A charming store full of beautiful one-of-a-kind handcrafted suncatchers using vintage glass and charms, really overwhelmingly beautiful. There are signs saying "no photography", and I've read a lot of negative reviews by people outraged that they can't just do what they want. The store doesn't have a website. They prefer to keep it analog and special to Bar Harbor. I found the shopkeeper to be sweet and helpful, but I didn't whip out my phone to take pictures. He gave me extra clear filament to hang my final selection and we had a nice chat about the weather and Acadia and the water. I really enjoy my purchase and this quirky shop. read more

This is my favorite store in Bar Harbor. I've been going to it for many, many years now. The sun catchers are gorgeous, and were a remembrance of Maine while I lived out of state for approx 25 years. I enter the store with awe, respect, and appreciation for the beauty. Probably why I've never had an issue. Last year I was shocked when the owner remembered us and our recent move back to New England. He personally found a piece in my favorite color, green. I enjoy it every day - it makes me smile. My husband also got a statement piece he loves. Kindness and respect is contagious. I hope this helps others appreciate and enjoy the store. read more

Light Sparkles Studio - Arts & Crafts Near Me - Bar Harbor, Maine

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I went to this beautiful shop while in port during a cruise several years ago and bought two expensive ornaments, one for myself, one as a gift. Big bucks spent! The shop was magical. It was jam packed with shoppers, so I didn't have any real problems with the customer service mentioned by other posters. However, the vibe WAS definitely "off". (4 stars and not 5) Not the friendliest-feeling place. The staff was VERY ADAMENT about no pictures! My thought was that they don't want anyone copying their designs, which I can grok. The thing is, to do this type of art takes costly materials (Kirks Folly jewelry pieces, stain glass, solder, etc.), technique, experience and TIME. IMO, they are doing a disservice to humanity by not allowing photos. The art is truly fabulous. If someone wanted to copy them, it wouldn't be that easy. The transient once-in-a-lifetime cruise shoppers buying treasures while on vacation must be a boon to them, hence their success despite the negative reviews. Worth a visit! Don't piss off the staff, be respectful and courteous and you'll be ok. If I'm ever in the area, I'll definitely go back again. read more

The new name for this store is SUNCATCHERS. Don't even try going inside this store! The cashier or owner is so rude. I was on the phone texting but he assumed that I was taking a picture. He told me to delete it.. so I was forced to show him my photos. What a joke? If it's not allowed, he should put up a sign ... NO PHOTOS ALLOWED!! After I proved to him, he didn't even apologize. I was told to leave ... I'm rating this place a 0 (zero) star. read more

The worst place to go to in Bar Harbor Maine. My husband and I walked in and I didn't realize he didnt want any pictures to be taken however in a very nasty manner he told me to delete my pictures. Well I didnt delete them. Its my phone and I wasn't going to prove I had and we walked out without buying anything because of how nasty the owner was. I dont care how beautiful the sun catchers were all they would remind me of the horrible experience at this store. They are overpriced as well. No thanks. Sale lost. One would think he would want the free advertisement especially during Covid when many small businesses have perished. But I guess not!!!! Given his nasty manner he can keep all the sun catchers. NEVER EVER WOULD I GO HERE AGAIN OR BUY FROM THIS MISERABLE MAN! read more

This guy gets two stars for all the giggles we girls got about how ridiculous he was. We walked in and naturally pulled our phones out because the art is GORGEOUS! Whoops! Its like a sport for him to lure people in with sparkly things then bark at them for attempting to capture it. I got a quick snapchat in while he was yelling at my friend She tried to chat with him about the no photos policy. This was the conversation: Friend- "So why no photos?" AngrySparkleMan- "Take a guess" "...I dont know. Are you worried about people stealing your designs?" "No, guess again" "....uh, does the flash affect the color of the glass?" "Guess again" "...I really don't know" "Then i guess you won't ever know" (zero trace of humor) I told him he has a beautiful store then we walked out. He should really hire someone else to man the store. read more

The owner, Michael Sleeper, is an artist and insists that people not pictures. That is understandable given the way people constantly take pictures today. I didn't consider his insistence that I not take pictures rude. I purchased two "Sparklers" three years ago from the Light Sparkles Studio and I still love them in every way. They are gorgeous and worth the price. It is not overpriced, you are paying for hand made art, using vintage glass. It's worth visiting and making a unique purchase for your home. These aren't cheepo - made-in-China sun catchers. Each piece is unique. I LOVE MY PIECES. read more

