Silpak has been my "go‐to" place for decades now. And now they're new location just off thev5…read morefreeway in Burbank makes it even easier and more convenient for me to shop. All my casting and moldmaking needs are here in one place. A staple in the F/X industry for years and years.

I have tried a variety of their products over time and have had little disappointments…read more And the one time I bought something that I could not use, they took it back. So really there is nothing to worry about here. There are a ton of product versions, and there are samples for all of them, but still it is hard to know without trying. I wish they would sell "Test Kits" which would be enough just to mix once for about $5. (Hint to Owner). They do sell "Kits" which are about 2lbs but these are too expensive to play with. My other small gripe is those wide mouth containers with screw lids. Those really suck. I waste a lot of material pouring out of those which sticks to the side and needs to be wiped with paper towels. I am wiping away my money. I think I should take away a star just for that, but I think the owner will read and consider this. Those are OK for silicone but epoxy needs a narrow diameter cap. Anyway, the mold-making silicones are superior. I got the hang of using those without need for a vacuum, even the viscous types. With care, they last a long time for epoxy castings. I tried the silicone from the competitor nearby which is crap. I have been able to do a lot with the slow set epoxy products. All they need is heat and they work well. I would stay away from the fast epoxies. Their fast epoxies are super toxic and brittle. They are also strongly tinted. In this case the competitor was better with a super hard and strong fast epoxy (But hard to mix). To be honest, the prices here are a little high for me, so I can't do much. These products are designed to sell to customers with business budgets and I buy for craft applications. I am able to avoid this expense by sometimes using coupons in the hobby stores. Then I get half price of Silpak. As far a silicone goes, I find no substitute. See my photos. I use tricks to get around Silpak's High Prices. I love R2234 platinum but can't squander it. So I back-fill with RU440 urethane. With practice you can get a 1/3 platinum to 2/3 urethane ratio or better. The trick is to use natural fiber string/rope/fabric to bond the layers. Platinum won't stick to urethane normally, but using fibers you can. Go to Home Depot and buy cotton or sisal type natural fiber string or rope. Do not use plastic string! Coat your form about 1/8" thick with platinum by pouring or brushing on with multiple applications. The string can be spaced 1/2" apart and run around the inside perimeter of the mold. You can use tape to hold it in place. Put the strings into mold with tape and start layering the silicone. It is also possible to wait to the last application of silicone and dip the string ends. Maybe even just throw string cuttings on top and let them get slightly imbedded. I prefer to have string ends fully imbedded. See my photo for getting out bubbles with balloon pump for platinum. I prefer to have the two ends of the string embedded and then a loop of string at the top. Something like spaghetti. When done with silicone push string spaghetti below level of mold. The next day just pour the rest in urethane. Whammy-O! You can also add more fiber cuttings to the urethane mix to save even more money. Dan will tell you "Not Recommended". Screw That! I have two dozen molds this way that are still working. What's good about Platinum/Urethane composite molds? Other than the money you save because urethane is half price of platinum, the molds are more stretchy. Platinum is hard. I have trouble ejecting the castings. With urethane back-fill the castings pop right out. This works like a solid full mold as if it were all platinum. You need not play with plaster of Paris molds in two parts. Keep in mind there is more labor to make these molds. Better to use this formula for larger molds. As far as the staff goes, they always hire knowledgeable people with slightly odd and eccentric and/or difficult "Personality Issues". (That's my opinion) You have to get used to it. It's not a big deal, but takes a little adjustment. Thanks for reading this Goose Review.

"Paint it! Paint it black!!!"…read more My go to local small art supply, art gallery, art happenings and creative vibes stores. Carter Sexton Artist Materials is located in Los Angeles' San Fernando Valley within the Valley Village/Studio City area and resides on Laurel Canyon Boulevard/just a beat down from Chandler Blvd and the Laurel Canyon Metro Station for the Orange (aka G) line. It's got lots of fun nooks and crannies with great materials, supplies, service and sales (including 40% off, clearance items and more). It was easy for me to follow a lot of their played out pricing for canvas (10 years in retail, though it's been almost 10 years since I walked away from it and yet still retain so much lol). I ventured into the "Come (On) In" area and discovered some complimentary artist guides, incredible artwork and extra items I was seeking for a sketching event I hosted over the weekend. Love coming in on Saturdays, though it's been several months since I was last in, hoping to change that, check out more of their events, including some great some shows this holiday season like their Medley. I don't have much to submit by their deadline, but highly recommend you do if you're an artist, aspiring artist or creative. They definitely are neighborhood feel with some cool regulars. Caught some warming interactions and references to Cheers (the 80s to early 90s series) between the staff and a really nice returning customer. I'm not sure if Kelli was there when I stopped in, but I've had some greatest response with her in the past online when inquire about things. Everyone is super knowledgeable, mindful and respectful. Ready to assist, but also let you take your time exploring and feeling out all they have to offer. Street parking primarily with a 1hour limit from 8am to 6pm. Some limited spaces in their back alley parking, that I'm sure is super great for their staff/ the Carter Sexton family. Its first come first serve, but you might get lucky. Open from 10am to 6pm Monday through Saturday weekly with some variations for holidays. A must whether a local, passing through or seeking out a small biz to support that does great things for the area, and showcasing a spotlights artists of all walks of lives and ages. Even Bob Ross on display wants you to check out this great supportive Art spot. "We don't make mistakes, just happy little accidents."

