Craft, create, and explore these hands-on activities
By John Legaspi
Published Mar 25, 2026 12:50 pm
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Updated Mar 25, 2026 03:28 pm
As more people look for ways to step away from screens and reconnect with the physical world, the analog lifestyle is gaining more appeal, with activities that highlight hands-on experiences. From crafting and pottery to archery, baking, and even volunteering, these activities offer a refreshing reminder that fulfillment can come from simply creating, moving, and being present.
Crafts: Commonroom – Mess Studio
Commonroom – Mess Studio is a craft space in Makati where you can flex your creativity, read books, journal and doodle, or simply escape and relax. You can book a craft session and get things done without pressure. Tools, materials, Wi-Fi, and power outlets are available, and the space is large enough for group gatherings, workshops, and more.
Rates:
- Craft pass: P499 – Single Craft | P799 – Bundle Craft
- Seat pass: P299 per head, good for the whole day
Location:
Ground Floor, The Atrium of Makati, Makati Avenue, Makati City
Jewelry-making: Metals and Gems Jewelry Studio
Unlock a new hobby and learn to craft your own jewelry. Metals and Gems Jewelry Studio offers everyday workshops where you can choose a schedule that works for you to create a meaningful piece. Learn basic techniques—from texturing, punching, and stamping—as you design and customize your own ring, bangle, and more.
Rates:
P1,650 (adjustable open ring, adjustable twisted ring, wave ring, adjustable bangle, adjustable twisted bangle, bar pendant, dangling hook earrings, silver tie clip) | P3,999 (patterned silver money clip) | P350 (charms)
Location:
White Plains West Studio, Quezon City (Tuesday to Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.), walk-ins are allowed; however, scheduling an appointment is required for the Antipolo studio (Tuesday to Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.).
Baking: Bakebe
Experience the joy of making your own baked goods at Bakebe S’Maison. First time baking? No worries—just follow the steps on the Bakebe app and bake like a pro. Tools, equipment, and ingredients are provided; all you need to bring is yourself and your creativity as you decorate your own creation.
Rate:
A session starts at P999
Location:
Level 1, The Dessert Museum, S’Maison Mall, Coral Way, SM Mall of Asia Complex, Pasay City
Pottery: Bumi and Ashe
Explore pottery and get your hands dirty at Bumi and Ashe. Discover a new hobby as you mold clay into your own vision and learn the process of wheel throwing, glazing, and painting. Bringing food and pets is allowed, but please be mindful not to disrupt ongoing classes.
Rates:
Class rates start at P2,650
Location:
Cubao Expo, Quezon City
Wall climbing: Climb Central Manila
Be bold and reach new heights through wall climbing. Climb Central Manila offers a two-hour guided climb program perfect for beginners. Try different types of climbing with your friends and family. For participants aged 18 and above, sessions can accommodate up to 10 people. For ages 13 to 17, sessions can accommodate up to eight participants. For child drop-offs without adult participants, up to four children can be accommodated for a 1.5-hour session.
Rates:
Walk-in entry for adults starts at P850
Location:
Mayflower St., Greenfield District, Mandaluyong City (Monday to Friday, 1 p.m. to 10 p.m.; Saturday to Sunday, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.)
Volunteer for animal welfare: PETA Asia – Makati
Looking for something to do on weekends—or even weekdays? Participating in PETA Asia dog walks can be a meaningful activity. You don’t need to spend anything; simply walking and spending time with the dogs means a lot to them. You may even help them find a new home.
Archery: Arrowland PH
Unleash your inner Katniss Everdeen by taking archery lessons at Arrowland PH. Enjoy a fun physical activity with your family and friends. For added excitement, you can choose special targets like a zombie head, an apple over a boy’s head, and more.
Rates:
Packages start at P300
Location:
5F Mega Fashion Hall, SM Megamall, Mandaluyong City
Coffee-making: Coffee Academy Manila
Learn to create your own signature blend at Coffee Academy Manila. Bring your friends and explore coffee fundamentals, latte art, and even experiment with iced beverages through hands-on training using professional coffee machines.
Rates:
Price upon request
Location:
Tastexperts Inc., G/F Nasson Building, 8467 West Service Road, Sun Valley, Parañaque City
In a time defined by digital noise, these hands-on experiences invite us to slow down, engage our senses, and rediscover the joy of doing things the tangible way.
Jacel Dhafnie Trinidad Lolo is a 22-year-old Journalism student from City of Malabon University (CMU) and a current intern at the Manila Bulletin. She is a Teenage Pregnancy Prevention (TPP) advocate under the Likhaan Center for Women and a participating youth organization in her community.