I love painting pottery stores. There aren't many of them anymore. So I was happy when I found Mud Genius in Bayside. This store is a little small. So when the place is full or there's a lot of kids, it can be noisy. But it's too be expected. There's also a couple small dogs in the store. They keep to themselves. They had a decent selection of pottery to choose from. However, I think we wished there was a little more. We wanted to paint some of the marvel characters that we saw in a picture and also saw as a finished product on the shelf, but they were sold out. It's $8 to sit and then the price of the pottery on top of it. It's not cheap, but you're paying for the entertainment of it, the experience and memories, as well as, bringing home a one of a kind painted pottery. Additionally, there's a credit card fee if you pay with credit card. So I opted to pay in cash. Owners/staff are friendly. The staff offered suggestions on how to start painting (e.g. sketching out my design with a pencil first). But be patient, the owners have broken English. It didn't bother me, but I could see how it may be frustrating for others. Overall, we had a nice time at Mud Genius. read more

Mud Genius - Pottery options - Arts & Crafts Near Me - Bayside, New York

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I wanted to like this place. After all, there are few paint-your-own-pottery places left as any quick Google search will tell you. Sadly it was a frustrating experience and I am left wondering if it's this place only functions when the wife of the husband/wife team is at the helm. When she appeared she at least made an effort at customer friendliness. We went in on a weekday. I asked for an ice cream bowl. The husband's owner pointed to the shelves. I said I looked and could he help. He pointed to them again. No help. Sigh. I pick out a big item for my 8-year-old. We sit down. He proceeds to lecture my kid on using a big brush so he will finish faster. Is fast the goal here? It was overbearing and he didn't get any social cues to back off. More people come in -- a 5 and 8-year-old. He insists they sit together even though there's plenty of space because as he says: "this way I don't have to keep walking back and forth." It's a small shop people. Now we are crowded next to a 5-year-old who has ants in his pants and is ready to climb the walls. Relaxing it was not. Then there's the dog, which they keep in the store. I don't mind dogs, but some do. One such customer said her kid was afraid and could they put the dog away. He is put in the back only to keep coming back out or yap. Now we have to listen to the drama unfolding. But, I think the final straw, after enduring all this was that when I asked for a fine point brush because all the brushes out had bristles that were worn out I was informed customers ruined them so that's what they had. The message here: We can't have nice things and neither can you. I get kids are the main customers but it's an art shop and I KNOW brushes are not that expensive that you can't keep some aside for adults who are trying to do some more detailed work. So, no, it wasn't much fun, and it was sure as hell not relaxing. We won't be back. read more

A fun pottery painting, candle making and canvas painting location. The staff was friendly and helpful. A great activity to do to relax.

Been here multiple times. The owner, Evelyn, is very nice and friendly. She also offers her artistic expertise, which is helpful and appreciated. Bayside definitely needed one of these arts and crafts studios. I have painted pottery here. Fun and relaxing type of activity. They also offer paint & sips and other arts and crafts activities, according to their website. read more

Mud Genius is a quaint place to unwind and let your creativity flow. I stopped in on a Saturday, just looking to unwind after a long work week. I found Mud Genius thru Yelp. I live in the Bronx but had no qualms about visiting, it was only a 15 minute ride. Upon arriving, there was plenty of parking. Mud Genius is located in a shopping center, so before or after, you can shop around or get a bite to eat. I walked in and immediately received a greeting and service. I have been recovering from a broken ankle and at the time, I was walking with a crutch. The staff were extremely helpful and welcoming toward me. They gave set me up at a table with brushes and a palate, then encouraged me to paint whatever my heart desired. Mud Genius does just offer pottery painting, they also offer painting of fridge magnets, wine glasses, and canvases' to paint. In addition, you can make candles or soap, all at affordable prices. I believe pricing was about $10 and up (call to confirm), and they offer a full selection of paint colors. I chose a small plate, which I painted for hours. The staff brought the paint over to me and helped minimize my need to constantly get up. If you check-in on the Yelp app, you'll receive $5 off your first visit. With that deal, I paid about $24 in total. I don't recall if there was a painting/sitting fee, but they offer various methods of payment including, cash, credit/debit, and venmo. My piece was ready within a week and I picked it up with no issues. They seem to be involved in the community as I saw that they offer summer camp and kids-specific events at times. There are also some special events throughout the week including adult/ladies paint night. Overall, it was a great experience. I highly recommend to others, and i'll be returning for sure. read more

