Select Mondays
and Thursdays
We host volunteer workshops where anyone can join us as we refinish and repurpose items to sell at the ReStore. Learn new techniques, perhaps help set up and break down for a class, and have fun while supporting Habitat's mission of affordable home ownership opportunities in Anchorage.
No experience or supplies needed! Participation is free; registration and waiver required.
Last Monday of the month
3:00-5:45 pm
Whether you're an absolute beginner or you just want to get creative and socialize, the Make It Classroom is the place to "bee!"
No experience required! We'll have everything needed for the project. You might find yourself sewing fabric flowers, gift bags, or dog beds. You may want to bring your own sewing machine, although you are welcome to use one of ours.
Bring your ideas and your energy, and get ready to have fun!
Class fees
None!
Thursday, Sept. 14
6:00-8:00 pm
Ho-hum furniture, frames, jars, or even oatmeal boxes can become charming treasures when decorated with photos, wrapping paper, fabric or magazine scraps, or even napkins. Join us for an evening of creating something from next-to-nothing!
All materials included; no experience necessary.
Maximum participants: 8. Class fee: $30.
If you have a financial hardship, consider volunteering, or contact us here.
Monday, Sept. 18
5:30-8:00 pm
Tile and mortar and grout, oh my! You're off to see the Wizard of Tile in the Make It Classroom! Erick will simplify the path so it's as easy to follow as a yellow brick... er, tile road! We'll cover everything from surface prep to adhesives and sealants.
All materials included; no experience necessary.
Maximum participants: 6. Class fee: $30.
If you have a financial hardship, consider volunteering, or contact us here.
Any Alaskan will tell you that the key to staying warm is layers. But coats and boots don’t cover everything. Create versatile accessories to keep your legs toasty with just an old sweater, scissors, and needle and thread. They make great gifts, too!
All materials included; no experience necessary.
Maximum participants: 8.
Class fee: Adults, $30. Teens: enter code Teen15 for $15 rate!
If you have a financial hardship, consider volunteering, or contact us here.
Thursday, Sept. 21
5:30-8:00 PM
Alaskans LOVE their harvests! Whether from land or sky or sea, most folks living in Alaska truly enjoy eating fresh, locally-harvested food. Join us as we cover the basics of safe food storage. Bring your questions about drying, smoking, and canning, so you can enjoy the bounty all year long!
All materials included; no experience necessary.
Maximum participants: 8.
Class fee: Adults, $30. Teens can enter code Teen15 for 50% off!
If you have a financial hardship, consider volunteering, or contact us here.
October 2
November 6
Teens and adults alike are welcome at this class! You can make beautiful pieces from broken glass bottles using a microwave kiln. Create jewelry, window décor, and more. Sharon will cover everything from tools, materials, & safety to scoring, breaking, and design. Our only caution: This craft may be habit-forming! 😉
All materials included; no experience necessary.
Maximum participants: 8. Limit 5 pieces per person.
Class fees
Ages 13-18: $15
Adults: $30
Thursday, Oct. 12
5:30-8:00 pm
This class is designed so you can get your hands dirty, practice on a real piece, and ask all the questions you want! Furniture will be provided, and we will talk through and perform all the steps needed to prep, make small repairs, paint, and protect the new finish.
All materials included; no experience necessary.
Maximum participants: 8. Class fee: $30.
If you have a financial hardship, consider volunteering, or contact us here.
Monday, November 20
6-8 pm
Furoshiki are traditional, eco-friendly Japanese cloths used for wrapping gifts and carrying items of all shapes and sizes. In this class, you can make three of your own, and learn to use them!
(And if you really love it, we welcome you to take home some fabric and make extras to sell at the ReStore, helping raise extra funds for Habitat for Humanity Anchorage's affordable home build and repair programs!)
Maximum participants: 6. All materials included; sewing experience highly recommended. NOTE: We have limited sewing machines on hand; please consider bringing one.
