Toronto’s most memorable souvenirs aren’t just bought, they’re made.
All across the city, local makers are inviting visitors to get hands-on and create something uniquely theirs. Whether you’re pouring a candle in Yorkville, stringing charms at The Well, or painting pottery on the Danforth, these DIY workshops turn your time in Toronto into memories that you take home.
1. Gem Studio (The Well)
What you can make: Charm bracelets and silversmith jewelry
Why it’s special: Set inside Toronto’s new mixed-use district, Gem Studio is where jewelry design meets self-expression. Choose from hundreds of charms, gemstones, and accents to craft a piece that reflects your personality—and your time in the city.
Insider tip: After your session, explore The Well’s local shops and eateries for more Toronto-made finds.
2. TT&QQ (Queen & Spadina)
What you can make: Custom Decoden phone cases
Why it’s special: This Japanese- and Korean-inspired “kawaii” studio is a playground for creativity. You’ll use colourful silicone “frosting” and an array of charms to decorate your own phone case with charms ranging from cartoon characters to mini desserts. It’s a crafting experience that’s as fun as it is Instagram-worthy.
Insider tip: TT&QQ’s designs change seasonally, so repeat visits mean new themes and charms to explore.
3. Kandl Artistique (Yorkville)
What you can make: Custom-scented candles
Why it’s special: Founded by a family of fragrance enthusiasts, this boutique candle atelier transforms scent into storytelling. In the workshop, you’ll pour your own soy candle and blend fragrances that capture the essence of your Toronto experience. Scent memory is real—and your candle will bring Toronto back with every burn.
Insider tip: Visit during the holidays for seasonal scents and limited-edition candle vessels.
4. EdayWOW (Danforth)
What you can make: Custom handbags and bag charms
Why it’s special: Part design studio, part creative playground, EdayWOW lets you channel your inner designer. Choose from different handbag colours and styles to craft a one-of-a-kind handbag or personalized bag charm. A stylish, one-of-a-kind souvenir for design lovers.
Insider tip: These small-group workshops fill up quickly. Make sure to book ahead through edaywow.com.
5. Rebe77e (Midtown)
What you can make: Silver clay jewelry
Why it’s special: Local artist Rebecca (the “Rebe” behind Rebe77e) combines contemporary art and ancient metalwork in her intimate silver-clay classes. You’ll shape, polish, and fire your own wearable art piece, with a variety of different designs to choose from. There is also a wide array of gemstones to complement your silver piece. The perfect modern Toronto keepsake with old-world craft roots.
Insider tip: You can bring a design idea or sketch and owner Rebecca will help you personalize each piece. The studio is filled with inspirational pieces to spark your creativity.
6. The Fuzzy Lab (Midtown)
What you can make: Tufted rugs and wall art
Why it’s special: Few souvenirs are as bold and colourful as the ones you tuft yourself. The Fuzzy Lab’s bright, playful studio is where you’ll learn how to use a tufting gun to create your own rug or textured wall piece, guided by local Toronto textile artists.
Insider tip: Be sure to email the studio ahead of time with a pattern or image in mind, so you’re ready to start creating the moment you arrive.
7. Toronto Crafts (Leslieville)
What you can make: Leather belts and accessories
Why it’s special: This east-end craft studio celebrates traditional craftsmanship. Under the guidance of local leatherworkers, you’ll learn to cut, edge, and finish your own genuine leather belt. A souvenir that’s both stylish and built to last.
Insider tip: Drop by nearby cafés like Dineen Outpost after class for a classic Leslieville afternoon.
8. The Clay Room (Danforth)
What you can make: Paint-your-own pottery
Why it’s special: A Toronto mainstay for over 25 years, The Clay Room is beloved by families and first-time makers. Choose from mugs, plates, or whimsical figurines, then paint them with your own colourful designs. It’s a fun, low-pressure way to bring home something handmade.
Insider tip: Pieces are ready for pickup within a week, perfect if you’re staying in Toronto for a week or more.
9. Harbourfront Centre (Waterfront)
What you can make: Ceramics, glass, textiles and more
Why it’s special: At the heart of Toronto’s waterfront, Harbourfront Centre’s Craft & Design Studios bring together some of the city’s most skilled makers. From glassblowing to wheel-thrown pottery, each class reflects Toronto’s multicultural craft scene and the passionate local makers that fuel it.
Insider tip: Make sure to take a scenic walk along the waterfront before or after your class.
10. Glass Mosaic Canada (St. Clair West)
What you can make: Stained glass and mosaic art pieces
Why it’s special: This family-run studio has been a pillar in Toronto’s creative scene for more than two decades. Known for its warm, welcoming atmosphere, Glass Mosaic Canada invites visitors to design and build their own stained-glass sun catcher or colourful mosaic tile. It’s hands-on, personal, and the classes are taught by the owners for that truly made-in-Toronto touch.
Insider tip: If you’re new to glass art, try one of their beginner mosaic workshops! You’ll leave with a finished piece in under two hours.
When you make something yourself, it’s more than a keepsake—it’s part of your Toronto story. These workshops capture what the city does best: creativity, connection, and community. So go ahead, roll up your sleeves, meet the makers, and bring a little piece of Toronto home with you—made by hand and filled with heart.