Suncatchers is the name now. My girlfriend went into the store before me today. I stood outside on the sidewalk looking into the store and took a picture before I went in. Walking around I went to take another picture because of all the colors would have made a nice photo, but the troll like person behind the counter yelled out no photos in the store can't you read! I said read what? He said, the sign that said no photos! I said where is the sign? He said on the counter! The sign was so small and with all the glitter and the color from the sun shining in through the windows I never saw it! He said something to me and I walked out and said can I talk a picture from the sidewalk? He yelled no, so I snapped a flash picture from outside the store! My girlfriend said the guy looked at her with a dirty look and thought he was going to throw her out of the store! This store owner or what every he is to this store is a total asshole! Everybody that visits Bar Harbor should go to Suncatchers and stand outside the store on the sidewalk and take pictures looking into the store and make sure the troll behind the counter sees you! read more

Light Sparkles Studio - Try to take a picture in or outside of the store and watch the reaction of the store attendant! - Arts & Crafts Near Me - Bar Harbor, Maine

HORRIBLE customer service! I went in to this shop a couple weeks ago with my parents. Quiet day, not many people out and about since it was cloudy and pre-season. We walked in and ooh'ed and ahh'ed over how beautiful everything was. Our visit proceeded like this: Me: "Wow, this stuff is amazing! Do you have a workshop around here?" Shop Owner: (scowls at me) "No." Me: "Oh. Where do you make it?" Shop Owner: "We don't make it here!" (my parents and I walk around for a few minutes, comment on pieces, debate getting this one or that one for Grandma) My Mom: "This is so cool. Is it a kind of stained glass technique?" Shop Owner: (angry) "We don't talk about that!!!" My Mom: "Oh, okay..." (a few more minutes of looking around) My Mom: "Know what would be neat? A shower door made like this. Have you ever made - " Shop Owner: (cuts off her question, shouts): "NO! This is everything we make." My Mom: "Would you consider doing a custom - " Shop Owner: (cuts her off again, gets this weird, twisted, annoyed look on his face): "I said, NO!!! Everything we make is RIGHT HERE, sweetheart!" Sweetheart? Seriously? I looked over my shoulder at him after I heard him say that and caught him making a face and silently mocking my mom behind her back. We left immediately. Based on past reviews, seems like not much has changed here. Not sure how the heck this guy is still in business. Also note - we weren't taking any pictures or even had cameras out, since many of the other posts imply that photo-taking is what gets this guy's panties in a bunch. He's just plain terrible, regardless. Don't waste your time or money patronizing this shop. read more

Worst salesman ever!!! The items are beautiful but this man said he makes everything in the store, yet he sells "kirks folly" jewelry. He is very rude. The store looks great, but don't bother. He stands behind the counter and glares at customers. Will report to Bar Harbor Chamber of Commerce. read more

For me to buy art I like to take the time to speak and get to know the artist and when I see their passions for their work and what inspires them to create that motivates me to buy...if this is how you see art then THIS IS NOT THE PLACE. Granted the work was dazzling but the artist is a real putz. Rude and combative is what I'd have to sum this jerk up. ZERO customer services and this begs the question if something were to go wrong with the very expensive works of art there is no way a person this rude and obnoxious would both understand and give a dam about the problem. I was way taken back by this guy...in lieu of the awesome customer service experiences of all the other local business' in the Bar Harbor area this guy is a blight on the environment. He should be moved to a do his business in a cave, at least you'd be prepared for his candor. read more

Suncatchers. Not certain how they stay in business when it seems the goal is to chase out the customer in a very aggressive way if they even think about texting someone while in the shop. Could have easily spent $1000 here on gifts for Christmas (pricey items), but never got the chance before before being accosted viscously by the shop keeper / owner for pulling out my phone. Was a very disturbing experience. They should not be in business if this is how they treat customers. read more

We went into the suncatcher store and the first thing we noticed was the smell. It smelled like cigarettes, and the guy smelled bad and all the suncatcher things looked all the same they were just for attraction and money. And he's a liar. And he's a bad boy. Alright. Well one day we decided to go shopping to look at stores. And we saw this suncatcher place and it was attracting we went in. And it was smelly. And it smelled like cigarettes. So we went in, and when me and Emmy went in without our dad he said sorry. He was walking around and said you have to have your momma around. And when we walked in with our dad, daddy was gonna take a photo and just when he was about to take it, he said 'sir no pictures'. And then we just went out. read more