Class fees
Ages 13-18: $15
Adults: $30
in the works
Drywall Repair • Basic Tool Use and Safety
Home Canning 101 late summer/fall
Traditional Drums & Dance Fans late summer/fall
past workshops
Thursday, Aug 17
6:00-8:00 pm
High-quality leather furniture lasts a long time, but it doesn't always stay pretty. Simple leather refinishing products can make it easy to cover faded and stained surfaces and protect your investment. If you’ve thought about refreshing your favorite recliner or sofa, join us and try your hand at cleaning and restoring one of our gently-used pieces!
All materials included; no experience necessary.
Maximum participants: 4. Class fee: $30.
Monday, July 24
6-8 pm
Furoshiki are traditional, eco-friendly Japanese cloths used for wrapping gifts and carrying items of all shapes and sizes. In this class, you can make three of your own, and learn to use them!
(And if you really love it, we welcome you to take home some fabric and make extras to sell at the ReStore, helping raise extra funds for Habitat for Humanity Anchorage's affordable home build and repair programs!)
Maximum participants: 6. All materials included; sewing experience highly recommended. NOTE: We have limited sewing machines on hand; please consider bringing one.
Class fees
Ages 13-18: $15
Adults: $30
special events!
volunteer work celebrations
Since the classroom opened over two years ago, you've worked with us and helped make treasure from trash. You've learned, led, laughed, and made some friends along the way.
Join us to finish up a few things and celebrate the wonderful work we've done together. We'll complete some of those pieces that are hanging around, clean up and organize materials, and party! Refreshments will be provided.
Ages 16+ welcome. Waiver required.
Monday, July 10
and/or
Thursday, July 13
5:00-8:00 pm
(come and go as able)
2023: May 25, June 22
We call it a lucky break when a dish gets dropped, because it gives us an excuse to make art! Join us to learn about design, materials, and techniques, so you can create your own repurposed masterpiece at home.
All materials included; no experience necessary.
Maximum participants: 6. Class fee: $30.
If you have a financial hardship, consider volunteering, or contact us here.
Alaska's waste plastic is being recycled locally into durable lumber!
Join us as special guest Patrick Simpson shares his story and process for collecting and recycling local plastic waste. Learn why this is so crucial, check out sample materials, and watch a live demonstration of Patrick's equipment! Find out how you can get involved in supporting local recycling and manufacturing for a more sustainable Alaska.
Class fee: None. Please consider donating at registration to support our work!
Thursday, Feb. 16
6-8 pm
2023
Jan. 2, Feb. 9
Any Alaskan will tell you that the key to staying warm is layers. But coats and boots don’t cover everything. Create versatile accessories to keep your legs toasty with just an old sweater, scissors, and needle and thread. They make great gifts, too!
All materials included; no experience necessary.
Maximum participants: 8.
Class fee: Adults, $30. Teens: enter code Teen15 for $15 rate!
If you have a financial hardship, consider volunteering, or contact us here.
November 7
or
November 21, 2022
6-8 pm
So you've decided to renovate.... You're probably full of questions. What can I do myself? How do I get a permit, find a contractor, and work with them? Bring your questions to our pro, Erick, and find out all you need to know before beginning your project.
All materials included; no experience necessary.
Maximum participants: 10.
Class fees
Adults: $30
New
session!
November 13, 2022
March 16, 2023
May 6, 2023
Got a ghost in your machine? Whether your thread is too tight or too loose, your machine seems reluctant, or it's making a strange noise, bring it to Kayren for fixes and answers!
Drop off your machine ahead of time and fill out a short form. You may be present for your tune-up or simply pick up afterward. Maximum participants: 8.
Class fees
Ages 13-17: $15
Adults: $30
If you have a financial hardship, consider volunteering, or contact us here.
Monday
October 10, 2022
2:30-5:30 PM
Lost your mitten? Make another one (or two)! Create a pair for yourself or a friend using samples, leftover pieces, and other salvaged fabric! No materials or experience necessary. Specially scheduled for the after-school set, but all are welcome!
Maximum participants: 6
Class fee: Adults, $30. Teens can enter code Teen15 for 50% off!
