In a world where creativity is increasingly encouraged and social experiences are diversifying beyond the traditional dinner or night out, "Sip and Paint" events have taken the spotlight. Blending art with wine (or mocktails), these gatherings offer participants the chance to socialise, unwind, and express themselves creatively—no matter their skill level. But what if you’re a total beginner, someone who hasn’t picked up a paintbrush since primary school? Is a Sip and Paint session really a good idea for you?
The short answer? Absolutely yes. But let’s explore why in detail, and help you see how Sip and Paint events—like those hosted at Art Play London—aren’t just beginner-friendly; they’re designed with beginners in mind.
What Is a Sip and Paint?
First, a quick refresher. A Sip and Paint event combines a relaxed painting session with your drink of choice—be it prosecco, red wine, or a non-alcoholic cocktail. Hosted in a social, often lively setting, it’s an opportunity to let your creative side loose while enjoying good conversation and maybe even a playlist full of bangers.
At Art Play London, our sessions are about freedom and flow. Whether you come alone, with a date, or as part of a group, you’ll be welcomed into a non-judgemental, feel-good environment. And contrary to the misconception that you need to be an “artist” to join in, these sessions are often the perfect introduction for people who don’t consider themselves artistic at all.
1. You Don’t Need Experience to Enjoy It
One of the most beautiful things about Sip and Paint is that there’s no barrier to entry. You don't need to know anything about art history, colour theory, or brush techniques. You simply need to show up, sit down, pick your colours, and get stuck in.
For beginners, this is incredibly liberating. There’s no critique, no pressure to produce something “perfect”, and no comparison. You’re encouraged to interpret prompts your way, or ignore them entirely and paint what you feel.
In fact, many first-timers are surprised by how naturally they fall into a rhythm—and how proud they are of their finished piece, even if it’s far from “technically” perfect.
“I hadn’t painted in years, and was a bit anxious at first,” says Freya, a recent Art Play London attendee. “But within ten minutes, I was totally absorbed. It was such a safe space to be creative. And I went home with a painting I actually loved!”
2. The Environment Encourages Play, Not Perfection
There’s something psychological at work here, too. Traditional art classes can sometimes feel intimidating—rows of students, structured instructions, and the worry of getting it ‘wrong’. But Sip and Paint flips that narrative on its head.
Imagine this: You walk into a stylish studio. The lights are warm, your favourite tunes are playing in the background, and you’re handed a glass of wine. The vibe is immediately relaxed, social, and encouraging. There are no grades, no assessments—just your canvas, your colours, and your creativity.
For beginners, that sense of play is key. When we remove the fear of failure, we unlock genuine enjoyment and expression. It's why so many people leave saying things like, “I forgot how much fun painting is!”
3. You Get Guidance—But Only If You Want It
At Art Play London, we offer both guided and unguided sessions. This is crucial for beginners because it gives you the choice to ease into painting with step-by-step instructions or go rogue with full creative freedom.
In a guided session, our friendly artist facilitators might walk you through a theme—like “Sunset Skies” or “Abstract Faces”—providing techniques and tips along the way. These sessions are great for those who feel a little nervous and want a bit of structure.
In unguided Free Flow sessions (like our weekend ones), the studio becomes your playground. You’re encouraged to experiment, try different tools, and simply see what happens. There’s always someone around to offer support if you need it, but you’re not boxed into a formula.
This freedom to choose your level of involvement is what makes Sip and Paint so beginner-friendly. You’re never alone unless you want to be, and you’re never told there’s a “right” way to create.
4. Materials and Setup Are All Provided
Another big perk for beginners? You don’t need to bring a thing.
When you sign up for a Sip and Paint event at Art Play London, everything’s ready for you when you arrive: a canvas, acrylic paints, brushes, aprons, palette knives, sponges, glitter (yes, glitter!), and more. We even take care of setup and clean-up.
For those new to painting, that’s a huge relief. It removes the stress of needing to know which materials to buy or how to prepare your space. You just show up and enjoy.
