Art Business Opens in the Former O'Brien's Spot

Two local businesses are teaming up to become what they are referring to as "an arts and crats destination."

Craftworks Artisans Co-op, a local landmark for 30 years, which features handmade items from local crafters, is reopening in the former O’Brien’s 5 &10 storefront located at 243 West Main St. in Northborough on Nov 3.

Joining Craftworks is Ready Set Sew, a sewing learning center that had originally opened in Northborough early last year before moving to Grafton. 

Craftworks was forced to move after its building was sold to Peoples United Bank.

Ande Lockwood, founding member of the co-op, wanted the shop to remain in Northborough and searched all over town for just the right location, said the press release.

"The Northborough Shopping Center Plaza where the shop is moving to is perfect since it is a very busy plaza with non-competing, complementary
businesses," she said.

After hearing about the pending move, Ready Set Sew owner Sue White approached Lockwood with the "store within a store" concept.

Previously, Craftworks offered "Make It Take It" workshops, so both women thought the two art stores would mesh well. White is now a member of the co-op and will continue on as class director, finding instructors to teach a variety of arts and crafts classes. Ready Set Sew will continue to offer sewing classes, but will be adding additional classes such as Zentangle – a form of doodle art, beading, and paper art.

The grand re-opening is Saturday, Nov. 5, from 10 a.m. to  4 p.m. and features raffles, refreshments, music and more.