Value Craft451

I have shopped at Value Craft in Escondido for years, even before the Oceanside store closed down. The other store closed down because of the influx of many widely advertised, boring, cheap (read: cheaply MADE, cruddy items, or made in countries I won't support or buy products from) nationwide chain "art" and crafts stores into the area. Value Craft was the only one stop shop place, besides a few house paint stores, who even bothered to carry art supplies around here some years ago. I am a fine artist, and Value Craft has been a really good locally owned and operated store for me when I run out of something in the middle of a project, or when I want to start an interesting project. Over the years, I have become intrigued by Value Craft's more craft related products, and their assorted models and sewing items. I blame a very strict design professor for that... I am a fine artist who sees just about every thing as potential for artistic expression, so almost every thing that Value Craft has is fair game to me. The people who own the place and work there are usually very helpful if I want help, such as if I can't find something. Additionally, they are willing to suggest ideas for a product I might be interested in, but don't know exactly what to do with. All you have to do is ask them for help or ideas! I have used Value Craft as a quick local source to get things for students I have tutored, and have never come out of there empty handed when I am seeking items for children. The children love the store; there is so much to look at, and so many projects they can do with items in the store! I recommend taking well behaved above preschool aged children however, as there is a lot of product and the place is meant for artists and craftspersons. When in doubt, bring some one along to watch the children while you make your selections. Unless, of course, you want the children to help. They love that! Although I know how to make and mat my own frames, and have done so quite well, I am impressed with how well their framing turns out. They have been responsible for giving many a fine present a polish, so to speak, in our household. The ability to custom order, with so many choices, always makes for a unique and professional presentation. Of course, if you are artistically challenged like *cough* a few I know, they are very good at helping you make choices that are pleasing to the eye. Value Craft offers classes, but you need to have some foresight and sign up in advance for that. If you are fortunate enough to see their sales fliers, they usually have some interesting ideas as well as some instructions for a project or two. They can certainly help make all of the holidays more special if you but follow a few of the ideas, or use a few of your own. : ) Happy crafting, happy artistry, and please help support one of my favorite local businesses and go visit them and purchase things from them. Like most people I've introduced to Value Craft over the years, you will probably be glad you took the time to see what they have. Their stock can change a lot over the seasons, so return trips are always a treat!