The News Herald (Willoughby, OH)
Hot Mess Express Designz sets up
Arts and crafts store opened in October
Lana Helmick claims that while working on one of her many art projects things sometimes spin in to a “hot mess.”
Thus, naming her new store “Hot Mess Express Designz” seemed appropriate
he arts and crafts store at 7503 Mentor Ave. in Mentor near the Shamrock Inn and Mentor Nails opened in October.
Helmick decided to open after participating in the Trendy Pop-Up Shop, a local enterprise featuring area artisans. Along with her handcrafted goods is the work of several additional vendors which fill the space that formerly housed a pizza shop.
Remnants from t he prior establishment such as tables and a bar now serve to showcase floral arrangements, ornaments, quilts, plaques, T-shirts and a myriad of gifts and décor.
Many items such as old wood, bottles and more have been artistically repurposed in to useful and decorative pieces.
Helmick noted that prices are reasonable, ranging from $5 to $100.
During a recent visit colorful aprons were selling for $12.50 and some elaborate Christmas ornaments
for $6.25.
“On an average you can buy a decent present for under $20,” she said. “Everybody will fall in love with at least one thing in here. It’s so different.”
Helmick grew up in Eastlake with a family which carried an artistic bent. She now shares her creative ability with son Trysten, 4, and the pair often enjoy working on arts and crafts together.
Wanting to share that experience with others she plans to hold children’s crafting events in the future.
Meanwhile, artistic sessions for adults are already scheduled.
Those wanting to create personalized wooden snowmen can do so on Nov. 18. A class for Christmas-themed canvas painting is set for Nov. 19. And for those who want to build a plush snowman a class for just that will be on Dec. 2.
For details on classes and to sign up visit the store’s Facebook page “Hot Mess Express Designz.”
Artist Kelly Finley Wolf, who heads the visual arts department at Lake Catholic High School in Mentor, is among the instructors who will be conducting the classes. A variety of her work is also available for purchase at the store.
Other local vendors are Janice Dukes of Simple Soul Organics, Heidi Campbell of Snappy Décor & More, Heidi F os naught of H & K Personalized Designs and Tammy Wiley of Auntie Says Sew.
Helmick enjoys promoting the work of women but maintains that there is “no problem having men here.” A few spaces for crafters are still available.
She says that patrons with a specific idea for a personalized gift or decor in mind should discuss it with
her or one of the crafters.
“If you see something on Pinterest one of us can pretty much do it to your liking,” she said, adding that she finds charm and value in handmade items.
“If you personally make something for someone it shows you care. It gives them a part of you and says what you think of them,” she said.
A lthough t he shop has just recently opened Helmick is already thinking ahead. After establishing the enterprise at its current location she hopes to find a spot in Lake County with more space to showcase the work of local artisans.