I hired Samantha from Painted Palettes to hand letter mini pumpkins for a fall themed event and it…read morewas THE HIT FROM THE PARTY (even three months later, in the dead of winter my personalized pumpkin is still going strong and it's so beautiful I do not have the heart to throw it away). Samantha was easy to work with from start to finish and was able to stay professional despite the long lines at the party (I mean, how could you not want something so beautiful as a keepsake?). I could picture using her for corporate events, bridal showers, baby showers and any other celebration that could you a personalized twist. She can write on any material and even engraves on glass! I have not had the chance to check out her Intro to Hand Lettering classes yet but for now, I'll leave it to the pros. Painted Palettes is simply the best!

I first saw and met Samantha from Painted Palettes at a Yelp Elite event back in 2018. Then I…read morestarted following her work on Instagram (@painted_palettes). A couple months ago, my friend Kim and I took an Intro to Hand Lettering class with Samantha at Steadfast Supply in DC. Oh that rush hour traffic and $20 parking was sooo worth it! Turns out, Samantha used to be a teacher, and it shows in the way she articulates the class. It was easy to follow her instructions, and she was very hands-on with showing examples. Plus we got a pretty decent set of tools and goodies to take home with us! Since, I've purchased some of her watercolor artwork to hang at home. I am such a fan! The artwork can be found on her website or in various shops in the area. And her classes are actually affordable! Next I want to take her Pointed Pen class!

I recently commissioned Audrey to create a caricature as a gift for a high-profile individual, and…read morethe entire experience was exceptional. From the very beginning, Audrey was incredibly patient and thoughtful. She took the time to understand the vision, asked insightful questions, and made sure every detail was handled with care and discretion. Her communication was clear, timely, and professional throughout the process, which gave me complete confidence--especially given the importance of the recipient. When it came to delivery, she exceeded all expectations. The final piece was not only beautifully executed but tasteful, polished, and perfectly suited for such a distinguished person. Aubrey has a rare combination of artistic talent, professionalism, and grace. I would absolutely work with her again!!!

Over the holidays, I was searching for a caricature artist and was lucky enough to connect with…read moreAlexandra (Alex) Cheek from Caricature Artists Group LLC on Christmas Eve. She patiently listened to my vision for a retirement gift and immediately put me at ease with her friendly, professional approach. Alex gave me a realistic timeline that allowed time for review and edits, which I really appreciated. She quickly delivered a draft that perfectly captured my colleague's personality, and the final inked and colored caricature exceeded my expectations! Amazing talent, great communication, and a wonderful experience from start to finish. Highly recommend!

Great family business. I've seen it driving past my husband's work but didn't realize they offer…read moreclasses until I googled. So glad my friend and I came to take a short project class. We really enjoyed ourselves and will be back. Great instruction, designs offered, and value. They also have small gifts up front if you don't have time for a class, but want something hand made locally.

Fiscus Glassworks is a gem in Alexandria. I have now taken all of their classes from beginner to…read morestructure/dimension and design and build. I even entered my pieces I created in these classes at the Arlington County Fair and won the Reserve Grand Champion for my division! I now frequent their studio during open hours with their studio time passes. Brad and Maré are kind, welcoming and extremely knowledgeable! They can help you create patterns and make your stained glass visions come true. Definitely check Fiscus out!

Some of the most beautiful colors and designs with creativity at its peak. Add value to your wall…read morewith one of her paintings. I did and I'm eternally grateful.

From the owner: The Algerian Painter is bringing awareness and relief to anxiety in an art form that keeps giving…read moreback. Imagine walking down your hallway at night thinking about the stress of your next meeting, bills, family, etc. Then you look up & Malcolm X is glowing in the dark, then just for a moment, you’re not thinking about the stress that life throws our way. If I am able to capture moments like this throughout people’s lives to bring relief free from anxiety, I’ve done my purpose. The Algerian Painter

Beautiful! I enjoy visiting the Trisha Adams Gallery and Studio. Her paintings are vibrant and…read morealways make me feel happy. Trisha is a pleasure to talk and helpful when making an art selection or commissioning a custom painting. It's a small space with refreshing light and comfortable seating while you enjoy looking at the artwork. I've bought a couple of her paintings and love them more every time I see them. (Fair warning - they do sell fast. Someone else bought one of the paintings I liked before I decided on it so I didn't delay on the next one.) She works on the paintings right there in the studio so you can see what's about to be ready. The gallery is in the Herndon historic district right next to the bike path. I like to make a day of it and have lunch etc. Because it's open "by chance or appointment", make sure to call ahead using the number on her website ( https://trishaadams.com/ ) to see if she's there. I once called when I realized I'd be nearby and she came right over!

MetalShop33 is tucked in a back corner of this artist collective and the work is stunningly…read morebeautiful and complex. Come see the go-cart made to look like a torpedo, the huge fish sculptures or the metal waves along the walls. Fantastic work!

From the owner: Custom stainless steel sculpture specializing in ocean, beach and sea-themed artworkread more