Doodlebugs

When I moved to Sequim I was newly retired. I hadn’t really done any kind of craft since childhood. The next spring a visit with my sister-in-law changed everything. I learned just enough to be dangerous and ventured into the craft supply store Doodlebugs for the first time. It felt like I’d walked into Nirvana. I was hooked and Doodlebugs had my drug.

Doodlebugs taught me all the basics. They had every tool I needed and demonstrated how to use them, one-on-one. They had “make and take” mini-classes that helped me start making handmade greeting cards. And they had top quality paper and supplies to keep me going. If they sold it it was good quality, it worked.

Cathy, shown here, her mom Mary, and their niece/granddaughter Kayla have provided the best customer service in a town filled with helpful people. They remember names, take time to talk, help solve problems. They are artists. And if they don’t have what you want they’ll order it for you.

They haven’t been able to compete with Internet competition and, now, the new Michael’s store. Since I learned they were closing I have spent hours wandering in the store. I’ve purchased more paper than I can conceivably use and then I purchased a couple of their paper rack fixtures. I stand around, talking, visiting with my friend Judy who keeps showing up, as I do, because neither of us wants to leave or let go. It’s a happy place, full of creative possibilities and good memories.

Doodlebugs will close on August 4th. They will strengthen their online presence so they won’t disappear entirely. If you’re local and they’ve helped you, brightened your day, or had what you needed, stop by and thank them. Stock up. And support them online if you can.

Am I sad? Yeah. That just begins to cover it.

Doodlebugs

Doodlebugs 1

I’ve always managed impulse control pretty well but Doodlebugs on Washington Street severely tests me. I’ve got a habit and they have my fix. You may know me as a photo blogger but I spend a lot of time — and an inordinate amount of money — making greeting cards.

Doodlebugs 2

I’m addicted to rubber stamps. And dies. And designer paper. And embellishments. And alcohol ink pens. And a lot more stuff than you’re probably interested in reading about. Doodlebugs, owned by a family of very nice and exceedingly talented people, has it all. And if they don’t have it they’ll get it for you. (Their customer service is truly awesome.)

Doodlebugs 3

If you don’t know how to do something they can usually demonstrate it to you. Chances are they may even offer a class. And if all else fails, buy a coloring book, sit down, and color. It’s supposed to be very soothing.

Let me count the ways…

Valentines 1

I started celebrating Valentine’s Day a little early this year when Doodlebugs, our local scrapbooking store, announced that they were hosting a drive to collect handmade Valentine cards for patients at Children’s Hospital in Seattle. I love Valentine’s Day. And since making greeting cards is an addiction for me, that was all the excuse I needed.

Valentines 2

If the deadline hadn’t been the end of last month I’d probably still be making them. I’m not the only addict. The drive collected over 700 cards.

Happy Valentine’s Day!

Happy place

This is an aisle from one of my favorite places in Sequim, Doodlebugs on West Washington. To say they sell paper arts and scrapbooking supplies doesn’t begin to cover it. They open up a universe of creativity to anyone who never completely left scissors, paper, and library paste behind in grammar school. They offer demonstrations and “make and take” projects to get you started. My holiday cards began here this year, but that just capped an array of fun and crafty playdates with a great staff full of good ideas.