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The staff and unprofessionalism here is ridiculous. The owner is very mean and nasty. I've been there many times and each time the experience gets worse. I wouldn't give this place any stars if I could. read more

I had a lot of fun painting a candle holder. The owners were quite nice and accommodating!

My daughter had a really nice time here today at her friend's 9th birthday party! I heard about the owner there not being nice from previous reviews. My daughter did say she was a bit pushy when I asked her. I did see how her demeanor could seem pushy but I think this is more of a cultural thing and the fact that she wanted things to go as planned. When we went in to the birthday party there were different kinds of figurines you get to pick to paint. My daughter chose a cat. Then the children are given an apron and some paints and they are off to work in creative heaven. This is a decent sized place and the outside of it is designed in a very colorful and cheerful way. I still have to go back there when my child's piece is ready for pick up. I am sure it will be very nice. This is a place that is similar to Party Art Studio in Floral Park. Glad we got to try this place out! read more

Mud Genius - Kayla's 9th birthday party! 11/01/2015 - Arts & Crafts Near Me - Bayside, New York

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We had another amazing time with Mud Genius this weekend! While we have lots of options closer to our home, we intentionally travel to this place because of the owners. Evelyn and her husband are always so amazing to us. My kids literally ran up and gave them bear hugs because they were so excited to see them. This time, the kids wanted to work on different painting techniques and to gift their art work to their grandparents. My daughter and son leaned so many new ways to add details and were gushing about what they did all the way back home. When my kiddos are happy, I am happy so thank you to Mud Genius for always making our weekends so much fun. read more

Mud Genius - Arts & Crafts Near Me - Bayside, New York

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Evelyn was so personable. Usually, her shop is closed on Tuesdays and she opened it specifically so I could bring my mother here for her birthday! She helped my cousin, mother and I who are extremely unartistic with all the mistakes we made and sat down with us and talked with us. Her and her husband were extremely welcoming and outgoing! WE HAD A GREAT TIME! Thank you so much Evelyn!! read more

Mud Genius - Arts & Crafts Near Me - Bayside, New York

This is a wonderful place that I am happy to recommend It's been a G-d send for me and my Grandkids. The owners are kid friendly and extremely accommodating They know how to treat children with respect and are helpful with their needs Please yourself and your family with a visit My home is filled with beautiful works of art ! read more

*Review for paint night (Friday night BYOB canvas painting)* My boyfriend and I stopped by for paint night on a Friday night after noticing this place while walking around the Bay terrace mall. We checked their website and saw there was an adult BYOB canvas painting every Friday night and called to reserve our spot about a week before. The night of - we walked in, and although we were the only ones (it was the night of the lunar New year), Evelyn (the owner) was very welcoming and accommodating. She let us know we could pick between the smaller and larger canvases, for the same price of $35. We chose the smaller canvas, and she set us up with disposable smocks, paint, and easels. Since it was just us two that night, she decided not to paint step by step along with us. Although I would've preferred the step by step draw along, Evelyn gave us detailed directions along the way and helped us when needed. We both had fun and like our new paintings! This place also has pottery painting, candle making, and wine glass painting from what I saw! We'll have to come back and try that! It seems like a good place for birthday parties, girls nights, or a fun date. Give them a try if you want to try something different and fun! read more

Mud Genius - Arts & Crafts Near Me - Bayside, New York

Loved making candles and painting my pottery. Great place for a date. Cotton candy was delicious don't miss it

