 Unless you are naturally crafty or artistic, finding a one-of-a-kind handmade gift for the holidays can often be difficult. The Cleveland County Arts Council's (CCAC) "Handmade for the Holidays" offers a wide variety of charming and unique solutions to this problem. Featuring approximately 40 local and regional artists, the shop is housed in the CCAC gallery, located at 111 S. Washington St. in Shelby.
"We have a great selection of gifts for everyone on your list, for every taste and every budget," says CCAC president Shearra Miller. "Or, if you don't know what to get that hard-to-please person, we have gift certificates that can be used for artwork or classes." Artwork includes handcrafted jewelry, hand-woven scarves and hats, ornaments, salsas, jellies, cakes, brie bakers, soup bowls, coffee cups, etched-glass stem ware, stained glass, cutting boards, bottle stoppers, pillows, specialty soaps, mosaics, holiday cards, and much more. Proceeds from the sale are split, with 30 percent going to the CCAC and 70 percent going to the artist.
"The Arts Council has hosted Handmade for the Holidays for more than 10 years, and now the community has come to anticipate this as a location to purchase locally handmade items," says Miller. "Plus, thanks to the CCAC's location in the uptown Shelby area, shoppers can visit other local businesses at the same time, since there are many stores available within walking distance of the CCAC gallery."
Miller also encourages last-minute shoppers to mark Friday, Dec. 22, 2017, on their calendars, when the Council will host "Shop and Sip." Shoppers can sip on free hot cocoa or wine and listen to holiday music, while picking out the perfect gift.
"You can shop before work, after work, during your lunch break or into the evening," says Miller.
"Handmade for the Holidays" is open through Dec. 23, 2017. Hours are Monday - Thursday from 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m., Fridays from 9 a.m.-
7:30 p.m. and Saturdays from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Call the CCAC at 704-484-2787 or email info@ccartscouncil.org for more information.
By April Hoyle Shauf
Special to Community First Media |
