Those who have missed the scrapbooking store “Scrap-A-Bit” in downtown Emo can keep their hobby going as a new business, “Scrap-A-Lot,” is set to open Oct. 1 just minutes east of the village.
Brenda Elias, a stay-at-home mom with four children and a self-professed “scrap addict,” is setting up shop in the basement of her home after purchasing inventory from former Scrap-a-Bit owner Meredith Croswell.
“I love scrapbooking. I love trying different products and new things,” stressed Elias, noting the hobby of scrapbooking uses a variety of mediums to create archival safe photo and journaling memories.
She explained it’s important to use products that are safe for photos and do not yellow after time, so family and friends can enjoy them for years to come.
“[I] thought running Scrap-A-Lot out of my home may make it quite successful by having less expenses and being able to offer products at decent prices,” she reasoned.
Elias said she often does price comparisons with on-line stores and is very competitive.
“I plan to carry small amounts of various items and order more upon demand and suggestion,” she added, noting items such as paper, cardstock, cartridges, totes, and tools all will be available for purchase.
“I have found some great deals and some really fun new products to share . . . I am hoping to receive all of my new inventory within the next couple of weeks.”
In addition, Elias will offer small crops (scrapbooking get-togethers) for up to six people in her home for girls’ night out or birthdays during and after hours.
Larger crops will be held at community halls in the area, with the first scheduled for Oct. 19-20 at the Devlin Hall.
Croswell also will offer classes during the crop, such as a beginner class on Oct. 19 at 7 p.m. and Oct. 20 at 1 p.m. An embellishments class is scheduled for Oct. 20 at 3 p.m.
Elias said she is encouraging pre-registration for the crop and classes as space is limited.
She added while Scrap-A-Lot will not have scrapbooking magazines for purchase, she will have her own subscriptions available to read in the store.
And she will be stocking some specialty books as they come out.
Elias also has an area in the store for children to watch television or play while mom or dad shops. And gift certificates and wish lists will be available.
“I love the company of other crafters,” she enthused. “I love seeing everyone’s layouts, I love scrap-lifting everyone’s layouts, and I love it when others scrap-lift my layouts.”
Since Scrap-A-Lot will be located down a flight of stairs, Elias apologizes for the inaccessibility.
But she said if anyone cannot get into the store due to this reason, she would like them to let her know and she will work something out so they can check out the inventory.
“If things go well, I may open a proper storefront in the future,” Elias added.
The hours of operation are set as Tuesday through Thursday from 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Friday from noon-8 p.m., and Saturday from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. The store will be closed Sundays and Mondays.
Elias’ home is located three minutes east of Emo on the north side of Highway 11/71. There will be a billboard at the end of the driveway for the opening.
For more information, call 482-3115 or visit www.scrapalot.ca
Fort Frances Times
Local News from Across the Rainy River District
