I want to preface this by pointing out that I am not at all- in any way, shape, or form (see what I…read moredid there)-artistic! And you know what, I am fine with that. So, when the opportunity arose to test out "A Taste of Art" I jumped at it. I wanted to see just how far I could push my lack of talent and see what results would be gathered from the experience. I attended a Paint and Sip evening at Butch + Babe's restaurant in Burlington. Upon walking in, the first thing I noticed was the intimate size of the space and that there were a few too-many-tables-to-count set up in the far right side of the restaurant for the paint event. Aside from that, I also observed a confident presence. Standing at the head of the table was a warm, eager looking lady whom I later came to learn was Sue herself! Sue had already taken the time to set up each one of our canvases, paint dollops, brushes, water, and even aprons! Though the space was a bit tight, I really felt that we had adequate room to maneuver our inner artists! Sue began the sessions by telling us a tiny bit about herself and her business. She then showed us the painting we would use as a guide and gently began to introduce us into the world of painting. I found Sue to be quite instructional and pleasant. Though she was at the very front of the space, she took the time to really engage with all of us on an individual basis. She did her best to accommodate our random artistic whims and really worked with individuals to guide them in adding character to their paintings. Sue is real, relate able, and has a calm, soothing way about her. She is very passionate about what she does and she wants to share it with the world. So go on, go hang out with Sue; bring out the artist within!

I have been lucky enough to do 2 classes with Sue. One was an event thru SEABA and the second was a…read moreprivate party at a co-workers home. At both events Sue walked us all thru a painting (the sunflowers and the snowman if you review the photos - note - those aren't my photos!) With the exception of the art credit I need for my electives, I tend to be more a spreadsheet kinda girl verses creative.... Sue can make anyone an artist! Trust me a little wine helps with any nerves you might have too! Both results were fantastic and I have them hanging proudly on my wall. If you want a fun night out with friends that isn't your normal dinner and drinks, try one of Sue's events!

These guys were great…read more Stopped by earlier this week to get custom plexiglass cut for a piece of art. They texted when it was ready. They then followed up with me to make sure the plexi was the right size which I had been worried about and offered to provide a free cut at no charge if I needed it. Not used to customer service like this and it's awesome!

Art Works Frame Shop did such a fantastic job! They were super friendly and helpful. We came in…read morewith a print that had some wear and tear on it, and they advised us perfectly on a weathered-looking frame that would transform the piece into something more vintage-looking. We're thrilled with the results, and we'll definitely be back next time we have something that needs framing.

fantastic store full of local art. feels like you're browsing in a mini art gallery, not just…read moreshopping. highly recommend stopping by if you're in the area even if you don't feel like buying something

One of the things i love most about VT is the support of local artists. this store is a perfect…read moreshowcase for such work. you'll find anything from knit clothes to handmade clay whistles and paintings. the variety means you'll want to allow enough time to browse. the prices are a tad high, but it is original art.

I had bought some art in Cuba on canvas that needed to be stretched and framed. A new friend…read moresuggested I go to Dostie Bros and I'm so glad that she did. The shop contains a robust array of framing options. The owners are really nice and helpful. They worked with me to determine what they could do within my financial means. They then gave me an estimated delivery time to expect completion. The work was done by the estimated date and I'm so pleased with the results! They did a fantastic job that was well worth what I paid. I'd come here again for any framing needs.

In Burlington it may not be strange but trust me: the D Men are quality artisans and over the top…read morebeyond and above customer service even by the true hearted Vermont standards. That rarest of instances where you'll say "I was framed!" and you'll be happy as hell! You walk in their shop and it's a framing wonderland. Take the time to drink in piece after piece. Appreciate talent. Then enjoy the shopping experience where they focus on you and what you want 10000%. No hard sell, no upsell just honest, talented fair minded caring souls. The proof of the quality is on the wall. Soon it will be on mine. It can be on yours too. I entrusted them with a personal Project but I live in New Jersey and never not once did I ever get the slightest sense they didn't care as much as they did I walked in. I cannot praise and applaud them enough. We're this world full of Dostie Framing Friends. A true jewel in Burlington and in Vermont and in the United States. Get thee to the framery!

Incredible helpful staff. Well-stocked inventory. Inspiring ideas. Should change the name to "Will…read moreLove Yarn" because you will love to knit after your visit if you don't already.

Incredible selection of yarn from local farms/fiber people (as well as good selection of national…read morebrands). They people working were helpful in helping me with needle/yarn/pattern coordination. I would definitely visit any time I was in the area. No, I don't want to tell you how many skeins I purchased.

Liz will help you with every step of the painting. She is a…read moregreat instructor. If I can do it, anybody can. Don't think that you can't do it, you can.

I'll tell you up front, I did not participate. But it was…read morefun to watch! Everyone was obviously having a great time. The range of skill was pretty big, and it was fun to watch everyone trying to be supportive no matter what they looked like. Liz seems to be a very good Teacher, because most of the paintings were exceptionally good for beginners!!

fairly miserable experience. went in to buy a frame and matting prepared to spend as much as it…read moretook and to be a repeat customer since i have prints regularly to frame. clerk was fairly short w me and showed me a selection of ready made frames, i asked if they had larger frames she said no. she didnt offer the framing desk. i could see they clearly made frames and had to push to ask what process was to frame. she said it was an appt process and i couldnt schedule now w person behind framing desk, so i said ok id schedule online. her friend came in directly after me and asked if they had larger frames and she then directed her and walked her back to the framing desk to speak to the clerk she had just said i couldnt speak to and they brought out several large frames- one exactly like i was looking for- and then put a few on hold saying shed only get one. i was still standing right there and she did all this in front of me. she didnt acknowledge or apologize that shed done several favors for her friend in front of me that id just asked for as a new customer. so it was just weirdly rude on several levels. the framing person was nice enough to apologize because i spoke to her after the clerk left, but said there was nothing she could do. really really weird experience and im not inclined to return based on how rude that whole exchange was.

In what world do you need an appointment to buy mats for pictures? I've dropped into the store…read moreseveral times and was assisted pretty quick. Now you need to make an online appointment. Was told its because they have a small staff. How about hiring more staff and pay them well. I'll make the drive to Burlington. They clearly lack customer service skills

Stopping into Magpie & Tiger is a calming, peaceful, and delightful experience. This is a shop…read morededicated to the art of slow living at its finest. Elena, the soulful and wise owner, has carefully curated an eclectic and unique selection of all the accoutrements for letter writing, small beautiful objects, journals, bespoke teas and cocktails, art, and more. In fact, her shop is an homage to the art of connection, and there's even a desk where one is invited to sit down and write. After selecting a card from her collection, I did just that. And when I was finished, she offered to stamp and mail it for me. Her newsletter is a thing of beauty, so be sure to get on her mailing list in addition to earning reward dollars to spend. Which you'll be sure to do, because no where else in Central Vermont is there a shop as sweet (well, Delish which is right next door, but that's because it's a candy and confectionery shop). Going back means discovering new delights, and creating more opportunities to connect with all the intimate and finer things (and experiences) in life. Elena also hosts monthly gatherings at the store, where people can gather and write letters and cards. She provides hot teas and all the necessary tools. I haven't gone to one yet, but plan to, especially when the Vermont evenings start to get darker, colder, and more isolating. Magpie & Tiger is just the antidote and invitation many of us are seeking in our increasingly impersonal and digitized existence. Pop in, slow down, take a look and experience a different and beautiful way of doing business.