Tinkertopia ®, LLC.

Al Glenewinkel

A couple of years ago I was looking for something to do with my granddaughters. They love to build stuff like crafts and LEGOS so when I found Tinkertopia I knew it was just what we needed. I was planning on taking them during summer vacation when they came for a visit but then the lockdown happened. A few days ago we finally made it there. It’s an amazing place stuffed with thousands of items. Almost everything in the store is repurposed material. We brought in a couple of phones from our old office phone system. They seemed to appreciate them. We signed the girls up for a 90 minute session working at the tinker tables building whatever they could imagine from the materials available in the tinker area. There are also drills, saws, glue guns, pliers, scissors and many other tools. Ms Darcy took them around and showed them the different bins and boxes, several projects to inspire ideas, and how to ask for help if they needed to use one of the tools. Ms Darcy was very helpful and extremely patient with them. Once they got their projects going I took a tour around the retail area of the store. It is an amazing collection of truly unique and varied materials. The last few minutes of the time slot got a little frantic as the girls were rushing to complete their projects. They had a little trouble getting some of the materials to stick together with the hot glue guns. This set them both back a little but we helped them find alternative materials and they were able to finish. They had a great time and they are already talking about what they are going to build next time we go. Something about a rocket ship or a flying car. I highly recommend this business and we look forward to our next visit. Parking can be an issue when school is in session at the UW Campus. We went on a Saturday during summer break so there was paid street parking available. There is a 90 minute limit so you need to watch your time. I think there is a garage across the street at the museum but I’m not sure it’s available for general parking.

C R

This store is very unique and inspiring for people like me who dabble in various forms of art! You'll find things you'd never expect to find. To top it off, me and my partner love the owner. He's pleasant, and eccentric in the best way possible. Part of the fun of going to the shop is talking to the owner, what a likeable guy. (:

revolutionstarr21

Had an issue with my truck, cashed around to get quotes on a diagnostic. The total ended up being about $60 more than they quoted me so they brought it back down when I asked. I did dock a star only because when they called to quote me the repairs they initially quoted me $500 higher and might have charged me for that too if I hadn’t caught them on that. But they were very kind to let me tow my truck there on a Thursday even though my appointment wasn’t until Tuesday. Thanks guys!

S M

Have been frequenting this shop since they opened. We are never disappointed. Lots of creative energy. The owners are helpful, friendly, and hilarious. 1. In-Studio Tinker Time: Worth the money. Our kids love access to so many supplies and tools. 2. Bulk Bags: Fun way to take the "tinkering time" home. There is a rotating stock of supplies. 3. Make & Take Kits: Always creatively put together. Our kids enjoy these as do their friends; they make great gifts.