in-person workshop | Manayunk [Philly]
You’ll make your own textured planter box with a custom design and color palette — tailored to your space and style. Through texture, color, and creative detail, you’ll shape a piece that reflects your roots, your vision, and the space you’re growing into.
where?
106 Jamestown Ave (1/2 block off Main Street), Philadelphia, PA 19127
when?
6:00 - 8:30pm
the project
Planters are about grounding—a place for things to root, grow, and take up space.
In this hands-on workshop, you’ll create a custom textured planter box [aprox. 10x10"] — designed by you, from color palette to trim details. No woodworking skills needed (promise 😉)
Whether you lean bold and modern or soft and earthy, this project becomes a reflection of your style — and a statement piece for your space. It’s not just a planter—it’s proof that you can shape your space, create your vision, and grow something real, right where you are.
We’re teaming up with the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society, a nonprofit using horticulture to nurture health, community, and connection across Philly.
Whether you’re stepping into a new season, craving a deeper sense of home, or simply want to get hands-on making something beautiful — this is for you.
the project
In this workshop, you’ll learn how to:
Design your own textured wood pattern using trim and wood stain
Cut trim pieces with miter shears, sand them smooth, and bring them to life with your chosen color palette
Attach your custom design to a planter box—creating a piece that reflects your personal style and creative energy
You’ll leave with:
A one-of-a-kind textured planter box to display indoors or out
Hands-on skills in pattern design, staining, and detail work
A deeper connection to the idea of rooting in, showing up, and making space that feels like yours
Whether it’s your first DIY or your fiftieth, this is a chance to work with your hands, connect with your space, and create something that grows right alongside you.
*Alcoholic + Non-Alcoholic Drinks Available for purchase | No power tools used for this workshop
You've got questions. We've got answers.
You’ll be creating a custom textured planter—designed and finished by you from start to finish. We’ll walk you through the full process: cutting and staining trim pieces, crafting a unique wood pattern, and attaching it to a pre-built planter box.
This piece is perfect for adding personality, greenery, and grounded beauty to your front door, patio, or windowsill—bringing a little more of you into your everyday space.
All materials, tools, safety gear, light snacks & drinks...and good vibes are provided.
You’ll also get a pre-event download with tips, inspo, and a mini creative prompt to help you arrive ready to maike.
Plus a follow-up section with all the details + products we used.
Plan on 2.5 to 3 hours—enough time to build something meaningful without rushing the magic
Workshops are hands-on, so we recommend wearing clothes you’re comfortable moving in—and don’t mind getting a little messy.
We provide aprons for an extra layer of protection and style, but paint splatters and sawdust are always a possibility (and part of the fun).
If you're planning to snap a few photos of your finished project, consider picking something that feels both comfy and photo-ready—because you’re gonna want to show off what you made.
Absolutely. Making is more fun with company. Just make sure they grab their own ticket—we prep materials based on registrations.
No worries — some of our workshops involve power tools, and some don’t. Beginners are more than welcome. You’ll get hands-on guidance in a supportive, no-judgment zone, and we’ll make sure you feel confident and safe.
Heads up: for any workshop involving tools, you'll need to sign a quick safety waiver before we get started. Nothing scary—just part of making sure everyone stays safe while they maike.
If you have specific needs, please reach out—we want to make sure everyone feels safe and supported!
This particular workshop is for adults or teens 16+ with an adult. If you’re interested in a family-friendly version, let me know—we’ve got ideas brewing.
Cancellations & Refunds
Partial Refund: If you need to cancel your ticket, you’ll receive a 50% refund if you cancel at least 14 days before the workshop date.
No Refunds Within 14 Days: Cancellations made less than 14 days before the workshop are non-refundable.
Transfers
Ticket Transfer: If you can’t attend, you’re welcome to transfer your ticket to someone else at no cost. Just email us their name and contact info before the workshop.
Illness or Emergencies
We understand that life happens. If you experience an unexpected illness or emergency, please get in touch. We’ll gladly issue a credit to attend a future workshop instead of a refund.
Thank you for understanding—we plan, prepare, and purchase materials in advance to make these experiences special for everyone.
your instructor
[ Interior Designer, DIY Queen & Creative Alchemist ]
Cara believes transformation starts with your own two hands. Over the past seven years, she’s taught millions of women how to wield power tools with confidence and reimagine their spaces from the inside out.
As the Founder of MAIKE, she's designed creative workshops that are less about perfection and more about permission—to try, to make a mess, to rebuild beauty from the broken bits.
With a background in Home Renovation, storytelling, and energetic transformation, Cara blends the practical and the magical to create spaces (and experiences) that help you reconnect to your power through hands-on making.
— THE SPACE —
Philadelphia, PA
Join us at PHS Pop Up Garden Manayunk, an urban oasis where plants, community, and creativity thrive in the open air.
PHS Popup Gardens are hosted by the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society, whose mission is to grow health, connection, and well-being through horticulture across Philadelphia.