What is a paint and sip class?
If you’ve been seeing ‘paint and sip’ pop up in your social feed — or heard friends rave about their team event — you’re probably wondering: what actually happens at one of these classes? Whether you’re planning a team outing, a birthday celebration, or simply looking for a fun way to unwind, a paint and sip class is one of the most approachable and enjoyable creative experiences you can try.
At Paint and Sip VT, we have guided hundreds of people through the process — many of whom haven’t picked up a brush since grade school. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything: what a paint and sip class is, what to expect, what to bring, and how to find the right class for your group.
What is a Paint and Sip Class?
A paint and sip class is a guided painting event where participants follow a live instructor to create a painting — usually on canvas — while enjoying beverages of their choice. The ‘sip’ part is optional and completely flexible: some people bring wine, while others prefer coffee or tea. In either case, the focus is really on the creative experience and the fun of doing something different together.
Classes typically run 1.5 to 2 hours and are designed specifically for beginners. No artistic experience is required — in fact, most of our guests arrive having never held a paintbrush as an adult. Additionally, the instructor walks everyone through each step at a relaxed pace, so you’ll be surprised by how much you can create in a single session.
Furthermore, paint and sip classes offer a lot of flexibility in terms of format. You can hold a class in person at a venue of your choosing — a restaurant, office, or home — or virtually, with paint kits shipped directly to each participant. As a result, both formats work beautifully for team building events, birthday parties, bachelorette parties, family gatherings, and casual get-togethers.
What To Expect In a Paint and Sip Class?
Here’s a general breakdown of how a typical class unfolds:
- Welcome and setup: You arrive, get your supplies laid out, and settle in with your drink of choice.
- Choose your painting: Either follow a pre-selected design or personalize it. At Paint and Sip VT, for example, we offer hundreds of painting ideas — from landscapes and wildlife to seasonal themes and abstract pieces.
- Guided instruction: The instructor walks the group through the painting step by step. Nobody moves too fast; the goal is for everyone to finish and feel proud of what they created.
- Final touches: You add your personal details and, as a result, take home a one-of-a-kind piece at the end of class.
Overall, the whole experience is designed to be low-pressure and fun. Laughter is encouraged, and imperfect brushstrokes are part of the charm.
Who is a paint and sip class for?
Paint and sip classes are genuinely for everyone — including people who insist they “can’t draw a straight line.” In other words, you don’t need any natural talent to have a great time. Here’s who tends to love them most:
- Corporate teams looking for a fresh take on team building that actually gets people talking and laughing
- Friend groups celebrating birthdays, bachelorette parties, or simply a fun night out
- Family gatherings that need an activity everyone can participate in together
- Remote teams who want to do something fun and creative across different locations
- Anyone who wants to slow down, try something new, and take something home at the end
With that in mind, if you’re planning a group event, check out our Team Building Paint Events for groups of 10 to 1,000
Team Building Paint Events — If you’re planning a group event, check out our team building paint classes for groups of 10 to 1,000.
Virtual vs. In-Person Paint and Sip Classes — What's the Difference?
One of the most common questions we get is whether virtual classes are ‘as good’ as in-person ones. The honest answer: they differ in format, but both deliver a great time.
Both formats include guided instruction, your choice of painting theme, and the same warmth and energy you’d expect from a dedicated instructor.
In Person Classes
We come directly to you — your office, a local restaurant, or your home — and bring all the supplies. You simply provide the tables, chairs, and location. Moreover, our service areas include Burlington, Colchester, Essex, Shelburne, and surrounding Vermont communities.
Virtual Paint Classes
Virtual Classes: Paint kits are mailed directly to each participant, wherever they are. The class runs live over Zoom, Teams, or your platform of choice, led from our Vermont studio.
Virtual classes are ideal for remote teams or groups spread across different cities. Check out our Virtual Paint and Sip Classes.
What Do You Need to Bring to a Paint and Sip Class?
Not much — and that’s one of the great things about it. At Paint and Sip VT, all the supplies are included in the kit:
- Canvas board
- Set of brushes
- Acrylic paints
- Painter’s palette
- Printed painting inspiration
- Optional add-ons: wooden easel, fabric apron, gourmet Vermont chocolates
In short, the only thing you need to bring is your drink of choice and an open mind. Additionally, wear something you don’t mind getting a little paint on — or grab one of our add-on aprons!
How Much Does a Paint and Sip Class Cost?
Pricing varies depending on the format and package you choose. For example, our virtual classes start at $55 per person, while in-person classes start at $40 per person. We offer Standard, Pro, and Premium kit options depending on the level of supplies you’d like included.
See our paint and sip packages for a full breakdown of what’s included at each price point.
Additionally, self-led DIY kits are available starting at $24 per person — a great option for smaller groups or families who want to paint on their own schedule.
Tips for First-Timers
- Don’t overthink it. The whole point is to have fun, not to create a masterpiece.
- Follow along with the instructor, but feel free to make it your own. Your painting doesn’t have to look exactly like the example.
- Wear something comfortable that you don’t mind getting a little paint on.
- If you’re planning a group event, book early — especially for spring and fall, as our dates fill up quickly.
- Have a drink ready before the class starts. Whether it’s a glass of wine, sparkling water, or a hot coffee, it adds to the relaxing vibe.
Ultimately, a paint and sip class is one of the easiest, most memorable ways to bring a group together — whether you’re across the country or right here in Vermont. You don’t need experience, talent, or any supplies. Instead, you simply need to show up and be willing to try something new.
Ready to book your class? Book Your Class Today— we’d love to help you plan an experience your group will talk about long after the paint dries.