Welcome to Amy’s MahJong/Canasta Lessons, where beginners quickly fall in love with the game

Amy Hartwell
MahJong/ Canasta Instructor

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American Mahjong tiles arranged on a vibrant pink peacock-themed game board during setup
Colorful American Mahjong tiles scattered across a modern pink and white game table with matching tile racks and custom symbols.

Discover The Joy of MahJong - One Tile at a Time!

House of cards - Modern American Canasta

Beginner To Advanced  MahJong/Canasta Lessons
With An Experienced, Seasoned Instructor

Mahjong instructor Amy Hartwell leading a friendly American Mahjong game with smiling students around the table.

Learn with Amy

Lake Geneva  –  Lake Forest  –  North Shore

Hi, I’m Amy Hartwell

Amy Hartwell, Mahjong instructor and founder of Hartwell House of Tiles, smiling in a casual professional portrait.

I have been playing MahJong socially and competitively for over 14 years and have taught more than 500 students over the last six years.  I love to teach because it is so rewarding to see my students light up when they declare their first “MahJong”.

My experience and knowledge will ensure that you learn all the proper NMJL rules, receive additional instructional materials, and have all the tools to play MahJong.  I would love the opportunity to teach you and share the passion I have for the game. 

I can teach one-on-one, group lessons, special events, as well as strategies to elevate your game to the next level. I can also help you navigate online playing, either in person or remotely.

In my free time, I enjoy traveling to MahJong tournaments across the country. It’s a fantastic community of people, and I’ve made lifelong friendships.

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Why MahJong?

It’s more than a game – It’s Connection, Strategy, and Fun

MahJong blends critical thinking with lively conversations. Whether you’re new to the game or just want to sharpen your skill, it’s a rewarding way to stretch your mind and build friendships.

  • Learn a MahJong game with rich cultural roots
  • Boost memory and cognitive focus
  • Meet new people and join vibrant communities
  • Play in casual settings

Think MahJong is complicated?  Think again.

My MahJong lesson  style is friendly, step-by-step, and hands-on. You don’t need to be a math whiz or memorize 100 tiles. I’ll guide you from “What’s a bamboo tile?” to confidently calling “MahJong” at the table. 

  • Learn the rules
  • Master the tiles
  • Play with confidence 

Canasta  today, has become very popular. If you haven’t played it, try it. 

 It is no longer the way your Grandmother played.  With my experience, knowledge, and patience, I teach:  

  • The rules of Modern American Canasta
  • If you played it, learn strategies to elevate your game
  • Learn various house rules in the event you join other groups

I teach in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin, Lake Forest, Illinois, and the Northshore.

Student Testimonials

Happy Mahjong student smiling proudly at the game table with tiles arranged in front of her.

Let’s Tile Up and Chat!
Whether you’re curious about MahJong or Canasta lessons, Amy would love to connect.

Email Amy
Visit Amy's Instagram

Serving: Lake Geneva, Lake Forest, and the surrounding North Shore