The 7 Best Workshops & Classes in Newark
Newark isn’t just about its historic sites and vibrant arts scene; it’s also a place where you can get hands-on with a variety of creative workshops. Whether you’re looking to make jewelry, craft soap, or whip up some homemade beauty products, Newark offers a surprising array of classes that let you take a piece of the city home with you. Many of these workshops are small, personalized experiences that cater to beginners and seasoned hobbyists alike, making them perfect for travelers seeking authentic, memorable activities.
If you’ve ever wanted to try your hand at jewelry-making or learn how to create your own natural skincare, these workshops provide practical skills in a friendly setting. Plus, many of them make great gifts—think handmade necklaces, rings, or soaps that come from your own craftsmanship. Best of all, these classes are conveniently located within Newark, so you can fit them into your itinerary easily. Read on to discover the top options for creative workshops and classes in Newark.
1. Polymer Clay Necklace Making Class
Learn how to work with Polymer Clay and craft your own vibrant necklace pendants in this fun jewelry making workshop. Starting with the basics, you’ll be shown how to condition, cut, and shape the clay, then add colors before baking and finishing your creation. It’s a hands-on experience perfect for those interested in jewelry design or DIY fashion accessories.
What makes this class stand out is its focus on colorful, wearable art—you leave with a unique necklace and new skills in polymer clay techniques. The instructor emphasizes patience and creativity, making it suitable for beginners. The class lasts approximately 2 hours and costs $85 per person, offering a nice balance between skill-building and enjoyment. While there are no reviews yet, the straightforward process and focus on personal expression make it a solid pick.
The class is ideal for anyone wanting to add a personal touch to their accessories or to explore a new hobby without a huge time investment. It’s also a great choice for a creative date or solo relaxation session.
Bottom Line: If you want to get creative with color and learn the basics of jewelry making, this class offers a practical, enjoyable experience at a reasonable price.
2. Body Butter Making Class
This Body Butter Making Class provides a relaxing, hands-on activity to craft your own natural skincare. It lasts about an hour and a half, and costs $85 per person. Perfect for teens and adults, the class is more than just fun—it’s a chance to learn how to create nourishing, homemade body products that can double as thoughtful gifts.
In this class, you’ll learn how to blend ingredients like shea butter and essential oils, creating smooth, fragrant body butters. The instructor guides you through the process, sharing tips for customizing scents and textures. Because it’s a shorter session, it’s ideal for those with limited time but looking to pick up a new hobby or even start a small home-based business.
While no reviews are available yet, the focus on natural ingredients and the opportunity to create a personalized product make this class appealing for health-conscious travelers. It’s also a wonderful way to unwind and come away with a tangible product that’s both useful and beautiful.
Bottom Line: For a quick, creative escape that leaves you with a personalized skincare product, this class delivers a relaxing and useful experience.
3. Cold Process Soap Making Class
At number 3 on our list, the Cold Process Soap Making Class teaches you how to craft all-natural soap bars from raw ingredients like shea butter, oils, and lye. This class takes about 2 hours and costs $195 per person, reflecting the depth of knowledge and quality ingredients involved.
You’ll be instructed on the basic chemical process of soap making, safety practices, and how to handle lye safely. The class also covers customizing your soap with colors and fragrances, allowing you to create personalized bars that suit your scent and aesthetic preferences. This workshop is ideal for those interested in natural beauty, DIY skincare, or even starting a small soap business. The detailed guidance makes it suitable for beginners willing to learn the science behind soap, with no prior experience necessary.
What makes this class valuable is its focus on natural ingredients and the chance to make a bespoke product you can genuinely be proud of. Although the price is higher, the quality of instruction and the lasting skills you gain justify the cost.
Bottom Line: For anyone serious about natural skincare or wanting to learn a craft with real chemical understanding, this soap-making class offers hands-on expertise you won’t forget.
4. Wire Wrapping Gemstone Rings Class
The Wire Wrapping Gemstone Rings Class is a fantastic intro for jewelry lovers interested in gemstone jewelry and the energy properties of stones. Lasting around 1.5 hours and costing $85 per person, it’s suited for beginners who want to make their own unique rings.
You’ll learn how to use jewelry wire to encase and highlight beautiful gemstones, creating rings from raw or semi-finished stones. The instructor emphasizes not only the craft but also shares insights into the energy and meaning behind different gemstones. This adds a spiritual dimension for those interested in crystal healing. The class’s focus on simple techniques makes it accessible, yet the results are polished enough to wear right away.
While there are no reviews yet, the blend of practical jewelry skills and gemstone knowledge makes this class appealing for jewelry hobbyists and those curious about the properties of stones. It’s an ideal choice if you want to create something wearable and meaningful.
