The Meditation of Making
November 2007 
CHESTER NJ-We all know why we go to a spa--to do something for ourselves, feel good and relax. But you might not know that those are the same reasons to go crafting at Studio U! Being creative can be easy, fun, and fulfilling, even for people who are sure they haven't got a creative cell in their body, and Studio U wants to show you how.
"Making things together brings people closer," says Ash Reifler, the founder of Studio U. That's why we started this company, so people can find out how great it feels to make something real--we want to be that place you go to have fun and feel enriched?your own personal craft studio where you go to unwind by yourself or with your family and friends."
"The feeling of making something yourself and having it turn out well is uniquely satisfying." adds Tracy Harris, Director of Operations. "Our design team has created all our projects specifically so anyone can do them and enjoy the experience of creating without being intimidated."
Karen Purnell thinks so. She stopped in with her daughter while visiting family in the area. "I've never made anything in my life, and I made this cool decoupage vase in an hour", she said, pointing to a tall vase collaged with various rice papers. "I was a little worried at first, but there really was no wrong way to do it and it was so relaxing to make something." she smiled. "I love it!"
No appointment is necessary so you can savor the zen of crafting anytime. (Studio U is in the new Streets of Chester Mall on Rt. 206 South in Chester, across the street from the Shop Rite). When you walk in, the atmosphere is fun and inviting--someone always greets you to double check if you've been in before and need an introduction to things or just want to wander around and take it all in.
Once you decide on a project, the staff helps you gather the materials, gives you instructions, and gets you started. And someone is always close by to advise on your next step or lend a helping hand. "It can take me a long time to decide on what I want to do, said Laura Bush, of Flemington, "but the staff was so patient and friendly, they really made me feel at home."
Many people seem to think creating is for kids and are surprised to find out Studio U is filled with great projects for adults. "Moms come in with their kids for a party or to do something new together when school is out, and they say, hey, there's great stuff here for me too!" said Caryn Cavallaro, manager of the Chester store. "And once they find out about Ladies Night, they're hooked!"
Ladies Night, on Tuesdays and Fridays evenings, is one of their most popular events. They offer a complimentary glass of wine and snacks and, adds Caryn, "it's a wonderful way for women to get out with their girlfriends and really be able to talk and connect."
This holiday season could be the perfect time to give Studio U a try. With affordable ornament projects that range from whimsical to elegant, great gift options like enamelized purse accessories and frames, hand stamped silk boxes or whacky Andy Warhol type canvases, you can't go wrong trying your hand at making your gifts this year.
Everyone on your list will be so impressed you took the time to make something especially for them, and you'll have the unique satisfaction that comes from the act of making something.
Still not sure you have time to try your hand at making something? Studio U has taken care of that too?stop in and choose from an array of wonderful finished craft projects beautifully boxed and ready for giving, or give the Studio U experience directly to a crafty friend or family member ?they have over dozen great kits to choose from, and throw in a gift certificate to make the present complete.
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