CRAFT

Reviews 9

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Blake Rubin

Last month, I planned a bachelor party in Austin for a group of late 30’s professional guy who, I knew have been on one too many debauched bachelor parties previously. I didn’t want to keep playing the hits. It’s not my style. I stumbled upon Craft and , Eli (owner/operator) helped me to create what, all the attendees agree, was the single most fun, unique, original, bachelor party events that they have ever done. I came across Craft just searching around the internet for interesting, ‘keep-it-weird’ type places. I was lucky to stumble upon this unique arts and crafts studio. If you’re reading this, you’re lucky too! I wracked my brain trying to figure out how to make use of this place for a dozen guys. A great idea came to me, I wonder if they’ll let us sketch a nude model. I called the owner Eli, and after we chatted and easily connected, she was convinced that this was actually a sketching event- not a sketchy event. Give her credit for trusting her instincts and vetting me, which I insisted she do. Eli helped us find a model. She went out of her way to build us horses- the thing you sit on and rest your easel on, Eli stocked the place with the booze of our choice. She even brought in an art instructor to guide the event. So, here’s how it went down The guys showed up, unbeknownst to what they were really there to do. Eli played along and we told them that they were making center pieces for the wedding tables. They goy PUNKED! When they went in the back room for glitter - it was set up for the sketching event and they were greeted by our model. Who gave them the real story and laid down the ground rules too. We had a blast sketching the model. Even the guys who had no talent for it still had fun. Eli made sure our drinks were full. She also made sure that everyone had the needed materials, and was comfortable. She makes you feel at home. The space is really unique. A messy, tussle of unique supplies and good vibes. I would highly Craft to anyone or any group who has their own idea for an event or just wants to spend a day fueling that creative fire. Thank you Eli & Thank you craft. I hope I can get back soon.

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Gary Hwu

Walking into the petite Craft house, my girlfriend and I didn’t know what to expect. We thought “Why make crafts here when you can just make them at home?” In the house, we saw random glass Coke bottles, old doors and windows, canvases, and a tire rim (say what?). Upon arrival, Elisabeth, the owner, gave us a fun and unique tour of the house. My brain was spinning wildly from all the different inspiring craft decorations. I loved how Craft reused old materials to create unique objects and used them as decorations throughout the house (the black widow spider ceiling light, glass table filled with marbles, etc.). Putting on an apron, I felt like a true artist. At first I shyly grabbed random materials, unsure of what to make. But minutes later the people around me were in their own zone; people started painting, gluing things, making ornaments, creating cards, etc. which was an awesome sight to see. I love how Craft provides all the tools and materials for everyone. If you think about it, utilizing Craft’s space is far cheaper and convenient than buying all the materials yourself. My girlfriend was obsessed with the scoring board, which helped her make little place cards. Even though my finished project didn’t turn out the way I imagined I am still very proud of it and immediately hung it on my wall when I got back home. Another great thing about Craft is that they clean up for you afterwards; no need to put away any of the materials you used. Craft is a place where you just have to go to understand the concept, how it works, and why it’s awesome. I want to thank Elisabeth, Colin, and Rebecca for the help and inspiration in making this a fun crafty event. Elisabeth…we will definitely be back! Elmer’s Glue rules!!!

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Melissa Farran

I stumbled upon Craft during a week long vacation. I was walking down S. 1st and thought I had died and gone to heaven when I walked in and found out it was a walk in arts and crafts studio. I am always looking for unique experiences when I travel and Craft fit the bill. I am not artistic so I thought I would just make a collage until I saw some examples of paper quilling. Elisabeth taught me how to quill and it was awesome. I made a card with a photo of a horse, a google eye, quilled paper and glittery alphabet stickers. I had a total blast! It was the best ten dollars I have ever spent! If you are traveling in Austin as an adult, I would totally suggest visiting. Craft would be the perfect place for parents traveling with kids who need a creative break from sightseeing and I can imagine it being perfect for anyone living in Austin who wants a fun hour or so. Elisabeth and Colin are totally awesome and you will adore Craft!

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Linda Huynh

Groupon found me another great hidden gem. I was there for their screenprinting class. It was an intimate class of 7 where we screenprinted cards and two fabric items. The two owners were very helpful in guiding us through the process and giving ideas/tips. They have plenty of supplies that you can use for $10/hour--stamps, paints, glitter, quilling paper, washi tape--whatever speaks to you. Ill definitely be back for my next creative hankering because I end up buying so many craft supplies that I use only once. The best part is they clean up the mess for you!

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Amy Tieu

Loved my time at CRAFT. A friend and I were from out of town and fate brought us to Eli. She was an absolute gem coming in to teach a class after being deathly sick the day before. Her instructions were easy to follow and she always gave you 1-1 attention if there was any questions on your project. Highly recommend anyone to go to CRAFT. Whether youre a local or visitor this place is amazing. She also made sure to give a few local places for us to check out on our trip!! Thanks Eli!! We loved Castle Hills.

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Katherine Ortiz

I reserved 1/2 the studio for a macrame lesson/birthday party and it was SO MUCH FUN! Intentional caps. The studio concept where you come and you can use any of their tools/materials is so cool. We will definitely be back for fun group activities or personal crafting! Also Eli had everything very prepared for our lesson and to inspire creativity (tons of types of rope, plant holders, beads, etc.).

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Emily Cahill

Craft is the perfect rainy day activity or Bumble BFF date. Im not super creative or crafty normally but all of the materials available really inspired me to make something cool and useful. The staff is friendly and helpful and can give you some ideas. They even have succulents available for $2-4 extra, which is what I used.

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Angie Wimberly

Didnt stick around for too long but loved the concept of $10 an hour to use whatever you wanted from their supplies to craft. They also had cute small finished projects you could buy for great prices, and even large old frames with lots of character for $3-5.

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Dominic Eidson

CRAFT is a great place to craft, whether you are trying to put together a last minute art project, or want a romantic date activity. The owner has great ideas to prime your brain with, or you can craft-as-you-want and pay by the hour.

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