Our First Handmade Swap And Why We're Doing More of Them

This studio has always been about more than just a place to make things. It's about the people you create with. It's about giving yourself the space and time to just be. And that little magical thing that happens when you're in the flow of it. It's one of the reasons I called this place That Creative Space — a play on the physical space itself and that other place you go when you're fully in it.

So I decided to launch something new. A seasonal community swap paired with a hands-on creative activity.

Last Sunday we had our first one.

Twelve people came in carrying twelve handmade items — tomato plants with recipe cards, block printed notebooks, fresh rhubarb syrup, and more. They painted tote bags. They filled those totes with someone else's handmade things. And somewhere between the painting and the swapping, they met each other.

It started quietly. People were making, starting to talk, feeling each other out. By the end the conversation was flowing, there were smiles across the room, and people were asking when the next one was before they even left.

My favorite moment came after. Two people figured out they live in the same town. Both new to the area. Both looking to make new friends. Now they know each other. That's the whole point.

Why these events matter

Not everyone can commit to a full workshop or a multi-week class. Some people just want to come in, make something low-pressure, meet a few people, and see what this place is about.

These events are meant to be accessible. We keep the cost as low as we can — just enough to cover the space and supplies. They're open to everyone, whether you have a creative background or not. Whether you make things regularly or not. Everyone is welcome.

What's next

The next community swap is August 5 — Book Swap and Bookmarks. Bring a book you love and want to pass on. We'll share our book recommendations, make bookmarks together, and you'll go home with a new read and something handmade to mark your place.

These events fill up fast. Limited space.

That Creative Space is a shared creative studio at 333 Fishkill Ave in Beacon, NY. We offer hands-on workshops, community events, studio memberships, and creative experiences for adults and families. Summer workshops are open now — see the full schedule at thatcreativespace.org/workshops-events.