What is a Guided Painting Session?

If you've ever fancied picking up a paintbrush but felt unsure where to start, a guided painting session might just be the perfect solution. Whether you're a complete beginner or someone looking to unwind creatively, guided painting offers a stress-free, social and inspiring experience.

At Art Play London, we welcome hundreds of first-timers, dabblers, families, and seasoned artists alike to our guided painting sessions every month – and we’ve seen firsthand just how enjoyable and accessible these sessions can be. But what exactly is a guided painting session? And why might you want to give one a go?

Let’s dive into everything you need to know.

🎨 What is a Guided Painting Session?

A guided painting session is a structured yet relaxed art experience where participants are led step-by-step through creating a specific painting. Unlike traditional art classes, these sessions focus less on mastering technique and more on encouraging creativity, relaxation and having fun.

An artist (or facilitator) walks you through the process – from choosing colours and blending paints, to brush strokes and final flourishes – helping you create your own version of a featured artwork. All the materials are provided, and no previous experience is necessary.

It's painting made simple, joyful, and accessible.

🖌️ Who Are Guided Painting Sessions For?

Everyone! That’s the beauty of them. At Art Play London, our guided painting sessions attract a wonderfully mixed crowd:

• Absolute beginners who’ve never held a paintbrush before

• Groups of friends looking for something different to do together

• Couples enjoying creative date nights

• Parents and kids seeking screen-free bonding time

• Corporate teams wanting to do something social but low-pressure

• Solo adventurers hoping to try something new

• And yes, even practising artists who just want a fun, mindful session

The goal isn’t to produce a perfect masterpiece – it’s about enjoying the process and expressing yourself freely.

🧑‍🎨 What Happens in a Guided Painting Session?

While each studio or event may vary slightly, the general format of a guided painting session goes a little something like this:

1. Welcome and Setup

You’ll arrive at our warm and welcoming Chelsea studio, where your seat will already be set up with everything you need: a canvas, brushes, paints, apron, palette, and water cup. Our friendly host will greet you and explain what to expect.

2. Introduction to the Painting

You’ll be shown the painting that you’ll be working towards. Don’t worry – no two artworks ever turn out the same, and that’s part of the magic. The featured piece serves as a guide, not a strict outcome.

3. Step-by-Step Demonstration

Our talented artist will demonstrate the painting in real time. You’ll be guided through each stage – from background washes to foreground details. They’ll share tips along the way on brush technique, colour mixing, and layering.

4. Time to Play

There’s always space to add your own flair. Want to change the colour scheme? Go for it. Add a unicorn? Why not! Our sessions are as much about creative freedom as they are about guidance.

5. Support Throughout

Our facilitators wander the room offering support, encouragement, and the occasional gentle nudge if you’re unsure what to do next. You’ll never be left floundering.

6. Admire and Share

Once the final strokes are added, it’s time to admire your work – and everyone else’s too. There’s a brilliant feeling of collective accomplishment. Snap a photo, share it on Instagram (don’t forget to tag @artplayldn) and take your canvas home.

🍷 Sip & Paint Guided Sessions

One of our most popular offerings is our Sip & Paint guided painting session – combining the joys of art and a glass of your favourite tipple.

Perfect for:

• Hen dos

• Birthday parties

• Date nights

• Corporate socials

Bring your own wine or bubbles (or grab a soft drink), and settle into a guided painting session with a twist. It’s relaxed, bubbly, and often full of laughter.

You can book a Sip & Paint guided session on our website here.

🌿 Themed Guided Painting Events

We also run themed guided painting sessions throughout the year that tie in with special events, awareness days, and seasonal moments.

Some examples include:

• Earth & Ocean Guided Paint Night – A creative evening exploring our connection to nature through paint

• Pride Month Paint & Sip – Celebrate diversity with a colourful group art session

• Mother’s Day Painting Class – A bonding moment with mum over a cuppa and canvas

You can find our full list of themed events right here.

🧠 What Are the Benefits of a Guided Painting Session?

Apart from being fun, guided painting sessions offer several mental and emotional benefits:

✨ 1. Stress Relief

Painting has been shown to reduce cortisol (the stress hormone) and increase dopamine (the “feel good” hormone). It’s a brilliant way to unwind after a long week.

✨ 2. Confidence Boost

Many people leave their first session saying, “I didn’t think I could paint – but look what I made!” That confidence often spills over into other parts of life.

✨ 3. Mindfulness

The focused nature of painting – mixing colours, filling in shapes, making brushstrokes – is meditative. You’re present in the moment, not worrying about your inbox.

✨ 4. Creative Expression

You don’t need to be an “artist” to enjoy expressing yourself visually. Guided sessions provide just enough structure to feel safe, and enough freedom to be you.

✨ 5. Connection

It’s a beautiful way to bond with others. Whether you're painting with a loved one or chatting to the person next to you, art creates natural connection.

🏡 Can I Book a Private Guided Painting Session?

Absolutely! We offer private guided painting sessions for all sorts of groups and occasions:

• Team-building events

• Birthday celebrations

• Hen parties

• Family gatherings

• Creative corporate offsites

We can host your group in our Chelsea studio or come to you with all materials included. You’ll get a bespoke painting theme tailored to your group, plus guidance from one of our professional artists.

To enquire about private bookings, get in touch with us here.

👶 Are There Guided Painting Sessions for Children?

Yes! At Art Play London, we believe art should be for everyone – including little ones. Our Family Guided Painting Sessions are specially designed for children and their grown-ups to paint together in a fun, low-pressure setting.

These sessions help children:

• Boost fine motor skills

• Explore colour and shape

• Build self-esteem

• Bond with family members

• Have fun away from screens!

You can explore our family-friendly guided painting sessions on our booking page.

🧾 How Much Does a Guided Painting Session Cost?

At Art Play London, we aim to keep our guided painting sessions affordable and accessible. Prices typically range from £25–£40 per person, depending on the session and what’s included.

We also offer:

• Gift vouchers – perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, or just because!

• Group discounts – for bookings of 6 or more

• Corporate rates – for team events

Everything you need – including paints, brushes, aprons, and canvas – is included in the price. You just show up and create.

🌈 Why Choose Art Play London?

There are plenty of painting studios out there – so why choose us?

Here’s what our guests love:

• Beautiful central location in Chelsea, London

• Expert and friendly facilitators who put you at ease

• Unique and creative session themes

• Warm, inclusive atmosphere for all levels and backgrounds

• Freedom to be yourself and explore without pressure

• Sustainable values – many of our paints and materials are eco-conscious

• Community feel – we’re not just a studio; we’re a creative hub

Want to see for yourself? Have a look at some upcoming guided painting sessions here.

💬 What Do People Say?

Ready to Try a Guided Painting Session?

Now that you know what a guided painting session is and all the wonderful benefits it brings, why not give it a go?

Whether you’re looking for a new hobby, a creative night out, or just some time to reconnect with yourself, there’s a guided painting session for you at Art Play London.

👉 View upcoming sessions and book your spot here

We can’t wait to paint with you.

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