I’m Lori, founder of The Crafty Lounge on Manhattan’s Upper East Side. We host workshops in knitting, crochet, plushie making, felting, and more. It’s part studio, part community hub, part mental reset button. I created it because crafting gave me something I didn’t know I was missing: a break from constant doing, a sense of creative pride, and real, in-person connection.
Before The Crafty Lounge, one of my career stops was Kraft Foods where I worked in promotions and marketing for Post Kids Cereal. Next, I went off on my own, founding the first online competitor to Build-a-Bear, Ted E. Makers where I hosted make-your-own stuffed animal parties and shipped supplies so others could hold bear parties in their own homes.
I loved the creativity, but I craved something more tactile and personal. I started teaching casual knitting workshops at a local bar pre-Covid, and eventually became the Arts and Crafts Director at my son’s sleepaway camp. Watching kids and counselors light up as they made something with their hands—and walked away saying, “I made that!”—was the moment I knew I needed to bring that feeling into everyday life.
Eventually, I took a leap and opened The Crafty Lounge, a place where anyone—absolute beginners included—could walk in and leave with something they’re proud of (and maybe a few new friends).
Favorite Projects & Unforgettable People
There are a few projects that have become icons at The Crafty Lounge:
- The Velvet Chunky Handbag: A soft, squishy, fashion-forward tote you make without needles. People walk in saying, “I’m not crafty, ” and walk out carrying their new favorite bag.
- The Snoopie Plushie: Inspired by my real-life dog Snoopy (our unofficial shop mascot), this finger-knit beagle has won over kids, adults, and even some non-crafty skeptics.
- Chunky Finger-Knit Pillow or Blanket: These cozy, oversized creations are relaxing to make and stunning to show off. It’s like a warm hug you made yourself—and anyone can do it, no knitting needles required.
But what stays with me most are the people. The woman who came in during a hard divorce and said learning to crochet helped her feel in control again. The high schooler who finger-knit a plushie for her little brother as a birthday gift. The corporate team that booked a workshop for stress relief and ended up staying two extra hours to finish their scarves. And one of my favorite customers is an inspirational blind woman who I taught to knit by feeling the stitches. It’s those stories that remind me we’re not just making crafts. We’re making memories.
What to Expect in a Workshop
If you’re new to crafting—or if you’re a little intimidated by it—here’s what you should know:
- You don’t have to be “artsy.” You just have to be curious.
- Mistakes are part of the process. We laugh. We fix. We keep going.
- It’s social. Even introverts leave with a smile (and often a new project idea).
- The vibe is cozy and judgment-free. It’s more like crafting with friends than taking a class.
Our most popular workshops are designed for total beginners. Many customers are delighted when able to leave with a finished piece—or a project they are excited to keep working on—and the skills to keep going at home.
Why Crafting Matters (Now More Than Ever)
We live in a world that’s always telling us to scroll more, do more, be more. Crafting says to the brain, "Let’s slow down and be present." It’s not just about the finished product—it’s about the calm you feel in your body, the joy of figuring something out, and the surprise of discovering you’re actually pretty good at this.
And if I had to give one piece of advice to a first-time crafter? Don’t worry about getting it perfect. You already did the hardest part: you showed up.
To learn more about The Crafty Lounge or sign up for a workshop, check out our current classes here. Whether you’re into plushies, knitting, or just need a break from your inbox, there’s a seat waiting for you.
Hope to see you soon—needles not required!
Additional Classes by The Crafty Lounge
Mini Camp Crafting Workshop for Kids