News: Abbotsford – Craft-Arts Store (1972)

Transcriber: stan@wiclarkcountyhistory.org

Surnames: Hommema, Burkett

----Source: Tribune/Phonograph (Abbotsford, Clark Co., Wis.) 07 Dec 1972

It took about two months, but Abbotsford’s newest business finally has found a name for itself – Craft-Arts.

Frank and Carol Hommema, route 1, Dorchester, the owners, were faced with this problem after beginning their unique business, which deals with plaster crafts.

Mrs. Hommema said entries for the contest came from as far as Illinois, Milwaukee and Eau Claire, as well as every surrounding community. Approximately 125 entries were received, with the big winner being Mrs. Donald Burkett, New Berlin.

A person does not have to be a a Rembrandt or Van Gog to walk into the business, located just north of the Abby Theater. In fact, Mrs. Hommema said persons who are not at all artistic can turn out a final product which looks as good as the professionals.

To describe the business is difficult. What it involves basically are various designs, such as statures, vases, potter, which are a white plaster and are painted by the person who purchases the piece of craft. Persons can either work in the store or do their painting at home.

Mrs. Hommema calls the business “sort of a franchise,” since other similar shops are located in Wausau, Eau Claire and Phillips.

Future plans include adding candle making, decoupage, and hopefully selling local made wood carvings.