A friend and I signed up for Jessie's Hand Embroidered Felt Holiday Ornaments class on a Saturday, and it was SO fun. We can't wait to be back. The 2 hours whizzed by, and Jessie was really friendly and great and giving and showing instructions. She was also very patient with students' questions. The ornaments ended up being so cute from everyone, we were all thoroughly impressed by everyone's work. A lot of us, including me, didn't finish the entire project during class, so we got to take home the supplies we'd need to finish at home. Jessie made sure we had the supplies and knowledge/skills so that we'd succeed at home with finishing up. The studio is nice and cozy, there were about 16 participants of mixed genders and ages. It was really fun, and we can't wait to try more classes! read more

Brooklyn Brainery - Front of the studio - Adult Education Near Me - Brooklyn, New York

I love spaces like Brooklyn Brainery! I came for a fragrance class that was very affordable and I'm so glad I did! The space was comfy and they provided loose paper and wooden slates to write on. There is a restroom and water and wine was offered. Overall it was a great space to learn in and I'll definitely be back for more classes. read more

I recently took a goat milk soap making class here and overall had an enjoyable experience. The instructor was very knowledgeable, patient, and genuinely kind, which made the class welcoming and easy to follow. That said, there were a few organizational issues that took away from the experience. The class started late because the instructor chose to wait and see if more people would trickle in, which felt disrespectful to those of us who arrived on time. I also wish there had been clearer communication beforehand about supplies. We weren't told that we could bring our own molds, and the only molds provided were small condiment containers, which resulted in some pretty awkward and unattractive soap shapes. Better molds or advance notice would have made a big difference. It also would have been helpful if instructions or an overview of the process had been emailed ahead of time or posted on the class listing so participants knew what to expect. Additionally, a few of the soap mix-ins were unavailable. This wasn't a major issue, but it did add to the impression that the class was a bit underprepared. Overall, I still enjoyed the class and learned a lot, thanks largely to the instructor's expertise and friendliness. With better preparation and clearer communication for students, this could easily be a great experience rather than just a good one. read more

Brooklyn Brainery - Goat Milk Soap Making Class - Adult Education Near Me - Brooklyn, New York

I would've hoped they disclose that a cat lives there. Since I had a raging lung infection that was already being addressed with 2 weeks of antibiotics, a little heads up would've allowed me to choose to come when I didn't have a lung infection, or not at all to protect my health. I think this is a larger issue in society, that people feel that all allergies are manageable instead of recognizing that some people have severe and chronic issues they are managing. The soap class was ok, although it would've been nice to place the soap in a mold of your choice with some advance notice. read more

If you're looking for something fun to do, whether alone, with a friend/group or for a date you'll find no shortage of interesting classes that will unlock your creative potential! Over the years I've taken several classes, all of which I highly recommend: pressed flower coasters, hot sauce class, seed bead necklaces, watercolor (virtual). And there's much more I want to take! They also offer gift certificates, so these will make a great experience gift. I gifted my partner a bonsai class, which was taught by an expert who used to manage the bonsai collection at the Brooklyn Botanical Garden. They learned all about bonsai and got to prune one and take it home. Jen the owner is really lovely and also teaches her own classes (like the flower press coasters). Plus she fosters kittens so you'll always see them hanging by the front windows! (They're not around during the class time.) The space is large and welcoming, but class size is pretty small. Depending on the class you'll be in the space or in the nice backyard. read more

Brooklyn Brainery - Backyard flowers, which we picked to press/dry for our coasters - Adult Education Near Me - Brooklyn, New York

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The online offerings are great and affordable. They offer a variety of classes such as: cooking, art, history, writing, journaling, etc. My favorite are the writing workshops where we read and discuss short stories. They have something for everyone. When I'm in town I hope to sign up for some walking tours. Coney Island tour sounds cool. read more

I love the idea of the Brooklyn Brainery, and I think it's a great way to support the neighborhood! But I had my first class here tonight, and it was not a very good experience. It was $50 for a 2 hour class, which is a bit expensive. I thought it'd be worth it for the hands on instruction, but my instructor got impatient helping me with the first steps (in intro to crochet) and then quickly moved on without me. Since the steps built on each other, I couldn't catch up again, and I felt ignored by the instructor (who would keep stopping to help everyone but me) so I ended up leaving an hour early. The classroom was also a bit smelly, since it was a cat cafe by day, apparently. For what I paid, it didn't feel worth the price, and my experience was pretty disappointing. read more

