Mothers and daughters, couples looking for something to do together, a school fundraiser, kids’ birthday parties, family reunions, even bridal showers; anyone, really, looking for a fun time creating hand-crafted, one-of-a-kind gifts and keepsakes have made their way to Crafter’s HeArt Studio in Robbins.
They leave with meaningful, cherished memories created in a fun atmosphere where they can relax and enjoy the experience.
Owner Candace Beal, an upbeat, energetic person, quick to smile and laugh, is the driving force behind this business that started a little over a year ago with the idea of offering an experience making hand-painted, ceramic Christmas trees.
Owner Candace Beal proudly displays a handmade gift.
Today, she still guides each aspiring artist with helpful hints, color choices, tips, techniques and advice on how to create dozens of unique handmade gifts like pumpkins, barn quilts, wall hangers – and yes, lots of ceramic Christmas trees.
“This studio started when I lost my daughter, Caroline,” Candace said. “She was a beautiful, sweet, vibrant 24-year-old who loved everything. She loved people, pets, laughing, friends and having fun.”
A large framed portrait of Caroline is a reminder to visitors as they come into the studio of the joy she shared with her family and friends. “She loved pens and pencils and drawing and creating beautiful things. So, to remember her, I opened Crafter’s HeART Studio.”
New this year are vintage trucks.
As for her experience locating in Robbins, Candace said, “Moore County has been wonderful. I can’t say enough about the commissioners and the town people. They have just supported us just remarkably.”
When it came time to turn the empty store into a modern studio, Candace called on her long-time friend and contractor, Danny Moore, of near-by Bonlee, North Carolina.
“She has a way of getting things done. Nothing gets in her way when there is something she wants to do,” he said. Within less than a month, new carpets were down, walls painted, shelves built and counters installed, all ready for the grand opening last October.
And about those iconic Christmas trees, “I like to have things set up and ready when people come in,” said Candace. “They’re all the way down the tables, the jars and paintbrushes are out and they’re ready to go when I get here. We just don’t know which color because they have been all colors. I’ve had navy, Carolina blue, burgundy and pink. I mean, I’ve had a purple one.”
New this year are vintage trucks, either with a Christmas tree in the bed or empty, so you can add your own accessory.
The antique effect is done by adding a light coat of watered-down black paint to the ceramic truck first, then going over it with another color giving it an old look. The final step is to brush on a gloss that hardens quickly to seal it, then dab on just enough textured snow and maybe even glitter on the tree to make a one-of-a-kind cherished memory.
The Christmas truck even comes with colorful tree ornaments that glow when you insert a small electric bulb in the base. Even the headlights glow.
Helen Maness, a long-time teacher at North Moore High School – now retired, has been going to Crafter’s HeART Studio since it opened. “I love it,” said Helen. “It is relaxing. A fun way to just sit and enjoy what you are doing with a great deal of laughter. I love the opportunity for creativity, and Candace makes it so easy to do and so much fun.”
Anybody that comes to Crafter’s HeART Studio leaves with a great attitude and an uplifted spirit – and of course something they have made themselves. What could be better?
Crafter’s HeART Studio is located in downtown Robbins at 105 S. Middleton St. Contact them by phone at 910-569-7000, email [email protected], on Facebook and on their web at www.CraftersHeartStudio.com.
~Article, photos, and video by Sandhills Sentinel Reporter John Patota.
