Etsy Labs: Fun and Free in NYC

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Reported by Rachel Johnson

Etsy.com recently moved to new offices in the DUMBO (Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass) area of Brooklyn, New York, and on Monday, September 14th, they hosted the first Etsy Labs Craft Night at the new location. The Craft Nights are free, drop-in events held every Monday from 4 to 8 pm that are open to anyone in the New York City area. I have attended a few of the events in the past (for example, I've made cupcake crafts and recycled tote bags at previous Craft Nights), and I wanted to check out the inaugural event at the cool, new location.

The theme for Monday's Craft Night was a recipe exchange hosted by Rebecca from Moontree Letterpress. Each attendee brought along a recipe or two to share, and we all took turns copying tasty recipes on the exquisite letterpress recipe cards provided by Rebecca. The recipe cards were so beautiful that I had a hard time justifying messing them up with my poor penmanship! But, I dove into the process and brought home a bunch of recipes on the pretty cards.

There were about fifteen to twenty different people coming and going during the two hours that I was at the event. Everyone was extremely friendly and the vibe was very easy and laid back. Julie, the Etsy Labs manager, was welcoming and helpful, like usual. I had a relaxed, fun evening and I met a bunch of cool, crafty ladies.

If you are in the New York area, I definitely recommend attending an Etsy Labs Craft Night at least once or twice. The schedule of upcoming Craft Night themes can be found on the Etsy Storque blog. Most craft materials are provided for each week's project, and the events are completely free. If you are not near New York City, you can attend the events on the internet via The Virtual Labs. Each Craft Night is broadcast live, complete with a tutorial for the night's craft. Whether virtually or in person, Etsy Labs Craft Nights are a crafty good time!

Are you an Etsy member? Better yet, do you have a store front, street team or other Etsy news to share? Feel free to leave a link below so we can check you out!