Looking for a creative outlet, unique hobby, or an opportunity to learn something new? McHenry County College (MCC) recently released its Q3 Community Enrichment schedule, featuring a wide variety of personal development classes running July through September 2026.
From creative workshops and hands-on activities to career exploration and youth-focused opportunities, MCC's Community Enrichment offerings make it easy to build practical skills and connect with others who share your interests.
Some of this quarter’s personal development classes include sewing workshops, urban sketching sessions, and dance classes, plus unique classes in welding, clay, painting, woodworking, and more.
Those interested in learning to sew can choose from several beginner-friendly classes. New offerings include “Machine Sewing: Beach Day,” where participants create a towel tote bag, mesh beach bag, and can cooler sleeve, and “Machine Sewing: Spa Day,” where they’ll create reusable makeup remover pads, a spa headband, and a lined zipper pouch. MCC also offers “Beginning Sewing,” a multi-week course covering foundational sewing techniques through projects such as a decorative pin cushion, pillowcase, and drawstring bag.
Participants looking for a creative and culturally enriching experience can explore “Danza Folclórica Mexicana (Mexican Folklore Dancing),” Wednesdays, September 2 through October 7. Open to ages 12 and older, this energetic class introduces students to the vibrant traditions of Mexican folkloric dance through regional footwork, flowing skirt movements, and cultural storytelling.
For those interested in working with a creative new medium, “Welding: Beginners Metal Art” offers a hands-on introduction to welding techniques and equipment. Students will learn the safe operation of MIG welders, torches, and plasma-cutting tools while creating decorative projects, including a campfire candle holder and a spider web sculpture to take home.
Creative learners can also explore clay hand-building through a series of “Clay Creations” workshops offered throughout the quarter. Participants will create seasonal ceramic projects while learning techniques such as pinching, coiling, and slab building. Projects may include mugs, plates, bowls, magnets, and other functional or decorative pieces.
Artists of all skill levels are invited to participate in MCC’s new Urban Sketching Workshop Series. Offered throughout July, August, and September, these classes explore topics such as perspective drawing, sketching people, working with light and shadow, travel journaling, and experimenting with different artistic mediums. On August 22, the College is hosting a day-long urban sketchers retreat in downtown Woodstock, where participants will sketch on location, connect with fellow artists, and enjoy presentations from experienced sketchers and guest artists.
For a fun and social creative outlet, “Paint Night” returns with three themed sessions throughout the quarter: “Pupcake American Celebration” on July 22, “Flower Bee” on August 26, and “Monet’s Garden” on September 23. Designed for beginner and intermediate painters, these relaxed classes provide step-by-step instruction in acrylic painting while participants create seasonal works of art and enjoy an evening with friends or family.
In addition to creative and artistic offerings, MCC’s Home and Garden classes help participants build practical skills around the home. Topics this quarter include small engine repair, native shade gardening, efficient garden maintenance techniques, and plant propagation methods such as seed collection, stratification, and division.
Additional Community Enrichment offerings include history and language classes, culinary experiences, health and wellness courses, and more.
View the full Community Enrichment schedule or register for classes here.