Came in on a Saturday where it was relatively crowded due to parties who scheduled in advance. There were tons of children running around, making it inconvenient to move around. My partner and I were moved to the back room which was a bit sketchy and had to wait 10mins just to be given a paint brush with water. And a plate for paint. I have been to muddworks before and it was nothing like this. The workers were extremely nice however it seemed very understaffed. The price was quite steep, considering we were there for only an hour. read more

I took my niece here today for an activity- she chose to paint a Tinkerbell ceramic figurine. The place was busy (great sign on a Saturday in the winter!). The staff and owner were excellent, showing patience with all of their clients, making sure everyone had what they needed. Evelyn, the owner, even took time to help my six year old niece make sure her fairy's face was perfect before leaving it. I saw her help a few other frustrated young painters- all who got the help they needed and a lot of patience. We will be back to pick up in a week! I had a great time painting a mug also-- so we both passed the time engaged and having fun. Plan ahead if you have a big group- the place is popular and filled with creative people. I will definitely be returning. read more

Mud Genius - Arts & Crafts Near Me - Bayside, New York

Evelyn is the best!! We had a small group for a private last minute bridal shower/sprinkle. They were so flexible with the plans and the group even when we changed our plans to do a painted canvas to a ceramic piece. We brought our own snacks and had a blast!! Highly recommended for any occasion. Thank you!!! read more

Spent a few hours at mud genius with my family and everyone had a great time. The staff is friendly and very helpful. Evelyn, the owner is fabulous and offers her artistic knowledge and tips as needed. We will definitely be going back. read more

This is an amazing place. Eve (Evelyn) is an amazing teacher for me at this wonderful place. Thank you very much

Very cute place to have a party, to de-stress or nothing to do on rainy day. The owner may be a little rough around the edges but don't take it personally as it can be misunderstood. It was definitely relaxing while painting a ceramic piece. Don't try to be perfect, just enjoy the moment. There's a lot more choices in the ceramic selection at this place than others I've been to. Enjoy! read more

Very cool. It kind of pricey. Two medium size ceramics $16 each than $8 each for studio fee total = $50 Nice for once in a blue not a regular thing. read more

Mud Genius - Dragons and cupcakes - Arts & Crafts Near Me - Bayside, New York

Cute place for a get together with friends for a laid back girls night. It's BYOB and they supply wine glasses so you just need to bring the bottle. We came on a Friday to paint ceramics. The entrance fee is $8.95 and then you pay for whichever item you want to paint (prices vary depending on the item). I picked the ring holder for $15. You then choose your paints and let your inner artist shine! Owner is very friendly and will help you if needed. At the end, she collects your painted items and you need to return in about 1 week to pick up the finished products after they have been in the kiln. We had a really fun time and would definitely come back. read more

Mud Genius - Ring holder before going into the kiln - Arts & Crafts Near Me - Bayside, New York

So glad I discovered kids' night! What a wonderful place for kids for art, fun and socializing with their peers. Since it's a drop off, it is also a great time out for parents. Thanks for helping us stay sane once a month while offering an alternative to screen time. read more

It was a special party...we had to postpone due to COVID, so it was really wonderful to have the party after all. Evelyn, Ken and their daughter are warm & helpful and made everything run smoothly. She even took photos and made a video for me. The kids had so much fun painting and it was just a really nice afternoon! Thank you!! read more

Me and my girlfriend had a great time at this place!! When we walked im at first we kind of thought we didnt belong, seemed like a childrens place (which it mostly is) but we picked out our coffee cups and got to painting. It was a great experience, and the lady helped us throughout. I had a great time and cant wait to go pick up our pieces of artwork, and maybe go again sometime!!! read more

They are not the most original place, nor do they have an original selection. Their place is rather on the small side as well. But the 2 star rating has nothing to do with that, but rather professionalism. Upon calling to pick up our item, we were told there was a delay with one of the items. When we did pick up the item, the item was NOT what we had done. We did an Iron Man helmet with a removable face shield. The helmet has our initials and was very well painted. The face shield was NOT as well painted and was missing out initials. This has lead me to believe that in the process, it may have been lost or damaged and a make shift done in its place. read more