I had been in the store all of two minutes before the owner yelled at a woman for taking out her phone and starting to take a picture. The anger and the tone took me aback that he would speak to a customer in that manner. She apologized and tried to engage him in conversation. She asked if he was the artist to which he shouted NO at her. At that point it was time to leave- he does not deserve to be in business talking to people like that. Apparently in looking at other reviews this is his M.O. I was seriously angry when I left the store. Sort of funny below this review it is instructing me to 'attach photos'- god I wish I had some! Total Jerk!!!! read more

No Stars. Because the person in the shop... He was on his phone and rudely yelled at me No. while he was one the phone. That shows no respect at all. Love the Suncatchers but the guy was so rude I will never go back in the store unless it's someone else. Well I see some of the reviews were the same now.Such a Rude Guy! Completely your business should be shut down. Sorry. read more

I have seen the reviews about the owner. We have been there two times in the last 4 years and honestly have had an enjoyable visit and discussions with Michael. We found him to be very helpful and he even posted our purchases for us at cost. Highly recommend you start a dialogue with him on his excellent art and go from there. Yes, picture are no allowed but if you visit most high end art venues it is the same policy. The Colburns read more

Maybe He Just Needs a Hug The stuff in this store is just beautiful and one of a kind. Every time we are in Bar Harbor I get a piece and love it. The suncatcher's glass changes color and design from light to shade, very unique. I will be the first to admit that the owner is a bit gruff, but a lot of artists can be odd and or socially awkward. He is very passionate about his art, and not having photos taken in his shop, hence the dozens of signs saying "No Photos". It's like buying soup from a "Seinfeld" skit, as long as you follow the rules, you won't get yelled at. :) If I had the chance, I would tell the owner that he is missing out on a great chance with social media, that many companies pay big $$ for. Not only should he allow photos, but encourage people to post and check in on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram of his beautiful shop and art. What a great and free way to show everyone his great work. read more

Nice "light sparkles" but you can find similar elsewhere without buying from this rude man!! Had a horrible experience in the store, he is extremely rude and has no problem getting in your face and yelling at you if you attempt to touch anything, photograph anything, or - as a a nearby shop owner was telling us - he often makes children cry by yelling if they get too close to anything. (Just ask on the street his shop is on - you'll hear stories!) At one point, he actually attempted to grab my phone! I really don't feel that you should open a store and sell your items in a tourist town if you can't at least have some level of civility. Perhaps he'd have better luck online. read more

The glass pieces are gorgeous. The man at the counter was a total jerk. The first thing he did when I walked in was say "no pictures." I happened to have my phone in my hand waiting for an important call and he wanted me to prove that the camera was off. Then I asked who the artist was and he said "beats me" ... there is a sign saying something along the lines of "each piece is a unique creation by Michael Sleeper." I had been admiring one of the larger pieces and willing to pay approx $500 but he was such a jerk that I'm not interested any more!! read more

The owner is ridiculous. My wife and I arrived at his store at 3:59. He closes at 4:00, so he was already outside taking things into the store. "I'm closed!", was all he said, without even looking at us! He just turned his back on us and walked into the store. We were pretty sure we were going to buy something. I guess closing on time is more important than making a sale. Don't waste your time. Someone this rude deserves to go out of business. read more

The owner is extremely rude. Yieling at me "no photo" once I took out my phone and then "Did you take a photo?" "No" "OK. Now go away" read more

Troubling place to visit... on the one hand, you can't help but stare at and appreciate all the stained glass style art pieces adorning the front garden area and interior of this tiny little shop... for it is quite a stunning and remarkable sight. BUT don't you DARE ask the man at the counter about any of his stuff. IF he speaks with you it will likely result in your frustration on one level or another. Wife and I chose to walk out. He was very rude. We were in a happy mood upon entry and left before losing our "chill" but really confused to say the least... for we couldn't figure out what could have been said or done to cause him to be so unprofessional and short with us. Also, not to do a disservice to the time and effort of making all that stuff, but be advised if you do plan to make a purchase here you'll definitely need to bring your wallet. It's a place where you'll have to spend thousands of dollars to get any of the nicer, larger pieces. Probably worth it though if you can get past the gatekeeper there. We just went online to post this review and noticed he was not even on yelp. But his Google ratings are across the board telling the exact same story as ours. Interesting how someone in such a beautiful, peaceful town could come off so unhappy and unsettled as a person. I get how he could be sick of people asking the same questions all the time... but it's only natural to ask about such curious stuff that costs so much money. 3 stars for art pieces, 0 stars for customer service. read more

