San Antonio’s alternative sewing studio Sew-Deluxe, a recent “do-it-yourself” venture that always did more than stitch, has evolved. The new creature on San Antonio’s shore? The D.I.Y. Factory on San Pedro. But don’t look for any smokestacks; this is still a hand-made venture catering to local artists and amateurs alike. Located at 529 San Pedro, The D.I.Y. Factory’s artisan boutique showcases designs from over 30 local vendors. Among the one-of-a-kind objects there recently was a red leather beer holster, polka-dotted and strawberry adorned handbags, and — all the rave at SXSW this year — colorful feather hair extensions and peacock earrings.
Owners Laura Salazar, Stella Marroquin, and Missy Ozuna draw on a gamut of professional skills, from drawing, sculpting, and painting to working with mixed media, like fibers and found objects, and seamstressing with vintage fibers and textile patterns. The ladies share their talents by hosting exciting classes, art shows, and gallery openings, and selling “Craft n’ Go” stations for the busy crafter. These “stations” — kits, really — are only $5, plus the cost of materials per project, and take about 30 minutes to construct. However, diehard crafters should sign up for the membership program to use the “Craft n’ Go” tables at the shop for free.
Local artisans are encouraged to contact The D.I.Y. Factory directly for information about how to showcase their own artwork, housewares, clothing, jewelry and (possibly) beer holsters. Membership includes discounts on classes and merchandise, as well as priority lab hours to use sewing machines and cutting tables.