5. Sip and Paint Is About Expression, Not Skill
This might be the most important point of all.
Sip and Paint isn’t about creating a masterpiece. It’s about expressing yourself—your thoughts, your energy, your mood—on canvas. It’s emotional, not technical.
Some of our best feedback comes from people who describe painting as therapy, not just art. They come in tense and leave feeling calm, reconnected, and proud. Painting becomes a release, a way to process feelings or simply escape from daily pressures.
This makes it ideal for beginners. There's no ‘bar’ to reach. The success of your painting isn’t judged by how “realistic” or “accurate” it is—it’s measured by how it made you feel.
6. You’ll Be Surrounded by People Just Like You
Many people worry: “What if everyone else is amazing and I look silly?”
Let’s put that fear to rest: the vast majority of attendees at Sip and Paint events are not trained artists. They’re beginners, just like you. They’re friends out for something different, couples on a quirky date night, mums taking a break, or solo adventurers rediscovering their creative spark.
The result? A totally judgement-free zone.
In fact, one of the unexpected joys of Sip and Paint is the camaraderie. People cheer each other on. They compliment your colours. They compare abstract attempts and laugh about how everyone's sunset turned out completely different.
This shared beginner experience creates instant connection.
7. It’s the Perfect Low-Stakes Way to Try Something New
If you’ve ever thought “I wish I were more creative,” or “I’d love to get into painting,” Sip and Paint is your perfect entry point.
Unlike signing up for a full art course or buying expensive supplies, a Sip and Paint event is low commitment. You’re not investing months—you’re just trying it out for a couple of hours, in a fun and casual setting. If you love it, you can come again. If not, you’ve still had a good night out.
And you may surprise yourself. Many beginners leave thinking, “Wait, I actually can paint.” All it took was the right environment to discover it.
8. You’ll Go Home with Something Tangible
For beginners, there’s something magical about walking out the door with a painting you made yourself.
You don’t just leave with a buzz or a good memory—you leave with evidence of your creativity. You might hang it in your home, gift it to someone you love, or tuck it away as a reminder of what you can do when you let go of fear.
This tangible takeaway is one of the reasons beginners come back again and again. It’s an achievement—but without the pressure.
9. It Can Spark a Long-Term Creative Habit
Many people who come to their first Sip and Paint say they haven’t created anything since school. But after just one session, something clicks. They realise art doesn’t have to be elite or intimidating. It can be joyful, playful, and deeply personal.
For beginners, that first session can be the spark that ignites a creative flame.
Some go on to explore painting at home. Others try different art forms—pottery, drawing, or collage. A few even develop a regular creative practice that becomes part of their wellness routine.
And it all started with one sip, one canvas, and a curious step outside their comfort zone.
10. Art Play London Makes Beginners Feel at Home
At Art Play London, our ethos is simple: Art is for everyone. We believe creativity is a birthright, not a talent. You don’t need credentials or confidence to be welcome in our studio—just curiosity and an open mind.
We’ve crafted our sessions to feel like a celebration, not a class. You’ll be met with warmth, inclusivity, and the freedom to be yourself. Whether you’re painting a bold abstract or a quiet seascape, you’ll be encouraged, not judged.
That’s why beginners love us—and why so many first-timers become regulars.
Final Thoughts: Say Yes to Your Inner Beginner
So, is Sip and Paint good for beginners? Without question.
It’s ideal for anyone who:
Feels intimidated by traditional art settings
Hasn’t painted in years (or ever)
Wants to explore creativity in a low-pressure environment
Needs a confidence boost
Just wants a fun, unique night out
You don’t need to wait until you “feel creative.” You don’t need to learn the basics first. You just need to show up, relax, and give yourself permission to play.
At Art Play London, we’ll take care of the rest.
Ready to Begin Your Creative Journey?
Check out our upcoming Sip and Paint sessions—whether you're after a guided evening with friends or a Free Flow Sunday to yourself. Paint, sip, and discover what’s possible when you say yes to something new.
📍 Book your session now🎨 Art for everyone. No experience needed.
