Find a painting class in San Francisco, CA

Find painting classes in San Francisco, CA

Q: How much do painting classes cost?

Painting classes cost $200 to $500 for a 5- to 10-week course, or $20 to $80 per person for a single session. Local, city-sponsored classes typically cost less than private lessons or college courses. Some painting classes offer discounts for friends, children, or other groups. Some instructors include all materials in their prices, while others require that you buy some or all of them yourself. Online painting classes can be done anywhere and can be paused as needed without slowing anyone else down.

Q: How long are painting classes?

Painting classes usually last 1 to 3 hours ¸ depending on the age group, experience level, and location. Kids' classes are shorter than adult or college-level classes and are sometimes only available during certain hours of the day.

Share a few details and we'll show you the best painting classes in your area.

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Find painting classes in San Francisco, CA

Share a few details and we'll show you the best painting classes in your area.

Zip code

Top 10 painting classes in San Francisco, CA

Students agree: these San Francisco painting classes are highly rated for knowledge, experience, communication, and more.

Your Painting Lessons questions, answered

Answers to commonly asked questions from the experts on Lessons.

How much do painting classes cost?

Painting classes cost $200 to $500 for a 5- to 10-week course, or $20 to $80 per person for a single session. Local, city-sponsored classes typically cost less than private lessons or college courses. Some painting classes offer discounts for friends, children, or other groups.

Some instructors include all materials in their prices, while others require that you buy some or all of them yourself. Online painting classes can be done anywhere and can be paused as needed without slowing anyone else down.

How long are painting classes?

Painting classes usually last 1 to 3 hours¸ depending on the age group, experience level, and location. Kids' classes are shorter than adult or college-level classes and are sometimes only available during certain hours of the day.

What kind of painting class is best for beginners?

Acrylic paint is best for beginners because it is easy to work with, easy to clean up, and dries quickly. Watercolor paint is also convenient and easy to clean up, but it is harder to work with and correct mistakes. Oil paints are best for beginner or intermediate painters with some experience.

Where can I take painting classes?

You can take painting classes from local rec centers, colleges, private instructors, and paint-and-sip shops. Paint-and-sip businesses provide materials and instructions for students to complete while socializing and drinking or eating.

What do I bring to painting classes?

Some classes provide all of the paint and supplies. Others do not, and you will have to buy your own. This may include any of the following:

Paints
Brushes
Easel
Canvas
Apron

How do I hire a painting instructor?

Search our list of instructors, then:

Compare 3+ free estimates.
Explore reviews on Lessons and Google.
Choose an experienced instructor.
Make sure there are enough openings for you and any friends or family members you bring.
Make sure you have the right supplies if applicable.
Avoid making large payments up front.

What questions should I ask painting instructors?

When looking for local painting classes, ask the following questions:

How long have you been painting?
Do you allow walk-ins?
What type of paint would you recommend for my experience level?
What's your cancellation policy?
Do you have an age requirement?
How long are your classes?
Can I take my work home after class, or does it need to stay here to dry?
Will you give me an estimate and contract in writing?

Reviews for San Francisco painting classes

Recent success stories from people in the San Francisco area.

Evie C.

He is fantastic! Works well with you and is super encouraging. I can’t wait to see how my art progresses with his instruction.

Painting Lessons With a Classically Trained Artist

Zoe F.

Xenia has been an EXCELLENT art teacher for our child. She has worked with him in developing a variety of artistic skills, and most importantly, encouraged his love of art and his confidence in making art. She is responsive, responsible, punctual, and effective. We think she is just great!

Studio Xenia -- Over 35 years of Dedicated Experience

Robin M.

You're beginning to open my mind regarding portraiture. It's never really appealed to me to try it. I just might be starting to see the light. A crack in a doorway, the shadow is born. A piercing thready creek, heavy laden with scorn.

Creation Fine Art Studios

Evie C.

He is fantastic! Works well with you and is super encouraging. I can’t wait to see how my art progresses with his instruction.

Painting Lessons With a Classically Trained Artist

Sophie K.

Teacher very approchable, talented and inspiring! The classes are well done.

Bay Area Art School

Joyce R.

From Joyce Rosenstiel Re James Gleeson In my years as both a teacher and an administrator, I spent over fifteen years evaluating teachers. Jim Gleeson is an outstanding teacher for many reasons. Here are a few 1. He understands that people learn in different ways, so he uses the white board for visual learners. 2. He repeats what is important about the lesson, for oral learners, 3. He demonstrates so you actually get to see what you will be learning, 4. He goes around to give individual help so you can get out of trouble if you are having concept difficulty. 5. He never denigrates, but gives suggestions in a positive way. 6. We are very lucky to have hime working with us.

Gleeson gallery

Bonnie W.

Olivia was dedicated to teaching our teen fundamentals of drawing - kind, engaged, talented and supportive! Our daughter is a self-taught artist and wanted the "basics" and portrait drawing as a foundation - Olivia met her where she was at, gave great feedback and created a welcoming warm space to learn.

LIV & CHIU art studio

Kristen G.

The lessons were very smooth yet interesting and got me to think things through in a way I don't usually. I think, as an artist, it would be beneficial to take a class from Heather every 6 months or so to keep my mind open and flexible. Loved my experience.