All Classes and Events

Frequently Asked Questions

About Needlepoint Events at The Pepper Pot

What is open stitch?

Open stitch is always free at The Pepper Pot and no reservation is required. It's a chance to gather with fellow creatives in our store and work on your latest WIP (work in progress) with other needlepoint enthusiasts from our community.

Open Stitch is available on Mondays, 1-3 pm and Thursdays, 6-8 pm at our beautiful store in Barrington, IL.

What is sip and stitch?

Sip and stitch is a free in-store event.  It's the same as open stitch, just in the evening.  Please feel free to bring something to sip on!  We have a full liquor license and can provide beverage service during any of our events.  There is a $30 corkage fee.  You may not bring in your own food, but can order food from local restaurants to be delivered to you at TPP.

Sip and Stitch starts at 6:00 pm every Thursday at The Pepper Pot. We hope to see you soon!

What is first stitch?

First Stitch is a recurring learn to needlepoint class, held bi-monthly at the Pepper Pot. 

The sign-up fee is $25, which will be applied as credit to the canvas and threads of your choice. 

In this dedicated 2-hour session, we will teach you the basics of needlepoint, best practices, and guide you through your product. 

You can attend 1 or as many classes as you want!

Can The Pepper Pot teach me the basics of needlepoint?

Yes! Once you pick your canvas and threads, we can absolutely show you the basics of needlepoint.

We have a variety of beginner level canvases and all the threads, needles and accessories you need to get started.

We also have several needlepoint class options if you'd like a more one on one assistance. Our First Stitch class is a great place to get started on your needlepoint journey.

About Mahjong Events at The Pepper Pot

What is mahjong open play?

Our longstanding event, See You Next Tuesday, is open play time for the game Mahjong.

All levels are welcome, but you must know how to identify the tiles by name, basic rules, how to read the NMJL card, and cadence of play. 

Instructors are present to help guide play, especially for beginners, but not to teach the Mahjong basics and fundamentals.  If you have never played Mahjong before, attending a Tile by Tile class at The Pepper Pot ia great place to start.

Currently Open play is only on Tuesdays, 1-3PM and 6-8PM.  We will be expanding our open play very soon to more days of the week.  Subscribe to our emails to be the first to hear the NEWS!

What is mahjong guided play?

Mahjong guided play at The Pepper Pot is a follow-up lesson after you've completed a beginner class.  An instructor is present to help you through the rules of the game, Charleston strategy, and play strategy.  Guided play is $40/hour and can be booked every Wednesday or Thursday mornings via our website.  Bookings must be mad at least 48 hours in advance.

If you have never played Mahjong before, attending a Tile by Tile class at The Pepper Pot ia great place to start!

What is Mahjong 101 and 102?

Mahjong 101 and 102 are the beginner lessons for those completely brand new to Mahjong or need a refresher course. 

Mahjong 101 is the pre-requisite to Mahjong 102.  In Mahjong 101,  we cover the very basic building blocks of Mahjong: tile identification, rules of the game, how to deal, the Charleston, the cadence of the game, and then completing your first game.  All Mahjong fundamentals are taught in a hands-on, intimate approach.  We intentionally maintain a 1:6 ratio of teacher to student to make sure that we can answer your questions timely and effectively.  By the end of Mahjong 101 you will have played a complete game of Mahjong, the longest game of your life. 

Mahjong 102 is the continuation of Mahjong 101.  Mahjong 102 will cover Charleston strategy as well as Mahjong play strategy.  These sessions are recommended to be scheduled within 1 week of one another, so that information is easily retained.  

What is Tile by Tile?

Tile by Tile is a 2-part Mahjong Beginner Series, that covers Mahjong 101 and 102. 

The fee for this class starts at $125.  You must be able to attend both parts to register for the class.  No materials are needed for the class; we provide everything. 

You will learn everything taught in Mahjong 101 & 102.  The National Mahjong League card is included in the class fee.

Do you offer private Mahjong lessons?

Yes, we offer private Mahjong lessons for a group of 3 or more.  We offer these private lessons at the Pepper Pot, located in Barrington, IL or in a location of your choice.  Please inquire by email, mahjong@thepepperpot.co or by phone at (224) 385-3481.

Have more questions?

We are here to assist. Our customer service team would love to hear from you! You can email us at hello@thepepperpot.co or use the contact us button below.

Contact US

Needlepoint Classes & Mahjong Lessons in Barrington, IL

Looking for Mahjong lessons near Chicago or beginner needlepoint classes in Barrington, Illinois? The Pepper Pot offers thoughtfully curated classes, workshops, and gatherings designed to bring people together around shared interests. Located in downtown Barrington, our storefront hosts everything from beginner Mahjong instruction and guided play to hands-on needlepoint classes and seasonal events. Whether you're learning a new skill, refining your technique, or simply looking for a welcoming community, there's always a seat waiting for you at our table.

Learn, Play, and Gather at The Pepper Pot

Our events are intentionally small, approachable, and designed for all experience levels. New to Mahjong? Join one of our beginner Mahjong series classes to learn the rules, strategy, and rhythm of the game in a supportive environment. Already know the basics? Guided play and open play sessions offer the opportunity to build confidence and connect with fellow players. Needlepoint enthusiasts can explore beginner classes and specialty workshops focused on the techniques, tools, and traditions that make stitching such a meaningful craft. From creative workshops to children's camps and special gatherings in The Drawing Room, our calendar is always evolving with new opportunities to learn and connect.

Discover Events Worth Showing Up For

The Pepper Pot is more than a shop. It's a gathering place for those who value creativity, conversation, and traditions meant to be shared. Browse our upcoming Mahjong classes, needlepoint events, and community experiences to reserve your spot before classes fill. While you're here, explore our hand-painted needlepoint canvases, threads, finishing services, and educational resources to continue your journey beyond the classroom. Follow us on Instagram and TikTok for event announcements, behind-the-scenes moments, stitching inspiration, and updates from around the table. If you're searching for things to do in Barrington, IL, unique classes near Chicago, or a welcoming place to learn Mahjong and needlepoint, we'd love to welcome you in.

Shop New Arrivals
About Us