Bottom Line: If gemstone energy and jewelry design intrigue you, this beginner-friendly class offers a satisfying mix of craft and learning.
5. Wire Wrapping Raw Gemstones Class
Building on the previous class, the Wire Wrapping Raw Gemstones Class expands your skills to turn raw crystals and gemstones into stunning pendants and jewelry pieces. It’s priced at $85 and lasts about 1.5 hours, making it accessible for most travelers.
During this class, you’ll learn how to use bead wrapping wire to create elegant, personalized jewelry that showcases the natural beauty of your stones. The instructor covers a variety of tools and wire types, giving you a full understanding of how to work with different materials. You’ll also gain insights into the properties of your gems, helping you choose stones for their energy or aesthetics.
This workshop is perfect for those who want to craft meaningful jewelry or start a small jewelry-making hobby. Since it involves raw materials, you’ll get a sense of the entire process from start to finish. No prior experience is necessary, but you should be prepared to work carefully with small tools.
Bottom Line: For creative types wanting to craft distinctive jewelry from raw materials, this class provides practical skills and gemstone knowledge in a single session.
6. Bead Bracelet Making Class
In the Bead Bracelet Making Class, for $75, you’ll learn how to design and assemble colorful bead bracelets in about 1.5 hours. This beginner-friendly class focuses on the basics of design, stringing, and finishing your bracelet, making it perfect for anyone new to jewelry making.
The instructor guides you through selecting beads, creating balanced designs, and attaching closures, so you come away with a wearable accessory. The class encourages creativity with a variety of fun and bright beads, ideal for casual jewelry or gift-making. It’s a relaxed, straightforward approach that’s great for travelers or anyone wanting a quick, satisfying craft project.
While there’s no review data, the focus on simple techniques and a variety of beads means you get a tangible, colorful product by the end. It’s a great way to spend a fun afternoon and learn a craft you can expand on later.
Bottom Line: If you want a quick, low-pressure experience in jewelry making, this class is perfect for dipping your toes into beading.
7. Bead Earring Making Class
The Bead Earring Making Class offers a fun and creative session to craft beautiful earrings using beads, charms, and jewelry findings. For $75 and about 1.5 hours, you’ll learn how to use professional jewelry tools, earring hooks, and decorative findings to create stylish accessories.
Designed for beginners, this class emphasizes technique and personalization, with instruction on how to handle small components and assemble earrings that match your style. You’ll work with a variety of beads and charms, enabling you to make multiple pairs or unique designs. The instructor’s guidance helps demystify jewelry assembly, making it accessible for all skill levels.
Although no reviews are available, the focus on fashionable, DIY earrings makes this class ideal for travelers wanting to add some handmade flair to their wardrobe or give personalized gifts. It’s a quick, engaging activity that produces a tangible, stylish product.
Bottom Line: If you’re interested in making a quick, personalized jewelry gift or need a craft to keep your hands busy, this earring class offers practical, creative fun.
How to Choose the Right Workshop in Newark
Picking the best workshop depends on your interest area, budget, and available time. If jewelry-making appeals, the Polymer Clay Necklace Making Class or the gemstone wire wrapping courses offer more in-depth skills and lasting keepsakes. For those wanting a natural skincare or soap-making experience, the Body Butter and Cold Process Soap classes provide hands-on product creation with practical uses.
Consider your budget—the soap and jewelry classes are priced between $75-$195, with the soap class being the most comprehensive. Think about time constraints; shorter sessions like the body butter or bead bracelet classes are perfect for busy schedules, while the soap-making offers a more extensive learning experience.
Finally, look at your interest in gemstones or natural ingredients. The gemstone ring and raw gemstone classes are excellent for jewelry enthusiasts interested in the properties of stones or creating meaningful jewelry. If you want a simple, fun activity without a steep learning curve, the bead earring or bracelet classes deliver quick results.
Booking early is recommended, especially for popular times or weekends. Many of these workshops are small, intimate, and fill up quickly.
Concluding Thoughts
From crafting custom jewelry to making soaps and skincare products, Newark’s workshops offer a variety of ways to get creative. For travelers seeking a hands-on experience that leaves you with a tangible product, the soap-making and jewelry classes stand out. If you prefer a more relaxed, craft-focused activity, the Body Butter Making Class and bead workshops are excellent choices.
For those interested in gemstones and spiritual energy, the wire wrapping classes provide a meaningful craft. No matter your skill level or budget, Newark’s creative workshops promise a memorable, practical experience that you can enjoy long after your trip ends. Be sure to book in advance to secure your spot and make the most of your time in this lively city.