Homespun Treasures truly contains precious things at their Walnut Creek location
By Jennifer Kneuss
Homespun Treasures is an apt name for this treasure of a store, tucked along state Route 39 just west of Walnut Creek. The shop has become a regular destination for those who return to Ohio’s Amish Country, as well as to local fans, who frequent it when looking for the unique and unusual for their homes.
The front entrance to the store is flanked by an intriguing display of older collectibles and antiques, with worn sleds leaning up against doors scarred by time and multipaned windows complete with wavy old glass. There may be a handful of weathered garden tools resting atop an old trunk, or any number of other items that the owners have discovered at local, out of the way auctions. All are for sale, but the most intriguing items are to be found indoors.
Inside the store, visitors are immediately immersed in a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Lights twinkle, subtle scents from lit candles fill the air, and clerks are always brimming with hospitality and helpful tips.
Owner Tim Schlabach’s goal has always been to create this very special atmosphere for his valued customers. “We try to create the atmosphere and experience to inspire people as to what they can do,” he said. “We don’t just line things up on the shelves.”
Indeed, this is not a typical retail store. Around every corner is a new nook with carefully placed home décor items interspersed with primitive furniture. Most feature items that every home incorporates.
“These are essentials that you use in your home every day. The majority of our customers come in to buy items for their own homes. We have a lot of neat primitive pieces in and around our displays that are also for sale,” continued Schlabach, who also owns the Amish Country Peddler shop next door. “We send people next door if we feel there is something there that they are looking for, such as the larger pieces of furniture. We can also order in things.” The furniture is made in America, mostly in Ohio and Pennsylvania.
Homespun Treasures also lives up to the homespun portion of its name. The shop has expanded its line of American made textiles, most of which are also made in Pennsylvania. Time honored methods are used to weave the coverlets, blankets, pillow shams, and other bedding linens.
“These are made on old-fashioned looms, some of which are 100 years old or so. The looms are initially hand threaded, then powered. These are big, old antique looms. You hold these pieces, and touch them, and you feel the unique quality. It is one of the last textile mills left in the country. There is a wonderful story behind these.” Schlabach noted that he visited the mill firsthand when choosing to carry the line.
The shop’s lines of candles are also purchased from relatively small, often family run U.S. companies. The scents vary widely, and include seasonal variations.
“We certainly try to create the atmosphere of whatever season we are in,” said Schlabach, referring to the fact that as seasons change, so do the displays throughout the store.
Other Homespun Treasures are their large selection of Signature dishware, available in half a dozen color schemes, and a unique collection of curtains, swags, and other window treatments.
Charming floral swags, seasonal bulbs, strands of colored lights, primitive prints, and many other delights await browsing visitors at this distinctive store. For customers looking for personal wear items, Schlabach noted that they carry a high quality line of jewelry, handbags and gorgeous scarves of every description. “Our lady customers always seem to gravitate to that area,” he said. Gentleman may find their line of top-notch sunglasses and wallets more to their personal tastes.
Let the many beautiful and unique items at Homespun Treasures spark your imagination. Visit them at 3147 state Route 39, Walnut Creek, Monday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., (closed Sundays), or give them a call at 330-893-2134.
