Thrifty Connections

DIY Large Paper Flowers
2026-05-07 18:00 - 19:30 (America/New_York) | Thrifty Connections, 158 Lafayette Street, Schenectady, NY, 12305, United States
DIY Large Paper Flowers
Thursday May 7, 2026 6:00pm-7:30pm $20.00
Unplug and unwind with an evening of intentional creativity. We begin our journey with a brief guided meditation, designed to quiet the mind and open a space for your creative energy to flow.
In this workshop, you’ll learn the rhythmic art of paper folding to construct a stunning, large-scale floral decoration. Whether you choose to craft a classic, golden sunflower or a colorful wildflower, you’ll leave with a unique piece of art that lasts all season.
We offer two distinct environments to suit your mood: a Quiet Crafters space for focused, individual work, and a Social Crafting space for those who enjoy creating in community.

All supplies provided.

Classes at Thrifty Connections intended for adults and suitable for individuals 16+.
Ticket Policy
All ticket sales are final. As a small business, we operate with limited class capacity. Classes require advance planning, preparation time, and the gathering of materials and supplies. Because of our limited capacity, we are typically unable to refill seats or recover the costs associated with cancellations. For these reasons, all class ticket purchases are final and non-refundable.
If you’re unable to attend, your ticket may be transferred to a friend or donated—just let us know ahead of time so we can update our guest list. Thank you for understanding and for supporting our small classes and creative offerings.

Brunch & Book Bouquets: A Mini Crafting Retreat
2026-05-09 10:00 - 11:30
Brunch & Book Bouquets: A Mini Crafting Retreat

Saturday May 9th 10:00am-11:30am $30

Looking for a unique way to celebrate the women in your life? Skip the crowded restaurants and celebrate Mother’s Day with a morning dedicated to renewal and connection.

Give yourself or a loved one the GIFT of a mini crafting retreat. Enjoy a light brunch of fresh fruit, pastries, herbal teas, and juice spritzers while you transform a beloved book into a stunning floral centerpiece. In this unique workshop, you’ll learn the art of book folding to create a beautiful, vase-like sculpture, then craft a complementary faux floral arrangement to display inside. By the end of the class, you’ll not only have a beautiful, finished piece to take home, but also the skills to continue exploring this creative and meditative craft.

Whether you’re a mom coming for some much-needed “me time” or you’re bringing your mother/daughter for a shared creative adventure, you’ll leave with a beautiful, lasting bouquet and a heart full of inspiration.
Classes at Thrifty Connections intended for adults and suitable for individuals 16+.
Ticket Policy
All ticket sales are final. As a small business, we operate with limited class capacity. Classes require advance planning, preparation time, and the gathering of materials and supplies. Because of our limited capacity, we are typically unable to refill seats or recover the costs associated with cancellations. For these reasons, all class ticket purchases are final and non-refundable.
If you’re unable to attend, your ticket may be transferred to a friend or donated—just let us know ahead of time so we can update our guest list. Thank you for understanding and for supporting our small classes and creative offerings.

Sunflower Watercolor Painting ( Beginner Level) $50.00
2026-05-09 13:00 - 14:30
Sunflower Watercolor Painting ( Beginner Level)
Saturday May 9th 1:00pm-2:30pm
$50.00
Embrace the coming of Spring and find your inner artist!! Join us for a cozy beginner friendly workshop where we’ll explore the fluid beauty of watercolor painting.
Whether you’ve never touched a brush or want to refine your skills, you’ll be guided step by step through creating your own serene spring scenes.

To ensure the best results, all supplies will be provided ( feel free to bring your favorites if you are experienced) An additional $5.00 is included in the class fee to cover a professional grade, 140lb 100% cotton paper for your painting.

Guest Teacher: Mary Frances Millet is a third generation Schenectadian. Her watercolor work has been exhibited extensively throughout the capital district. When she’s not in her studio, she teaches watercolor at Mohawk Valley Art Shoppe in Schenectady.

Website: Maryfrancesmillet.com

Classes at Thrifty Connections intended for adults and suitable for individuals 16+.
Ticket Policy
All ticket sales are final. As a small business, we operate with limited class capacity. Classes require advance planning, preparation time, and the gathering of materials and supplies. Because of our limited capacity, we are typically unable to refill seats or recover the costs associated with cancellations. For these reasons, all class ticket purchases are final and non-refundable.
If you’re unable to attend, your ticket may be transferred to a friend or donated—just let us know ahead of time so we can update our guest list. Thank you for understanding and for supporting our small classes and creative offerings.