One of the iconic treasures of the LA art world. It has an amazing history (it's the oldest art…read moresupply shop in Los Angeles), it has materials I've literally not been able to find elsewhere. Also, it fosters community, hosting monthly art exhibits which local artists can submit to. The prices are very reasonable. The staff are helpful and kind. Each month's exhibit has a theme, and there's always an opening reception. Unlike many art shows, Carter Sexton's shows don't ask for money just to submit your work. Only if your work is accepted and you choose to participate do you pay a modest fee ($15) which is a great deal, because the shop clearly spends a lot of time making placards for each piece with the artist's name and mini-bio, and then hanging the work. You can sell your exhibited work and/or sell prints of it. I'm so grateful for the community this place fosters!

Went to shop at the Burbank, CA store. It was clean and had friendly and helpful staff. They have…read moremany Christmas and New Year items. Many items are 25% to 40% off regular price. It was not too busy. Parking: A shared lot. Stats: 4

It's probably not a good idea thinking you'll be able to pick up some last minute Christmas…read moredecorations..lol... This location is BUSY regardless when you come. I've been in the morning as well as before closing. It's always busy. Guess it's a good thing on their part. Like mentioned, I don't recommend coming in for the last minute holiday decorations. You would think as it's early in December, they'll have some things left over. Well, majority of things are gone. Loads of the isles have been cleared already. I've even seen some employees taking down the fixtures already. It's good for them but if you're looking for the decoration, I do recommend coming early. Like a month or so. They have them out early and most are on sale. It's still half off for Christmas items. You'll still get things there as they have random stuffs. But majority of holiday items are gone. I don't know if they'll restock anything now but if you're not looking for something particular, I'm sure they'll have it. It's also a store that literally carries everything. It's basically a Joann's, Michael's and a Home Goods all under one roof. There's everything that you can want or need in a craft store of such. Also, why is it that all the store seems to be short with cashiers. There's always a massive line in the store and there's like 3, maybe 4 cashier. If you coming, just make sure not to be in a rush. But I'm sure you'll end up leaving with one thing or a cart of things. They alway do have amazing discounts.

Been a customer for years. Experts in their field, hands down. Did you know that the TV series…read moreFace/Off was taped just blocks away? They were instrumental in the supply and, I think, the consultation/safety. If you have questions on your project, that's what they do...just make sure to give some detail (medium, wearable, etc.). I could walk around for hours here (probably did on my first visit) to view not only all the supplies but distracted by floor/wall adorned decorations they created and a dedicated customer display. Posted warning at the entrance of no children of a certain age and also an age limit to purchase. Attended a very cool seminar presented by Glen (45+ years experience) and Laura (very detailed and cautious). Both had so many tips and tricks with live demonstrations...I should have brought a notepad; others were much more proficient. Truly inspirational place and hub for our projects. Some of the items are exclusively sold at Reynolds Advanced Materials; they even have their own crafted stuff that are far superior in quality and inexpensive. Remember that you should always do your research on what you'll be handling as the side effects are no joke. Errors/mistakes could cost hours and money.

The real deal. Excellent resource for professional, or even aspiring artists and designers. An old…read moreschool establishment with genuine staff, I hope they never change a bit about them. Charming and creative, you'll be sure to find all your necessary materials here. They are very well stocked with everything you can think off. If you're into this kind of vibe, check out Nigel's and Frend's. Those are more specialty makeup and special fx cosmetics. But they share a similar classic Hollywood vibe. Good selection, highly recommend. I find the value is in their quality goods and services.

I felt like I just met the real life Indiana Jones. The owner Tiger is a real life archaeologist…read more The shop had an array of trinkets, gadgets, relics, treasures, etc from all over the world. An abosutely amazing find. The building has a few rooms, gatheting items of all sorts left behind. Each piece has a story that Tiger will surely tell. The hours are a little iffy. If he is open go inside. This is defiently one of my favorite new shops.