I went to Brooklyn Brainery for a wellness class and it was okay-- I think since it was in person I was expecting the class to be more interactive. Overall the space is clean and welcoming. I suggest inquiring about the presenters facilitation style before registering for the course. Since I have only tried one session, I am willing to go back and try out another. read more

I have learned some great new skills thanks to Brooklyn Brainery. I've taken a bunch of classes including dumpling/wonton making, intro to poker (my favorite by far - Chris, the instructor, was a great teacher and very funny), intro to DSLR cameras, and kokedama making (hanging Japanese moss balls). As you can tell by that list, some seriously random class are offered which is what I love! Also, the space on Underhill Ave is easy to get to and very charming. My only complaint is that some of the instructors have been quite awkward and strangely reserved. I think during the hiring process not only the unusual skill/knowledge should be taken into account but also whether or not the person is a strong teacher. This aspect has occasionally been lacking in my opinion. read more

Brooklyn Brainery - Kokedama! Very cool class - Adult Education Near Me - Brooklyn, New York

What a cool concept... classes on wide range of topics for adults. I recently attended one on history of scotch (whiskey) and found it fascinating. Not only was the instructor very knowledgeable (both on alcohol and on history), but he was funny, engaging and absolutely captivating. I learned about history of alcohol making from its invention to modern age distribution of scotch and how different barrels are used. The class was just $15, and we got to taste Highland Park 15 year old scotch - which was excellent (and btw, tasting more than covered price of the class). Overall had an amazing time and was telling my friends about what I learned. Would I come back for another class? Abso-freaking-lutely. Indeed I'm already signed up for Sushi making (and eating) class. read more

Came here for a lecture on the History of Scotch Whisky and I thoroughly enjoyed the talk, the space and the crowd. The presenter was knowledgable, gregarious and animated while he took us through the history of single malt scotch, the geographical and agricultural context of distilleries in Europe and throughout the world, nifty etymology & historical figures and we ended with a modest sampling of the goods. The crowd had a young/nerdy/hip vibe and the space itself is beautiful boasting hardwood floors, exposed brick walls, high ceilings, a small kitchenette and an outdoor patio. I'll definitely be back for more lectures/talks at this little gem of an educational space in Prospect Heights :) I highly recommend it! read more

Excellent Thai Fundamentals cooking glass given by Jonathan Soma. I've taken a few cooking classes around the city and this was one of The Best! First we made a basic dressing and tasted our way through each added ingredient. This gave us a vocabulary for understanding the taste and nuisances of how a few basic ingredients would interact with each other and change the flavor profile. They were fresh garlic, green chili's, fish sauce, lime and palm sugar. Then we proceeded to make a delicious Som Tam Thai - Papaya Salad Next we pounded all the dry and wet spices, sliced, diced and chopped to make an amazing Massaman Curry. Each table of 4 people would stir and taste and adjust it to our group preference. Now that we had the basics down and felt a bit confident, we voted to create our own Thai noodle dish without a recipe. We used left over ingredients from the prior 2 dishes and some added new ones to make our own flavorful dish as we pleased which turned out quite delicious! During all of this, Soma shared with us where to purchase Thai ingredients, which brands he preferred, what ingredients could be frozen and what to keep in the pantry. I walked out with a full belly and feeling confident to cook Thai. read more

I recently had the pleasure of taking two classes here: improv for business professionals with Jen Oleniczak, who has given TEDx talks, and fact-checking with journalist Brooke Borel. I couldn't be more happy with my experience here. These are reasonably priced classes taught by quality instructors. The other students also seemed to be genuinely excited about the material. I've contemplated taking cooking classes here, but I wonder whether I should because I only see one stovetop and oven in the space. The space seems better equipped for non-cooking classes. I am also thinking about taking a digital photography class here. We'll see. read more

