How to Attract Participants to Your Workshops
Hosting a workshop is kind of like throwing a party. You’ve got the snacks, the playlist and the killer activity (pottery, macramé or maybe extreme cupcake decorating). But what’s a party without guests?
The key to a successful workshop is getting people to show up—and not just anyone, but the kind of people who leave saying, “Wow, this was amazing. When’s the next one?” So how do you attract participants who are just as excited about crafting as you are? Grab your glitter and let’s get started!
Sell the experience, not just the activity
Let’s be honest: no one wakes up and thinks, “You know what I’m missing? A lesson on decoupage.” But what they do want is an escape, an adventure or a chance to finally make something with their hands instead of staring at a screen all day.
So, instead of saying, “Join my knitting workshop,” try, “Unwind (literally) and create something cozy in a fun, laid-back atmosphere.” You’re not just offering a class; you’re offering an experience—and maybe a little therapy on the side. Discover more tips on how to be a storyteller.
Be loud and proud on social media
If a workshop happens and no one posts about it, did it even happen? Social media is your best friend for reaching potential attendees. Share reels, stories, or photos of your past workshops (even if it’s just your bestie gluing their fingers together in your trial run).
Make your posts engaging and fun. Caption a messy paint-splattered table with, “This could be your masterpiece in progress!” or a candid shot with, “Turns out pottery is 90% laughing and 10% actual pottery.”
Pro tip: Use hashtags like #HandsOnWorkshops, #CraftTherapy, and #DIYFailsTurnedWins to reach craft-curious audiences.
Team up with influencers (even micro ones)
If your neighbor has 1,000 followers who hang on their every word about local events, congratulations, you’ve found yourself an influencer. Partner with them to promote your workshop. Offer them a free spot in exchange for posts or a shoutout. Their audience will trust their glowing recommendation more than a generic ad.
Bribe them with freebies
Nothing says “Come to my workshop” like free stuff. Offer a small bonus for signing up, like a downloadable craft template or a discount for bringing a friend. Better yet, do a giveaway: “Sign up this week and you could win a free toolkit for your project!”
Who can resist the lure of free glitter or a free brush set? No one, that’s who.
Tap into the power of reviews
Your attendees’ reviews are like Yelp for your workshop—but with less whining about wait times. Encourage happy participants to leave glowing testimonials on your Hands On profile or social media. Ask them to share photos of their creations with a tag like, “#HandsOnMasterpiece.”
Newbies are much more likely to sign up if they see real people raving about how much fun they had (and how they finally mastered the art of not burning candles unevenly).
Make it a group thing
People love doing things in packs, whether it’s brunch, yoga, or your DIY workshop. For this, at Hands On, we have a solution: team-building events.
Pitch it as the ultimate bonding experience: “Nothing brings people closer than shared glue gun burns and a collective sense of accomplishment.”
Use hands on to maximize exposure and attract participants
Let’s not forget your secret weapon: Hands On. By listing your workshop on our platform, you’re instantly tapping into a community of craft enthusiasts looking for their next creative fix. Use your profile to highlight what makes your workshop special—whether it’s your quirky teaching style, unique project ideas, or that plate of cookies you’re known for.
Hands On also makes it easy for people to book, which means fewer excuses and more butts in seats (or hands on clay, as it were).
Don’t forget the follow-up
After someone signs up for your workshop, the journey isn’t over. Send a friendly email reminder with what to expect and what to bring. Include a sneak peek at the project to build excitement, like, “Get ready to create a stunning mosaic coaster that will make your coffee table jealous.”
After the workshop, follow up with a thank-you email and a teaser for your next event. Because nothing says “repeat customer” like an unforgettable experience and a gentle nudge to do it all again.
The Bottom Line
Making your workshop irresistible is how your attract participants. Whether it’s crafting the perfect social media post, leveraging word-of-mouth or partnering with Hands On to do the heavy lifting, the goal is the same: connect with people who are excited to learn, create and maybe laugh a little (or a lot) along the way.
Now go forth and fill those seats. Your future participants are out there—they just don’t know how much they need your workshop yet!
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