How to Teach a Paint and Sip Class: Step by Step

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Are you interested in learning how to teach a paint and sip class?

After taking just a few classes, I started teaching my own art classes, and you can too.

A painting party is a great way to bring like-minded people together to paint and have a good time. All of the painting supplies are provided, as well as the and instruction.

You don’t have to have an artist degree in order to teach a painting party or classes. All you need is a love of painting, and a desire to help others learn.

What is a Painting Party?

A painting class is basically an opportunity for a bunch of people to get together to learn how to create a painting.

Everyone in first class will follow along with the instructor and do the same painting at the paint class. But, every one of those paintings will be different. Remember, artwork is subjective, so each person is going to see things differently.

These parties usually involve wine and snacks. If the class is in someone’s home, they will likely supply the snacks and possibly some wine. Many of these events are BYOB.

So, are you ready to become a paint and sip teacher?

It All Starts with One Paint Class

Start out by offering to teach one paint class, which should last for about two hours. Don’t worry about not being able to fill that time.

In fact, you might need more time to ensure the students complete their paintings.

Where to Host the Painting Class

These classes can be held anywhere. Many people have these classes in their own homes. Some artists use their own studios. Sometimes venues are rented for larger classes.

These classes can be for bachelorette parties or any other cool events. You never need an excuse to drink wine, get artistic, and have a good time!

You can check my guide on sip and paint hosting tips to learn more.

Have a Sample Painting Ready

You will need to have a piece for students to go by. Make sure you choose a simple design that beginner students can easily recreate.

I always advise using your own artwork for these classes. This will ensure there is no copyright infringement.

Break the painting down into a grid with sections. Number each section in the order that will work best for the class. Take notes when creating the example, and use your notes while teaching the class.

Your First Paint Party as a Teacher

Get the Paint Supplies Everyone will Need

The next step is to gather up all extra supplies and other materials you will need for the class. Some of supplies and other things you will need include:

• Paint palettes
• Graphite paper
• Paints
• Brushes
• Canvases
• Water cups
• A standing easel for each person
• Pre trace designs
• A paint palette for each person (or a paper plate)
• Cleaning supplies (paper towels, drop cloths, etc.)
• Extra supplies

Paper Towels are a Must

Messes happen at a sip and paint class, so as a teacher, you need to be prepared. Make sure you have plenty of towels on hand, as well as other cleaning supplies.

The Painting Zone

Once you have all of the materials, it’s time to plan the painting zone for the paint class. To begin, set up an easel and canvas with paints for each person.

Make sure you have the proper brush sizes for the painting you will be doing with brushes during the paint class. There should be water cups and paper towels at each station, and room for cleaning brushes. The water cup can be a disposable cup that can be thrown out after the event.

The Teaching Zone

Now you need to think about the teaching zone for your classes and your own art workshops. You will need your own easel, a place for your materials, and a finished painting to use as an example.

You will also need your own canvas, brushes, etc. because you will be painting along with the class to demonstrate various techniques.

Your painting area should be where all of the students can easily see what you are doing and follow along with the sample painting. You may even want to use a screen to project what you are doing.

Food and Wine

A paint and sip party wouldn’t be complete without food and wine. I suggest finger foods that are easy to eat and not overly messy.

Of course, you need to have red and white wine for a sip party. It is also wise to have other beverages on hand for those who do not drink wine.

Other ideas for beverages include cocktails that work with the party theme. You will need to make sure you have a liquor license for the event.

Some guests at canvas parties may prefer to bring their own wine to drink while they create a picture. Or, the host may supply food, wine, and other drinks for a painting party.

6 Useful Tips for Paint and Sip Instructor

Now you are probably wondering about the best ways to teach a paint and sip class. Focus on showing students various paint palettes and techniques, not how to be an artist.

Remember, a paint class is all about having fun. Yes, at canvas art parties, you should teach techniques, but keep things light and easy for beginners.

Encourage Students to Use Their Own Colors

Your students don’t have to work with paints in the exact same colors as the sample painting. In fact, it can be a great time for them to use different color schemes.

Prepare Each Canvas

Unless each canvas is already treated with gesso, you will need to do this. Gesso is like white acrylics, but thinner, and used to create a textured surface.

Pre-Trace the Paintings

If there are a lot of details in the painting you have chosen for the first class, it is a good idea to pre-trace each canvas. 

Remember, this is all about having fun, and beginners may not feel comfortable with creating the same piece from scratch.

Check my guide on painting tips for more details.

Discuss the Materials

Before I start teaching students how to recreate the painting, I like to talk about all the art supplies and various materials they will use. I discuss such things as the correct brush sizes needed, canvas, paints, etc.

Obviously, the students usually want to jump right into creating their ideal painting. So, I keep this part of the lesson short.

Begin Painting

Now you can start painting. Discuss the steps you used to create your sample, while the students follow along.

Teach Painting to Adults

It is essential to create a supportive and personalized learning environment when teaching painting to adults. 

Begin by breaking down painting techniques into manageable steps, starting with basic concepts and gradually building upon them.

Provide clear demonstrations and hands-on practice, incorporating visual aids and reference materials to enhance understanding. 

Adapt your teaching methods to foster engagement and cater to different preferences, encouraging experimentation and problem-solving.

Tailor your instruction to accommodate individual needs and learning styles, offering personalized guidance and support. 

By combining personalized guidance with a structured approach to technique, you can empower adults to develop their artistic skills, gain confidence, and discover their unique artistic style.

Eat, Drink Wine, Grab a Brush, and Be Merry

When you teach these classes, always keep things light and fun. This isn’t like a regular art lesson, and the students are there to have a good time while learning a new skill.

Most of the students will have a glass of wine (or more), especially when you are teaching at bachelorette parties. Make sure the paper towels are easy to reach in the room in case wine gets spilled.

Be ready to answer any questions the students may have. If someone has an idea, allow them to share it with the rest of the group.

Final Thoughts

Each of the painting classes you teach will be easier and easier. It won’t be long before you are a pro, and more and more students will come your way.

Take your time to make sure that you are able to help each of the participants learn about the paints and other materials, and how to use them.

Check my personal guides on what to do when not enough guests show up and what it is like being a sip and paint instructor.

See more:

• How much do paint night instructors make?
• How to Choose Which Paintings to Teach and Prepare for Paint and Sip Classes

*image by Krakenimages/depositphotos