Icons & Intentions: Mixed-Media Mary Shrine Making Contemplative
2026-05-14 18:00 - 19:30
Icons & Intentions: Mixed-Media Mary Shrine Making Contemplative $30.00
Thursday May 14th 6:00-7:30pm
In this reflective, creative workshop, participants will create a small personal shrine using shadow boxes as containers. While Mary will be lovingly offered as a central inspiration and image option, you are warmly invited to bring any other sacred, symbolic, or meaningful image that resonates with your own spiritual path or personal practice. (Shadow box is 4”x 5.5”)
Using decorative papers, images, and a wide array of embellishments, you’ll design a shrine that serves as a visual prayer, meditation focus, or reminder of what you hold dear. All materials will be provided, and participants are welcome to bring an image or small item (sized to fit the shadow box 4”x 5.5” ) if they wish to personalize their shrine further.
No prior art experience is necessary, we will be working with small materials in small spaces so hand and finger dexterity is helpful. This class honors many traditions and ways of knowing, offering a peaceful space for creativity, intention, and connection.
All paths are welcome. All expressions are honored. Ages 16+
*Note: Due to working with donated and reclaimed materials:
Class projects may vary slightly from examples shown in our monthly calendar.
We embrace these variations as part of the magic and uniqueness of every session.
* Contemplative Classes are intentionally crafted with the ambience in mind.
CONTEMPLATIVE CLASSES= Quiet & Meditative class environment. Some classes may either begin or end with a guided meditation or a short guided breath work exercise and will be an opportunity to quiet the mind & body and allow the creative process to reconnect you to yourself. A great opportunity to be amongst others while remaining within yourself. Connecting in quietness!
Ticket Policy
All ticket sales are final. Because our classes require advance planning, preparation time, and the gathering of materials and supplies, we’re unable to offer refunds. If you’re unable to attend, your ticket may be transferred to a friend or donated—just let us know ahead of time so we can update our guest list. Thank you for understanding and for supporting our small classes and creative offerings.

Art in the Garden: DIY Garden Markers Saturday May 16th 10:00am-11:30am
2026-05-16 10:00 - 11:30
Art in the Garden: DIY Garden Markers $20.00
Saturday May 16th 10:00am-11:30am
Bring a bit of colorful whimsy into your green space this year. Whether you’re tending to a sprawling country estate, a cozy raised bed, or a vibrant collection of patio pots, there’s always room for a little extra color!
Each guest will design and paint a 6-pack of custom garden stones to mark their favorite vegetables, herbs, or blooms. Not a gardener yourself? These hand-painted sets make thoughtful, one-of-a-kind gifts for the plant lovers in your life!
Come celebrate the start of the growing season, get creative, and connect with fellow gardening enthusiasts in a fun, social atmosphere. All supplies provided.
Classes at Thrifty Connections intended for adults and suitable for individuals 16+.
Ticket Policy
All ticket sales are final. As a small business, we operate with limited class capacity. Classes require advance planning, preparation time, and the gathering of materials and supplies. Because of our limited capacity, we are typically unable to refill seats or recover the costs associated with cancellations. For these reasons, all class ticket purchases are final and non-refundable.
If you’re unable to attend, your ticket may be transferred to a friend or donated—just let us know ahead of time so we can update our guest list. Thank you for understanding and for supporting our small classes and creative offerings.

Tea Cup Succulents May 16, 2026 1:00pm-2:30pm
2026-05-16 13:00 - 14:30
Tea Cup Succulents $30.00
May 16, 2026 1:00pm-2:30pm

Join us for a cozy workshop where vintage charm meets modern greenery. We’ll begin by finding our focus with a 5-minute guided meditation, helping you lean into a calm, creative headspace. From there, the fun begins! You’ll browse our collection of vintage tea cups to find the one that speaks to you, then get your hands in the soil to design your own succulent sanctuary.

Whether you’re a seasoned “plant parent” or a total beginner, every guest leaves with a one-of-a-kind creation that captures the spirit of the new spring season, bringing a fresh piece of nature right into your home. All materials provided.

