From your first brushstroke on the canvas to your final sip of the evening, get the lowdown on creating your own artistic masterpiece at a Paint and Sip Party.
In case you haven’t noticed, creative nights out are all the rage – and Paint and Sip parties are leading the way!
True to their name, these events invite you to pick up a paint brush and let your inner Monet or Picasso shine – all while sipping on a few drinks and soaking up the party atmosphere with your friends.
Already known for its buzzing nightlife, Newcastle has embraced this popular trend, adding a creative twist to the city’s ever-growing list of must-try experiences.
No experience needed
Paint and Sip parties are open to everyone, whatever your skill level – which was reassuring in my case, as I hadn’t picked up a paint brush since the 1990s and felt a little rusty!
Upon arrival at our classy venue for the night – Gino D’Acampo on the Quayside – we were asked to wait in the bar area until everyone had arrived, before being shown to our table.
It was already set up with everything we needed to create our mini masterpieces: a 8 x 12-inch canvas propped on an easel, brushes, tubes of acrylic paint, a cup of water for rinsing brushes, and an apron to protect our clothes.
The painting experience
To begin, we rummaged through a pile of images supplied by the organisers – everything from landscapes and portraits to animals and objects. The idea is to choose a design you feel confident you can replicate.
Alternatively, you can ‘freestyle’ and paint whatever you like, but the images are there to spark inspiration and give you something to work from.
I went for a picture of a woman holding an umbrella, set against a kaleidoscope of colours ‘dripping’ in the rain.
Next, I lightly sketched out the outline of my chosen picture on the canvas using a pencil, also provided. It was then time to mix my desired colour palette, pick up my brush, and get painting!
The hosts were on hand to share some tips and guidance, but for the most part, we were free to paint, have a natter and enjoy a few drinks. We had picked the package that includes a glass of fizz and, after that, we popped up to the bar whenever we wanted something else. There was also a raffle, with more drinks up for grabs.
Social vibes
It was all very chilled and there was no pressure to finish within a set time-frame, but everyone seemed to naturally wrap up around the same time – roughly 90 minutes into the evening.
It was a fun night out and I really enjoyed getting creative with my friend. The venue also made the perfect backdrop – a lively atmosphere but not too loud or distracting!
The experience reminded me of how much I enjoyed art at school and made me wonder why I hadn’t done anything like this in years!
What to wear and expect afterwards
Although you’re given an apron, I’d suggest opting for a stylish yet sensible outfit, just in case a spot of paint finds its way onto your favourite clothes!
Remember, you’ll need to carry your painting with you after you leave the party. My picture was pretty much dry by the time I was ready to leave, and we were given a tote bag to pop it in.
Who are Paint and Sip parties for?
Paint and Sip parties are ideal for hen do’s, celebrations, or simply doing something a little different with your friends. And because it’s such a social experience, it’s also ideal for attending solo as you’ll get the chance to mix with other people.
Where to find Paint and Sip parties in Newcastle
Paint and Sip parties take place regularly at venues across the city centre, including Revolution, The Alchemist and 3Sixty, as well as locations in Gosforth, Whitley Bay, North Shields and Northumberland.
So, if you’re looking to colour outside the lines on your next night out, a Paint and Sip Party might just be the perfect date for your diary!
For more information about upcoming Paint and Sip parties in Newcastle and the surrounding area and to book a ticket, visit www.paintandsippartyuk.co.uk.
