about
OUR STORY
Our story is one that began with Barbara Dansker in 1994. Before kid curated experiential businesses really existed… Barbara had the brilliant idea to open a space where kids could get creative and have parties outside of their apartments… leaving the mess and the details to a professional and fab staff! It was a huge risk but it quickly became a neighborhood treasured hot spot for families on the UES and beyond.
I started at the Craft Studio in 2003 as a college freshman looking for a second job. I’ll never forget the moment my friend slid the studios business card my way during class. Upon walking into the Studio for the very first time I fell in love with the magic that is palpable in the space and couldn’t get enough. I worked as much as I could and upon graduation proposed new workshops, camps, and an after school program to Barbara only to be floored when she asked if I wanted to buy the business. With only a little bit of saved money from my modeling days and many student loans I still was able to work off of the business in my early 20s becoming full active owner at the age of 24.
Since then the studio has grown to offer The Craft Studio To-Go, corporate partnerships, after school programs at schools all over NYC, a reoccurring seasonal Hamptons pop up, a second studio in Tribeca in 2018, and what I am most proud of…charitable partnerships that help us give back and bring art to help those in need all over NYC.
Our vibe is happy, fun, and genuine and our team is the best there is around! We work so hard to make sure any Craft Studio experience brings a smile to faces of all ages. We are so proud of our history and look forward to a long future of crafting memorable experiences for people where they can disconnect and create!
- LINDSEY PEERS, OWNER
OUR MISSION
Our mission is to provide a fun, safe, and welcoming environment where kids and adults alike are free to be creative! We pride ourselves on our un-paralleled customer service. We put our heart and soul into making sure each customer has a unique, individualized, and magical experience. Our traditional hard working business values paired with the warmness of our great staff make every birthday party, candy or toy purchase, and walk-in painting a memorable one. We also strive to help our community thrive by supporting local businesses, causes, and organizations. The Craft Studio is more than a business; it is a place of positivity, fun, and happiness.
“The Craft Studio even went the extra mile to help me plan out the outline of the sleepover, even the party they didn’t participate in! A class act, and the best in the city….probably the whole world!”