“I think we should change the rooster”.

It came as such a shock to hear that. “The Rooster” is the setting on the doorbell that sounds in the back of the shop when a customer comes in. I guess I shouldn’t have been surprised. There are only so many cock-a-doodle’s you can take before going a bit mad. That day there were many due to the pick up of a very large order. It was phase 2 of about 80 pieces in total.

What a feeling of accomplishment to finish up such a large undertaking. It was a group effort and the project was a success. Our customer is very happy, and we realized just how much the shop can handle at one time without hiccups.

As the last of the pieces went out the door, we turned to notice the emptiness in the front room of the shop. We don’t usually use that space for finished work. It has been a somewhat ambiguous, under-utilized room.

As the clearing out of that space left it empty, the potential came to light. We have space to gallery artwork throughout the shop, but this was a chance for something new and fresh. Cue the inspiration!

For the past couple months, we have been gathering a beautiful collection of curated gift items. Special things. Wendy Borger of Watercourse Clay worked her magic and threw some exquisite pottery just for us, but it’s really just for you. There are birdhouses, pitchers, and a fun collection of vases, some quite petite, waiting here in the shop. All hand-thrown and all are finished in her one-of-a-kind glazes that are soooo easy on the eyes… organic and rich. I am trying not to take them all home. I can’t wait to see how they look with my sister’s Ranunculus from Singing Brook Farm. Spring will feel really good.

Within the space we hung a “Wall of Mirrors”. It sounds a bit like a visit to Topsfield Fair, but it looks great and showcases some of the unique moulding we have, the ones that don’t get used on a regular basis. They are frames that may be too much for most art pieces, but are so lovely in their own right that a mirror is the perfect way to enjoy them. We often have customers fall is love with moulding that simply doesn’t work on there piece. A mirror is a great way to bring that level of interest and detail into your home. It’s a special touch, like jewelry.

Framing being our number one job, we didn’t forget to stock up on 5 x 7 and 8 x 10 acrylic Prisma frames. We chose the most subtle, sophisticated colors. They look just as beautiful with a modern photo as they do with vintage or antique images.

All in all, we had a blast putting this space together, and we will try to keep it fresh for you. Hint, hint, Alan Bull… We’re hoping to see some miniature paintings!

When I step back and look at the space now, I think of an amazing art teacher of mine, the late George Gabin. He used to say, “Isn’t that amazing… you made something out of nothing.” I know I’m not back in figure drawing class at Montserrat, but there are many moments in life I find his wisdom applies.

So, whomever is on your gift list, whether it be a March Birthday, an early find for Mother’s Day, or simple a treat to yourself, we hope you will consider checking out our “something from nothing” annex. It’s loaded up with treats for you and yours.

Stay warm,

Patti and The Crew

Ps. We voted… 2-1, the rooster stays. ;)

When the Rooster Crows Part 3: Something Out of Nothing