Courtesy Paint ‘ n Drip
By Carol Ann Conover
Paint ’n Drip, the veteran-owned, alcohol-free paint studio known for its hands-on art experiences, has moved from downtown Saratoga’s Henry Street to a larger space inside the Wilton Mall. The new location — the former Hot Topic storefront near Spencer’s and the food court — opened quietly as the studio continues phased expansion of its concept.
Owner Ryan Smithson said the move allows the business to grow in a space that naturally draws walk-in family traffic. “It’s the perfect spot for families walking by,” Smithson said. “We’re excited to grow into the space compared to where we’ve been on Henry Street, and my team has some big ideas on how to fill it with even more robust and artful offerings.”
The relocation comes during a transition period for the Wilton Mall. Faraz Khan, who took over ownership in March under Khan Development, has said he plans to reshape the mall’s tenant mix. Khan said Paint ’n Drip fits his vision of adding community-based experiences alongside national retailers. “Ryan is great, and his Paint ’n Drip with its no-alcohol theme is a great fit for the mall,” Khan said. “Our vision is to bring in distinctive stores and diversify offerings. Paint ’n Drip brings something creative and fresh that we know families and visitors are looking for.”
Smithson said while some areas of the new studio are still being updated, Paint ’n Drip is fully open. Some operations will continue at the Henry Street location until remaining projects are completed. The additional square footage has allowed the team to begin designing new features, including a splatter room and a dedicated service bar for mocktails and snacks. Both additions are expected to debut later this year.
The splatter room will offer guests a chance to throw paint onto canvases and walls in a controlled, high-energy environment. Smithson said it will complement traditional painting classes and guided sessions. “The space gives us the flexibility to create experiences we simply didn’t have room for before,” he said. “Families, birthday parties, date nights — people come to Paint ’n Drip because they want something fun to do together. Now we can expand that in ways that are more immersive.”
Paint ’n Drip has built a steady following since opening its first Saratoga Springs location. The studio gained attention for its alcohol-free environment, a decision Smithson said was intentional to keep the focus on creativity and connection. Instead of wine or cocktails, the studio offers mocktails and small bites, which will become a larger part of the experience once the service bar is completed.
Khan said that positioning aligns with his broader goals for the mall, including underused areas he plans to reimagine. “We want the Wilton Mall to not just be a shopping destination but a community space with activities, events and unique businesses that reflect what the region wants,” Khan said. “Paint ’n Drip is an example of the kind of innovative operators we’re happy to welcome.”
Smithson said support from mall leadership has been strong during the transition. “It’s been great working with the new ownership,” he said. “Their vision for the mall and their support for small businesses shows. Moving here has felt like the right step for us.”
Paint ’n Drip will continue offering open studio sessions, private events, classes and themed painting nights as build-outs continue. Smithson said customers can expect announcements as new features roll out. “We’re thrilled to be here and to keep growing,” he said. “This space gives us the ability to think bigger — and we plan to.”
Paint ’n Drip is located at the Wilton Mall, 3065 Route 50, in the former Hot Topic storefront across from Spencer’s and near the food court. The studio is open for walk-ins and bookings.