A new creative venture is taking root at Winter Street Studios. It brings more than just craft projects to the Houston area. Craft Together, founded by local artists and friends Lisa Morales and Mel Chavez, is part workshop series, part community builder, and part wellness practice. It\u2019s all designed to help folks gather, create, and truly belong.<\/p>\n
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Craft Together’s January workshop, “Spooling Up” (submitted image)<\/p>\n
Morales and Chavez first met in an unlikely spot for artists: a Pilates class. What started as small get-togethers to make things for fun grew into something much bigger. The pair went on to volunteer at the Knapp Senior Center in Pearland. They taught monthly craft classes and saw firsthand how creativity sparks joy, confidence, and real connection. That idea of craft as a bridge between people is what inspired Craft Together.<\/p>\n
I introduced you to Lisa Morales here over 10 years ago, shortly after she joined my art market. Her style, presentation, and willingness to put herself out there made it easy for me to write about her. The Leader readers met her when she started reporting for the paper. I was quite happy, and not surprised at all, when she told me about this new creative venture with Mel Chavez. She\u2019s been surprising us with her next big thing for years now, and this one feels like pure Lisa magic.<\/p>\n
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Lisa Morales still has time to work on her fine art business, seen here in her studio. (Submitted photo)<\/p>\n
\u201cCrafting is good for the soul,\u201d Morales said. \u201cIt gives your mind permission to slow down, your hands something joyful to do, and your spirit a place to rest. But perhaps most importantly, it brings people together.\u201d Who can argue with that? When you add a group setting, the good vibes just multiply.<\/p>\n
Each monthly project is beginner-friendly, meaningful, and fun. It leaves every participant with a finished piece and that great sense of accomplishment. January\u2019s workshop, \u201cSpooling Up,\u201d invites attendees to make charming tassels out of wooden spools, ribbon, fabric, and charms. Perfect way to kick off 2026! February\u2019s \u201cHeartfelt Words\u201d focuses on self-love and daily encouragement. Participants create a mini corkboard and get over 100 mix-and-match words to arrange into uplifting messages all year long. March\u2019s \u201cSpringtime Carrot\u201d brings a playful seasonal craft with a ribbon carrot wall hanging that brightens mantles, entryways, and Easter d\u00e9cor.<\/p>\n
Winter Street Studios, at 2101 Winter Street, now serves as one of the main homes for Craft Together workshops. They’re also expanding with private craft parties hosted in homes or businesses. These guided experiences are ideal for girls\u2019 nights, team-building, club meetings, or just bringing folks together around something joyful. Morales and Chavez bring all the supplies and instruction. Hosts just gather their people.<\/p>\n