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Where to Get Creative in Moscow

Pottery Workshop 

Get your hands dirty 

Looking for a new hobby and feeling inspired by that Unchained Melody scene from “Ghost”? We’ve got it covered. Moscow’s Mosgonchar pottery studio offers classes to aspiring potters of all levels — from first timers to experienced types looking to tighten up their technique. Creatives from the age of two and up can try their hand at the potter’s wheel through individual classes — lasting from 60-90 minutes — or opt for a group session with a gang of friends. It’s the perfect fun, creative and ‘clayful’ day out. Prices start from 1400 rubles.

Cafe Didu 

Where plasticine meets food 

On weekdays, guests at Cafe Didu can enjoy great food while sculpting away the hours from the comfort of their dinner table. Diners are invited to use the plasticine lying on the tables and transform it into whatever their imagination comes up with. These creations are then exhibited all over the cafe for future guests to marvel at. More than 140,000 clay figurines are now on display in the cafe, including a reproduction of the Mona Lisa, which even made it into The Guinness Book of Records. As for the food, don’t be concerned: plasticine does not feature in any of the dishes.

Drink and Draw 

Release your inner Aivazovsky over a glass of Merlot 

Drink and Draw Moscow combines two of the greatest things in life — art and fine wine. Pick up a paintbrush and try to avoid dipping it in your glass of wine rather than your water pot as you enjoy the informal masterclasses held fortnightly. Each workshop has a unique theme — from the avant-garde to Impressionism — and is lead by a talented artist. Whether you are a total beginner, or are already a dab hand with oils, these relaxed evenings are a great way to socialize with like-minded creatives. Each class costs 1500 rubles and includes painting materials, professional guidance and, of course, good wine.

Gingerbread Museum 

Satisfy your sweet tooth 

Take a trip down memory lane and relive some of your fondest Christmas moments by creating gingerbread masterpieces at the Moscow Gingerbread Museum. The museum offers a wide selection of workshops for children and adults alike. Whether you fancy decorating 3D Christmas trees, gingerbread houses, or even gingerbread postcards, there is something for all of the family to enjoy. As the Christmas season approaches there will be more holiday-themed classes, many including unlimited quantities of traditional Russian tea to enjoy whilst you create your edible masterpieces. Classes from 450 to 2500 rubles.

Ili-Ili 

Knit, drink tea, be happy 

This knitter’s paradise in the hipster Flacon Art and Design Center offers creatives the chance to enjoy a hot drink while finishing off the sleeves of their Christmas jumper project. Browse through the extensive selection of cozy wools on offer, seek advice from the experienced and friendly staff or join in on one of the many classes on offer to take your knitting skills to the next level — knitted jumpsuit anyone? For those who enjoy a comforting bit of yarn this shop is a must-visit during the colder months.

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