As I slumped into full-time adulthood, my brain started getting soft. I needed to shake things up and learn again. During my funemployment, I started taking up knitting and attending workshops. I was looking for a place where I could learn a bunch of random things. Enter Brooklyn Brainery! This Brooklyn-based organization is making education for adults fun, accessible, and affordable. There are classes for everyone. There's everything from dumpling making to public speaking to charcoal drawing. There are classes on NYC's history and architecture and photography. Though classes will vary by instructor, I'm confident I'll have a good time no matter what. I took a 3-hour workshop on storytelling back in March and it was exactly what I hoped it would be. The instructor started off class with a video clip of a comedian telling a story about how he had to go #2 in the car. Yep, you heard me! Using this clip was a great way to dig into the components of a good story and what separates a good storyteller from a mediocre one. Best of all, we had the chance to run through our own stories and give each other feedback several times. The instructor was straightforward, entertaining, and sharp. The three hours flew by and I left with much more confidence in my storytelling abilities, plus I got to meet some cool people. If you're looking to learn something new -- anything at all! -- definitely check out Brooklyn Brainery. Subscribe to their mailing list so you'll be alerted about new classes. read more

I'd like to use French to express how amazing this place is! Honestly, just because we're out of school, doesn't mean that we should stop learning. I love being in an environment like the Brooklyn Brainery where I know they'll take care of my curiosity that my noggin' has. They've got a variety of classes led by enthusiastic people who are equally fascinated with the topic they're covering. Now, to find an equivalent like this in LA where I've just moved back! read more

Brooklyn Brainery is a special little spot in Prospect Heights. I love that I can take classes here and there without having to commit to the time and money involved in taking a hardcore "course". Living in New York can be crazy busy and I was feeling like I really need some stimulation outside of my routine. The Brainery has so many classes - all pretty affordable - so you will definitely find something you are interested in. They have cooking classes, art classes, sewing classes, tye dye classes, lectures - you name it, they have it. I have taken Pickle Making and Charcoal Drawing classes so far. Each time I left the Brainery, I had that great feeling of accomplishing a little something. It is a nice low key way to keep learning in between all of the other things we do. read more

$25 or less for most classes. Some cost way more but those seem to be the exception. I've been to several classes here (Evolution of New York City Restaurants and a financial management class about IRAs) and really enjoyed both. The venue is also conducive to learning. If you are into learning, make sure to sign up for their mailing list so you know what classes are coming up, and if you attend a class, bring a notebook and a pen to take notes. Enjoy! read more

I really liked the instructor and the recipe (I took the dumplings and wonton class), but I think there should have been more hands on activities. Like we should have gotten to make the mixture and everyone should get to fry a few dumplings. I really think the space is cute though and it is a really welcoming environment. The class was cheap too, which is a plus. It only cost me 35$ on coursehorse! read more

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In college my favorite classes were the lectures where you got to just sit back and listen to smart people drop knowledge on you. Brooklyn Brainery is like that for adults- what a great idea. Classes are housed in a cute, comfy space. I went to a lecture on the Archaeology of Beer and it was everything I dreamed of and more- they even gave samples of some unique historical beers. read more

We went to a dumpling making class last week, and it was awesome :) a great teacher, really nice space, and plenty of food. And we've been inspired to make the recipes since read more

Brooklyn Brainery - Our wontons! - Adult Education Near Me - Brooklyn, New York

I came here for a music and me class with my baby. The baby classes held here are not on the website online. It seems like the musicians and teachers for the baby classes just rent out the space and you have to schedule the classes directly with them. I also attended a pregnancy wellness session here one weekday night. There was a PowerPoint slide and the facilitator handed out sheets of information. I found that class not useful as it focused too much on essential oils and I do not use them. The music together class was great. One thing to note is that their bathroom does not have a changing table. There is a large couch in the front where you could change a baby potentially. The bathroom is large enough to have a changing table so if this space plans to have more kid orientated classes it should consider installing one in the bathroom. I love the array of adult classes offered here. The adult classes specifically say 18 and over. There are popular ones that get sold out almost immediately but you can sign up for email updates for when the next ones are coming up. There is a decent sized outdoor space as well. read more

First time there for an improv class! Space really cool and clean! Will definitely do more classes there!