This is the kind of place where I wish I had read reviews before I walked in. I had my camera in hand outside of the shop and as soon as I walked in I felt like I was attacked by a pitbull. The extremely unfriendly shop owner jumped right in my face and told me, "No pictures ma'am." I was so taken aback that I turned around and walked right out of the shop not even giving the owner the time of day to look at his things. There are many other ways he could have handled that situation. The extremely tiny no photos sign, after you get into the store, was very hard to see. This shop should not be close to downtown Bar Harbor. As another reviewer said, he should be in a cave but I think he gets his jollies scaring the unsuspecting tourists. I will never set foot in this shop again, no matter how sparkly the sun catchers are. I'll take my business elsewhere. read more

The gentleman working the store was extremely rude. When asking the price of an item, he told me that I might be able to afford this smaller one. It took me 4 times asking how much the one i wanted was to get an answer. He has no idea what i can or can't afford.He kept trying to sell me other pieces that I didn't like and didn't listen when I told him. I looked at the smaller ones, but really wanted the original piece I went in for. I asked him if he has a card, phone number, and his response was no and no website either....I responded it was nice trying to do business with you and left with nothing as I would rather spend money on an artist who would appreciate sharing his art. Also it under a New Name Suncatcher read more

AKA Suncatchers! Buyer beware... You can change the name but not the attitude. What use to be Light Sparkles Studio is now Suncatchers. As we walked in we were greeted with "EVERYTHING WE SELL IS OUTSIDE IN THE WINDOW"!, from Mr. Crabs behind the counter. Out of fear my friend asked if it's ok to pick things up, the Chancellor of Charm responded with; "IT'S NOT GOING TO LOOK ANY DIFFERENT"! Hey I'm no bull and this ain't no china shop. This guy reeeeally needs a hug, but I'll bet my right horn it's not coming from one of his customers. The only way I would recommend this store is If you want to send in you mother in law in to pick out something for your spouse. We walked out so ticked off that I said I would wait a day before posting... that didn't work. I wish I could tell you that the merchandise was worth the punking but we never got that far. Flossy gives suncatchers four hoof's down read more

The owner was very rude. I asked how much a lamp was and he said "it's too expensive." I then repeated my question and he refused to tell me the price. I was very dissatisfied with the service. read more

BEWARE--Shop keeper will yell at you and scold you. Truly unbelievable. Just keep walking. Do not give this guy your money. read more

Store keeper not only is rude and abusive with customers but disrespectful. My wife touched one of the displays and he grabbed it forcefully and took it away, as if she intended to steal it. Things in display are also way overpriced.. Ia few other shoppers who saw the incident left indignant. read more

I loved the selection the store had. I went in twice, and the first time, there was a very cheerful girl working behind the counter. When I went back to buy, I believe it was the guy that others have mentioned. He is very knowledgeable, but was dour for the most part, although he perked up when my husband appreciated a unique piece. Most items are about $$$, but there are some $$ items as well that are cute. read more

My husband and I have visited this shop twice and found the owner to be very accommodating and helpful. He was very willing to explain the different types of glass to me and take various items down so I could look at them. I bought a small piece several years ago and a larger piece today. While there, some women came in and the first words out of one woman's mouth were "Oh my, how can you stand being in here everyday with all this stuff?" Perhaps that is part of the problem...... read more

This is Bar Harbor's own version of the soup nazi. I have never gone into a store, asked an innocuous question about an item and been so rudely treated by "an artiste" about his product. Some serious attitude adjustment is needed at this store or he may find no one crossing his threshold. read more

We visited this shop a couple years ago... The man working was beyond rude, really put a negative feel to the trip there. How in the world that place is still open I will never understand.... He was one of the most unpleasant people we've ever encountered!! But we did get some good pictures inside and out, so we felt better ;) read more

