Next up on our around the world segment is New York City and Brooklyn. Spins & Needles visited in September 2007 to check out the crafty scene and host a party at the Etsy Labs! I also took a personal trip last year and was able to check out some craft on the streets.
What I love about NYC are the walkups and imagining how they are decorated inside…
The distinct flavours of each neighbourhoood…
The mix of architecture, of the old and new…
The randomness you encounter on the streets…
The quiet moments…
and the surprises around each corner.
We spent a lot of time in Soho and Williamsburg. But right near the big box chains on Broadway are local vendors, many who are selling and making their wares at the same time. I picked up some awesome leather studded earrings that I still wear all the time.
Our visit in September 2007 culminated with a trip to the Etsy Labs in Brooklyn, where we hosted a special Spins & Needles party in collaboration with Etsy.
The labs are an amazing place, filled with crafty materials to the ceiling, tons of light, decorated walls and tons of inspiration. Just imagine your dream craft workroom – that’s probably the best way to describe the space.
The night was filled with beats, crafty chatter and a few drinks…We had tons of fun meeting crafty people based in New York and Brooklyn, who came up with some amazing creations that night!
There’s definitely no place like NYC! Here are some interesting resources in case you plan on visiting soon:
Kid Robot has a guide for urbanites on NYC accommodation, places to eat and shop, and more.
DesignSponge has a design guide focusing on Brooklyn, specifically Williamsburg, Park Slope, Dumbo, and Bococa.
The New York Times spotlights the best of the city in 36 hours.
The Village Voice, Time Out NYC, Nonsense NYC, Free Williambsburg and FlavorPill let you know what’s happening in NYC and Brooklyn that week.
The Garment District Area is 8th Ave to 6th Ave between 36th Street to 40th Street.
If you have any other resource suggestions for NYC, such as places you’ve visited or links to check out, please add here.