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.
You made me sad too. I prefer small stores over the the big box ones. Business is much more personal.
A shame they’re closing up shop.
Oh dear – the start of the post was so happy – and then the signs in the window – what a sad day – for owners and customers. Though I’m not into paper crafts I do love the talents that others have for such things, and can understand the grief of losing such a personal shopping place. Bellingham has a new Hobby Lobby – which I won’t shop at (we won’t go into that right now) and it is in the same block as Michaels and people are flocking to HL, Michaels is now feeling the same hit that smaller businesses felt when Michaels moved in on them. It is interesting to watch two giants fight it out, when they are used to just killing off the local competition and becoming the king of the hill.
On a personal note – Don has his first day back to work today after a long vacation – we had such a wonderful, restful time – especially time spent on the peninsula. Our weather is warmer again -looks like a good week – and I have lots to catch up on. Come on over – the weather’s great!
That’s sad and unfortunately it is a common story just about everywhere. At least they will have a web presence but that is just not as enjoyable as walking in to your local shop. Conversations, friends and the social aspect is what makes these types of stores fun to stop in.
Oh that is sad Kay, it’s like losing a good friend! I also much prefer personal contact and to actually see what I’m buyer rather than on line. Hope they continue to do well in that format ✨