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Looking for fun things to do with friends this summer? If you love the idea of longer, lighter days spent reconnecting with your favourite people, but don’t fancy staring at each other across yet another artisan coffee, you need to dive into the ‘social object’ theory.
Not heard of it? Hold tight, we’re about to revolutionise your social summer hangouts and upgrade your friend dates for 2026!
What is social object theory?
Social object theory is just a fancy way of saying that the best conversations happen when we have a ‘third thing’ to focus on – like a lump of clay, a ball of pasta dough, or a paintbrush. Instead of the pressure of forced small talk, having a fun, tactile project anchors the room, breaks the ice naturally, and makes connecting with the people around you feel completely effortless.
We think our workshops are great places to hangout and meet new people anyway, but decided to test the theory and the evidence speaks for itself: a survey showed that connection definitely comes easier when your hands are busy. When asked, 70% of our community said engaging in a chilled activity while hanging out with friends makes the vibe feel more relaxed and conversation more natural. It’s time to book that group pottery class!
5 ways social object theory can upgrade friend dates
Here are five ways bringing a social object into the mix can take your next friend date from predictable to unforgettable:
- It eliminates awkward silences: We’ve all been there – that sudden lull in conversation where you both stare into your coffee cups. When you introduce a social object, like a chunky knit blanket project or a piece of pottery, you can kiss goodbye to awkward silences. Breaks in the chat just become moments of peaceful, shared focus on what you’re working on.
- It gives you a built-in conversation starter: Instead of relying on the usual "So, how’s work?" small talk, a shared activity gives you a whole new world of things to chat about. You’ll find yourselves laughing over your wonky ceramic bowls, trading tips on watercolour blending, or debating exactly how much garlic belongs in your homemade pesto (hint: lots!).
- It lowers the stakes for deeper catch-ups: Sometimes, sitting directly across a table from someone makes opening up feel a bit intense. Working side-by-side on a craft means your eye contact is naturally broken up, and this shoulder-to-shoulder dynamic creates a low-pressure space where deeper, more meaningful conversations can flow naturally.
- It levels the playing field for different personality types: If one friend is a massive extrovert and the other is a quiet introvert, traditional socialising can sometimes feel a bit draining for one side. A fun, creative activity acts as an equaliser: it gives introverts a comfortable way to participate without needing to fill every second with speech, while giving extroverts plenty of fun things to react to.
- You leave with a physical anchor for your memories: The magic of a creative friend date doesn't end when the workshop finishes! Every time you look at that terrarium on your windowsill or wear that silver ring you hammered yourself, you’re instantly reminded of the laughs, the shared stories, and the quality time you spent together.
Five workshops for your social summer hangouts
Need some ideas for your next group get-together? We’ve rounded up five workshops that make the best social object – so you can say goodbye to yet another night in the pub!
1. A cooking experience
Skip the stuffy restaurant reservations this summer and strap on an apron instead! Rolling up your sleeves in a sleek kitchen with a glass of something crisp in hand is the ultimate way to mix a delicious meal with a lively catch-up.
Why it works:
- It’s a classic: Food plus friends is always a winning combination!
- It makes a great collaborative activity: Nobody is trapped alone in the kitchen doing all the prep work – the feast is a lovely team effort.
- It keeps your hands busy: Chopping, kneading and stirring make great social objects, so the chat flows naturally.
The friends verdict:
Had an absolutely splendid time during this experience. Tere was so knowledgeable about everything and covered absolutely all bases. An amazing memory my two best friends and I will look back on, thank you so much Tere! Sonia Jajua, Spanish foodie experience on a boat, London
Try these around the UK:
- Bristol: Indian cooking class from The Global Larder
- Birmingham: Indonesian cooking class from My Exotic Kitchen
- Manchester: Kimchi fermentation class from RamYum
- Edinburgh: Dough it yourself pizza masterclass from Pizza Pilgrims Edinburgh
2. A ring making workshop
Calling all accessories fans! Swapping the usual coffee date for a seat at a jeweller's bench lets you experiment with tools, textures, and flames while crafting a beautiful keepsake with your favourite people.
Why it works:
- Winning dynamic: The ‘shoulder to shoulder’ dynamic means no sitting across from each other awkwardly.
- Easy conversations: Sharing tools like files and hammers and comparing projects opens up a whole world of conversations you might not have had before.
- Everlasting memories: Whether you make a sleek contemporary ring or something embellished with gorgeous gemstones, you’ll have a reminder of your time together long after the summer sun sets.
The friends verdict:
Myself and two girlie friends had a lovely time making our rings, and engraving the inside made it even more special. The lady that took the class was helpful without taking over. We would definitely do it again and highly recommend it to others! Abigail MacKenzie, Silver or gold ring making workshop, London
Try these around the UK:
- Bristol: Beginner’s ring making workshop from Silver & Steel Studio
- Birmingham: Hammered ring making class from Stratford School of Jewellery
- Manchester: Silver ring making workshop from Cellarsmiths
- Glasgow: Sea glass ring making class from Vanilla Ink CIC
3. A perfume making session
Dive into the intoxicating world of scent design and spend a balmy afternoon with your besties creating a fragrance that’s uniquely you. Led by an expert perfumier, you’ll explore a library of beautiful botanicals, precious oils, and summer-inspired notes to blend your own signature bottle of perfume.
Why it works:
- It’s a great icebreaker: Talking about what different scents means to you is a great conversation starter.
- It’s low pressure: If you’re not a group who’s into messy crafts, this is a great option to get creative without getting your hands dirty.
