Craftcation 2026

Explore Ventura's top thrift and vintage shops with fellow creatives during Craftcation. Discover hidden gems, connect with like-minded attendees, and embrace the art of creative reuse on this inspiring outing! If you're taking the Thrift & Upcycle Workshop we encourage you to go on tis field trip to get something to upcycle.

Experience the meditative practice of nature journaling, where observation meets creativity. Using watercolor as the primary medium, this workshop welcomes participants of all skill levels to explore the natural world through art.

Are you a magpie, a witch, or someone who likes wandering on the beach? We’ll first learn a little about these stones, then walk down to the beach after high tide, just 2 blocks from our hotel. Faye will show you the best times and places to find seaglass, hag stones and other precious, pretty and just weird rocks. We’ll then gather and identify as many of the stones as we can as time allows. Some of the stones we found last year, including jasper and serpentine, are perfect for wire wrapped jewelry!



Bring a little pouch or empty pockets for your treasures! We will be close to the edge of the water, so waterproof shoes or barefoot is necessary. You must be able to walk on the sand and bend down to look at/pick up what is beneath your feet. We'll go slowly, so don't hesitate to join if you're a slow walker.

Learn how to take photos you love—no fancy camera required! This fun, hands-on class will cover lighting, composition, editing, and hidden iPhone features to instantly improve your shots.
We’ll practice by photographing each other and some products. With live feedback and plenty of time for Q&A, you’ll leave with practical skills you can use right away—whether you’re capturing family memories, creating social media content, or just having fun. Come ready to play, learn, and leave with confidence in your everyday photography- no experience needed, no question too silly!

Experience the meditative practice of nature journaling, where observation meets creativity. Using watercolor as the primary medium, this workshop welcomes participants of all skill levels to explore the natural world through art.

Step outside the conference and onto the streets of Ventura for a fun and creative way to experince a city. In this workshop, participants will learn to capture the spirit of a place through quick, expressive sketches made on location. We’ll explore techniques for simplifying complex scenes, balancing line and color, and finding beauty in the everyday—whether it’s architecture, street life, or small details that catch the eye. This hands-on experience encourages playful observation, confidence with sketching in public, and creating art that doubles as a visual journal of travel and memory. No prior drawing experience required—just curiosity, a pen, and a sketchbook.

Learn how to take photos you love—no fancy camera required! This fun, hands-on class will cover lighting, composition, editing, and hidden iPhone features to instantly improve your shots.
We’ll practice by photographing each other and some products. With live feedback and plenty of time for Q&A, you’ll leave with practical skills you can use right away—whether you’re capturing family memories, creating social media content, or just having fun. Come ready to play, learn, and leave with confidence in your everyday photography- no experience needed, no question too silly!