We’re focusing on sit-down hobbies today — the jury’s still out on whether running or climbing count as “hobbies” or are instead “exercise,” so we’re sidestepping all that today. We’ll do some climbing stuff at some point, I promise!
The Loft on the Ave
🧵 The Loft is a small upstairs space in the University District with sewing machines dedicated to teaching people how to sew. There are three-hour classes and private group classes available, and an all-day eight-hour class ($380) that promises to take people from absolute beginners to proficient sewers.
Know before you go: If you don’t want the structure of a class, check out the Loft’s open studio on Tuesday, which allows people to drop by (with reservations) and take advantage of the equipment.
The Pantry
🍲 As one of Seattle’s best-known cooking schools, The Pantry in Ballard has cultivated an incredible lineup of instructors. You can learn to make an Italian American “Sunday sauce” from Nicco Muratore, who used to run the kitchen at the much-missed restaurant Mamnoon. Or you can sign up to have Bruce Naftaly — often regarded as the inventor of Pacific Northwest cuisine — teach you French cooking, which is a bit like having Ichiro teach you how to hit singles.
Know before you go: Not all of the Pantry’s classes require extensive cooking knowledge, but it’s probably best to already know some basic techniques before you dive in.
Photographic Center Northwest
📷 Everyone takes photos these days, but this nonprofit is where you should go to deepen your photography skills and knowledge. At their one-day workshops, you can learn how to make prints in a darkroom or get introduced to the basics of digital photography. Multi-week classes are also available, though classes can run in the $800 to $900 range.
Know before you go: If you see a class or workshop you want, register early. In-demand classes fill up quickly, and a class may get scrapped altogether if there isn’t enough interest.
Push/Pull
🎨 This community-driven space in Ballard hosts all kinds of events — an art summer camp, gallery shows, queer artist meetups, and plenty of classes. Push/Pull’s classes are sometimes eclectic (want to make your own tarot cards, or paint pigeons with oil paint?) and ideal for anyone looking to dabble.
Know before you go: If you have some artistic knowledge you want to impart, Push/Pull is always open to new class proposals.
