There simply is no better warm glass studio in the mid-Atlantic region for learning kiln formed…read moreglass techniques. Owners/artists Judith Conway and Kevin O'Toole invest huge amounts of personal attention, time and energy in developing unique class offerings that exploit the quality Bullseye glass they stock. The knowledgeable staff, glass artists themselves, are supportive and eager to assist students as they learn new techniques and explore new artistic territory. Classes range from introductory kiln forming to advanced courses on specialty techniques presented by internationally recognized artists. Beginner classes give students an excellent grounding in the science of glass and the rudiments needed to produce quality work. This kind of attention to detail is what sets Vitrum classes apart from others. Class sizes are small enough to afford plenty of individual interaction with instructors. Staff can and does provide advice regarding the level of experience a student needs to be able to fully enjoy the more advanced classes; this is one of the special touches that factor into a truly valuable class experience where all learners are able to progress at a similar pace. Class schedules are offered on a semester system; be sure to sign up for the constant-contact-based newsletter for notices of classes, special events and sales.

I recently started a transition to working with glass as another form of jewelry making, and my…read moreknowledge has been greatly enhanced by going to Vitrum Studios. I learned about Vitrum through Maryland Hall for the Arts in Annapolis, and the classes offered are challenging and exciting. As a novice, I am treated as welcomingly as the many experienced artists. I never feel like a novice, because Kevin and Judy explain everything so well, that I get a full understanding of the approach, tools and methods for each particular style being taught. The classes are so enjoyable - and the teachers put in a lot of time over and above the class time to make sure that what we produce comes out really nicely - including cold working and firing that can't be finished during class. Vitrum offers great sales on their glass materials throughout the year, and they do a wonderful job of communicating with their customers. Sign-up fast for the classes when they are posted by email - they fill-up really quickly.

Fantastic place to Jazzercise. Safe area. Great parking. Facility is always clean. Bathrooms,…read moreincluded. I always felt safe walking to my car at night.

From the owner: art classes, yoga classes, senior fitness, ceramics, summer camp, theater, dance classes, art…read moredrop-ins, community center

Took Intro to Watercolors here about a month ago, a 5-week course that started at 7pm and ended at…read more9pm. Online registration was easy with credit card, and they send you a confirmation email. I liked that I did not have to purchase any supplies for this class. Now keep in mind you only come with what you brought; no brushes, paper, or paints were given away at the end. We had a small group and started off practicing watercolor techniques the first day and then jumped into small simple projects; still life, landscape, and abstract watercolors. As a beginner, I was in class with people who were professional artists who took the class as a hobby. I would have preferred to be in a class with newbies like me, so I could spend more time learning technique. But all and all I worked at my own pace and did not allow myself to be distracted by the years of experience of others. Our instructor Tye was kind, encouraging, and fun to work with. I would take another course here, they have plenty to choose from ceramics, printmaking, even a soap making course, and much more. Looking to be creative and meet some interesting people on a random weeknight, this might be your jam.

The two day a week Adult Art Therapy Group is wonderful. Art, Therapy, Support, introduction to…read morenew art techniques, new media, professional artists, gallery and other show and more all in one great package. The staff really cares.

Nikki was awesome ! she was punctual and a great teacher! we will be booking her again . 10/10read more

Nikki was fantastic she was very good on her time and personality was amazing she is the only one I…read morewould like to have her come back again

The Happy Little Art Studio is a gem! My daughter, her friends from first grade, and her brothers…read moreenjoyed the most creative and fun birthday party in September (all thanks to this local art studio). Michelle was amazing to work with. She is very responsive to questions, thoughtful, and was always steps ahead of me in the planning process. The kids can't wait to return to the studio to take classes with this talented teacher!

From the owner: Art and yoga classes for kids ages 2-10. Weekend classes & birthday parties. Drawing, painting,…read moremosaics, paper mache, slime making, ceramics, and yoga! We focus on teaching creativity by using an open ended processes based teaching method. Our studio classes are designed to encourage children to be curious and joyful. Make art. Practice yoga. Be happy.

Great family business. I've seen it driving past my husband's work but didn't realize they offer…read moreclasses until I googled. So glad my friend and I came to take a short project class. We really enjoyed ourselves and will be back. Great instruction, designs offered, and value. They also have small gifts up front if you don't have time for a class, but want something hand made locally.