Let me start with the positive. The space is beautiful and has a cute outdoor patio out back (with some very friendly kitties). I love the concept behind Brooklyn Brainery. The people are really sweet and friendly.. .. But.. I really wish they would quality control their teachers, or at least provide a feedback mechanism on classes to help improve them. I have taken three classes at Brooklyn Brainery (once a long time ago, Kim Chee cooking class at the old space - they didn't plan for the crowd and it ended up being a major clusterfuck), two of them within the past six months at this location. Both were art/crafts type classes. Both classes started at least a half hour late, lacked any organization or structure, and it didn't feel like the teachers had a very strong grasp of the subject matter (may have also been due to their terrible communication style). While the prices are affordable, I feel it would have been better spent buying my own materials and searching on youtube. Little direction was given and one class, the instructor spent the entire time making her own Christmas cards (with one of the attendees' stamps, no less) than providing guidance to the group. Perhaps I'm just bad at picking good classes (cause all other reviews seem to be overwhelming positive).. read more

I've taken two great classes here - History of Royal Scotland, with a hilarious and engaging Scotsman, and Vegetarian Sichuan Cooking, with Diana Kuan (which I just took earlier this week). Both were fabulous. Both teachers knew so much about their subjects, and were also great educators (not always a given). The food we made in Diana's class was DELICIOUS and also simple enough I think I really could/will make the recipes again. Highly recommend! read more

Check this place out! I have been to three classes in the last few months: one about lesser known architecture in NYC, one about how trash/recycling is processed in NYC, and one on how to make homemade ice cream (including a sampling of fresh ice cream at the end). The classes will obviously vary depending on the instructor, but I have not been disappointed yet. Every instructor I've had has been knowledgeable, engaging, and approachable. With an eclectic course selection and cheap prices (most classes range from $10-15), this is a great spot to explore new interests and an affordable way to spend an evening. read more

I came here for a sketch writing class. Great class at a wonderful price! The space was perfect for our needs and it looked like it'd be able to accommodate several different types of classes. Will definitely return--it seems like they consistently have great courses to offer. read more

Came for a class on how to cook a turkey because I was nervous about doing Thanksgiving dinner for my family. I felt pretty awkward going by myself, but I really wanted a lesson and they were nearby and cheap. Luckily the environment was inviting, and the class was laid back and conversational. The instructor was clearly well-informed and quite friendly, and I left feeling much more confident. At $25 it was a good deal all around. It was too warm in there, but in many New York spaces the thermostat isn't under the control of the occupants, and is to be expected with the hot ovens. I'd go back if I feel like I need a lesson in something they're offering. read more

To date I've taken 2 classes here: Early Spring Tree Identification (which was actually in McCarren Park) and the Biology of Mental Illness which was held at their Underhill location. Both were taught by both knowledgeable and friendly teachers who were well versed in the subject matter, enthused about it, and more than happy to answer questions. I will definitely be coming back! As a bonus, classes are also very reasonably priced! read more

LOVE THIS PLACE. Every class I have taken has been entertaining and I learned something. A fun place to go with a few friends.

Love this place. It's like Brooklyn's tinier version of the 92 Street Y. A wide variety of classes, from instructional to academic to culinary to history; at a much cheaper rate than other adult learning classes. I've taken several cooking classes here- while it's not ICE, and you won't leave as a professional chef- it's a great way to be introduced to new cuisines, and a to spend a few hours. I love that the classes are small, and everyone is friendly. The instructors are knowledgeable. Looking forward to attending again in the future. read more

I love this place! I've been to three classes here and enjoyed them all. The storytelling for business people was really informative and useful but my favorite has to be the "Managing Your Gmail inbox" class. Both instructors were knowledgeable, helpful, and approachable. I recently took a vegetarian sushi making class, which was also informative, though slightly awkward because the room was super quiet and it felt uncomfortable to talk with my partner and tablemates. read more

After a month or two of wondering what might be coming into the space at 190 Underhill Ave., I discovered that Brooklyn Brainery open for business tonight on my way home. While the original location is in Carroll Gardens, I couldn't be more excited to see such a cool spot right around the corner from me. While I admit I didn't actually partake in the class that was going on as I peered in the window, I could see that there were about 20-25 people discussing and learning something new and undoubtedly interesting. For those of you who don't know, the Brooklyn Brainery is a learning annex of sort. They offer classes and free workshops on all sorts of topics.They also have drop-in days where anyone can stop by and get some work done in a collaborative environment. Hello?! I am so there! Another upcoming workshop will be taking place at Babeland just in time for V-day, and they also have a monthly Masters of Social Gastronomy series, just to name a few things on the roster. How lucky are we (me especially, since I live quite close by) to have this resource at our disposal? See you there! read more