|
By SHELAGH TALBOT - DEXTER- If you had the perfect idea for a craft store, what would it be? First, it would be full of wonderful crafts from area artisans and artists. Second, it would have many; many display areas to browse through. Third, it would be in a perfect location. And last, but certainly not least, it would be run by friendly knowledgeable folks that understand quality crafts and customers with limited budgets. Well guess what - that craft store finally does exist, and it's 'right nearby. Mainely Crafts has opened on Route 7 in Dexter. The building is an old farmhouse, which used to be the old Hanscom farm, was erected in 1878, and its two floors house over 3,000 Maine crafts and products. Owners Ray and Jane Blaisdell had their eye on the venerable building for a long time, and once when they went to put in their bid for the building, they found to their disappointment that another buyer had stepped in first. "We were afraid we had lost out," said Ray. "But then we thought, if it's meant be, something will happen." It did. The other buyer bowed out and the Blaisdell's were able to purchase the building. Over 78 Maine crafters and artists are featured in the building and every room of the two floors is filled. Many of the rooms are themed, with Christmas and holiday items in one, beautiful quilts and needlework in another, children's toys in yet another. There is a line of the delicious Stonewall Kitchen products, Wicked Joe coffees, Paine Balsam products, Maine State Prison crafts, natural remedies from Woodswoman, rustic furniture, hand crafted dolls and so much more. Everywhere you turn your eye catches another appealing craft or artistic creation. It's the kind of place you want to return to again and again, as the Blaisdell's continue to accumulate their exciting and varied merchandise. Handmade creations abound from leather crafts to unique birchwood stools, to map syrup and (wow!) key lime jalapeno pistachios. "We prefer to showcase, Maine artists," said Ray. "We also wanted to be there for our customers by offering great items at reasonable price. And we want to offer special gifts as well - our customer can create one-of-a-kind g baskets for example." There is too much to see describe in this article, too much to see to describe with just words. The best thing you can do is go and explore Mainely Crafts for yourself. They have ample parking with plenty of turn-around space for your convenience. They plan to be open year-round from Thursday to Sunday, 10 am to 5 pm. If you have questions, or seek information contact the friendly owners, Ray or Jane at 924-5900.
Mainely Crafts will be online soon at MainelyCrafts.com, which is under construction and being designed by Judy Craig Consulting. |
| Back to News | Home | Print This Story |