Learning to weld is an extraordinary experience. This workshop, given to me as a gift from a…read morefriend, got me started with the basic techniques of MIG. Michelle is an expert teacher and guides you every step of the way to lay down a clean bead. The studio, totally Covid-safe, has large side by side open windows that allow for easy air circulation. There is a breeze from the waterfront. My first time holding a torch I got hooked, I love the small sculpture that I made. I now have it on display in my apartment. When I go back for another class, I will bring a friend to share the experience and fun. Who knew metalwork could be so exciting? But then Michelle Greene has been the master welding professor at the New School for decades, so I had high expectations!

Just did a one-on-one 2-hour class with Michelle and I can't recommend it highly enough. Michelle…read morewas smart and clear and an excellent teacher. She gauged my ability and comfort zone well and we progressed through the basics of Oxy-acetylene welding at the exact right pace for me. I walked out of there with a very clear sense of how to get started with what I need to do (and a candle holder!) I definitely need more practice and may go back to her for another session, but I'm very glad I spent the money and did the solo session rather than being in a class setting that others offer. Come to think of it, even the choice of the candle-holder project she came up with reflected the attention she put into it, because we used the same material that I want to use in a project, so the practice was tailor made for real-life.

The Fledgling Workshop was a perfect way to get back into writing after some time away. Sammi off…read morethe bat created an incredibly supportive environment and her unique and super creative prompts helped me really find my voice. I left the workshop feeling super encouraged to keep writing, having a really good start on a project I'm proud of, and with a lot of tools to keep working at it. Plus I can't wait to take another workshop!

I walked away from completing my first workshop as a better and more inspired writer than I thought…read morepossible. Being new to workshops and writing in groups I was a bit nervous to begin but Sammi and the other instructors were warm and welcoming. The prompts and exercises were interesting and challenged me just enough. I developed a friendship with the group and looked forward to sharing and getting feedback that has helped me grow my writing projects. I can't say enough good things!!!

So fun! My pottery wasn't the best, but Riley certainly was! Will for sure come back. Very…read moreinformative and learned a lot.

Allison is amazing! The whole experience is so fun and the instructors take a lot of time and care…read moreto walk you through your process

I don't usually leave reviews, but I thought some of my fellow Brooklynites would appreciate…read moresomeone sharing a best-kept-secret (shhhhh): if you can relate to any of the following, you should run to register for one of vsl studio's workshops: 1) you're intimidated by your new sewing machine and would like to conquer that fear, 2) you've got some basic sewing skillz, but you don't seem to have the know-how in order to bring that *one* pattern to life or embellish it with that *one* technique or 3) you just want to get some good ol' fashioned personalized and patient sewing instruction. You will not be disappointed - what you will be is a more confident seamster! Seriously, I was somewhat of a skeptic (I took a few classes at another nameless place in Manhattan) and was pleasantly surprised by the personal attention at this little gem of a studio. My only frustration was with scheduling. It's a little tough to get into some of the classes, so don't delay! And it's true: everything's better in BROOKLYN!

I've just fluffed and placed my newly sewn pillow on my sofa and it looks AMAZING! While it might…read moreseem that I'm tooting my own horn, I'm not. Sure i picked a fabric I absolutely love, but I just finished the second session of the 2-day beginner workshop and the skills I learned at Sweet Life Studio were priceless. I've had some experience with sewing before, but nothing formal and I definitely had some gaps in my ability, so I thought I'd sign up for a class. Originally, I chose Sweet Life because it was a good location, but I definitely think I lucked out. Sarah, the instructor is so good, not only at what she does, but in clearly explaining how to do it yourself. Her experience teaching classes is evident, because she is able to skim her knowledge so that she can deliver a clear, concise workshop, where you leave with a completed project, as opposed to a random assortment of tips and half-taught skills. At the same time, she is open to questions and really gives the personal attention any beginner would need to feel confident. For the first session, I used my own sewing machine and then we realized the stitches weren't coming out right. Because she is truly a DIY kinda person (check her blog - www.verysweetlife.com), she was immediately able to identify the mechanical issue. That being said, I was unable to use my machine for this second class, but I was able to use one of hers, which I think is so generous, since I am still a beginner :) Anyhow. I could go on, but I hope my point is clear - if you're a beginner or want to increase your skills, check out the workshops and sign up. You won't leave disappointed. If I was more tech-savvy I'd post a pic of my pillow...

