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 Austin painting classes
Recent success stories from people in the Austin area.
Craig M.
I came to Beth with 40 years experience in printmaking, needing an introduction to acrylic painting. She had a broad variety of artistic tools to show me including creating/selecting colors, different brush strokes, and different approaches to portrayals (impressionistic, realistic and abstract). Jieun Beth is talented, fun to work with, and flexible in tailoring her approach to students' needs. I highly recommend Jieun Beth!
Jieun Beth Studio
Nika Liping W.
Ms. Dottie has been my oil painting instructor since July 2023. I've always had a passion for drawing and painting, but I was never certain if I could truly pursue it.
In end July, I began my journey with her, and she guided me through the essentials, such as selecting brushes, colors, and proper brush cleaning techniques.
My first painting under her guidance was a leopard. Ms. Dottie led me through the entire process, from planning and sketching to applying color. She showed me how to break down the complex image, making it seem less daunting. I also learned how to assess proportions and relationships when starting a new piece. While many use transfer paper, I preferred to draw freehand, and she painted the leopard alongside me.
Ms. Dottie is not the type of teacher who dictates each step (1, 2, 3). She encourages a more "freestyle" approach, emphasizing that there's no wrong way to paint as long as you feel comfortable. She reassured us that adjustments could always be made, and perfection on the first try isn't necessary.
Beyond painting and drawing, she provided valuable insights into color mixing, especially when working with a limited palette of oil paints. She supplied each of us with a notebook to record our color mixing knowledge, which greatly aided me in achieving the desired colors.
I'm now nearing completion of my second painting, and I find great joy in every Wednesday's painting lessons, making it the highlight of my week.
Learning and painting with Ms. Dottie is a relaxing experience. She is talkative, easygoing, and always available to address any questions.
Due to my upcoming job, I won't be able to attend daytime lessons, but I plan to change to her evening classes.
Painting & Drawing Art Lessons with Professional Teaching Artist
Heidi F.
Jessica has a passion for art that shines through in her lessons. She's has a knack for teaching and makes her students feel engaged!
Visual Artist Lessons
Jonathan C.
Shaun really provides great resources so that you can continue to practice and learn on your own. He showed me an easier way to make different characters and put them in a story scene. Before that I couldn't really draw my own stories.
Best Class Ever
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