Fiscus Glassworks is a gem in Alexandria. I have now taken all of their classes from beginner to…read morestructure/dimension and design and build. I even entered my pieces I created in these classes at the Arlington County Fair and won the Reserve Grand Champion for my division! I now frequent their studio during open hours with their studio time passes. Brad and Maré are kind, welcoming and extremely knowledgeable! They can help you create patterns and make your stained glass visions come true. Definitely check Fiscus out!

Thank you for your response. However, I need to clarify several inaccuracies…read more The scheduled arrival time was 1:30 PM so the bus could warm up and the girls could enter at 2:00 PM. When I had not heard from you, I called at 1:46 PM to confirm we were still set for 2:00 PM. At that time, you informed me you were running late and would send your ETA. I did not receive proactive communication prior to that call. You later stated you were only 20 minutes late. That is not accurate. You were pulling into the parking lot approximately 20 minutes after the party was scheduled to begin, and after parking adjustments and setup time, the girls did not enter the bus until 3:00 PM. The original plan was for arrival at 1:30 PM for setup and a 2:00 PM start time. That timeline reflects a full hour delay in service start time. I have the call logs documenting our communication. Regarding the package, we did edit and finalize the package details through email, including an itemized list. That is exactly why Logan's grandmother and I repeatedly asked for the finalized itemized list prior to the party so there would be no confusion. Even after our phone conversation yesterday, I again requested a breakdown of what was included to justify the $1,000 total. I am still waiting to receive that documentation. To clarify another point, I never agreed to any "extra gift" from the case. The additional items were offered directly to the girls after they became upset, with the statement that you would "make it up to them." That was not a negotiated or agreed-upon substitution. You also mentioned the bus broke down, and at another time referenced coming from a previous party. The explanations have been inconsistent, which adds to the frustration. When discussing pricing, you asked what my budget was. I shared a number, but I also clearly stated I was willing to pay full price for exactly what I wanted. You offered a $195 discount. Naturally, I accepted. However, had I known the services would not match what was agreed upon, I would not have moved forward at all. At this point, this is no longer about emotion,it is about documentation and accountability. I keep detailed records, and I encourage any parent booking to do the same. If further clarification is needed, I am more than willing to provide it.

I want to share my honest experience in hopes that other parents are fully aware when booking,…read moreespecially because a lot of parents have been asking about my daughter's spa bus party. First, I want to say the idea itself is really cute. The bus was cute, and if properly organized, it could truly be a successful and memorable experience for little girls to celebrate their special day. The reason I am writing this review is not to steer parents away, because again, the concept is amazing. However, my experience was not what I expected, especially after paying $1,000 for my baby's party and before you ask no, no money was returned. Policy is money is never refunded for any reason, and I was also told it's not her fault it was raining and that her bus broke down. The spa bus arrived one hour late, and during that time I had to keep 8 little girls inside a hotel lobby while it was cold and raining outside. The girls became restless, hungry, bored, and uncomfortable. Parents who stayed also had to wait in the lobby and then find somewhere else to go, since parents are not allowed on the bus. Altogether, parents were left waiting around for nearly 4 hours. This was stressful, inconvenient, and not fair to the children or their families. We booked the most expensive package because if you know me, you know I like to go all out for my baby. I expected a high-quality experience that matched what was advertised and what I paid for. Unfortunately, that was not what we received. Payments could only be made through Cash App, Venmo, or Zelle, which in hindsight should have been a red flag. * The spa bus arrived an hour late, disrupting the entire party schedule.* Despite paying for the premium package, the girls only received services that closely resembled the basic package, not what was promised or paid for.* There were two staff members present, but the one assisting the owner showed very little patience with the girls. These are young children who were excited and deserved kindness and professionalism.* When I raised my concerns, I was told the staff member was tired from a previous party, which is not an acceptable excuse when providing a paid service. After confirming everything by email, I requested an itemized invoice outlining exactly what my daughter would receive, especially since full payment was required a week in advance. That itemized invoice was never provided. My advice to parents booking with this spa bus based in Columbia: please request an itemized invoice and keep documentation of everything. There were services promised and paid for that were simply not delivered. As a parent who invested a lot to create a special experience for my child, this was extremely frustrating and disappointing. No parent wants to see their child excited for something that doesn't meet expectations. I took the loss this time, but I learned my lesson. I am a strong supporter of Black owned businesses and will continue to be but we must hold each other accountable and operate with professionalism and integrity. I'm sharing this to encourage accountability, transparency, and to help other families make informed decisions when planning their child's special day.