A new creative space, Long Island Crafty One, opens in The Shoppes at East Wind
I can easily recall hours spent at Plaster Funcraft throughout my childhood. Whether it was for a birthday party or a casual outing, the painting spot never let us down.
So, when I saw that Long Island Crafty One opened up in The Shoppes at East Wind, I was eager to visit and cannot wait to take my own children for a painting session.
One of the newest additions to The Shoppes at East Wind, this arts and crafts studio, located directly next to the carousel, features ceramic painting, pottery painting, crafting, workshops, and more, for all.
Owner Gabriela Schwender shared that, “Long Island Crafty One welcomes everyone who wants to relax, learn, and unwind in a creative setting.” She encourages all people — kids, adults, parents, seniors, people with disabilities — to join in on the creativity.
A mother of three, artisan, educator, and culinary artist, Gabriela approaches crafting with patience and passion.
“I want to give people the opportunity to create something beautiful with their hands and take a break from their electronic devices,” said Gabriela.
“Crafting helps with so many things like self-esteem, relaxing from the daily hustle and bustle, forgetting for a few moments the problems, and making friends with people who have the same interests,” she added.
The new, light-filled studio is inviting and meticulous, with multiple tables and seating arrangements for creators to make themselves at home.
Painters can choose from over 100 ceramic options in varied sizes and styles.
Long Island Crafty One currently offers walk-in crafts and ceramic painting as well as birthday parties and instructional classes; the schedule can be found here.
Owning a large crafting studio has been a longtime dream of Gabriela’s, and with the new space in The Shoppes at East Wind, she looks forward to hosting larger groups.
In the New Year, Gabriela plans to expand her offerings to include a range of programs, classes, and workshops.
Current hours are Tuesday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. and on Saturdays and Sundays from noon to 5 p.m. Call the studio at 631-766-1774 before dropping in to reserve a table.
Tweens and teens ages 12+ can be dropped off at the studio, but parents must sign a store policy waiver.
Long Island Crafty One is located at 5768 Route 25A, Building Q in The Shoppes at East Wind in Wading River. Follow on Instagram at @li_crafty_one and visit the website here.