Classes at Thrifty Connections intended for adults and suitable for individuals 16+.
Ticket Policy
All ticket sales are final. As a small business, we operate with limited class capacity. Classes require advance planning, preparation time, and the gathering of materials and supplies. Because of our limited capacity, we are typically unable to refill seats or recover the costs associated with cancellations. For these reasons, all class ticket purchases are final and non-refundable.
If you’re unable to attend, your ticket may be transferred to a friend or donated—just let us know ahead of time so we can update our guest list. Thank you for understanding and for supporting our small classes and creative offerings.

Delicate Book Fold Flowers
2026-05-21 18:00 - 19:15
Delicate Book Fold Flowers
Thursday May 21, 2026 6:00pm-7:15pm $15.00

Join us for a quiet and mindful workshop where you’ll transform the pages of a forgotten book into a beautiful, lasting paper flower. We’ll begin with a short guided meditation and then step by step, you’ll be guided through the delicate process of cutting, shaping, and assembling your flower. The careful, repetitive motions are designed to be a meditative and relaxing experience.
This workshop is a perfect blend of creativity and calm. You’ll leave not only with a unique, handmade floral masterpiece but also feeling renewed and inspired. No prior experience is necessary. All tools and recycled book pages are provided.
Classes at Thrifty Connections intended for adults and suitable for individuals 16+.
Ticket Policy
All ticket sales are final. As a small business, we operate with limited class capacity. Classes require advance planning, preparation time, and the gathering of materials and supplies. Because of our limited capacity, we are typically unable to refill seats or recover the costs associated with cancellations. For these reasons, all class ticket purchases are final and non-refundable.
If you’re unable to attend, your ticket may be transferred to a friend or donated—just let us know ahead of time so we can update our guest list. Thank you for understanding and for supporting our small classes and creative offerings.

Vintage Pitcher Floral Arrangement $30.00
2026-05-22 17:00 - 18:30
Vintage Pitcher Floral Arrangement $30.00
Friday May 22, 2026 5:00pm-6:30pm
If you have a heart for vintage treasures and a love for florals, this workshop is your perfect escape. We’re bringing together the charm of the past with the beauty of the present in a relaxing, social atmosphere.
Our journey begins with a brief guided meditation, clearing away the day’s distractions to prepare your mind for a truly mindful crafting experience. Once centered, you’ll explore our curated collection of vintage and “shabby chic” pitchers to find the perfect vessel for your vision.
Let your creativity flow as you compose a one-of-a-kind arrangement using premium silk and faux florals. Unlike fresh bouquets, these creations live forever in your home, serving as a permanent piece of spring decor or a heartfelt, handmade gift.
Classes at Thrifty Connections intended for adults and suitable for individuals 16+.
Ticket Policy
All ticket sales are final. As a small business, we operate with limited class capacity. Classes require advance planning, preparation time, and the gathering of materials and supplies. Because of our limited capacity, we are typically unable to refill seats or recover the costs associated with cancellations. For these reasons, all class ticket purchases are final and non-refundable.
If you’re unable to attend, your ticket may be transferred to a friend or donated—just let us know ahead of time so we can update our guest list. Thank you for understanding and for supporting our small classes and creative offerings.

Blooms & Breath: Framed Floral Art $30.00
2026-05-23 10:00 - 11:30
Saturday May 23, 2026 10:00am-11:30am
Blooms & Breath: Framed Floral Art $30.00
Step into a world of everlasting blooms and treat yourself to an evening of “Garden Therapy.” This workshop is an invitation to slow down and cultivate your own “indoor garden” through the art of floral assemblage. We begin our journey with a 5-minute garden-inspired guided visualization, designed to transport your mind to a place of natural peace and prepare your creative spirit.
From this centered state, you will curate a stunning, one-of-a-kind piece of art using uniquely repurposed frames and a lush selection of high-quality silk flowers and natural accents. Whether you choose to hang your masterpiece on a wall or display it as a flat “floral tray,” you’ll leave with a sustainable, maintenance-free botanical treasure.
Classes at Thrifty Connections intended for adults and suitable for individuals 16+.
Ticket Policy
All ticket sales are final. As a small business, we operate with limited class capacity. Classes require advance planning, preparation time, and the gathering of materials and supplies. Because of our limited capacity, we are typically unable to refill seats or recover the costs associated with cancellations. For these reasons, all class ticket purchases are final and non-refundable.
If you’re unable to attend, your ticket may be transferred to a friend or donated—just let us know ahead of time so we can update our guest list. Thank you for understanding and for supporting our small classes and creative offerings.

