Meet the Neighbors: Simple Pleasures & Pastimes

Meet the Neighbors: Simple Pleasures & Pastimes
September 17, 2024 Christina Soot

As we move into fall we often think of friends, family and simple pleasures like hobbies and our pets. Here are a few Downtown businesses that can help you enjoy your favorite pastimes.

Brigitte’s Place Fine Fabrics 325 W 1st Ave – (541) 979-3121

Sewing and garment making is also a traditional pastime. With garment fabrics curated from around the world, Brigitte’s Place Fine Fabrics is the perfect spot to create your special look. “We hold summer and after-school classes for children as well as adult classes and weekend sewing retreats,” said Brigitte de Valois, owner.

Urban Ag Supply 456 2nd Ave SW (541) 497-2988

Gardening and house plants are among life’s simple pleasures. Urban Ag Supply is the perfect spot find new house plants, food and fun containers. Cooking and food are popular pastimes. Urban Ag Supply stocks a nice section of Oregon chocolates, teas, salts, seasonings, sauces and even makes mushrooms grow kits. Father-son team Patrick and Nick Chonaiew, run the shop which is open seven days a week!

The Quilt Loft 405 1st Ave W(541) 928-7242

Quilting is a pastime with hundreds of years of history, yet techniques and fabric selections also make it fun and new. “We stock over 2000 fabrics at The Quilt Loft,” said Owner Karen Rogers. “We love working with those starting out as well as experienced quilters.” The Quilt Loft also offers kits, patterns and longarm work to finish your quilt.

The Frame House 434 1st Ave W(541) 928-7676

For both aspiring artists and seasoned professionals, The Frame House offers a nice selection of art supplies, including watercolor and oil paints, brushes and paper.

Observer’s Rocks & Books 110 3rd Ave. SE – (541) 248-3535

Moving to Downtown in May 2024, Observer’s Rocks & Books features opportunities for a mix of pastimes. “We have something for everyone!” shared Shawnea Crowl, owner. “We are a safe and magical place to be who you are.” Their many rooms showcase new and used books, crystals, fossils, tapestries, tarot, jewelry, incense, herbs and locally made jewelry and arts & crafts, plus they have a kid book and reading room.

Spearit Beads 415 1st Ave. W – (541) 791-4313

Making jewelry is a great way to enjoy your downtime. Sherry Spearit and Terry Hess will welcome you to Spearit Beads and their mind-boggling selection of beads. From tiny seed beads to statement pieces, you’ll find anything and everything in hundreds of little bins and on the walls. They also stock jewelry-making supplies and finished jewelry.

Sniffany’s Pet Boutique 222 W 1st Ave W – (541) 248-3722

Enjoying time with furry friends is a favorite pastime of many people. Sniffany’s Pet Boutique offers everything your dog or cat may need for a fun, healthy life. They stock a wide variety of food, treats and collars. Beyond the necessities, owners Angie & Joe Scavone carry fun items like holiday plush toys, themed iced cookies, cake mixes and dog wine. Sniffany’s is open seven days a week.