This past Friday I went to the grand opening party and premier gallery exhibit - what fun! Amazing…read morefiber art exhibit curated by Joetta Maue (who also teaches classes at the center.) It was such a beautiful evening I just have to start from the beginning. I walked up with my friend (who had a piece in the show) and was immediately WOWed when we saw the beautifully lit large windows showcasing tons of happy, supportive, exciting people looking and talking about fiber art. Yes, I've been to galleries before but something felt really good in that space, positive vibes from the get-go. We were greeted by a lovely lady asking for donations. For $5 you got a raffle ticket and free tote bag or scarf. The raffle prizes were all at least $100, well worth a $5-$20 donation, let alone the rest of the evening which I am about unravel to you. Works ranged from gigantic detailed creatures hanging from the ceiling and spilling to the floor, gorgeous intricate embroidered illustrations, very cool sculptural/costume-like joined head piece, large scale portrait quilts, intriguing fabric films.. everything I saw was a FEAST for the eyes, and completely different, yet connected. Cutting edge indeed. I was super impressed and got to meet many of the artists there that night, including Joetta. Although it was crowed (which is SO great for a gallery opening!) the atmosphere was completely positive. The live brass band added a bouncy background to conversation, and later an impromptu dance party/congo. There was lots of delicious savory finger food and darling 'textile arts center' cupcakes. Plenty of complimentary wine and cold craft beers. Bathrooms were spotless, well lit, brightly colored and stocked with essentials. One of the more inspiring NY events I've been to. The current exhibition is up Sept 17 - Oct 11, even without the party it's absolutely worth checking out. The facilities are gorgeous, and class listings are on their website.

This is a great studio and art school. I took a weekend intensive fabric marbling class with…read moreNatalie Stopka, who is so patient and kind. Our class was a random assortment of ladies of different personalities (how PC is that ;), but Natalie was very attentive and always sweet. She shared all her tips and techniques and helped guide us to create some unique creations. Of course, none of our work really looked as good as Natalie's, but maybe in time. :-/ The intensives also come with a week of free studio time, but it's really quite a schlep, so I didn't get to take advantage of it. Nice little bonus though!

I really loved this experience . I had no prior experience with Pottery and this class was perfect…read more. It's a cute studio . Our instructor Anna Marie was sooo sweet and warm . Although I was young she allowed me to walk around and see where we would be doing the class . The class is a hour and a half . I was able to throw clay like 3 times and it was so much fun . She explained everything hands on and helped and even asked before if she could help us hands on which I really appreciated . It was such a lovely and intimate class and I loved how everyone was helped individually which was really nice . I just loved it and will be back

Such a fun class! Really made pottery easy to understand for a first timer! Jacob is a great…read moreinstructor and will absolutely be back!

Soooooo me venturing to SI is a huge deal to begin with. However, you go when your friend organizes…read morea birthday outing. About 11 women and myself descended upon this place to make stuff with wood, while snacking on cheese and sangria. Now I know what you're thinking...you're making something...out of wood? I was thinking the same thing. Buuuuuttt I was pleasantly surprised. 1. The women that worked here and guided us were amazeballs. To wrangle our group of chatty cathies is hard to do but they did. Whenever we needed guidance on a paint color, technique, which way to sand etc...they were right there with a smile. 2. The amount of projects to chose from is extensive. You had porch signs, picture holders, lazy Susan's, and a wood circle thing (mine...lol). It could be super simple with 1 or 2 words or a bold pattern like mine 3. The shop itself is beautiful!!! I loved everything... unwanted to move into the bathroom. The apron holders were hammers... just super creative. Whoever designed the store...please come to my house and work your magic. I loved the entire experience...I plan on going back to make the chunky blanket. I may even come back to this location because the women were awesome.

This AR Workshop had just opened only a few blocks away from my house and I was excited to go try…read moreit out with my mom and a few of her friends. I've always loved painting and have never done wood-work before. Salina was so nice in helping us set up our Friday night event and made sure we knew what to expect going into it. We were even able to bring our own drinks and snacks! Although not to worry, they do have some for purchase as well. We each picked our projects ahead of time ranging in price from $55-$85. I was a bit taken back by the price but I promise you it was worth it. For 3 hours we were assisted with our projects from start to finish. Mackenzie was wonderful in explaining all of our design options in terms of staining, painting, choosing colors, sanding our wood, stenciling.... pretty much the whole nine yards. The other girls helping out needed a bit more training/experience in my opinion. While my project was definitely more difficult than I had expected, I had a blast and was in love with the final product. You are able to customize your design to make it your own and I really could not wait to hang up my piece in my apartment. Since the class I have already looked up projects that I want to make in the future and can't wait to do so!

I joined the most recent NYC Lab and found the experience to be so rewarding. I've trained at other…read moreacting studios over the years and it was exciting for me to explore a different way of approaching material at GSS. I really felt activated and inspired after just two days! I'll be joining the ongoing class soon and I'm looking forward to furthering my work and building on this technique. Thank you to Graham, Brooks, and Alex for such a great weekend!

Totally love it here. Graham is amazing and also the teachers that work with him. I am learning new…read moreideas on approaching acting- even after being extensively trained. Highly recommend.