Meet Maya Castellano
Hi, I’m Maya Castellano, the creator behind Crafty Curation. I’ve spent the past 12 years working with every type of craft supply imaginable — from student-grade watercolors to professional acrylics, from basic glue guns to precision die-cutting machines. My journey started at the Savannah College of Art and Design, where I earned my BFA in Studio Art with a concentration in Mixed Media.
After graduating, I spent six years teaching art workshops at community centers across the Pacific Northwest, where I learned firsthand which supplies empower beginners and which ones frustrate them. I now work from my home studio in Portland, Oregon, testing and reviewing craft supplies so you don’t have to waste money on materials that don’t deliver.
Why Trust Us
The craft supply market is flooded with options, and too many review sites parrot marketing copy without ever opening the package. I’m different. Every product on Crafty Curation has been physically tested in my studio on actual projects — not just unboxed and photographed.
I don’t accept payment for positive reviews. When a product falls short, I say so clearly. My reputation depends on honest assessments that help you make better creative decisions.
Our Review Process
- Purchase & Unboxing — I buy every product at retail price. No manufacturer samples, no freebies.
- Real-Project Testing — Each product is used on a minimum of three different projects over at least 30 days.
- Performance Scoring — I rate on pigment vibrancy, durability, ease of use, versatility, and value for money using a standardized rubric.
- Comparison — I test products side-by-side against at least two direct competitors at similar price points.
- Long-Term Follow-Up — I revisit reviews after 6 months to check for issues like paint separation, tool wear, or adhesive degradation.
Editorial Independence
Crafty Curation participates in the Amazon Associates affiliate program, which means we earn a commission when you purchase through our links — at no extra cost to you. This affiliate relationship never influences our ratings or recommendations. We regularly recommend products that don’t generate affiliate revenue when they’re the better choice.
If a product is bad, we won’t recommend it — period. Our credibility with you is worth far more than any commission.
Get in Touch
I love hearing from fellow makers! Whether you have a question about a review, want to suggest a product for testing, or just want to chat about craft supplies, reach out at maya@craftycuration.com.
Crafty Curation — Your Creative Journey Starts Here