If you have a financial hardship, consider volunteering, or contact us here.
Monday
October 17, 2022
2:30-5:30 PM
Make a zero-waste pet bed using samples, leftover pieces, and other salvaged fabric and create a cozy, unique spot for your best fur friend! No materials or experience necessary. Specially scheduled for the after-school set, but all are welcome!
Maximum participants: 6
Class fee: Adults, $30. Teens can enter code Teen15 for 50% off!
If you have a financial hardship, consider volunteering, or contact us here.
Monday
October 10, 2022
2:30-5:30 PM
It's in the bag! Take samples, leftover pieces, and other salvaged fabric and create one-of-a-kind totes for yourself or a friend. All materials included; no experience necessary. Specially scheduled for the after-school crowd, but all are welcome!
Maximum participants: 6
Class fee: Adults, $30. Teens can enter code Teen15 for 50% off!
If you have a financial hardship, consider volunteering, or contact us here.
Monday
August 22
5:30-8:00 PM
Alaskans LOVE their harvests! Whether from land or sky or sea, most folks living in Alaska truly enjoy eating fresh, locally-harvested food. Join us as we cover the basics of safe food storage. Bring your questions about drying, smoking, and canning, so you can enjoy the bounty all year long!
All materials included; no experience necessary.
Maximum participants: 8.
Class fee: Adults, $30. Teens can enter code Teen15 for 50% off!
If you have a financial hardship, consider volunteering, or contact us here.
2022: 3/21, 4/25, 5/2, 5/23, 6/6, 7/25,
8/5, 9/26, 11/14, 12/5
2023: 1/23, 2/13, 3/13, 5/15, 6/12/ 7/17
Teens and adults alike are welcome at this class! You can make beautiful pieces from broken glass bottles using a microwave kiln. Create jewelry, window décor, and more. Sharon will cover everything from tools, materials, & safety to scoring, breaking, and design. Our only caution: This craft may be habit-forming! 😉
All materials included; no experience necessary.
Maximum participants: 8.
Class fees
Ages 13-18: $15
Adults: $30
If you have a financial hardship, consider volunteering, or contact us here.
Monday, July 18
6-8 pm
Got questions about your machine or clothing projects? Just looking to get started? We'll make it sew easy! Join Kayren, our resident sewing expert, as we learn to use and maintain a sewing machine, mend tears, and troubleshoot the tricky stuff . No experience or materials required!
NEW! Teens are welcome to this class at 50% off!
All materials included; no experience necessary.
Maximum participants: 8.
Class fees
Ages 13-17: $15
Adults: $30
If you have a financial hardship, consider volunteering, or contact us here.
Monday, July 18
1-3 pm
You've got the "write" stuff; now try your hand at ancient binding techniques and making one-of-a-kind blank books from salvaged paper and fabric. We’ll provide all the materials, though you are welcome to bring your own! These make great gifts, journals, scrapbooks, or sketchbooks... the sky is the limit!
All materials included; no experience necessary.
Maximum participants: 8.
Class fees
Ages 13-17: $15
Adults: $30
If you have a financial hardship, consider volunteering, or contact us here.
Monday, June 27
1-3 pm
What can you make with "dis-CARD-ed" items? We'll give you one guess! Turn salvaged fabric, found items, and paper into beautiful, unique cards for all occasions. We’ll provide all the materials -- though you can bring your own. All you need is you and your sense of adventure!
NEW! Teens are welcome to this class at 50% off!
All materials included; no experience necessary.
Maximum participants: 8.
Class fees
Ages 13-17: $15
Adults: $30
If you have a financial hardship, consider volunteering, or contact us here.
Monday, June 20
1-3 pm
You've got the "write" stuff; now try your hand at ancient binding techniques and making one-of-a-kind blank books from salvaged paper and fabric. We’ll provide all the materials, though you are welcome to bring your own! These make great gifts, journals, scrapbooks, or sketchbooks... the sky is the limit!
All materials included; no experience necessary.
Maximum participants: 8.