I would give 21/2 stars if there is half star. I have been to a few painting event but the experience I had with mud genius was mediocre. The staff were friendly, the owner was very sweet and the price was fair. However, the instructor was very rush and the whole experience wasn't relaxing! She was trying to get her job done. It's good for the price but if you want a relaxing time. This is not the place to go. read more

We are having so much fun!!! Melanie & her dad helped us make beautiful pottery art!! They are extremely patient and sweet. Love the decor and the options of pottery. Thank you Mud Genius for the great experience. read more

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This is such a great local place! It's completely family owned and the owners are so nice! They really care about their customers! The pottery selection is huge! They have so many colors and they are more than willing to help you with designs! A great place for a date night or a girls night out! read more

Mud Genius - A fun plate design! - Arts & Crafts Near Me - Bayside, New York

We had a wonderful birthday party here this evening and I couldn't wait to write them a review. Evelyn the owner was kind and loving toward the children and her two assistants were very hands on. They all stopped and took the time to help the little ones add some nice details on to their ceramic pieces. The party was calm and effortless and I highly recommend this place! By far the easiest children's party I have ever thrown. read more

If I could give zero stars I would. The owner is the nastiest human being I have ever met. She is rude, pushy, and has absolutely no artistic talent whatsoever. People praise this place only because there are no other local options. She hovers over you while you are painting and looks at you like you're going to try and steal a piece of ceramic and run out the door. She charges a ridiculous" studio fee", or has a yearly membership, but doesn't allow you to use it for one of your family members, even if you aren't painting. On numerous occasions She would like my work and have me make another for her to display in the store and try to pass it off as her own. She is not knowledgeable about painting or different techniques to use to achieve a certain design, so if you don't have experience yourself, don't look to her for help. She was asking me for help. She lost numerous pieces that I had, and had a horrible system for keeping track of people's pieces. Overall, a horrible experience. All she ever cared about was the payment. I went for over two years, weekly. Spending well over $50 a week, and finally I couldn't take her anymore. I will never visit her horrible establishment again. read more

Great neighborhood find. Mud Genius is a wonderful place for being creative and having fun on a sunny day or a rainy day. There's a wide selection of pottery to paint, candle making and canvas painting. All activities can be done with the whole family or if you a day/night out with friends. They even offer a sip and paint for adults only. I recently had my daughter's 13th birthday party here and my daughter and her friends had a great time. My party was from 1:30, but there were a few late from traffic and the owner Evelyn was very kind and accommodating. Also some painters took longer than others and her patience was remarkable. We weren't rushed and Evelyn and her staff assisted when needed. You don't have to be an artist to create works of art. They provide step by step instructions and each person puts it their own twist. All of the paintings came out great! Some of us parents wanted to join in on the fun, but we will come again without the kids. The place is a bit small so I recommend dropping kids off for parties and since it is adjacent to a small shopping center, there's plenty for the adults to do and come back for pizza and cake. Again, thank you Mud Genius for your all of your hospitality and patience. Looking forward until next time. Pictures attached were taken by: MudGenius (another plus) read more

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My boyfriend and I were in the area when we stumbled upon this ceramic painting place. They were about to close shop when the owner let us stay to paint. The owner was friendly, attentive and never rushed us out even though we stayed way past business hours. We had a nice calming experience while painting. Will be back again. read more

Love this place!!!! Everyone is so amazing, kind and helpful! The place is kept clean at any time of the day you may happen to go, no matter how many people might be painting! Love this place and look forward to many more visits. Thank You read more

The place is a good size. The workers are very friendly and the owner even drew eye lashes on my daughters painting . The only thing is it is a little pricey read more

