Why You Need to Try These 5 Hidden Gems in Canberra

Have you ticked off Canberra’s well-known museums and historical sites? Are you ready to dig a little deeper into the country’s capital? Good news—you’ve come to the right place. Canberra might be small, but what it lacks in size it makes up for in cool hidden gems and undiscovered things to do. Whether you’re in residential Belconnen, the leafy streets of Forde or laid-back inner-north suburbs like Downer, there's always an adventure tucked around the corner in this city. So, gear up and prepare to explore some of Canberra’s best-kept crafty secrets!

Make DIY silver or gold rings in Belconnen

Minimalist jewellery label blonde. offers a ring making class at Belco Arts Centre, home to a variety of visual art exhibitions, creative classes and live music events. Head inside their quaint studio, where you’ll be guided by an experienced jewellery maker through each step of the process. From choosing your materials to shaping your unique design, there's something incredibly satisfying about wearing something you've created with your hands. By the end of the class, you can take home your finished ring that you can cherish forever.

Why you need to try jewellery making…

It’s the ultimate social activity that brings your loved ones closer together, perfect for romantic date ideas or fun things to do in Canberra. Bring your friend or partner along and customise your rings for a more personal touch!

Make a day of it by…

Visiting the current exhibitions at Belco Arts Centre, which are available from 5 April to 19 May. From admiring tiny ceramic houses to dogs printed out in linocut portraits, you’ll find there’s so much art, wonder and inspiration to discover in Canberra.

Get your hands messy with clay in Weston

Get your hands dirty and try one of Canberra's top pottery classes at Deep Blue Ceramics in Weston! Here, skilled ceramicist and founder Amy will guide you through the rewarding process of shaping a humble lump of clay into beautiful pots or sculptures. 

Located in her cosy, open studio, she believes in the power of clay play and embracing your creativity in a fun and casual environment. That means that no matter if you’re a beginner or have some pottery skills up your sleeve, anyone can have fun in this class. Shape and mould clay and after being fired and glazed, you can pick up your handmade ceramic pieces to add to your home. Who knows, you may have just started your own pottery collection! 

Why you need to try pottery…

Pottery is the ultimate crafternoon activity—not only is it therapeutic but it’s also immensely satisfying to create something with your own hands. Besides, what could be more relaxing than sipping your morning coffee from your very own handmade ceramic mug? 

Finish off with a treat at…

Handpicked CBR, a cute cupcake and cookie shop located on Gruner Street, just a four-minute walk away from the class. From pink buttercream cupcakes to chocolate chip cookies, you’ll find everything you need to tantalise your tastebuds.

Arrange colourful Turkish mosaic lamps in Braddon

Originating from the rich cultural heritage of Anatolia, Turkish mosaic lamps have illuminated homes with their soft, mellow glow for centuries. The artistry behind these lamps has been passed down through generations and now you can learn this age-old craft right here in Canberra, at Atolya Art Studio.

Step inside this vibrant studio on Henry Street in Braddon and be greeted by an array of colourful glass pieces ready to be transformed into your unique lamp design. Under the guidance of experienced artisans, you'll learn how to arrange stained glass mosaic tiles and beads onto your dazzling lamp.

Why you need to try mosaic making…

These colourful glass tiles are so fun to work with, you can easily spend hours making your own mosaic lamp, all while indulging in some quality time with your loved ones. The traditional Turkish tea served during this class is the cherry on top!

Satisfy your appetite after at…

Lazy Su, an Asian fusion eatery perfect for refuelling after your class. Indulge in their delightful bao buns or kimchi fried rice while soaking up the funky atmosphere that mirrors Braddon's eclectic vibe.

Jump on the first tufting class in Forde

You might only know the viral craft trend that is tufting from your screens but now DKTUTU DIY Studio is offering our first tufting workshop in Canberra!

Located at Beveridge Crescent in Forde, they provide a relaxing and cosy environment where creativity truly thrives. With a collection of over two hundred yarn colours, tufted rugs on the wall and even fluid art bears on shelves, there are plenty of creative visuals to inspire your tufted rug. Guided by your friendly teacher, you'll start from scratch, using the tufting gun to punch strands of yarn into the fabric. By the end of the session, you'll not only have your beautiful rug but also newfound skills in this trendy craft. 

Why you need to try tufting…

Some people say that tufting is just like painting but with yarn and we’re here to tell it’s true! Instead of a paintbrush, you’ll have a tufting gun, where you can shoot strands of yarn and make your own tufted masterpiece to hang on the wall. Let’s just say this craft is trending for a good reason.

Fuel your creativity by…

Grabbing a quick bite to eat before or after class at some local favourites in Forde like Frankies At Forde—when they’re known for their all-day breakfast you know it’s going to good. Another option is Jimmy’s Palace for some home-style Chinese cooking.

Weave pine baskets by hand in Downer

The final craft on our list is pine basket weaving, a mindful and relaxing activity that keeps your hands busy and your mind calm. Textiles enthusiast, Leah of This Lush Corner has taken this timeless craft and turned it into a fun and hands-on workshop experience. Located at Downer Community Hall, this charming spot is well worth the visit for both locals and tourists alike.

Held amongst a backdrop of lush gardens and leafy trees, you’ll learn this creative art form and be guided step-by-step through this creative process. By the end of the class, complete beginners will be guaranteed to leave with their own unique basket to make storing in your home that much easier!

Why you need to try weaving…

Once you learn this craft, you can try weaving anywhere you want! All you need is a bunch of pine needles and your own two hands to make these beautifully handwoven baskets. It’s the perfect activity that allows you to switch off and tap into a creative meditative flow.

Continue to unwind after class with…

A walk in the park around Frencham Place, where you’ll find plenty of space to roam around or sit down for a picnic with your loved ones. It’s a great chance to enjoy the sunshine, unwind and connect with nature in the heart of the city.

There’s so much more to Canberra than meets the eye. When pondering what to do in Canberra during your next visit, come and explore some of these cool crafts in your local community. Not only will you gain new skills and create beautiful handmade items but you’ll also uncover some of the city's top hidden gems just waiting to be discovered.