Never been to a paint night before? Here’s everything you need to know — from what to wear to what you’ll take home.
So you’ve signed up for your first Social House workshop. Maybe your friend dragged you into it. Maybe you saw it on Instagram and thought “that looks fun.” Maybe you’re genuinely terrified of painting in public. Whatever brought you here — welcome. You’re going to have a great time.
I’ve hosted hundreds of guests at this point, and the number one thing I hear at the end of every workshop is: “I can’t believe I actually made that.” So let me walk you through exactly what happens from the moment you arrive.
Before You Go
First things first: wear something you don’t mind getting a little messy. We provide aprons, but acrylic paint has a mind of its own. Dark jeans and a casual top are perfect. Leave the white silk blouse at home.
You don’t need to bring anything. Seriously — no supplies, no sketchbook, no “artistic ability.” We provide every single thing you need: canvas, paints, brushes, palettes, water cups, paper towels, and aprons. All you need to bring is yourself (and maybe a friend).
When You Arrive
Get there about 10–15 minutes early. This gives you time to find parking, order a drink from the café or bar, and settle into your seat. Your station will already be set up with everything you need — canvas on the easel, paints laid out, brushes ready to go.
Take a moment to look around. You’ll notice that most people in the room look exactly like you: a little nervous, a little excited, and holding a drink. That’s the vibe. Lean into it.
The Workshop Itself
Once everyone’s settled, I’ll introduce myself, explain what we’re painting, and walk through the basic techniques we’ll use. Then we dive in — step by step.
Here’s how it works:
- I demonstrate a step on my canvas at the front of the room
- You follow along at your own pace
- I walk around the room to help, give tips, and make sure everyone’s feeling good
- We repeat until the painting is done
The whole thing takes about 2–2.5 hours, with natural breaks between steps where you can grab another drink, chat with your neighbours, or just admire your work so far.
Pro tip: Don’t compare your painting to anyone else’s. Yours will look different from the person next to you, and that’s the whole point. The “mistakes” are usually what make it interesting.
The Best Part
By the end of the night, you’ll have a finished painting that you made with your own hands. It’s a surreal feeling, especially if you came in thinking you “can’t paint.” You can. You just did.
We’ll give you a carrier to transport your canvas home safely (acrylic needs about 24 hours to fully dry). Take a photo, tag us on Instagram (@socialhouseca), and start planning your next one.
Still Nervous?
That’s completely normal. Here’s what I want you to know: this is not an art class. There are no grades, no critiques, no “you’re doing it wrong.” It’s a social experience that happens to involve paint. The goal is to have fun, connect with people, and surprise yourself.
Every single person who’s come to a Social House workshop — from self-proclaimed “non-artists” to people who haven’t touched a paintbrush since grade school — has walked out smiling. You will too.