Get out of your comfort zone and try something new. It’ll stretch your body and mind and make you feel alive. And what better time to try something novel than the often-dreary winter months?
Many of the small businesses here at Savage Mill specialize in sharing their extraordinary talents and passions with others. Here are a few we challenge you to try out:

Needing to express yourself?

The beloved destination The Queen’s Ink has transformed itself into a maker space, with a lineup of new one-day classes for all skill levels. Have fun with specialized papers, paints, stencils, wire, charms, beads and more. Participants can use specialized equipment and purchase supplies.

Along with presenting works by over 45 local artists, HorseSpirit Arts Gallery offers workshops and classes for those seeking to improve upon skills or learn new ones. Upcoming offerings include colored pencil techniques, mosaic making (“the most addictive art form ever!”), and free individualized sessions on integrating abstract art into your life and home.

Leona’s Sewing Studio is dedicated to teaching America to sew. Upcoming classes include basic sewing, basic quilting, a poncho-making workshop, and Future Designers of America (for ages 9-15).

3 Gear Games/Studios sells an array of tabletop games and beautiful art. They also offer in-person and online events including paint, board game, and craft nights, and sometimes donate the proceeds to causes they support such as the local children’s hospital.

Have you been thinking of getting a tattoo, but unsure what the experience would be like? Raven & Rose Studios offers high-quality custom designs in a private, quiet, and personalized atmosphere.

Needing to move?

Balance, strength, flexibility, and calm are the focus at Ashtanga Yoga. Practitioners can choose between morning, evening, and weekend sessions.

Self-protection and personal development are taught at Maryland Jeet Kune Do, which offers classes in Bruce Lee’s philosophy and self-defense.

New to the Mill, the Savage Fencing Club offers instruction and coaching in the sport of fencing for beginners as well as recreational and competitive fencers.

For those who love adrenaline and nature, Terrapin Adventures has a full slate of activities, including ziplining, ropes courses for all ages, and a climbing tower.

Children from age 2 to teens will enjoy the dance classes at JMD Studios, including tumbling, ballet, tap, jazz, hip hop, and acrobatic dance.

Needing some stimulation?

Sweet Cascades Chocolatier satisfies with traditional truffles and cremes, or with more whimsical pairings such as Old Bay chocolate crabs and chocolate-covered bacon. Their themed chocolate-making kits allow children – and adults – to have fun and eat it too.

Last on our list is the rebranded and, in this case, aptly-named The Last Word, an independent bookstore offering new and used books, stationery, literary gifts, and small helpings of wit.