Your Fall Just Got a Whole Lot More Crafty: Occasionette’s Workshop is Open

It’s hard to believe, but gift-giving season is right around the corner. And whether you’ve already pounded out your first round of knitted goods or are still doling out apologies about last year’s gifts, this can bring on emotions ranging from glee to anxiety. For those that hover around the anxiety end, we’ve found relief: Occasionette’s workshops are now in session. Not only are you guaranteed to find (or make!) stellar gifts for family and friends, but you’ll also be way ahead of the gift-giving curve. Like, before Thanksgiving early. So, relax and put the glue gun down. You’re working with pros now.

The Passyunk Avenue shop is already a haven for adorable home goods and knickknacks, but the announcement of their workshop series provides a slew of other ways to get crafty this fall. Those interested will be able to simply go to Occasionette’s website, drop the desired workshop into their carts, and checkout like any online purchase. Then, all you’ll need to pencil is the date into your calendar, show up, and be greeted by tons of crafting goods—some free and others for discounted purchase—and a cheery staff with loads of gift-giving knowhow. Most of the workshops will also take place after hours and in a recently-opened back room, separate from the rest of the shop.

Since we’re already starting to rack up a list of gift recipients, we decided to pick out the essential workshops to signup for this fall. Beware: you’ll probably want to go to all of them.

Knitting Great Gifts: I think everyone has a half-finished or lop-sided scarf or two shoved in a drawer somewhere. It’s burden of only learning how to sort-of-kind-of knit (believe me, I learned on Youtube). To make yourself a knitting machine this fall, signup for one (or four!) knitting workshops designed for those that can already knit but need a pro to keep them on track. Plus, you’ll get 10 percent off your Occasionette purchases made that evening, discounted yarn, drinks and light bites. $30; October 1, 15, 29, and November 12.

Gift Giving Workshop: Everyone’s seen ’em: the store-bought goods that are transformed into the most charming Pinterest-worthy creations around. Well, here’s how to make them. Occasionette is pairing up with Anna DeMarco-Mills of The New Old Fashioned Workshops to show attendees how to turn sweet singular presents into a cohesive standout gift. The workshop includes instruction by DeMarco-Mills and owner Sara Villari along with a complimentary vessel, gift basket materials, 20 percent off Occasionette purchases made that night, and light noshing. $60; October 22. 

See you there!