Modern Makers: Unique arts and crafts store opens in South Lake Tahoe

Another reason to "Stay and Play in South Lake Tahoe" just opened their doors in the Ski Run Center: Modern Makers.

This interactive arts and crafts store opened for business March 22 and offers a large variety of craft kits and supplies, with more being added weekly. Modern Makers' specialty is a craft area set up where projects can be done right in the store, whether its for a birthday party, a family project or as a solo artist. They have an extensive menu of crafts customers can work on, whether it's in the store, a motel room or at home.

And it's not just for kids! Bachelorette parties, reunions, team building exercises are just a few ways the large craft tables can be utilized.

"It's a spot for the community to create and play in a safe environment," said owner Jodi Schmitz.

The eight-year local was in Solvang and visited a similar business and thought it'd be a great fit in South Lake Tahoe. With the help of her husband, Alex Salazar, she came back with her idea and made it happen. Salazar is a Tahoe native who is an electrician in town. He'll be installing the new signage this weekend.

Visitors to the store can choose from a menu and all of the supplies will be ready for them to sit down and get to work on their masterpiece. For parties, there is a fee plus the cost of the menu item which includes plaster and paper mache items such as banks, figurines and cars. Schmitz also has fabric, kits, paint, glue, adult coloring books and other supplies for sale as well.

All projects painted in the store are "paint and take," as they dry quickly and can go home with the artists as soon as completed.

Not everything costs money either - there are free craft days offered.

Wonder Wednesdays are science craft days where Schmitz has a different task for participants to do each week from 4:00 p.m.to 5:00 p.m.

Free Craft Fridays are also from 4:00 p.m.to 5:00 p.m. each week and those attending will be able to create something special with no charge. Schmitz selects a different activity each week.

Current hours are Wednesday through Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Schmitz hopes to expand Modern Maker's hours to seven days a week once they hold an official grand opening.

The shop is located at 3668 Lake Tahoe Blvd., Suite K in South Lake Tahoe, between Sierra Central Credit Union and Powder House Ski Rentals and behind Red Hut. More information can be found on the Modern Makers Facebook page here: www.facebook.com/formodernmakers/.