Discover the joy of painting at Pick Your Painting Night in Bloomington, Illinois. No experience needed—just bring your creativity and enjoy a fun, relaxed evening crafting your own masterpiece.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
No physical fitness required as the activity is seated and relaxed.
Wildlife
History
Bloomington’s rich history includes its role as a key hub on the Mormon Trail and its growth as a center of commerce in central Illinois.
Conservation
Local efforts focus on preserving green spaces and water quality along the Illinois River watershed where Bloomington is situated.
Merlot and A Masterpiece
Discover the joy of painting at Pick Your Painting Night in Bloomington, Illinois. No experience needed—just bring your creativity and enjoy a fun, relaxed evening crafting your own masterpiece.
Merlot and A Masterpiece is a Bloomington, Illinois studio that offers approachable painting classes, themed events, and DIY kits for guests of all skill levels. The studio hosts two-hour step-by-step classes, pallet painting sessions, open-studio Pick Your Painting nights, and specialty events such as Paint Your Pet Night and Paint Your Partner evenings. Summer Kids Camp 2025 welcomes young artists ages 8–17 for themed sessions guided by patient local instructors.
Classes are led by talented local artists who provide clear, stepwise instruction and pre-sketched canvases for select sessions, so no prior experience is required. Many events are BYOB friendly; participants may bring drinks and snacks to enjoy during classes. The studio maintains a relaxed, social atmosphere and handles cleanup after sessions, allowing guests to focus on creativity.
Merlot and A Masterpiece partners with nearby businesses for collaborative events, including a step-by-step collab class with Nautical Bowls that pairs guided painting with a choice of refreshment bowls. Take Home Kits include a 12x12 canvas, brushes, paints, and a step-by-step video tutorial so participants can recreate featured projects at home. Special promotions such as First Friday SPECIAL $30 offer accessible options for downtown Bloomington visitors.
Booking information, session dates, and available themes are posted on event listings. Spots for popular sessions and Summer Kids Camp are limited and suggested to be reserved in advance. For families, creatives, and groups seeking a memorable, hands-on evening in Bloomington, Merlot and A Masterpiece provides a variety of painting experiences designed for enjoyment, learning, and art.
Location
Bloomington, IL
Central Illinois studio
Tours Offered
10+
Classes, camps, and kits available
BYOB Friendly
Yes
Bring drinks and snacks
Kids Camp
Ages 8-17
Summer Kids Camp 2025
Book a class, sign up kids for camp, or order a Take Home Kit — creative experiences with local artists and easy online reservations.
Arrive Early to Settle In
Getting there a bit early gives you time to choose your painting and get comfortable before the class starts.
Dress for Easy Cleanup
Wear clothes that you don’t mind getting paint on to avoid stress during the creative process.
Bring Your Favorite Beverage
Merlot and A Masterpiece encourages guests to bring their preferred drinks to enjoy while painting.
Choose a Painting That Inspires You
Pick a subject that excites you—it will make the process more enjoyable and rewarding.
Apron
Protects your clothes from accidental paint splashes during the session.
Comfortable Clothing
Wear clothes that allow you to easily sit and move your arms while painting.
Reusable Water Bottle
Stay hydrated during the session, especially important in warmer months.
Personal Beverage
Bring your favorite drink to enhance your creative experience and relaxation.