Class fees
Ages 13-17: $15
Adults: $30
If you have a financial hardship, consider volunteering, or contact us here.
2021
6/3, 8/19,
9/23, 10/25,
11/1, 12/13,
1/31
2022
2/21, 4/25,
6/13, 8/29,
9/19, 11/3
2023
1/12, 2/2, 3/3,
Apr 6, May 11, June 15
Join Darcy from Furnish Studio + Salvage as we restore a piece of furniture together! This class is designed so you can get your hands dirty, practice on a real piece, and ask all the questions you want! Furniture will be provided, and we will talk through and perform all the steps needed to prep, make small repairs, paint, and protect the new finish.
All materials included; no experience necessary.
Maximum participants: 8. Class fee: $30.
If you have a financial hardship, consider volunteering, or contact us here.
Monday, June 13
1-3 pm
Teens and adults alike are welcome at this class! Take samples, leftover pieces, and other salvaged fabric and create one-of-a-kind totes for yourself or a friend! We’ve got machines and cloth; just bring yourself and your creativity.
All materials included; no experience necessary. Maximum participants: 8.
Class fees
NEW! Early Bird Rates:
Ages 13-17: $10
Adults: $20
Volunteers: FREE
After June 11:
Ages 13-17: $15
Adults: $30.
Volunteers: FREE
If you have a financial hardship, consider volunteering, or contact us here.
Design and make your very own cork board with 99% repurposed materials!
With a little elbow grease and creativity, you can turn cabinet doors, old corks, and used books and fabric into a one-of-a-kind gift for a friend (or yourself)! Join us in the Make It Classroom for a quick and easy tutorial with hands-on practice in painting and découpage. This class is appropriate for ages 15 and up.
All materials included; no experience necessary.
Maximum participants: 8. Class fee: $30.
If you have a financial hardship, consider volunteering, or contact us here.
Monday
April 18
5:30-8 PM
Give that old light fixture a quick "fix" and bring it back into the... well, you get it. Here at the Make It Classroom, we believe that everything has a purpose, even those outdated sconces and swag lamps. Join Darcy of Furnish Studio + Salvage as we put some ideas to the test to keep these potential beauties out of the landfill and give them a second life.
All materials included; no experience necessary.
Maximum participants: 8. Class fee: $30.
If you have a financial hardship, consider volunteering, or contact us here.
April 21, 2022
April 27, 2023
6-8 PM
Do I need a greenhouse for my tomatoes? How do I build raised beds? When should I start my seeds? What even grows up here? Bring your ideas and questions to Lydia as we cover what it takes to grow your own fruits & veggies at home in Alaska.
All materials included; no experience necessary.
Maximum participants: 8. Class fee: $30.
If you have a financial hardship, consider volunteering, or contact us here.
Monday, April 4
6-8 PM
You don’t need to hire an electrician to refresh your lighting! Join Dan as we learn the tools and tricks to safely and easily replace your light fixtures at home. Get hands-on practice with our in-house setup!
All materials included; no experience necessary.
Maximum participants: 4. Class fee: $30.
If you have a financial hardship, consider volunteering, or contact us here.
2022:
May 16
May 19
March 28
March 31
July 14
2023:
April 17 & 24
Tile and mortar and grout, oh my!
You're off to see the Wizard of Tile in the Make It Classroom! Erick will simplify the path so it's as easy to follow as a yellow brick... er, tile road! We'll cover everything from surface prep to adhesives and sealants.
All materials included; no experience necessary.
Maximum participants: 4. Class fee: $30.
If you have a financial hardship, consider volunteering, or contact us here.
Monday
March 21
6-8 PM
Join us in the Make It "Glassroom!"
We've got a brand-new topic on the calendar this month: fusing glass in microwave kilns! Sharon will help us turn colorful shards into lasting works of art. All materials provided, but if you prefer to bring your own gloves and goggles, you are welcome to. We just need you and your sense of adventure!
All materials included; no experience necessary.
Maximum participants: 5. Class fee: $30.
