Little Shop Of Plaster

I recently moved to NYC and discovered that the Little Shop of Crafts is only a few blocks away. The first time I stopped by was just to see if this was a place where I could bring the little boy that I care for there. The staff was very friendly and informative. I came back later that day and they helped us pick out a suitable piece and explained what we were to do, along with where all the supplies were. Since that first day, I have visited many evenings to paint or work on a mosaic. Not only is the atmosphere relaxing, but the music is also great. I also have brought the soon to be 2 year old a second time. Again he enjoyed painting and the staff was extremely helpful. I would recommend this place to anyone who feels creative, just needs a break from everyday stressors, or people with children,friends, or family who are looking for a great activity to do together. Some suggestions for when you go 1. - Remember that prices will seem high, but they really aren't once you consider that it includes all the supplies, studio space and there isn't any time limit as long as they are open. 2. Plan to come when you have enough time to spend there or come back on another day because once you start the time flys by. 3. Less is more when it comes to painting (I don't know how many times I have seen people create beautiful works of art, but they continue to paint only to be less satisfied when they are done). Thanks to Christine, Denise, and all the rest of the staff for making me feel welcomed.

Pros: Friendly, Helpful, Relaxing, Lots of choices, Good for all ages
Cons: I have so much fun I wish they had late hours every night of the week

I have tried many of the creative studios in NYC and this is by far the best! Not only were there many crafts to choose from but the staff was more than helpful. They helped me pick out colors that worked well together on my vase and even showed me examples of techniques that were easy to do and stunning to see. Since there was no charge for time I didn't feel the pressure to get my project done too quickly- I really relaxed and enjoyed my time there and now I have an original piece of art that coordinates with my apartment! The prices are so fair that I am thinking of making this my staple place for personalized gifts. If you are looking for something fun to do with friends or you just want to relax while being surrounded by friendly creativity - This is the place!

My husband thought this would be a perfect place to bring my children to make a mother's day present for me. He looked at the website and called to make sure it would be open since it would be a trek for my 4 and 5 year old from Long Island. Nowhere on the website did they say there are no children after 6:00! Even when he called to make sure they take walk-ins, they did not mention that children are not allowed in the store in the evening! I drove for an hour and a half to get there, look for parking, then have these people refuse to let my children paint some pottery--even though the store was empty!!! My children didn't understand and kept asking why they wouldn't let them paint any pottery. It was only around 6:15 or 6:30, but I will never go back to people who were so rude for no reason at all. I still don't understand why they couldn't let them paint for a little while. They're young boys. They would have been done in 10 minutes.

I filmed the commercial at this fun place, and the people that happened to be there that evening were having an absolute ball.
For something really new to do in New York, I would say this is the ticket.

Hope you all drop in there.

Pete

PS.
The above review from Telemommy should be disregarded as she is mistaken, and didn't really look at the website properly to realize the rules for her kiddies:

QUOTE from the site:

"Walk in 7 days a week, 363 days a year. We have evening hours just for adults from 6:30 - 10:00 P.M. on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday evenings. We serve complimentary wine and if you get hungry, we have lots of local menus for you to order from. The music is great too!"

NYvideo.US

Pros: Easy to find, good value, friendly

The people are lovely, the pottery is adorable, it's an overall fun time. I went with my coworkers and we had great fun, most people went for the chip & dip holder, practical and fun! I made a vase, a mug and a ducky piggy bank. Very reasonably priced and the atmosphere makes you feel like a kid again - until you get your product back and it's gorgeous. love this place

Pros: lighthearted. cute. fun. different.