watercolor brush pens to paint seasonal florals, greenery, and wreath designs.

  • Stamped Tote Bags

    Stamped Tote Bags

    Make your own stamps and use them to design a one of a kind tote bag. You’ll learn about compositions for pattern making and leave with a functional piece of art and a renewed sense of creative confidence. All supplies provided.

  • Beginner Watercolor

    Learn foundational watercolor techniques while learning to let go of perfection and enjoy the process of making. In this workshop I supply artist grade watercolor paper and high quality pigment paints. Rather than painting highly realistic images, we use watercolor as a way to experiment with color, texture, movement, and intuition.

Host a Workshop for Your Group

Bring a creative experience to your community, team, or gathering.

I partner with businesses, organizations, and individuals to host thoughtfully designed, hands-on art workshops in your space. Perfect for small team gatherings, retreats, or celebrations with friends. Contact Jill to learn more.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • We welcome adults of all ages! Workshops are perfect for:

    • Beginners who think they’re “not creative”

    • Professionals and creatives seeking new inspiration

    • Anyone craving community and connection in the Santa Cruz area.

  • Workshops are in-person and hosted at various venues throughout the Santa Cruz, CA area.

  • I like to keep things cozy and give everyone plenty of space to work. Small group workshops range from 6 to 12 people.

  • All art workshops are currently facilitated by me, Jill Nelson, owner of Pinwheel Creative. Learn more about my background as an artist and workshop leader.

  • Just bring a smile and a willingness to try something new :)

    Workshop prices include all art materials and supplies. For longer courses that include homework, such as Creative Writing you’ll want to use your own notepads or computer.

  • Yes—Sharing your work is one of the best parts of any workshop experience. There's something powerful about seeing how ten people interpret the same prompt in different ways. You'll walk away inspired by others, surprised by yourself, and reminded that there's no single "right" way to make something.

  • If you can’t make it, please let me know ASAP because their is often a waiting list.

    If you need to cancel, please let me know at least 72 hours before your workshop and I'll issue a full refund.

    Cancellations made within 72 hours of the workshop will receive a credit toward a future session. Credits never expire, so you'll always have a spot waiting when the timing is right.

  • Yes! Please reach out if would like to host a workshop at your space/office for your team.

Experiment

Connect

Play