I had a wonderful evening of shopping at Vaillancourt Folk Art Studio in Sutton.
Their studio is now located in an old mill that has been renovated. That is enough to make me shop there. I love it when townsfolk take the care to preserve their history by preserving the early buildings that housed the industries on which the town was built.
The studio specializes in all things Christmas. Their specialty is making decorations from antique chocolate molds. The hand painted Santas made from chalk ware poured into early chocolate molds is a sight to see. Each piece is hand painted, Some are tiny, about an inch tall, others are large, about two feet is my guestimate. It is a family run business that provides excellent product and great customer satisfaction. There is a collector's club, glass blown ornaments, and a special section of the store is a museum devoted to showcasing all the pieces they have made through the years.
The shopping is leisurely, light refreshments and holiday music. It's a great place to visit, whether you purchase something or not.
www.antiquesattheirongate.com
