Coming This Winter
Common Threads is a new community creative reuse space opening this winter. We’ll share donated craft supplies at low cost and offer a welcoming place for people of all ages to gather, make, learn, and connect. The studio will be located on the first floor of the “Perkins Building” – the two-story white house on the Bates Memorial UMC campus.
Rooted in the values of stewardship, creativity, and community care, Common Threads is designed to be practical, approachable, and full of possibility.
What Is Common Threads?
Common Threads is part creative reuse center, part gathering space. Materials are donated by individuals and organizations and made available again—so supplies stay in use, creativity stays accessible, and nothing needs to be precious.
In addition to supplies, the studio will host classes, open craft time, and a regular Craft Club where participants can work on any project or explore a shared theme.
What You’ll Find Here
Creative Supplies (Ever-Changing)
Inventory will shift constantly based on donations, but you can expect items such as:
- Fabric, yarn, thread, and fiber arts supplies
- Sewing, quilting, knitting, crochet, and embroidery materials
- Paper crafts, scrapbooking, and card-making supplies
- Beads and jewelry-making materials
- Art supplies including paints, brushes, and drawing tools
- Craft kits and odds-and-ends perfect for experimentation
All supplies are donated, which means there’s always something new to discover.
How the Space Will Be Used
Common Threads is more than shelves of supplies. The studio will be used for:
- Open making time – bring your own project or try something new
- Classes and workshops – short, approachable sessions focused on skill-sharing
- Craft Club – regular gatherings centered on fellowship, creativity, and connection
- Community and service projects – using our hands to care for others
Whether you’re an experienced maker or simply curious, you’re welcome here.
Pricing Philosophy
Our goal is to keep creativity affordable and approachable.
While final pricing details are still being set, most supplies will be priced simply—often in $1, $5, or $10 ranges, with occasional fill-a-bag opportunities for bulk or mixed materials. Larger or specialty items may be priced individually.
Pricing supports the ongoing work of the studio while keeping materials accessible.
Donations
We are not quite ready to accept donations yet, but we will be very soon. Winter weather has slowed us down, and we appreciate your patience.
When donations open, we will be accepting clean, usable craft and creative supplies such as fabric, yarn, paper goods, art materials, and tools. You can read more on our Donation Guidelines page.
Please check back soon—we’ll announce when donation drop-off is open.
Opening Timeline
Common Threads is planning to open later this winter. Specific dates for opening, donation intake, and programs will be shared as soon as they are confirmed.
Stay Connected
We’re excited to bring this creative, welcoming space to the community. Check back for updates, and watch for announcements about donation intake, open hours, and upcoming programs.
Common Threads is a place to use what we have, learn together, and build community—one project at a time.