Thailand is a hub for handmade arts and crafts, with locals eager to share their skills. Workshops are available for both beginners and professionals, offering activities like tie-dyeing, eco-printing, batik printing, jewellery making, and paper umbrella crafting. Most classes are small, providing a chance to connect with like-minded people.
Some of the best creativity workshops I have attended or observed include:
GiGi Payne Eco-print, Bangkok – Eco-leaf printing is a natural and sustainable art technique that uses fresh or dried leaves to create prints on fabric or paper by applying pressure (with a hammering or rubbing method) to transfer the leaf’s natural pigments, shapes, and intricate vein patterns. It’s a creative, meditative activity that encourages connection with nature and appreciation of its delicate beauty—perfect for mindful travellers and eco-conscious crafters alike.
Coco Tie Dye Koh Tao, Koh Tao – Join an organic tie-dye workshop, led by a local artist who will show you techniques how to tie create your piece and soak it in natural colours made from coconut husks which would have normally been thrown away. To serve a ‘zero waste” concept, you are encouraged to bring your old white blouse or t-shirt to give it a new life.
NOVA Artlab Jewellery Class, Chiang Mai – Workshops at NOVA are designed for the complete beginner with experienced instructor and small class setting. Classes can be booked for 1 – 5 days on any weekdays.
Batik Painting, Krabi – Batik painting is a traditional fabric art that involves applying hot wax to fabric in specific designs to resist dye. The fabric is then painted or dipped into dye, and the wax-covered areas resist the color. Once the colour is dried, the wax is removed by boiling or ironing between absorbent papers, revealing the final colorful artwork. In Krabi, you can participate in Batik painting workshop at Koh Klang and Koh Lanta.
Across Thailand, many eco-resorts, homestays, and local communities invite guests to slow down and take part in simple hands-on, eco-friendly activities. These experiences often highlight the use of locally sourced, natural materials and offer a deeper connection to both place and culture.
At Baan Rim Klong in Amphawa, for example, visitors can learn the traditional art of weaving coconut leaves into beautiful and practical creations—think baskets, fans, hats, and decorative pieces. In Phetchaburi, Ban Rai Krang welcomes guests to join Thai cooking classes and explore decorative crafts made from various parts of the palmyra palm.
One of the most memorable experiences I had was at The Bush Camp in Chiang Mai, where I made paper from elephant poo—yes, really but not smelly! It was a fun and surprisingly therapeutic process. While waiting for my handmade paper to dry (so I could later paint on it), I helped prepare food for the elephants and even fed them myself.
These kinds of activities not only support sustainable practices but also offer a meaningful way to connect with local communities and heritage—leaving you with memories that go far beyond the typical travel experience.