I was walking back to my car in a nearby parking structure when I noticed this adorable little shop…read moreand thought, "Ooo, how cute!" I checked the hours on the door and saw that on weekends they're "sometimes" open -- which I thought was hilarious -- so of course, I had to step inside. It's a small shop that somehow feels bigger on the inside, like a little labyrinth full of surprises. The owner, Tiger, greeted us right away and was such a delight -- super personable, funny, and full of fascinating stories. He's clearly been everywhere and knows so much about the things he sells. There's a bit of everything here, and you can tell it's all curated with care and experience. Such a cool hidden gem in Burbank that I can't believe I hadn't noticed until now. Definitely worth checking out!

I usually visit Michael's store during holiday times. This store has a variety selection of items…read moresuch as frames, sewing merchandise, knitting merchandise. This store usually has great sales on the seasonal items. Depending on the time you visit this store has 40% to 50% sale. The merchandise is reasonably priced and can be cheaper compared to similar stores. Recently, they have added self checkouts. They have cashiers helping too, but it's mostly self check out. Employees are nice and friendly. No complaints about the customer service. For parking, this location has plenty of parking space shared with other stores.

I feel so bad for everyone who works here and for the customers who come in…read more They're constantly short staffed, the staff that is there, is visibly stressed the eff out due to the lack of staffing. There's virtually no employees on the floor to help so, myself and multiple other customers have to stand in line to ask our simple little questions that stress management out. I mean straight up stressed out, sweating, heavy breathing, like they're having an anxiety attack. This is all corporates fault really. Understaffing their stores is not helpful to anyone. I used to work at a big name art supply store, we were always fully staffed. The days we weren't, were a nightmare. Michaels needs to do better by their employees. I bought a bunch of yarn and to be honest, I'm just going to return it. I don't feel it's worth it to shop here anymore. I don't want my money going towards a corporate entity that obviously doesnt care about its employees or its customers. Customer service starts with content employees. Come on Michaels. Do better.

Pretty big discount store; they have over 18 aisles full of goodies, but don't be fooled, they are…read morenot a dollar. Most items range from 5 to 10 bucks, with many items still on the higher side of $15 and $20. Some items are even pricier than Target. We found a fake pumpkin decoration; it was 8 dollars, but we went to Target that same day and found it for 5. Nonetheless, some items are decently priced, but I would do some research before purchasing any big items. Overall it's a nice and big location with lots of goodies.

Came by for personal items as well as other goodies and noticed they have cute gift ideas for…read moreValentine's Day. I bought a few gift bags and tissue paper for my giveaways. Every time I visit here, I always leave with several items.

I cannot say enough good things about Sherry and Creative Works. Not only was she's so easy to work…read morewith, but I had a rush order and she got my invitations done so quickly communication was clear, concise and easy to work with throughout the entire process. I came in with an idea and she executed it absolutely perfectly. She had everything I could have ever wanted when it came to my invitations every type of card stock every type of ink every type of ribbon every type of wax seal and the pricing was so very fair. If you aren't looking for a custom wedding invitation invitations this is the place that you want to be. Thank you Sherry!!!

Sherri was so great to work with. I shopped around and she had the best designs and options by…read morefar! She is very helpful and thorough. My invitations came out better than I expected! I'm getting so many compliments on them. Thanks for all your help Sherri!

We decided to try Color Café for a fun pottery painting outing. It was me, my two daughters, my…read moregranddaughter, and me, and we were looking forward to spending some creative time together. Unfortunately, it didn't turn out to be a great experience. * No blank pottery to paint - Everything available already had printed designs on it. We were hoping to paint our own plates, cups, or bowls, but there were no plain pieces available. * Very limited selection - The inventory felt small. We were told a party of 20 was coming in, and it seemed like the blank items might have been saved for them. * Unhelpful service - When we asked about options, the staff didn't seem very helpful or friendly. * Pricing - There's a $10 studio fee per painter, and many of the stamped platters were around $42 more, which felt expensive for items that were already pre-designed. Since there was nothing blank to paint, we ended up leaving without doing the activity. We were hoping to try something different from Color Me Mine, but unfortunately this visit didn't work out for us. We're going to Color Me Mine.

I had my 9 year old daughter's birthday day here and it was fabulous! The staff couldn't have been…read moremore supportive and understanding with a bunch of 12 year old girls. They set up a long table and accommodated add ons. There was a table you could use for refreshments and cake. The girls had a great time and seamless! I highly recommend having a birthday here.