The 2 Best Workshops & Classes in Asheville
Asheville isn’t just a haven for mountain views and craft breweries—it’s also a place where you can get hands-on with creative and cultural activities. The city’s vibrant arts scene and deep connection to Appalachian traditions make it a perfect spot for interactive workshops and classes. Whether you’re looking to craft your own apparel or explore native plant healing practices, Asheville offers options that are as authentic as the city itself.
Unlike typical sightseeing, these workshops give you the chance to learn new skills and connect with local artisans and traditions. Ready to make something with your own hands or discover the lore behind native Appalachian plant medicine? Here are the two best workshops in Asheville that stand out for their originality, value, and engaging experiences.
1. Designing and Sewing Workshop of Custom Applique in Asheville
For around $40, this one-hour sewing workshop provides a fun way to create a personalized clothing item. You’ll design a custom applique for a top or jacket, with the instructor helping you learn basic sewing skills, including how to use a needle and thread. The host will finish the sewing on their machine, so you’re left with a unique piece of apparel and a new craft skill.
What makes this workshop stand out is its focus on creative expression and practical skill-building. It’s perfect for those who want a quick, affordable hands-on experience that results in something wearable. The instructor emphasizes the importance of knowing how to sew—an essential skill that can be used long after your Asheville visit. Plus, you get to leave with a one-of-a-kind piece that reflects your personal style.
This workshop appeals to travelers who want a short, meaningful activity and enjoy the idea of combining art and function. While there are no reviews yet, the straightforward nature and affordable price make it a compelling option. Keep in mind, if you’re not familiar with sewing, this might be a beginner-friendly way to start.
Bottom Line: A creative, quick, and budget-friendly way to design a personalized textile item while learning a handy skill.
2. Smoke Bundle Making Workshop near Asheville
At $52 per person for approximately two hours, this hands-on workshop offers a rare chance to harvest and create your own smoke bundle using native plants. You’ll pick plants from the Medicine Wheel garden, learning about their healing properties, folklore, and history along the way, then craft a smoke bundle to take home.
What makes this experience stand apart is its deep immersion into Appalachian and exotic plant traditions. The instructor shares fascinating facts about smoke cleansing rituals used around the world, giving you a broader understanding of these practices. You’ll learn about the healing and spiritual significance of native plants and how to incorporate smoke cleansing into your own routines.
This workshop is ideal for those interested in herbalism, native traditions, or holistic health. It offers a blend of nature connection and cultural education that you won’t find in typical craft classes. While the review count is zero, the detailed description suggests a rich, tactile experience—harvesting your own plants keeps it engaging and memorable.
Bottom Line: A unique, educational experience perfect for travelers curious about plant medicine and cultural rituals, with a focus on hands-on creation.
How to Choose Between These Workshops
When deciding between these two workshops, consider your interests and how much time you want to spend. If you’re eager to try sewing and create wearable art, the Designing and Sewing Workshop of Custom Applique is a practical choice. It’s quick, affordable, and results in a tangible item you can wear.
On the other hand, if you’re fascinated by native plant traditions and want a more immersive experience, the Smoke Bundle Making Workshop will satisfy your curiosity. It’s more involved in terms of learning about plants and rituals, making it ideal for those interested in herbalism or spiritual practices.
Budget-wise, the applique workshop is slightly less expensive and shorter, making it great for a quick activity. If you have a couple of hours to invest in a deeper cultural experience, the smoke bundle class offers a meaningful, hands-on connection to Appalachian traditions.
Booking early is advisable for both, especially during peak tourist seasons or weekends, to secure your spot and ensure a smooth experience.
Final Thoughts
Asheville’s creative spirit shines through these workshops, offering both artistic and cultural insights. Whether you craft your own clothing item or learn to make a sacred smoke bundle, you’ll leave with a new skill and a story to tell. For those seeking a quick craft project, the applique workshop delivers a memorable keepsake. If you’re more interested in Native American and Appalachian plant practices, the smoke bundle class provides deeper cultural connection.
Both options are excellent ways to turn your visit into a more meaningful experience. Consider your interests, schedule, and budget—then book early to ensure your spot. These workshops aren’t just activities; they’re opportunities to connect with Asheville’s authentic crafts and traditions in a hands-on way.
This guide should give you a solid starting point for choosing an Asheville workshop that best suits your interests. Enjoy your creative journey in this vibrant mountain town!