“Creativity happens here” is the slogan artfully decorating the door to MB’s Creative Brush in Ashville, NY. Owner MaryBeth Meredith opened the shop in October to host DIY painting classes for handmade wooden signs and décor. She cuts the lumber and prints vinyl stencils herself on the premises, then guides people through the process of turning the raw wood into a unique, rustic, primitive art piece for their home.
MaryBeth always enjoyed painting and kept it going as a side project for almost thirty years while also working in the veterinary field for the past eighteen years. She made kits for others and sold finished products on ebay. When it became time to focus these efforts into a DIY business, the Meredith’s converted their garage into an open and welcoming studio/workshop, one that’s spacious and stocked with materials to inspire people of all ages to choose their own color and design.
“The signs look simple, but there are several steps involved to get the right look. It’s a process,” MaryBeth explained that some people are surprised at the variety of techniques involved like antiquing, sanding, and weatherproofing the signs. Popular designs include welcome signs and personalized monogram trays. “People can choose one of my designs or have something made custom. I can also ship signs as a special gift” she said.
The studio fits up to sixteen people, and she can travel to other locations to host larger parties. Lessons are affordable, starting at $25. Available hours are Sun-Tues and Fri, Sat from 10am to 9pm and the classes are three hours long. Think of MB’s Creative Brush for special wedding groups and children’s groups and parties, and follow along on Facebook at MB’s Creative Brush to see the offerings and to get a peek at what other groups have already created. Email paint@mbscreativebrush.com or call 763-1171.