BEWARE Take pictures and you get a 25% discount if you show him the post on Facebook!!! Not. Now called Suncatchers in Bar Harbor. Visited there on our 34 anniversary and first met by a bouncer holding the door. I thought that odd. They have beautiful suncatchers there and the lighting truly sparkles. My wife & I had cameras around our neck and she loves photography and proceeded to take a picture not seeing the small 2"x2" sticker on the counters. The Bouncer/Troll came up to her and abruptly Said NO PICTURES. She meekly said OK, I just love the way the light reflects in the crystals. We still stayed there while he stayed 3ft behind us watching at all times. After moving around to another counter the owner at register said, Why the cameras? I told him, Well we like to take pictures and we are tourists!. He said, Read the sign NO PICTURES. Trying to change the mood I asked, Is your shop where you make these here in Bar Harbor? He said, "Whatever." I said, Pardon? He again said, "Whatever."So I said, Then I guess that was the wrong question and these must not been made in Maine like the sign says? He grumbled something and we left. These items I was told by an adjacent shop that they are not made in Maine but are made overseas with a 1500% mark-up. It deserves a minus 10 stars. read more

If I could give this shop a 'no star' rating I would. We went by as our 4 year old daughter was drawn to it! However as I took a picture of her in the doorway, was rudely told 'no photos whatsoever'. We tried to reassure the shopkeeper we just wanted a picture for her and were coming to look for something for her, he was, if possible, even ruder! What's more the stuff ridiculously over priced! How is this guy still in business? read more

Rude and lazy staff cost their business about $700 today. Went in to buy items for our daughter's bridal shower. Should have known it would be a problem when owner did not greet us when we entered. No one else in his shop. Why no greeting? He was too busy on his cell phone. He did manage to give me the stink eye when I say in a chair. Kim just started to shop when I wanted to take a picture of her to add to our vacation album. That's when the disengaged owner took an interest in us. Specifically me as he said no pictures allowed. I assured him I wanted a photo of my wife not his items. Rudely he said no while still involved with his phone call. At that point I explained to Kim we are finished in this store. We spent $700+ on items for the bridal party at a different business in town. Tip for owner: greet your customers and get off the phone. If you have a dumbass policy explain it in a nice respectful fashion. Don't shop here! read more

WOW! I have never been in a store like this. It's like walking into a treasure chest. My wife and I bought a larger piece and love seeing it every day as it catches the morning sun. We found the man there to be very helpful so, not sure if it was the same man the other reviewers wrote about. read more

At the time that we visited Light Sparkles, we had no idea that this artist has righteously earned his title of Soup Nazi Number Two. He was, indeed, a grumpy, short-on-manners type of dude, but I'm so glad I stayed. My dog sitter got the most special souvenir on the island. It's so much more intricate & lovely than most smallish stained glass. I will keep my eye out for Michael Sleeper from now on--he's worth the crappy mood! read more

I thought it was just me.... I agree with many of the comments made previously about the Troll who owns the store. I also did not see the tiny signs about no photography due to the awe I experienced when first entering the store. After a quick photo a little mean spirited man barked: "DELETE IT, DELETE IT". I quickly understood that he didn't want photography of his merchandise but, he could mention that he doesn't allow photography in his store and would you please delete the picture. However, asking politely is not his tactic of choice. After being very shocked and startled, my sister tried to ask him questions about the merchandise to try and ease the tension... he said: "Whatever" multiple times to her questions. She actually asked him if he was being rude on purpose and he said: "Whatever" again. She told him he was definitely rude and walked out. After reading the reviews it seems many people have the same experience. Maybe he could fix his signs, or have a loud speaker announcing "NO PICTURES" before one enters his precious store... therefore avoiding the repeat performance. But sadly I think he actually seems to enjoy yelling and upsetting unsuspecting tourists. read more

Don't let the pretty suncatchers fool you. I've been going to Bar Harbor for 15 years and I will never be returning to this store. The man working in this store was extremely RUDE. While I can understand not wanting photos taken, the man was extremely rude in screaming "NO PHOTOSSS" at the top of his lungs (even though the sign is about 1 inch). Would not recommend. read more

If I could give negative stars I would. Whoever owns or runs this store is completely disrespectful and obviously doesn't want to make money due to his poor attitude. I came into the store looking at items. There had been some jewelry and naturally if you want to buy a piece you try them on. The man snapped at me telling me not to touch them. He was so rude my friend and I left as well as two other guests. He made the whole place uncomfortable with the way he spoke to us. As others have previously stated I may contact the better business bureau. Completely unacceptable. read more