If you have a financial hardship, consider volunteering, or contact us here.
Monday, March 14
6-8 PM
Tune-ups aren't just for engines and instruments. Queen-sized cabinets also need new parts and tweaks to stay spiffy and useful! Get hands-on practice with tools and techniques from Darcy of Furnish Studio + Salvage as we turn a humdrum hunk of wood into a chic and desirable piece. We'll cover everything from surface prep and paints to replacing shelves and topcoats.
All materials included; no experience necessary.
Maximum participants: 4. Class fee: $30.
If you have a financial hardship, consider volunteering, or contact us here.
Monday
February 28
6-8 PM
Cinderella's fairy godmother used magic to make her the belle of the ball. We don't have any sorcerer's tricks, but we love to transform! Join us and Darcy from Furnish Studio + Salvage as we turn dull old cabinets into true treasures. We'll cover everything from surface prep to topcoats and attaching extras.
All materials included; no experience necessary.
Maximum participants: 8. Class fee: $30.
If you have a financial hardship, consider volunteering, or contact us here.
2021
November 22
2022
January 24
Sometimes a good piece of furniture just needs a little repair to become a GREAT piece of furniture! Darcy from Furnish Studio + Salvage covers the basics of furniture repair. Get the skills you need at home or when restoring an old piece you find at the Habitat ReStore!
All materials provided; no experience necessary.
Maximum participants: 8. Free; suggested donation: $30
2021
August 26
September 2
September 9
2022
January 17
January 20
Got an older furniture piece with beautiful potential? Fix it up with simple upholstery techniques! This class will provide hands-on practice with fabric, staples, and tacks so you can restyle to your heart's content.
Practice on one of our pieces, or bring your own. No experience necessary.
Maximum participants: 10. Free; suggested donation: $30
Thursday
January 13
6-8 PM
Our guest instructors remembers moving into their first homes and trying to figure it all out! They'll be sharing tips and tricks about safety, tools, and small repairs you can do yourself. This class will cover basics like windows, doors, and floors. Bring your questions, and stay tuned for more installments in this series!
All materials included; no experience necessary.
Maximum participants: 12. Suggested donation: $30
Monday
November 29
6-8 PM
Lucky us -- and lucky you -- to spend another evening with the very talented Darcy from Furnish Studio + Salvage. Customize a home décor item using salvaged materials from the ReStore! Get hands-on practice with Chalk Couture stencils. It's an easy way to upcycle and create something special.
All materials provided; no experience necessary.
Maximum participants: 8. Free; suggested donation: $30
Thursday
December 9
6-8 PM
Our guest instructor, a renovator and remodeler, remembers moving into her first home and trying to figure it all out! She’ll be sharing tips and tricks about safety, tools, and small repairs you can do yourself. This class will cover basics like electrical, plumbing, and heating maintenance. Stay tuned for more installments in this series!
All materials included; no experience necessary.
Maximum participants: 12. Suggested donation: $30
Monday
Oct. 4, 2021
6-8 PM
Refreshing rusty metal furniture is easier than you think! Practice on our pieces and see a quick and easy transformation. All supplies included. Wear paint clothes, preferably something warm enough for when we work outside.
All materials provided; no experience necessary.
Maximum participants: 6. Free; suggested donation: $30
New date!
Monday,
Sept. 27, 2021
6-8 PM
Customize a home décor item using salvaged materials from the ReStore! Get hands-on practice with Chalk Couture stencils. It's an easy way to upcycle and create something special.
All materials provided; no experience necessary.
Maximum participants: 10. Free; suggested donation: $30
September 16, 2021
6-8 PM
Take a humble box, houseware, or piece of furniture, and turn it into a treasure with a bit of glue and some scrap paper or fabric. We'll talk techniques and materials and give you a chance to practice your skills on a project of your own or one of ours!
All materials included; no experience necessary.
Maximum participants: 10. Suggested donation: $30
2021
6-8 PM
Got an older furniture piece with beautiful potential? Fix it up with simple upholstery techniques! This class will provide hands-on practice with fabric, staples, and tacks so you can restyle to your heart's content.