- You’ll get a bespoke perfume to take home: What better way to remember your friend date than with a quick spritz of your own handmade scent?
The friends verdict:
I came with a group of friends and we all created completely different fragrances, even though we started by smelling the same oils. It was fascinating to see how everyone's personal touch came through in their perfume. A really memorable experience and something I'd happily do again. Thomasine Elsmore, Perfume making workshop, London
Try these around the UK:
- Bristol: Perfume making workshop from The Perfume Studio
- Birmingham: Perfume making class from The Perfume Studio
- Manchester: 3 Scents perfume making class from The Alchemist’s Satchel
- Edinburgh: Natural therapeutic perfume making workshop from àile holistic
4. A kintsugi class
Embrace the beautiful philosophy of finding perfection in imperfection with the ancient Japanese art of kintsugi. Instead of throwing away cracked ceramic bowls or plates, you and your gang will learn how to repair them using a lacquer dusted with shimmering gold powder.
Why it works:
- It’s a conversation starter: Learning about the history and philosophy of kintsugi is super interesting, and is a great opener for those deeper, more meaningful chats.
- It’s really peaceful: if you and your friends need a little time to unwind after a busy week, this is one of the best group activities you could try. Slow, mindful and quiet – what’s not to love?
- You’ll leave with a piece of handmade art: Perfect to pop in a sunny spot where the sun will make those gorgeous gold seams sparkle.
The friends verdict:
I had the most amazing time learning about kintsugi pottery! I cannot recommend this workshop enough: ️️️Brandon and Lee were the most knowledgeable, welcoming and supportive hosts!
I went on a friend-date and it was just perfect; we got to sit opposite each other and support one another through the process, but we also ended up making friends! Overall, it was an amazing activity and I will cherish the kintsugi bowl I made for life. Liv, Kintsugi pottery class for beginners, London
Try these around the UK:
- Birmingham: Kinstugi class for groups from Mos Studio
- Manchester: Kintsugi pottery class for beginners from The Creative Society Manchester
- Edinburgh: Kintsugi class from ViViVi Studio
5. A paint and sip workshop
If you’re a lively bunch, grab a paintbrush in one hand and a glass of something tasty in the other for a night you won’t forget. A paint and sip workshop takes all the intimidation out of the art studio, replacing quiet gallery seriousness with a lively, music-filled party atmosphere.
Why it works:
- It’s going for drinks – but better: Cocktails and mocktails get the conversation flowing, while the painting gives you something to chat about. Win-win!
- It’s a guided session: You won’t be left struggling with a blank canvas – your teacher will be on hand for advice, tips and guidance, leaving you free to get creative and bond with your besties.
- Comparisons make great conversation openers: Comparing your version of Van Gogh’s ‘Starry Night’ to your friends is the ideal way to get chatting.
The friends verdict:
Both the host and the class were so amazing! A truly artistic teacher who shows you all the tricks and skills to paint your piece. We truly enjoyed the session with the girls, it was very therapeutic. A very lovely evening to spend time and do something fun with friends. Nur, BYOB Unguided paint and sip session, London
Try these around the UK:
- Bristol: Sip and paint party from Sip and Paint Parties
- Birmingham: Sip and paint experience from Yumi Arts
- Manchester: Sip and paint class from Prime Pass
- Edinburgh: BYOB paint and sip class from Art & Fizz
Why you don’t need to be creative to enjoy a creative class
We know what you’re thinking: this all sounds great, but you and your friends just aren’t a creative bunch. Don’t worry, you can still use an arty workshop or fun foodie experience as your magical social object – here’s why:
- It’s all about the process, not the masterpiece: You aren't being graded, and you aren't trying to get your work into a gallery. The real joy comes from the laugh-out-loud moments, the sensory feeling of the materials, and the fun of trying something new together – regardless of what the final product looks like!
- Our expert teachers have got your back: You won’t be left staring at a blank canvas wondering what to do. ClassBento teachers are warm, patient, and used to guiding absolute beginners. They break everything down into easy, foolproof, step-by-step stages so you can just relax and enjoy the ride.
- The ‘wonky’ pieces usually have the best stories: A perfectly uniform, factory-made mug is boring. A ceramic bowl with a slight tilt or a tufted rug with a quirky personality is a one-of-a-kind reminder of a hilarious afternoon spent with your favourite person.
- Creativity isn't just about painting or drawing: If the thought of a paintbrush gives you stage fright, remember that creativity takes many forms! Mixing a balanced cocktail, kneading a fresh batch of pasta dough, or arranging a beautiful terrarium are all deeply satisfying, creative acts that require zero traditional ‘artistic’ skill.
- Having no experience actually makes it funnier: There is something bonding about being a beginner alongside your friends. Stepping out of your comfort zone together, embracing the mistakes, and laughing at your shared lack of expertise is exactly what makes the experience so memorable.
Ready to rewrite your summer social calendar?
We think the best summer hangouts aren’t about finding the most pristine restaurant or suffering awkward small talk over a quick coffee – spending time with friends should be a joy, not something to tick off of a list! They’re about taking time for your favourite people, embracing important conversations and deepening that bond – and what better way to do that than with a fun workshop you’ve not tried before?
By using the magic of social object theory – whether you're clinking cocktail glasses, hammering silver, or dusting lacquer with gold – you take all the pressure out of catching up and replace it with pure, effortless connection.
This summer, don't just plan another standard get-together. Head over to ClassBento today, pick a workshop that sparks your curiosity, and invite your favourite crew along for an unforgettable summer date.
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