When asking yourself about something to do near me in New York with a group of friends or family, consider
Little Shop of Crafts
Why Little Shop of Crafts is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Little Shop of Crafts is a vibrant arts and crafts studio located at 711 Amsterdam Avenue in New York City, near 94th Street. This unique destination offers a wide variety of creative activities suitable for all ages, ranging from pottery painting to beading, mosaics, and wood crafting. Visitors can choose from numerous items to decorate and personalize, including pottery, plaster crafts, wood organizers, stools, boxes, mirrors, frames, and more. A key highlight is their "no studio time fee" policy — customers only pay for materials, making it a flexible and affordable place to spend time with friends. The studio accommodates both casual drop-ins and private group events such as team-building, corporate gatherings, bridal showers, and baby showers. Their adult-friendly evening hours, with complimentary wine served Wednesdays through Saturdays until 10 pm, create a welcoming atmosphere that encourages relaxation and creative expression. Theshop also offers individual instruction on specific projects, such as T-shirt designing and stuffed animal creation, appealing to beginners and experienced crafters alike. These features make Little Shop of Crafts an excellent venue for social meetings, creative bonding, and celebrating special occasions in an engaging artistic environment.
Here's what people think of Little Shop of Crafts
As of recent, Little Shop of Crafts holds a 4.6-star rating based on 107 reviews.
User reviews for Little Shop of Crafts overwhelmingly reflect a positive experience, as indicated by a solid rating of 4.6 out of 5 from over 100 reviews. Reviewers consistently praise the welcoming atmosphere that caters well to both children and adults, highlighting the variety of projects offered and the flexibility of paying only for materials without extra fees for studio time. Many commend the helpful and friendly staff who provide individualized instruction and support. Positive feedback often mentions the relaxed yet vibrant ambiance during evening hours, especially with the complimentary wine bar enhancing the creative spirit. Customers also appreciate the shop's suitability for group events, noting smooth organization and fun team-building opportunities. On the other hand, a few negative reviews have pointed out some challenges, such as limited parking availability in the busy neighborhood and occasional wait times during peak hours. Some visitors have mentioned that the space can feel cramped when busy, and a handful noted that certain materials or project options could be expanded. Despite these minor critiques, the general consensus remains strongly favorable, with customers leaving feeling inspired and eager to return. In conclusion, the positive reviews substantially outnumber the negatives, painting Little Shop of Crafts as a cherished community spot for art enthusiasts and social gatherings alike.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Erik Webb
Great spot for kiddos to paint and be creative. Most pieces cost between $25 and $55.
Tanya Mahmood
When I went here I didn't know what to expect. I was pleasantly surprised. The workers were all incredibly nice & patient. They have a good number of things to choose from and my 10 yo daughter had a lot of fun. We went on a Saturday and it wasn't crazy crowded. It's a bit pricey but well worth it for a fun Saturday. We will definitely be going back!
Nathaniel Silverman
Great date night spot. Highly recommend. I found myself a hot date who is a very talented artist and made the most incredible pieces of artwork.
Angela M. Glover
I love ❤️ it‼️ My daughter told me that the shop was still around and how many great memories she had off when I took her and my son when they where young. Now she planning to take my granddaughter! Lovely 🥰! Oh! I still have the craft one of that both my and son made many, many years ago!
Monique Dixon
Thank you Sabrina and the entire team. My entire family had an amazing time and looks forward to coming back again. The professionalism and patience was amazing. The ability to accommodate all ages and different situations without becoming overwhelmed or frustrated was impressive. I will highly recommend this to anyone looking for a great experience followed by excellent customer service.
How to reach Little Shop of Crafts
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Why Little Shop of Crafts may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Little Shop of Crafts with your friends?
Gathering your friends at Little Shop of Crafts creates a unique experience that is far beyond the typical outing. This vibrant craft studio offers a blend of creativity, social connection, and hands-on fun in an inviting space, making it perfect for groups seeking to bond over a shared artistic adventure. Whether you want to celebrate a special occasion or simply enjoy quality time together, the studio’s atmosphere fosters collaboration and relaxation by allowing everyone to express themselves through engaging creative projects. The staff’s warmth and expertise further enhance the experience by guiding participants through every step, making it accessible for all skill levels. Unlike passive group activities, the crafts here require interaction, conversation, and teamwork, which deepens friendships and creates lasting memories. Plus, every project each person completes is a tangible keepsake to remember the day, making Little Shop of Crafts an ideal gathering spot that combines fun, learning, and meaningful social interaction.
What creative activities can you do at Little Shop of Crafts?
Little Shop of Crafts offers a wide range of hands-on activities that appeal to various interests and skill levels. The crafts available include plaster painting, pottery painting, mosaic making, soap making, and canvas painting, each designed to allow participants to bring their unique ideas to life. Pottery painting involves decorating pre-made ceramic pieces that are later fired and glazed, providing a personalized keepsake that takes about 5 to 7 days to complete. Mosaic making challenges groups to design beautiful pieces using small tiles, an especially popular choice for those wanting to dive into a detailed and creative process. Soap making introduces participants to the fun of combining colors, scents, and molds to create personalized soap bars. Canvas and plaster painting provide more traditional yet expressive outlets for creativity, perfect for those looking to explore color and texture. With all these varied options, groups can pick crafts that suit their collective mood or mix and match to keep the energy lively and diverse. Most projects can be completed within 1 to 2 hours and can be taken home the same day, except for pottery, making it convenient for a meetup that fits busy schedules.
Why is Little Shop of Crafts perfect for group meetups?