Tiny Bird Book Contemplative
2026-05-23 13:00 - 14:30
Tiny Bird Book Contemplative
Create a tiny accordion-style book filled with beautiful bird images and thoughtful quotes. In this quiet, hands-on class, we’ll use simple collage techniques to make a small folded book.
As you cut, arrange, and glue, you’ll have time to slow down, enjoy the images, and reflect on the spirit of birds — lightness, freedom, and calm.
What we’ll do:

Make a small accordion-fold book
Choose and collage bird images and quotes
Create a personal, contemplative art piece to take home or to give as a gift

All materials provided. No experience needed — just bring your curiosity and love of birds.

All classes at Thrifty Connections are intended for adults and suitable for individuals 16+.
* Contemplative Classes are intentionally crafted with the ambience in mind.
CONTEMPLATIVE CLASSES= Quiet & Meditative class environment. Some classes may either begin or end with a guided meditation or a short guided breath work exercise and will be an opportunity to quiet the mind & body and allow the creative process to reconnect you to yourself. A great opportunity to be amongst others while remaining within yourself. Connecting in quietness!
Ticket Policy
All ticket sales are final. As a small business, we operate with limited class capacity. Classes require advance planning, preparation time, and the gathering of materials and supplies. Because of our limited capacity, we are typically unable to refill seats or recover the costs associated with cancellations. For these reasons, all class ticket purchases are final and non-refundable.
If you’re unable to attend, your ticket may be transferred to a friend or donated—just let us know ahead of time so we can update our guest list. Thank you for understanding and for supporting our small classes and creative offerings.

Happy Mail: Handmade Sunshine to Send
2026-05-28 17:30 - 19:00
Happy Mail: Handmade Sunshine to Send
Spread a little joy—one envelope at a time. In this creative, hands-on class, you’ll create a unique piece of “Happy Mail” designed to brighten someone’s day. Using three discarded envelopes as your base, we’ll transform everyday materials into a charming, multi-pocket keepsake perfect for gifting to a loved one, friend, or coworker.
Participants will learn how to layer, fold, and assemble their envelopes into a functional design filled with hidden pockets—ideal for tucking in tea bags, notes, stickers, and other small treasures. You’ll have access to a variety of paper scraps, decorative elements, and embellishments to personalize your creation and make it truly one-of-a-kind.
This class is all about creativity, reuse, and meaningful connection. Whether you’re crafting a simple gesture of appreciation or a heartfelt surprise, your finished Happy Mail piece will carry warmth, thoughtfulness, and a touch of handmade magic.
Come create, relax, and leave with something unique to share.
*Note: Due to working with donated and reclaimed materials:
Class projects may vary slightly from examples shown in our monthly calendar.
We embrace these variations as part of the magic and uniqueness of every session.
Classes at Thrifty Connections intended for adults and suitable for individuals 16+.
Ticket Policy
All ticket sales are final. As a small business, we operate with limited class capacity. Classes require advance planning, preparation time, and the gathering of materials and supplies. Because of our limited capacity, we are typically unable to refill seats or recover the costs associated with cancellations. For these reasons, all class ticket purchases are final and non-refundable.
If you’re unable to attend, your ticket may be transferred to a friend or donated—just let us know ahead of time so we can update our guest list. Thank you for understanding and for supporting our small classes and creative offerings.

Driftwood Suncatchers: A Meditative Making Experience- Contemplative
2026-05-29 17:00 - 18:30
Driftwood Suncatchers: A Meditative Making Experience
Slow down, breathe, and create something that captures both light and calm. In this reflective, hands-on class, you’ll design a serene suncatcher using beads, fishing line, and a piece of natural driftwood. As you carefully string each bead, you’ll be invited to approach the process with intention—embracing the quiet rhythm of making as a form of meditation.
The act of selecting colors, spacing, and textures becomes an opportunity for contemplation—each element a small reflection of your inner landscape.
Your finished suncatcher will shimmer in the light, casting gentle reflections—perfect for hanging in a window, porch, or your own “secret garden.” Whether it becomes a daily reminder to pause or a peaceful accent in your personal sanctuary, this piece will carry the calm energy of its creation.
No experience needed—just a willingness to be present, create, and let the light in.

