While we are pumped to leave 2020 behind, we all know that January can get a bit cold and gloomy. We might even get - dare we say it- SNOWED IN. ❄️
So, while you are stuck at home making soups and bread, consider upping your craft game. You might be surprised at the artistic offerings in Downtown Lynchburg.
422 12th Street
What to get: ANYTHING in the store
The Art Box is your number one stop for your creative needs. They have supplies for the painter, the potter, the sketcher, the writer, the bookmaker, and everything in between (really).
But don’t fret, you don’t have to be a professional to shop here. The exceptional staff are all artists themselves and are happy to connect beginners with the right tools for whatever project they are undertaking!
920 Commerce Street
What to get: feathers
Barred marabou blood quills. Stripped goose biots. Peacock swords. They're not just fun names to say – they are beautiful feathers. Sure, they are intended to be turned into some pretty wicked flies for catching fish (you can still do that by following along with the TaleTellers blog).
We envision projects for the home like festive votive holders or chic wall hangings, and advanced crafters have hours of jewelry-making in their future!
919 Main Street
What to get: Alpaca wool
It’s a knitter’s dream! Take your pick from a wall of wool in the back of Spearman Artisanry and start all of those scarves, hats, and blankets that are on your list.
But, why buy alpaca wool? Well, it is natural, biodegradable, moisture-wicking, windproof, durable, stain-resistant, and allows the perfect body temperature. Boom!
1220 Main Street
What to get: Flowers, flowers, and more flowers
The Hip Tulip is your wildflower florist, and while they are happy to customize an arrangement, you can also choose from individual stems for your next craft.
Maybe you want to feel like a pretty, pretty princess with a DIY flower crown. Or, you can dry them out to make scrapbooking crafts or press them into frames.
139 12th Street
What to get: Fabric
Fabric, yards of it! See what we did there?
But, honestly, we aren’t talking little scraps. Estates & Consignments has a wide variety of full bolts - solids, stripes, and patterns. One thing is certain, they are top quality and will be a great match for sewing your next set of curtains or reupholstering those dining room chairs.
1301 Main Street
What to get: Something you can breathe new life into
Speaking of upholstery, maybe it’s time you grabbed a piece with a little history and gave it a glow-up.
Yes, Estates Revisited has pristine vintage pieces that don’t need any TLC but you might also find a slightly dingy sideboard or a tarnished bar cart that will be stunning once you are through. Best of all, when you can humble-brag on your talents when those compliments start rolling in.
1216 Main Street
What to get: Tools, glue, and other supplies
Hear us out - Bailey Spencer isn’t just for ordering a custom Chippendale door or sourcing the perfect antique clawfoot bathtub. Just take two steps past the register to find the fixings you need to practically any project.
Wood glue? Got it. Finishing nails? You betcha! Paint brushes? Take your pick. Plus, in a time when avoiding crowds is an olympic sport, popping into your local hardware store is the way to go.
600 Main Street
What to get: An online painting class
Did someone say paint night? For months, the Academy Center of the Arts has been upping their education game and moving to online classes for artists of any level.
Do a solo session as you create a winter night sky, have a romantic Valentine’s Day as you paint a date-night birch tree scene with your partner, or bring the whole family in for some handprint penguin fun. The Academy will provide your supplies and you can even add on a bottle of wine!
402 5th Street
What to get: Blacksmithing & Woodworking Classes
Workshops are back at Vector Space this month and we couldn’t be more thrilled! If you haven’t been to this shared makerspace yet, you are missing out. Most days, it is only accessible to members only (membership open for a limited time), so signing up for a workshop is a great way to see it in its glory while learning a new skill.
Coming up in January - try your hand at the wood lathe or CNC router, get introduced to blacksmithing, or carve you very own wooden spoon!
901 Jefferson Street
What to get: Inspiration
If we haven’t gotten your creative juices flowing by now, maybe it’s time you head down your own inspiration alley at Riverviews Artspace. Check out their new exhibits opening on January 8 for First Fridays or arrange a visit by appointment.
If leaving the house is scary (we get it - we’ve all gotten a bit into the “hermit” stage of the pandemic at one time or another), then cue up the Coffee with Curators podcast and enjoy it from the comfort of your couch.
So, there you have it. So many great ways to get crafty while supporting local businesses in Downtown Lynchburg.
Still not motivated? Just get a puzzle from Gilded and call it a day.
