I recently started taking classes at the Hot Shops in Omaha, Nebraska, and I have absolutely adored it! The Hot Shops is an artistic haven just north of downtown Omaha in and up and coming refurbished warehouse district. There are two connected buildings and four floors full of all kinds of artwork and artisans. There are currently around 75 artisans working in the building, but the hours of each artisan/shop do vary, so please call ahead if interested in a specific shop. For a current list of artisans and a shops map, please click below.

https://www.hotshopsartcenter.org/artists/

I have taken a class in glassblowing at the Crystal Forge and also several classes with Kelli Sweet, whom I will feature on a future post. All the classes I have taken have been very fun, understandable and have produced wonderful projects I can give to others for the holidays. Plus, I will keep a few for myself! 😉

Classes are reasonably priced and most can be taken by both children and adults. It has been very encouraging and enriching for me to take these classes and learn new skills and techniques. Many of the projects I can replicate at home with my own purchased supplies. I am NOT a natural artist so I am proof that anyone can do this! You just have to pull up your big person pants and give it a try! 😂 Plus, I have made some new friends!

If you are looking for a beautiful and unique gift the Hot Shops also has many items for sale in all price ranges. There are glass, jewelry, carved wood, painting, designer quilts, pottery, and many other types of art available. There is even a shop that makes violins! I have featured a collage of items at the very bottom.

Several times of year, The Hot Shops hosts an Open House. One of those times is this coming Saturday and Sunday, December 2 and 3. Many, if not all, of the shops will be open. Food and entertainment will also be available. A suggested $5 donation at the door will help fund a new ADA elevator so everyone can enjoy all four unique and beautiful floors of shops. Click below for Open House hours, a schedule, and additional information.

https://www.hotshopsartcenter.org/openhouse/

The holidays are coming right up! It’s a great place to purchase gifts for all the folks on your list - even the hard-to-buy-for ones. 🤷‍♀️🤭🤫

Pictured are a few items I have completed at The Hot Shops. The last photos are one of me and a friend from a previous job (we both have the same name-so that was fun at work! 😉) We did the glass blowing together and had so much fun! I’d encourage you to check it out! If you feel like trying some projects yourself, sign up for a class or two. You’ll get lots of assistance and I promise you that you will be surprised and delighted with what you are able to create in a few short hours. Try it! It’s fun! 😁