Shelley Bosanac has been a scrapbooker for 20 years. The Ross native wanted to open up a store that focused on paper crafting and scrapbooking.
Her store, Crafts -n- Scraps Studio, has fostered community since its opening in August 2021.
“There are not as many stores like that anymore so I also decided to add in crafts,” Bosanac said.
In addition to crafting, there also are card-making classes.
Although the store is just off McKnight Road near Ross Park Mall, she has noticed an influx of residents from the Deer Lakes School District, in part because of the Facebook group “West/East Deer Current Events.”
Count among them Jen Bickler of the Grouse Run neighborhood. She joined a recent wreath-making class along with her friends, Jenean Donovan and Jennie Pace-Snoderly, also of West Deer. It was by happenstance that they joined the same class.
“It was so fun … just the ability to unwind and relax and share stories with friends,” Bickler said. “And just a community bonding experience.”
Bosanac believes crafting and scrapbooking can give people a different outlet.
“It is relaxing, and you can just get away from everyday life,” Bosanac said. “A lot of people don’t look at their phones when they are here.”
Folks can bring photos to work on projects such as a family scrapbook or something about their history, vacations or holidays.
At the studio, she has a lot of materials, from papers, stickers and embellishments to adhesives. She also has purchased items from estate sales, which enables her to provide some unique items.
There are two craft rooms, one that can be rented out for occasions such as private parties and birthday parties. Classes typically include eight to 12 people.
After the pandemic, Bosanac pivoted from her career as a dental hygienist to do what she loves.
“And it seems like people enjoy getting out to be around people,” she said.
For Easter, classes on pysanky eggs, a Ukrainian egg-decorating tradition, also are available. There are wreath-making classes, paint-and-sip classes and workshops on stained-glass sun catchers. Teachers come in to lead cookie-decorating classes with royal icing.
The knitting component came about because Bosanac discovered people were interested in learning the craft, including crocheting and hand-knitting.
Ellen Gildea of South Park started hand-knitting in 2023. Her business, Chunky Knit Designs by Ellen, has gained a lot of traction.
“I reached out to Shelley, and she was thrilled. She and I have been friends since middle school,” Gildea said.
Gildea had been looking for a hobby to keep her busy. She started because she wanted to make something for her mother-in-law, who was ill, for Christmas. It kept her from going stir-crazy in the evenings after working all day.
Today, Gildea serves a guest teacher at Crafts -n- Scraps. She started with chunky blankets and mastered the art just from repetitively doing it. She now also makes stuffed animals, pillows, purses and pet beds.
Back at the studio, Bosanac is trying her hand at making bows, wedding flowers and party decorations, as well as corsages for prom.
“I really enjoy people and creating a space where people can make it their getaway,” Bosanac said.