Little Shop of Crafts excels as a group venue because it balances structured instruction with freedom of personal expression, suitable for friends or family looking for interactive and immersive experiences. The studio is designed to accommodate groups comfortably, fostering an environment where everyone can work side-by-side yet still develop their own unique creations. The attentive staff, including experts like Joy, Christina, and Maya, are highly praised for their supportive and friendly approach, ensuring everyone feels capable and encouraged throughout the crafting process. This level of personal attention ensures that even beginners feel confident and engaged, while more experienced crafters can fine-tune their skills. The variety of crafts allows groups with different tastes and interests to participate together, avoiding the boredom some may feel in less interactive social settings. Additionally, the studio’s walk-in policy and flexible booking accommodate spontaneous plans or larger scheduled events, making it easy to organize group outings without hassle.
How does the atmosphere at Little Shop of Crafts enhance group bonding?
The atmosphere at Little Shop of Crafts is warm, inviting, and creatively charged, which naturally encourages conversation, laughter, and shared accomplishment. The welcoming spirit of the staff and the cozy, well-lit studio space combine to create a relaxed environment where participants feel free to experiment and chat without pressure. Shared creative challenges, such as designing a mosaic or mixing paints for a canvas, foster teamwork and collective problem-solving. This interactive setting contrasts with many modern social experiences dominated by screens or passive entertainment, replacing them with tangible connection and mutual support. Furthermore, the satisfaction of completing a craft in the presence of friends sparks positive emotions and pride, enhancing group morale. Guests often remark that the studio feels like a creative retreat within the bustling city, making it a perfect location for reconnecting or making new memories as a group.
What makes the staff at Little Shop of Crafts stand out in supporting groups?
The team at Little Shop of Crafts is frequently highlighted by guests for going above and beyond in creating a supportive and encouraging environment, which is especially valuable during group meetups. Skilled instructors like Joy not only guide participants through the technical aspects of crafts but also inspire creativity and confidence, turning lessons into enjoyable and memorable experiences. The staff’s attentiveness ensures that everyone receives personalized help and tips, whether in cutting tiles for mosaics or mixing paint shades for canvas art. This hands-on support allows groups to move at their own pace without feeling rushed or left behind, accommodating different experience levels within the same gathering. Their kindness and enthusiasm act as a catalyst for fun, making the studio more than just a place to craft but a hub for social engagement and learning. For groups celebrating birthdays, special occasions, or casual get-togethers, this level of care transforms the event into something truly special.
Why is Little Shop of Crafts better than typical paint-and-sip events?
Little Shop of Crafts distinguishes itself from standard paint-and-sip studios through its emphasis on skill-building, customization, and a broader variety of craft forms beyond just painting with wine glasses. While classic paint-and-sip classes focus mainly on guiding participants through recreating a single painting step-by-step, Little Shop of Crafts invites guests to create personalized projects that reflect their own ideas and artistic flair. For example, the mosaic-making class involves learning a new art form — cutting and grouting tiles — a skill that participants can continue practicing outside the studio. This hands-on crafting demands more engagement, creativity, and patience, delivering a deeper sense of accomplishment. The interactive and educational nature of the classes sets Little Shop apart by providing a more enriching, creative, and memorable experience, all in a comforting, fun, and social setting. This approach appeals to groups looking for meaningful activities that go beyond casual entertainment, offering lasting benefits like new hobbies or keepsakes.
How accessible is Little Shop of Crafts for various group sizes and skill levels?
Whether your group is small or large, experienced or beginner, Little Shop of Crafts adapts to meet your needs with flexible scheduling, walk-in options, and personalized instruction that makes everyone feel included. The studio’s layout fosters an intimate yet open environment, allowing groups to work closely without feeling crowded. Because of the variety of crafts offered, participants can choose projects that match their comfort levels—from simple canvas painting to more complex mosaic art. The welcoming and patient staff ensure that novices are supported and can learn steadily, while those with prior crafting experience have opportunities to explore advanced techniques. For larger groups, special date and rate options are available, helping you plan a seamless creative event. This accessibility makes it an ideal venue for families, friends, coworkers, or clubs looking to strengthen bonds through art without concerns about experience barriers or space limitations.
What makes Little Shop of Crafts a memorable place for celebrations?
Celebrating birthdays, milestones, or casual reunions at Little Shop of Crafts transforms ordinary occasions into creative adventures filled with laughter and accomplishment. Unlike typical party venues, this studio offers a unique blend of fun, education, and personalized artistic expression that guests remember long after the event ends. Your group leaves not only with joyful memories but tangible, beautiful crafts—painted pottery, custom soaps, or mosaics—that serve as lasting mementos of time spent together. The staff’s attentiveness and the studio’s flexible arrangements ensure your celebration flows smoothly, with attentive support for setup, crafting, and clean-up. This special setting makes it easy to combine socializing with creative achievement and turns any celebration into a meaningful shared experience that strengthens friendships and creates keepsakes that bring smiles for years to come.
Why do visitors consistently give high ratings to Little Shop of Crafts?
Visitors frequently praise Little Shop of Crafts for its combination of excellent customer service, high-quality craft materials, and the wide range of engaging activities, leading to an impressive 4.6-star rating from over 100 reviews. The recurring theme in feedback is the welcoming and helpful nature of the staff who make every participant feel valued and supported. Guests also appreciate that the crafts are sufficiently challenging to be rewarding but accessible enough not to overwhelm beginners. Positive reviews highlight the studio’s cleanliness, organization, and the quality of finished projects, which exceed expectations and provide great value. Many note that the experience feels more personal and creative than other craft venues, making it an outstanding choice for group outings. This consistent recognition affirms the studio’s reputation as a top creative destination in New York City where groups can confidently book for memorable, joyful gatherings.