New Orleans culture happens through making things: masks for Mardi Gras, blown glass art, printed posters, cooked gumbo, handmade books. Five workshops let you learn these crafts from local artisans who practice them daily. You leave with a physical object you made and skills you can repeat.
The workshops require advance booking because class sizes are limited and materials need preparation. Maskarade and New Orleans Glassworks need 1-2 weeks notice. SoFAB cooking classes book quickly during tourist season. Workshop NOLA classes fill within days of posting. NOLA Aikido accepts drop-ins but calling ahead confirms class schedule.
Maskarade, 630 St. Ann Street, French Quarter.
Mask-making workshops teach Mardi Gras and Venetian mask techniques. Sessions run 2-3 hours where you mold, paint, and decorate your own mask. Classes cover papier-mâché, feather application, glitter work, and paint techniques. $65-$95 per person depending on mask complexity. The shop sells finished masks but workshops let you create custom designs. Classes run daily by appointment. Book 1-2 weeks ahead. Phone: (504) 568-1018.
New Orleans Glassworks & Printmaking Studio, 727 Magazine Street, Lower Garden District.
Glassblowing workshops use borosilicate glass with torch techniques. Make paperweights, ornaments, or small vessels in 2-3 hour sessions. $65-$95 per person. Ages 13+. Printmaking workshops teach letterpress, screen printing, or bookbinding. $50-$75 for 2 hour sessions. The studio is working warehouse where professional artists rent space. Your workshop happens alongside working artists. Book 2+ weeks ahead. Closed-toe shoes required for glassblowing. Pick up finished glass pieces next day after annealing. Phone: (504) 529-7279.
The Southern Food & Beverage Museum, 1504 Oretha Castle Haley Boulevard, Central City.
Cooking classes in a professional teaching kitchen cover Creole and Cajun techniques. Make gumbo, jambalaya, étouffée, or beignets with chef instructors. Classes run 2-3 hours, $75-$125 per person. You cook, then eat what you made. Classes include recipes to take home. The museum also has permanent exhibits on Louisiana food history. Museum admission $15 separate from cooking class fees. Classes schedule varies, check website for dates. Phone: (504) 569-0405.
NOLA Aikido / New Orleans Fencing Club, 628 Baronne Street, CBD.
Historical European Martial Arts (HEMA) and fencing introductory classes teach sword fighting techniques from medieval and Renaissance combat manuals. Drop-in classes $20-$30. Equipment provided. No experience required. Regular classes run Tuesday-Thursday evenings and Saturday mornings. The club occupies a historic hall with high ceilings and hardwood floors. This is authentic martial arts training, not theatrical stage combat. Expect physical workout. Ages 14+. Phone: (504) 522-3411.
Workshop NOLA, 1915 Magazine Street, Lower Garden District.
Rotating craft workshops taught by local artisans. Sessions include leather working, wood carving, jewelry making, fabric dyeing, and metalwork. Classes run 2-4 hours, $60-$120 depending on materials. The space operates as a maker collective where instructors rent studio time. Workshop schedule changes monthly. Check the website or Instagram for upcoming sessions. Small class sizes, usually 4-8 people. Book early as classes fill quickly. Phone: (504) 304-3072.