Came here with my two young daughters and had to wait about 30 minutes for the owner to open the door. We had arrived at the business opening time but she was late. Luckily, there was a Dunkin' Donuts right next door for us to wait in... After she arrived, we picked our ceramics and she seemed very stingy with the paint asking why and where we would use the colors we asked for, giving us a dime size amount...made us not want to ask for any... then she kept telling us to have my 3 year color a certain way and I didn't appreciate her undermining my child's creativity... not everything has to be cookie cutter in a box. I will not be returning. read more

We had my daughters 8th birthday party. They did canvas painting and Evelyn and her staff were wonderful and patient with the kids. I've been there previously doing ceramic painting and had a very good experience as well. read more

I had my daughter's birthday party here this weekend and it was a huge success. We did a pottery painting all the kids including my daughter had a fabulous time. The owner Evelyn is super nice and accommodating. The entire staff was helpful and hands on when it came to helping the kids out. Definitely will recommend this place to anyone looking to have a party or just to go there and keep your kids entertained for a few hours. read more

Mud Genius - Awesome party! See my review - Arts & Crafts Near Me - Bayside, New York

I went to mud genius for a friends daughters birthday party. Seemed like a nice little place when I waked in with my newborn and my 2 year old. We saw the wall of ceramics and my son loves dinosaurs so I picked one up to show him- not realizing we weren't suppose to (there is only a small sign that says pretty much -"if you break it you bought it" kind of sign- which was fine- if we broke it I would have been happy to pay for it). This lady who I assume is a boss there ran up to my son and ripped it away from him aggressively saying "you don't touch". My son immediately cried so hysterically I had to take him out, he started hyperventilating he was so upset and I have never seen him like this. I understand I shouldn't have let him hold the dinosaur, but this is a children's place with no age restriction (maybe they should consider changing it to 5 and up because they clearly don't know how to handle toddlers). I felt terrible and tried explaining to him why she did that. After getting my newborn and my two year old to the party I certainly did not want to just leave, so we tried to cheer him up. Every time he calmed down and started painting this lady would come over and he would get scared she was going to take his ceramic piece away, so he'd start crying again. She then came up to me and commented on my baby saying "is it a girl?" I said "no it's another boy" she said "oh I feel sorry for you, maybe this son will be good, maybe he will be better then the first son" continuing on saying how my two year old is "bad" to which I responded - "no! They are both wonderful boys!". She looked at me like I was lying to her and shook her head no at me and walked away. I have never felt so upset, these are my babies and this woman passed judgment on a two year old? He was crying, it's not like he was breaking anything or acting out, he only cried as a reaction to her. I started to cry myself at the table as she walked away because I felt so bad for what she said -especially since he had been crying because of what she did to him when we walked in the party. I was mortified, felt like I wanted to take my kids and run out. I then decided to leave be party and went to say goodbye when I overheard the same woman calling the birthday girls mom "cheap" and telling her to "walk downstairs to chase bank and get more money" mind you the birthday girls mother is 9 months pregnant with twins and had her three year old whose birthday it was. My friend then told the lady that she insulted her and me and then the woman started yelling at me "that boy was crying like that when he got here" UNTRUE! She then started yelling at me saying "I did not insult you" I said I'm sorry to the birthday girls mom (my friend) and ran out with my baby and my two year old, thankful the experience was over. I will tell everyone not to go there. I am so saddened by this experience! I have never been treated this way in my life and I hope never to again. How can people have a business based on children and then treat the parents this way and say such things?? Unbelievable. read more

Such a cute place to go to with friends, family, or significant other! I went on Thursday night for ladies night and it was a great time. The owner was so helpful and nice! I'm excited to receive my finished piece and go back here soon! read more

Best birthday party!! Celebrated my daughters 6th birthday today with all of her friends. Evelyn (owner) was extremely helpful and organized. Katherine guided the children and their paintings came out beautiful. Thank you so much to Mud Genius for making Sofies Birthday a success!!! Love you guys. read more

Mud Genius - Arts & Crafts Near Me - Bayside, New York