If you’re missing the local DIY event roundups this week, know that we are too. But before you start scouring Pinterest for your next at-home project, there are a few ways you can find a new hobby and make a local impact.
Take-home DIY kits are being offered, and even drive-up service, when you order creative products online from local businesses. Here’s to having fun while practicing social distancing!
fibre space
During the 2018 government shutdown, fibre space saw an increase in local residents who needed something to do to relieve stress, and that meant learning to knit and crochet hats, scarves, blankets and more. With social distancing keeping us all cooped up, the Alexandria-based arts and crafts store has figured out virtual shopping (per a recent Facebook post), where guests can video call a staff member, order what they need and come by the store to pick it up, with the goods delivered right to your car window or to your doorstep with nationwide shipping. Until the weekly knitting circles and workshops start back up again, those interested in picking up a new yarn hobby can head to YouTube for step-by-step tutorials. // 1319 Prince St., Alexandria; Current hours: Monday-Friday, 11 a.m.-7 p.m., Saturday, 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Sunday, noon-6 p.m.
AR Workshop
AR Workshop locations in Alexandria and in Loudoun County are offering take-home DIY kits for anyone who’s missing their weekly workshops. The Leesburg location will be closed through Tuesday, March 31, with all workshops canceled, but crafters and builders can pick up a take-home DIY kit on Friday, March 20 with three different options. Ranging from $35 to $45 a kit, purchasers will get wooden planks, paints, brushes, primer and instructions, perfect for building in your garage or creating with your kids while they’re out of school. You also still have the option to pick the colors you want. At the Alexandria location, take-home DIY kits range from $35 to $45 a kit, with customization available and pickups taking place on Friday, March 20, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. // AR Workshop Loudoun: 1601 Village Market Blvd. SE, Leesburg; AR Workshop Alexandria: 1212 King St., Alexandria; Both locations are currently closed with all events canceled, and guests will only be permitted to pick up kits during the designated hours
Fran’s Cake & Candy Supplies
Known best for the location’s sold-out workshops and having all your local baking needs, Fran’s Cake & Candy Supplies in Fairfax offers nationwide shipping on all products, from food coloring to chocolate molds. If you or a family member is celebrating a birthday during the quarantine, order one of the themed cake kits (no flour or powdered sugar included), or add a few cake-decorating tools to your cart and try out a new hobby. According to a recent Facebook post, the location plans to stay open during its normal hours, meaning local bakers and decorating aficionados are welcome to stop by for what they’re looking for. Don’t want to get out of the car? A staff member will bring it right to your window, free of charge. // 10927 Main St., Fairfax; Current hours: Tuesday-Friday, 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Saturday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Sunday, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.
Check out our more local coverage on COVID-19 (coronavirus) here.
