From time to time, indulging in the arts can be a relaxing break from the complicated statistic problems or the lengthy analysis paper you have been struggling to write. Although you might not consider yourself to be a true artist or a major of the arts, several stores in downtown Naperville help provide students and members of the community in channeling their inner artist.
1. Paper Source, located on South Main Street, is a boutique that offers a variety of products for their customers. From trinkets and gag gifts to personalized stationary and wedding invitations, there are a diverse number of items in store. Perhaps Paper Source is best known for its one-of-kind craft kits and crafting workshops.
For $28, the store is currently offering a course in “Creative Card Making” geared toward the spring season—complete with step by step instructions on how to create intricate and stylish greeting cards. If you can’t make the dates of their workshops, the employees of Paper Source offer private parties if scheduled in advance. For a calendar of said workshops or to check out their products, visit www.papersource.com.
2. According to their website (www.pinotspalette.com/naperville), “Pinot’s Palette is the upscale “Paint. Drink. Have Fun.” destination in Naperville where anyone can be a Picasso.” In as little as three hours and for $38, you too can not only relax, but create a masterpiece of your own. Periodically, Pinot’s Palette updates their website with class times followed by an image of the painting for the class. Additionally, the business has an online gallery displaying the various paintings available for replication. Whether you are looking to celebrate or just enjoy painting, check out Pinot’s Palette located on West Jackson Avenue.
3. Recently relocated to South Washington Street, Pottery Bayou is a quaint shop that welcomes both kids and adults to paint and design premade pottery. Upon entering, customers can choose from a plethora of items such as coffee mugs or garden statues of Buddha. Next, painters can select from a number of colors to complete their work of art. The process is quite simple and when finished painting, customers leave their pottery to go through the kiln and return after a few weeks when the piece is ready. For more information, visit www.pottery-bayou.com.
4. A store marketed toward the home chef, Sur La Table offers not only a diverse amount of cooking and dining gadgets, but also classes as well. Much like the products in store, the cooking courses offered also range in variety. For instance, there are classes offered on making macaroons or homemade pasta.
On their website, www. surlatable.com, customers or those interested in the cooking classes can explore in-depth explanations of the courses offered each season. Interestingly enough, those at Sur La Table also offer a “Create Your Own Cooking Class” option in which individuals or large parties can customize the skills and recipes they wish to learn. For more, visit their website or in store on South Main Street.
