Do-it-yourself doesn’t have to be at home

New DIY shop open for business in Shawano
By: 
Nicole Hixson
Correspondent

A new store has opened in Shawano, that is sure to delight children and adults of all ages.

On June 10, Steph’s DIY Design Studio, 212 E. Green Bay St., Shawano, celebrated its grand opening ceremony, and it was truly a family affair. The store’s owner and namesake, Stephanie Bendtschneider, was surrounded by her husband, Mike, and children, Ava, Payten and Caprice, giving tours and showing just what the store has to offer its customers.

This is truly a passion project for the family. Patrons are likely to see any one of the family members working around the store and providing instruction to their customers. When asked specifically about the do-it-yourself concept of the store, Bendtschneider admitted that her love for DIY “stems back from when I was younger. My grandpa did woodworking,” and being “out in the woodshop with him brings back so many good memories.”

She laughs describing her love for the “smell of sawdust, paint and varnish.” Bendtschneider said that these memories coupled with a board and brush workshop in Green Bay a while back encouraged her and her husband to start their first business here in Shawano.

Commenting on the entertainment options in the community, Bendtschneider said that “we thought it was something the town needed,” describing her store as a “family friendly entertainment option with something for everyone.”

The store offers just that. A large space with many rooms greets customers providing a variety of crafting and DIY activities. These include wood signs that are completely customizable, from layouts, paints, and even glitter as options.

A computer complete with sign options is even located on site to help customers choose designs, although they can also be accessed on the company’s website, www.stephsdiystudio.net, which is soon to be up and running. Coming soon are larger customizable items including cornhole boards and benches.

Other activities include bubble painting, take and makes, welcome mats and for those who are not afraid to get messy, patrons can channel their inner Jackson Pollock in one of the two rooms designated for paint splattering. Protective gear such as shoe covers and goggles are provided, although patrons should be prepared to get messy. Depending on preference, this can be done to someone’s own music, and with the added option of a strobe light and black light.

Beginning July 1, Steph’s DIY Design Studio will officially have its liquor license, so the option to enjoy a glass of wine or a beer while enjoying the many activities is an added benefit. A variety of soda, water and snacks are also available for purchase. There is space as well to hold private celebrations and meetings such as birthday parties, corporate events, scouting events, field trips, and more. Food can be brought in for these special events.

Bendtschneider hopes to offer a loyalty program in the future with promotions offered for anyone who signs up by email.

For information, go to the studio’s Facebook and Instagram pages, to find information on pricing and sign up for news on upcoming workshops, events and classes. Steph’s DIY Studio is currently open for business Wednesdays through Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. After hours are available for appointment if patrons are interested in booking a private event or reserving one of the store’s paint splatter rooms.