By Laine FullertonIn this story:
Doing generous things for others feels good, even the science says so!
So what if we told you that gift-giving can feel even better than it already does? Don’t take our word for it—here are five reasons why gifting local workshops will give you a boost this festive season.
1. You’ll be supporting Dementia Australia
This Christmas 2026, we’re doubling donations to our partner charity Dementia Australia. That means for every booking you make, $2 goes towards raising awareness and finding a cure for dementia. Not only will you feel like you’re making a positive impact with your Christmas budget, but your giftee will be keeping their brain stimulated too!
Gift a painting workshop and support a bigger cause
“Great teachers that explained each step in simple terms. Love the fact that donations are made to Dementia Australia too!” - Bernadette Cowan, Sip and Paint an Umbrella and Cocktails, Paint For Fun Melbourne
2. You’ll be uplifting the local community
No matter where you are, there’s a creative community buzzing within the neighbourhood. Whether it’s a local ceramicist throwing pots in her garage-turn-studio or a candle hobbyist teaching others how to melt and pour the perfect soy candles, friendly makers are out there and your support means they can keep doing what they love.
Gift a polymer clay class and the chance to uncover neighbourhood gems
“Many goodies included and lovely to network with like-minded makers with just as much enthusiasm. Sheree is positive and passionate about what she does, and it is always a pleasure to learn from her.” - Hollie Dawes, Polymer Clay Workshop: Statement Earrings, Sheree from Polly Collective
3. You’ll be gifting your loved one the chance to switch off
Studies show that sinking your hands into clay, twisting flowers into a colourful arrangement or engaging in any type of creativity helps you switch off and enter a flow state. That means every time you gift a workshop to a loved one you’re giving them the chance to unwind too!
Gift a kokedama class and the chance to play
“It was my Christmas gift and I really enjoyed it! Playing with the textures and creating something beautiful is really relaxing and satisfying.” - Gabrielle Dardouillet, Kokedama Workshop: Make a Set of Three, Merchant & Green
4. You’ll be encouraging sustainable habits
If there’s one thing our teachers are known for, it’s encouraging their students to DIY. Immersing yourself in the slow process of handmade goods at local workshops helps you tune into their beauty and chances are you’ll start to opt for DIY wherever possible.
Gift a natural skincare making workshop and a new hobby
“This class has inspired me to venture and experiment with homemade skincare myself!” - Alex Franco, DIY Natural Skin Care Making Class, Work-Shop
5. You can join in the fun too!
Who said you can’t join these creative workshops too? In fact, studies have shown that shared gifts, like experiences, are enjoyed even more by the giftee than those that aren’t!
Gift a collage workshop and some quality time
“I got this as a Christmas present for a friend and we did it together. I’ve never thought of myself as a creative or artistic person, but That Paper Joint created a safe and comfortable space for everyone to have fun and create. We’re already making plans to do another session!” - Fiza Zali, Cut and Paste Collage Workshop, That Paper Joint
