I’m sad to report that Paste has made the very difficult decision to close. We had a good two years but it’s time to move on. I appreciate each and every one of you who has supported Paste. I’ve always joked that it takes a village to raise a Paste, and in all honesty, it did.  I have met so many great people — that is single-handedly the most important thing I will take from this experience. I cannot thank you all enough for everything you have done.

We will be selling all the craft supplies for 50% off until their gone!  *This price isn’t valid with any other coupons or offers including Groupon.

Also, just because Paste is closing doesn’t mean the summer craft fair series stops. Please join us at the Soulard Market Park on July 9 and August 13 from 9 to 3. I hope to see you there!
Thanks for everything,

Katie
Paste

10 Artists, 5 Porta potties, 5 hours to pimp them!

June 4th, 11 to 5

Paste 1009 Russell Blvd.

Shoppers can expect to find a variety of handmade items including: jewelry, plush, bags, totes, handmade clothing, accessories, terrariums, and house wares. In addition to crafts, several vendors will be selling fine arts items like mixed media, photography, and paintings.

Organizer and local arts and crafts store owner, Katie Shanahan says, “I’ve had the pleasure of meeting some really amazing artists and crafters since opening Paste. There is no other place I would rather bring them all together than the Soulard neighborhood,” Shanahan says. “Soulard Market Park is a fantastic location with easy access from all areas and the culture of the neighborhood is creative and fun – it’s a perfect fit.”

The Soulard Market Park Arts and Crafts Fairs are sponsored by Paste and The Soulard Business Association.  They will be held the second Saturday of every month in May, June, July, and August.

Here at Paste we are committed to being more than just a craft store and we love to give a shout out to our friends in support when we think they’re doing something cool. Our very own Holly, resident instructor and artist, has an awesome seed swap project going on right now we thought was worth sharing. It’s totally FREE and open to the community (advance registration is required). Next Sunday,March 6, from noon to three, at Urban Eats Cafe.

The purpose of the event is to share seeds and knowledge. Participants sign up and log the seeds they plan to bring (store-bought or harvested). When they arrive, they’ll check in, then enjoy some peer-to-peer education with four lovely ladies who will be talking about various topics: Gardening 101, Urban Chickens, DIY Planters, and Harvest Cooking. After a little learning and a little socializing, everyone will be invited to come through the seed buffet and make their selections.

To learn more about this event or register, please visit the website at www.dropswapgrow.com.

Spring is quickly approaching meaning hibernation season is soon over and people are going to be out and about looking for things to do. We are excited to announce second series of craft shows this summer! Paste and The Soulard Business Association are proud to present the second annual  Soulard Market Park Arts and Crafts Fair, an event featuring local artists as well as live music. There are four event dates May 14, June 11, and July 9 and August 13. The fair will take place in the Soulard Market Park located at the corner of 9th and Lafayette. Fair hours are from 9am-3pm.

The best part of holding the fairs here in Soulard is the already available crowd that frequents the market every Saturday.  Last year was a huge success so we are at it again!

Each artist will be given a 12×12 space. The artists are required to bring their own tents, tables and display items. If there are more than two artists sharing a booth there will be an additional fee. Booth fees are $55 a space per event. Any artists who wishes to sign up for all four dates (and is accepted) will receive a discounted price of $25 for the last fair date.. All items sold MUST be handmade!

Please fill out the online application and mail it with a check to Paste or call to pay by credit card. Any applicant who is not accepted will get their check returned in the mail within 10 days of being notified.

Click Here to Apply!

If you have any questions about this event, please email pastesoulard@gmail.com

Paste and South City Studio are teaming up for the fourth installment of Needles for Newborns to benefit St. Louis Children’s hospital. The goodies we make keep little preemie babies toasty at Children’s hospital. Mark your calendar, right now! February 19th, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.

FAQ

It’s a noble cause and all, but why should I waste a precious Saturday when my life is already so busy?

• Babies. Teeny tiny babies who get chilly easily.
• Crafting with purpose feels really good!
• It’s a super-duper fun time. We are a diverse bunch of really interesting people.
• If you’re rusty or just beginning, this is a great opportunity to pick up some skills. Sit near an experienced stitcher and watch ‘em go. We’re a generous bunch, you can ask questions, too.

Do I have to stay the whole time? Can I come late?
You don’t have to stay the whole time by any means, drop in when it’s convenient and stay for however long you’d like. Warning: You’ll have such a good time, you won’t want to go.

What should I bring?
A chair (just in case), a friend (if you can), a snack to share (we’ll provide some snacks), and yarn/needles/hook.

Do I have to bring my own yarn? Can I buy yarn at Paste?
Most people bring their own or buy on arrival. We’ll have some donated yarn up for grabs and there is a fantastic selection of really pretty yarn at very reasonable prices.

Can I donate yarn/supplies/food to the event?
Heck, yes! We love that and thanks in advance for being such a generous soul. Snuggles from the babies.

What kind of yarn is best for babies?
Babies have really sensitive skin, cotton or acrylic is best. No wool.

I can’t come, can I drop of things I make on my own?
Of course! The babies don’t mind one bit.

What are we going to make?
Hats, booties, and blankets.

Will you have patterns?
Yep, we’ll have some. Please feel free to bring your favorite. There are scads for free on the internet if you don’t have a favorite yet, just Google it — free pattern knit crochet preemie baby. BAM! Zillions.

How big should a preemie hat be?
A very wise NICU worker told me think plum, tennis ball, orange. Yes, THAT tiny! Some of the preemie babies only weigh a couple pounds, so they’re gosh darn tiny.

Is this a kid-friendly event?
It breaks my heart to say this because we love the little people, but not really. A) A bunch of ladies cackling and stitching is pretty boring for the kiddos. B) The conversation tends to lean PG-13 and some of the adults like to consume adult-beverages. As a rule of thumb, I’d say it’s probably too “educational” for anyone younger than 14.

I’m a dude, can I come?
Yes, please join us! Disclaimer: If you’re planning to shop the crowd for single ladies, may I suggest match.com?

Do I need to RSVP?
Probably not. If you are planning to bring a bus load of people, then, yes please, let’s talk. Otherwise, no worries, just show up. Early and late tend to be the least busy times, mid-afternoon is the busiest.

Rachel Shelton, Mom, wife, and eco-sewer!

What is the worst craft fail you’ve had?

I once tried to make a stuffed rabbit from a pattern. When it was done, my grandma asked me why I made a long legged grasshopper.

Where do you get your materials from?

I work very hard to use materials that are natural, recycled, or upcycled so I find myself ordering stuff from all over the world. However, I am fortunate because I have teamed with a local university to obtain some really lovely discontinued upholstery samples! You may not be able to have a couch covered in these awesome fabrics any longer, but now you can have a rocking bag made from it and be good to our planet.

If you could talent swap with another local St. Louis crafter for a day who would it be?

Lindsay Brenner. I would love to use a wheel and make pottery.

Ok enough about you! Tell us what you like about Paste!

I love that Paste is locally owned and it has a fun, crafty, unique atmosphere. I also totally dig that Paste supports us local artist. Oh and I think it is very cool that Paste offers such a wide variety of classes.

Ok shamelessly plug yourself! (Where to find your goods, websites, etsy shops etc,)

My goods are available at Paste and the many local shows I participate in. My calendar of events is available at my web site, www.sewgoodandtrendy.com.

Haven of Grace is also in need of knitting/crocheting supplies for women at the shelter.  If you have unused of yarn or some extra hookes or needles sitting around and feel like helping feel free to drop if off at the store anytime.