*Note: Due to working with donated and reclaimed materials:
Class projects may vary slightly from examples shown in our monthly calendar.
We embrace these variations as part of the magic and uniqueness of every session.
* Contemplative Classes are intentionally crafted with the ambience in mind.
CONTEMPLATIVE CLASSES= Quiet & Meditative class environment. Some classes may either begin or end with a guided meditation or a short guided breath work exercise and will be an opportunity to quiet the mind & body and allow the creative process to reconnect you to yourself. A great opportunity to be amongst others while remaining within yourself. Connecting in quietness!
Classes at Thrifty Connections intended for adults and suitable for individuals 16+.
Ticket Policy
All ticket sales are final. As a small business, we operate with limited class capacity. Classes require advance planning, preparation time, and the gathering of materials and supplies. Because of our limited capacity, we are typically unable to refill seats or recover the costs associated with cancellations. For these reasons, all class ticket purchases are final and non-refundable.
If you’re unable to attend, your ticket may be transferred to a friend or donated—just let us know ahead of time so we can update our guest list. Thank you for understanding and for supporting our small classes and creative offerings.

DIY Moss Bowl Centerpiece
2026-05-30 10:00 - 23:30
DIY Moss Bowl Centerpiece
Saturday May 30 10-11:30am $30
Escape the winter chill and embrace the cozy Danish concept of Hygge by bringing a piece of nature’s beauty into your home!
Join us for a light and social adults-only workshop where creativity and sustainability come alive. In this class, you will design and build a truly one-of-a-kind moss bowl centerpiece using a curated selection of exclusively repurposed and natural elements. You’ll learn techniques for working with several varieties of preserved, maintenance-free moss and how to layer and arrange natural elements (like twigs, stones, and seed pods) for texture and visual interest.
No prior experience required. Simply come ready to CREATE & CONNECT in COMMUNITY.
This workshop is intentionally organized for adults. Ticket holders must be at least 16+ older to participate.
Ticket Policy
All ticket sales are final. Because our classes require advance planning, preparation time, and the gathering of materials and supplies, we’re unable to offer refunds. If you’re unable to attend, your ticket may be transferred to a friend or donated—just let us know ahead of time so we can update our guest list. Thank you for understanding and for supporting our small classes and creative offerings.

Buttercream Piping & Cupcake Decorating Class $55
2026-06-06 13:00 - 14:30
Saturday June 6, 2026 1:00pm-2:30pm
Buttercream Piping & Cupcake Decorating Class $55

Join us for a fun, hands-on class where you’ll learn the art of buttercream piping and cupcake decorating! In this interactive workshop, participants will explore a variety of piping techniques using classic buttercream, including rosettes, swirls, borders, and simple floral designs. You’ll practice each technique step-by-step and then apply them to decorate your own set of cupcakes.
While we’ll be working on cupcakes during class, the piping skills you learn can easily be used to decorate full-sized cakes as well, making this class perfect for anyone who wants to elevate their homemade cakes for birthdays, celebrations, or special events.
Each participant will decorate a six-pack of cupcakes to take home, along with a buttercream recipe card so you can recreate the frosting and practice your new skills in your own kitchen.
No prior decorating experience is necessary, just come ready to learn, create, and have fun with buttercream!
Guest Teacher: Tiffany Palmer is Thrifty Connections resident Sourdough Bread Baker & Instructor and the owner of Cocoa & Sage a home bakery that provides Organic Sourdough & hand crafted treats.‘Hi, Im Tiffany, a local baker passionate about crafting sourdough loaves with love and patience. When I’m not tending to my starter, I’m a proud mom of three little taste-testers.’
Classes at Thrifty Connections intended for adults and suitable for individuals 16+.
Ticket Policy
All ticket sales are final. As a small business, we operate with limited class capacity. Classes require advance planning, preparation time, and the gathering of materials and supplies. Because of our limited capacity, we are typically unable to refill seats or recover the costs associated with cancellations. For these reasons, all class ticket purchases are final and non-refundable.
If you’re unable to attend, your ticket may be transferred to a friend or donated—just let us know ahead of time so we can update our guest list. Thank you for understanding and for supporting our small classes and creative offerings.
