New Berlin Art Studio to Feature Fiber Arts

Berlin's newest art studio may be off the beaten track, but it represent the continuation of the town's emphasis on regional arts. Upper Room Studio is located on Logtown Road, just off Route 50, in a cozy studio space. The business specializes in spinning wheels, looms, and fiber art accessories, and plans to offer classes in spinning, weaving, felting and jewelry making.

“Interest in fiber art has been growing, in our area and around the country. A lot of knitters and crocheters are branching out into spinning and weaving,” says proprietor Lisa Lilley. “We wanted to share our love of the fiber arts with the community,” adds Monika Lilley, the other half of this mother-daughter business team.

Upper Room Studio sells spinning wheels and looms by internationally known companies Louet, Schacht, and Ashford, and will soon be adding products from Kromski to their inventory. Handcrafted items including jewelry, shawls, purses, and hand-spun yarn are also available for purchase.

A grand opening celebration will be held at the studio on Saturday, February 14 from 10am to 4pm. There will be fiber art demonstrations, door prizes and refreshments. Guests are welcome to test drive the eleven showroom spinning wheels.

Even those with no background in the fiber arts often catch the spinning and weaving bug after sitting down at a wheel or loom, warn the Lilleys. “It's creative and meditative and has a connection to the handicrafts of our ancestors. For a lot of people, it's a meaningful antidote to the modern world of mass production,” says Monika Lilley.

Upper Room Studio is located at 8525 Logtown Road. More information about upcoming events can be found on the company's blog, www.upperroomstudio.blogspot.com. For more information, or for directions, call (443) 373-3115 or email upperroomstudio1@gmail.com.