By Kate Bartlett-
ART Cloth & Craft is a boutique shop in Jamestown offering a curated collection of small batch handcrafted goods from small companies, makers and WNY artists, as well as trusted quality brands. Sisters Bobbi Spare and Lauren Edwards opened the shop with the vision of creating a unique shopping experience in a boutique space full of one-of-a-kind pieces that stimulate and inspire. “We are thoughtful in the way we choose goods we carry. We strive to stock our shelves with art & design driven goods, unique and one-of-a-kind specialty items. Many of the companies and goods we carry have unique stories behind them, making each item more beautiful.”
Lauren Edwards & Bobbi Spare are not just sisters, they are best friends and the creators of ART Cloth + Craft. Raised in a home of love, art, imagination and creativity, they’ve been crafting and making art together since they were young children. “About five years ago, we each started our own little side hustle. Lauren was making personalized goods like shirts and signs; Bobbi was making jewelry and accessories. We began with selling our goods at festivals, the local farmer’s markets and pop-ups with both of our brands sharing one tent. Once we realized we wanted to continue this, we rebranded under one new name, ART Cloth + Craft. This name was a good straight to the point descriptor of what we do or planned to do: create art, clothing and handcraft goods ourselves. After a few years we moved into a shared office space with a couple fellow artists and began to do pop-ups. After a lot of work and luck, we came across a great venue in Downtown Jamestown in to expand our business. Our official brick and mortar opened in May, 2021.”
The sisters chose Jamestown for many different reasons. Both attended JCC years ago where they were introduced to the art community in the area. “The art scene was prevalent then and continues to grow. After having a booth at Jamestown Public Market, we met so many members of the community, everyone was so supportive and encouraging. We now call many of those first loyal customers our friends. We love the history, soul and character of the city. We also love that the local businesses support each other here. We all send customers to each other to give the shoppers and visitors the best experience while downtown.”
They describe ART Craft and Cloth as “an eclectic mix of handcrafted, vintage and modern. Bold & slightly sweet with an edge”. They sell art, unique gifts, vintage finds, handcrafted jewelry, boutique clothing, natural beauty and perfume, giftable specialty art supplies & DIY kits/ craft, locally crafted goods, specialty kid & baby clothes and toys. They aim to source from environmentally conscience, socially and ethically good companies.
The shop is also an inspiring venue for classes and events. “The space is unique, relaxed and fun. From art classes like beginner watercolor and crafting workshops, to private boutique shopping or crafting parties. We love hosting fun events for the holidays like Galentine’s Day and Holiday Artist Pop-ups.”
“We pride ourselves on finding unexpected fun funky pieces to excite our customers. We also take the time to know our customers well. We strive to understand their style and know what will make them shine. We know our inventory and can find that perfect item. It’s great just giving them a place to unwind, vent about their day and to feel that sense of community.”
“Our favorite thing about our job is working with each other. We have the same tastes; we can read each other’s minds and we have the same sense of humor.” Currently, the sisters are working on making more goods for the store and building their brand. “While we still make some of the goods we offer, we plan to prioritize the design and development of our own home goods, jewelry and clothing.”
“Our wish is to give you the experience of walking through an art museum full of stimulating content and one-of-a-kind pieces, with the thrill of finding that unique handmade item in a gorgeous boutique setting.”
Shop online any time at artclothandcraft.com with shipping to anywhere in the US, or free local pick up. Visit their website for schedule of upcoming events and classes. Follow them on social media at themakers@artclothandcraft, @artclothandcraft, #artclothandcraft and stop in to the shop at 108 East 3rd Street in Jamestown Tuesday-Friday 11-6, Saturday 10-4.