Find painting classes in Washington, DC

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.

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Find painting classes in Washington, DC

Confirm your location to see the best painting classes near you.

Zip code

Top 10 painting classes in Washington, DC

Students agree: these Washington 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.com.

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 Washington painting classes

Recent success stories from people in the Washington area.

Catherine C.

Jon-Joseph is a an incredible sculptor and teacher. He helped me learn to sculpt a self portrait, use the tools of a sculptor and think in an entirely different way about perspective and how to work on a piece. He is extremely personable and easy to learn from and I really benefitted from my classes with him. I would recommend taking workshops and classes with him. Cam Crockett

StudioRussoLLC

Karina F.

Priscila is an extremely talented and knowledgeable photographer and to add to that a very patient and enthusiastic teacher. She is hands-on with composition, camera adjustments and explains the whys of what she is suggesting. Her classes are very informative but fun at the same time. Definitely time and money well spent.

Ms P and Company also known as Studio Pri

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

Weldon C.

It was a pleasure to have found an instructor with extensive knowledge in art - both technical book knowledge as well as actual field experience with her own drawings / paintings (some on display at local Art galleries). Ms Sharma’s ability to translate those skills into her training class has resulted in an immediate and study growth in my Granddaughter’s drawing / painting within a short number of training sessions. Her in-home studio environment is excellent, the scheduled class times are great/accommodating and the cost is very reasonable. I have been exceedingly pleased with Ms. Sharma and would highly recommend her as a 5 Star instructor. If I could exceed that rating, I would without hesitation give her 10 stars, ......... and yes, she is just that good ! Weldon Carson

Sukriti Painting Atelier, in association with Bed'n'Easel

Jolene H.

I liked Carlos's overall sensibility. He encouraged us in our efforts at personal expression; he always had praise. But he also challenged us to grow and stretch and would point out weakness that needed more practice. The exercises he gave us in our sessions were extremely creative. I learned so much about letting go, about how to free my hand and mind, how to be whatever artist I wanted to be instead of fearing that I wasn't "doing it right."

Drawing & Painting with Carlos

Evie C.