If you’re a fan of the Etsy Labs, get excited: not only do Monday’s Craft Night resume next week, the labs have moved to a larger space featuring more elbow room. If you have no idea what we’re talking about, let’s educate you: Every Monday from 4-8pm at Etsy HQ, the DIY sales site hosts a night of crafting and fun led by a wide array of instructors. It’s completely free and includes all the supplies your crochet-covered heart desires, but it’s not the only free stuff at Etsy.
Previous labs have including making felt puppets, jams, and glass ornaments. The first craft night of the year will be hosted by Heidi Kenney of Etsy shop My Paper Crane and author of Everyday’s a Holiday: Year Round Crafting with Kids. No word on the subject, but considering she makes these adorable plushes, it may be in that direction.
For those unable to make it to DUMBO Monday nights (or who are more comfortable communicating via avatar), Etsy also hosts virtual labs throughout the week. They’re hosted live in multiuser interactive chat rooms and include how-tos, show and tell, and shopping critiques.
Finally, the first Sunday of every month, Etsy hosts the Church of Craft from 2-6pm. UPDATE: The date was recently changed to the third Tuesday of each month from 5-8 p.m. After a great brunch, what’s better that a crafting free for all? It’s a time where you can hone your crafting niche, inspiring yourself to start that Etsy shop you’ve always dreamed of (which is the appropriate use for Etsy after all, ahem).
To keep up to date with the latest happenings at the Etsy Labs join the mailing list, the Meetup group, or check their events calendar.