If you’re an avid crafter in D.C., you’ll know that there aren’t many places to get supplies or connect with fellow hobbyists. The “Three Crafty Ms” — Megan Flynn, Madeleine Odendahl, and Michele Molotsky –– are out to change that. They are opening a craft shop in Ward 4 called Merry Pin to provide supplies, lessons, and community space for crafters. I chatted with them about their hopes for the shop.
What will Merry Pin be? What will it bring to the community?
The shop will feature a mix of high-end, affordable, and upcycled products, crafting workshops and experiences, and equipment, like sewing and cricut machines, that you can rent on-site. It will also have ample community space, a kids area, and snacks, coffee, and booze to bring people together.
Where did you get the idea for the store from?
We are all avid hobby crafters ourselves and wished that D.C. had local options to get supplies and to meet up in-person to craft together, particularly as people found new hobbies during the pandemic. Over the last year, we’ve gone from commiserating together to brainstorming in St. Vincent’s back garden, to building out a plan and scouting for spaces.
How can people support your vision?
Merry Pin’s kickstarter runs until June 7, with the goal of raising at least $45,000 to open up a brick-and-mortar location in Ward 4. We need backers - every $5 makes a difference! - and we need support spreading the word to people that might be interested.
