Plan Your Visit

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about Studio Projects, Open Studio, Guided Workshops, parties and visiting Violet’s Crayon.

Studio Projects

Choose a project, reserve an Open Studio time or stop in and see what inspires you.

Browse Studio Projects

Visiting the Studio

Hours and access vary depending on what is happening in the studio.

What are your studio hours?

Open Studio hours are posted on our Calendar. Scheduled workshops and private events may take place outside those hours. During a Guided Workshop or private event, the studio is reserved for registered guests.

Where are you located, and is parking available?

Violet’s Crayon is at Shoppes at the Farm, 665 US Highway 22, Suite 216, Whitehouse Station, NJ 08889. Look for the blue building, #216; our entrance faces the courtyard. Ample free parking is available throughout the shopping center.

Can I visit without a reservation?

Yes. Walk-ins are welcome during posted Open Studio hours when space and project materials are available. Reserving a Studio Project ahead is the best way to secure your preferred time and help us prepare the materials for the project you want.

Can I shop without creating a project?

Yes. You are welcome to browse our creative finds during posted Open Studio hours. The studio is not open for general shopping during Guided Workshops or private events.

Studio Projects & Open Studio

Flexible creative time, with a real project plan and support when you need it.

How does Open Studio work?

Choose from our curated Studio Projects, then create during an available Open Studio time. Each project includes the materials and guidance described in its listing. You can reserve a project in advance or walk in, choose from what is available that day and create at your own pace.

How do I reserve a Studio Project?

Browse the Studio Projects collection, open the project you want, choose an available Open Studio date and time, and complete your purchase. Reserving ahead secures your spot and allows us to have the right materials ready for you.

Is Open Studio self-guided?

Open Studio is flexible, but you are not simply handed supplies and left on your own. We will help you get started and provide the level of guidance appropriate for the project. You will still have room to make your own creative choices and work at your own pace.

Can everyone in my group choose a different project?

Yes. Each participating guest can choose a different Studio Project, subject to age guidance and availability. If several people are coming together, reserving each project ahead is the best way to ensure the materials and seating are ready.

What is included in the price?

The project listing shows the complete price and what is included. Unless noted otherwise, your project materials, use of the studio tools and project guidance are included. We do not add a booking or transaction fee.

Guided Workshops

More structured experiences with dedicated instruction and a scheduled start time.

What is the difference between a Studio Project and a Guided Workshop?

Studio Projects are designed for flexible Open Studio time: choose your project and create at your own pace with guidance available. Guided Workshops are more structured, instructor-led experiences with a scheduled start time, coordinated instruction and often additional steps or specialty techniques.

Do I need to register for a Guided Workshop?

Yes, please reserve in advance. Workshop space is limited, and many experiences require materials to be prepared before guests arrive. Available dates and times appear on the workshop page.

What if the workshop I want has no scheduled date—or the time does not work?

When a workshop offers Request a Time, you may suggest a date and time that works for you. There is no payment required to submit the request, and it does not create a reservation. We will review it and contact you about availability.

Who teaches the workshops?

Unless otherwise noted, experiences are led by Violet’s Crayon founder Lisa Kettell, a mixed-media artist, published author and creative educator with decades of experience. Learn more on our About page.

Ages & Families

What ages do you serve?

Violet’s Crayon offers creative experiences for children, teens and adults. Each Studio Project and Guided Workshop lists its recommended age range so you can choose an experience that is a good fit.

Are adults welcome at Open Studio?

Absolutely. Adults may create on their own, come with friends or make a project alongside a child. Family members do not need to choose the same project.

Do parents or guardians need to stay?

For younger children, a parent or guardian may need to remain in the studio. Any drop-off eligibility or participating-adult requirement will be stated in the individual offering. If you are unsure whether an experience fits your child, please contact us before reserving.

What should we wear?

Creativity can be messy. Please wear clothing that can handle paint, glue, glitter or other art materials. Violet’s Crayon is not responsible for damage to clothing or personal belongings.

Parties & Private Events

What kinds of parties and private events do you host?

We host creative birthday parties, celebrations and private group experiences for children, teens and adults. Our party levels offer different project complexity, materials and creative possibilities. Visit Parties & Private Events for current options.

Is the studio private during a party?

Yes. The studio is closed to the public during private parties and events so your group can enjoy the space together.

Can we bring food, cake or decorations?

Yes, families may bring food, cake and nonalcoholic drinks for the designated celebration time. We will confirm setup, decoration and timing details while planning your event so everything works comfortably in the studio.

How do I check a date or start planning?

Complete the inquiry form on our Parties & Private Events page. Share your preferred date, estimated guest count, age range and any project or theme ideas. Submitting the form begins the conversation; it does not reserve the date until the required deposit and booking details are confirmed.

Policies, Gift Cards & Shopping

What is your cancellation policy for workshops and reserved projects?

Cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled start time to receive studio credit, valid for 12 months. Cancellations or rescheduling requests made fewer than 24 hours in advance, and no-shows, are not eligible for a refund, rescheduling or studio credit.

Do parties follow the same cancellation rules?

No. Party and private-event deposits are nonrefundable and follow a separate 21-day rescheduling policy. Please read the Refund & Cancellation Policy for the deposit, balance, custom-material and date-transfer terms.

What happens if Violet’s Crayon cancels?

If Violet’s Crayon cancels a workshop, reservation, party or private event—including a closure caused by severe weather, a power outage or another emergency—you may choose a full refund to the original payment method or studio credit for the full amount paid.

Do you sell gift cards?

Yes. Violet’s Crayon gift cards can be purchased online and make a flexible creative gift. Gift cards are nonrefundable and cannot be exchanged for cash except where required by law.

What is your return policy for retail items?

Unused and unopened non-custom retail items may be returned within 14 days with proof of purchase for studio credit. Opened, used, discounted, custom, personalized and special-order items are final sale. See the full policy for details.

What should I know about allergies and photography?

We cannot guarantee an allergen-free environment. Please tell us about relevant allergies before your visit. We may occasionally photograph projects or studio activities; if you or your child should not appear in promotional photographs, please let us know in writing.

This FAQ is a quick guide. Our Studio Policies and Refund & Cancellation Policy provide the complete terms. Event-specific information shared during booking also applies.

Still Have a Question?

Email info@violetscrayon.com or call/text (908) 219-9007. We’re happy to help you choose the right experience.

Contact Violet’s Crayon