Business Spotlight – The Crafted Scout

A Place where Hobbyists Create, Learn and Connect

For Jacklin Blodgett, The Crafted Scout is much more than a shop. It’s a place where creativity comes to life, skills are shared, and people can gather around a common love of making things.

Jacklin brings a background in community work to her business. When she opened The Crafted Scout, she saw an opportunity to provide more than craft supplies — she wanted to create a welcoming place where hobbyists could learn, connect and be inspired.

That community focus is woven into the shop’s many offerings. Jacklin partners with The Port, providing space for its hobby classes, and she offers classes of her own in quilting, cross-stitch, sewing and other creative skills. “The classes help people to build on their skills,” Jacklin said. ““Whether you're just starting out or ready to take your skills further, classes are offered for beginners, intermediate and advanced techniques.”

But classes and supplies are only part of what The Crafted Scout offers. The shop also provides services in long arm quilting, custom framing and sewing machine repair, giving customers convenient, local resources to support their creative projects — whether they're starting something new or preserving something special.

The colorful shop is an inspiration itself, with quilts and handcrafted projects adorning the walls and showcasing bags, bows, quilts, placemats and other creations. “We hope the wall samples inspire our clients creativity,” Jacklin said.

For Jacklin, one of the best parts of owning the business is connecting with customers. She enjoys learning about their interests and using those conversations to determine what products and services to offer. “Talking to customers is an enjoyable experience for me,” she said. “One of my goals is to provide a center for hobbyists to congregate in and to simply enjoy being here.”

That welcoming atmosphere extends to her staff. Jacklin employs six people, many of whom have been with the store for years and bring experience and knowledge to the customer experience. “They are friendly and helpful,” Jacklin said. “I am thrilled that they are here.”  Customers can stay connected through The Crafted Scout newsletter, featuring shop updates, classes and other services at thecraftedscout.com, as well as daily updates on Facebook.

Whether you're an experienced crafter or looking for a new creative outlet, The Crafted Scout offers a place to learn, create, repair, frame and connect.

Jacklin is grateful for the community’s support. “I appreciate the support,” she said. “I am very thankful to the community for the kindness it has shown me. It means so much to me.”

Hours: Monday thru Saturday 10am to 5pm / Closed Sunday

120 Maple St.

www.thecraftedscout.com

517-647-5430

Facebook: thecraftedscout

This piece was originally included in the Downtown Portland Newsletter for September.  To view the full newsletter, click HERE.