For all you paper and craft lovers, Castle in the Air will make you feel like a kid in candy store again. This small family-run craft and supply shop in Berkeley hosts a variety of unique craft classes and stocks collections of amazing papers. (Castle in the Air boasts that even Martha Stewart gets her crepe paper from here!)

I had the pleasure this weekend to take Castle in the Air's pajaki workshop to learn how to make this beautiful Polish paper chandelier. Pajaki, which translates to “spiders of straws,” is traditionally used as colorful hanging decorations in Polish villages. 

The class at Castle in the Air was taught by talented artist John McRae. Although John taught everyone in the class the same technique and set up, we were all able to put personal touches on our own pajaki. In the end, we all came away with very different final products. 

What I enjoyed most was being in a room full of passionate crafters and having access to the workspace and materials. I love crafting, but half the battle is finding the space, time, and motivation. So the workshop was definitely a fun way to meet new friends and be creative together. There was also tea and cookies to snack on while everyone chit chatted and got to know each other. What's not to love?

Castle in the Air hosts a range of classes from paper jewelry to calligraphy to book making. Class prices range from $65-$300 depending on the materials. You can check out the class schedule here (sign up early because classes fill up quick!). Or if you have a group of 6-8 people, you can call to set up a class with just your friends.