Practice on one of our pieces, or bring your own. No experience necessary.
Maximum participants: 10. Free; suggested donation: $30
August 12, 2021
5-7 PM
File cabinets. They’re cheap, sturdy, everywhere, and... boring. We will be using stencils, paint, and découpage to dress up these old hunks of metal. Join Habitat staff member Sarah Burtner and learn some ways to create a fun storage piece that will hold just about anything in your home!
All materials included; no experience necessary.
Maximum participants: 10. Suggested donation: $30
August 19, 2021
6-8 PM
Join Darcy from Furnish Studio + Salvage as we restore a piece of furniture together! This class is designed so you can get your hands dirty, practice on a real piece, and ask all the questions you want! Furniture will be provided, and we will talk through and perform all the steps needed to prep, make small repairs, paint, and protect the new finish.
All materials included; no experience necessary.
Maximum participants: 10. Suggested donation: $30
July 29th, 2021
6-8 PM
If you've ever wondered, "Where else can I put a plant in this room?" or "What can I do with this old light fixture?" then we have the class for you! Join our volunteer instructor, Shannon Haskin, and learn to turn unwanted light fixtures into objects of beauty and life.
All materials included; no experience necessary.
Maximum participants: 12. Suggested donation: $30
July 15, 2021
6-8 PM
Got an older furniture piece with beautiful potential? Fix it up with simple upholstery techniques! This class will provide hands-on practice with fabric, staples, and tacks so you can restyle to your heart's content.
Practice on one of our pieces, or bring your own. No experience necessary.
Maximum participants: 10. Free; suggested donation: $30
July 8, 2021
6-8 PM
Why won’t my machine sew? Can it be saved? How do I keep my favorite jeans wearable? Get answers to all your sewing questions from the ReStore's own sewing guru, Kayren McKnight! Spots are limited, so reserve your seat today.
Machines will be available for use; no experience necessary.
Maximum participants: 10. Free; suggested donation: $30
July 1, 2021
6-8 PM
Customize a home décor item using salvaged materials from the ReStore! Choose your own from our broad selection of phrases and paint colors. It's an easy way to upcycle and create something special.
All materials provided; no experience necessary.
Maximum participants: 10. Free; suggested donation: $30
June 24th, 2021
6-8 PM
Why won’t my machine sew? Can it be saved? How do I keep my favorite jeans wearable? Get answers to all your sewing questions from the ReStore's own sewing guru, Kayren McKnight! Spots are limited, so reserve your seat today.
Machines will be available for use; no experience necessary.
Maximum participants: 10. Free; suggested donation: $30
June 10th, 2021
6-8 PM
If you've ever wondered, "Where else can I put a plant in this room?" or "What can I do with this old light fixture?" then we have the class for you! Join our volunteer instructor, Shannon Haskin, and learn to turn unwanted light fixtures into objects of beauty and life.
All materials included; no experience necessary.
Maximum participants: 12. Suggested donation: $30
May 27th, 2021
5-7 PM
Take Land Acknowledgements further, and create your own. Recognize the stewardship of the Dena'ina people by upcycling political signs with our volunteer instructor, artist and curator Melissa Shaginof. Learn how Land Acknowledgments can help make Dgheyaytnu (Anchorage) a more equitable and truthful place.
All materials included; no experience necessary.
Maximum participants: 10. Free; suggested donation: $30.
Monday, July 11
6-8 pm
Beautiful vintage lamps often come with scary vintage wiring, and even newer lamps can break easily. Don't throw them out! Kayren will demonstrate step-by-step how to identify and repair wiring issues and more, ensuring that your once-loved lighting will work safely and look fabulous. No materials or experience required. We've got plenty of lamps, but you are welcome to bring your own!
NEW! Teens are welcome to this class at 50% off!
All materials included; no experience necessary.
Maximum participants: 8.
Class fees
Ages 13-17: $15
Adults: $30
If you have a financial hardship, consider volunteering, or contact us here.