New craft store opens in downtown Cheney

CHENEY – A new business is bringing a burst of creativity to downtown.

The Craft Cupboard, 502 1st Street, owned by Cheney native Macey Fredenberg, 35, offers craft supplies, classes and even features a wall dedicated to local art.

"Cheney is full of creative people - artists, crafters, even farmers," Fredenberg said. "If you're part of this community, this is something that should matter to you."

Fredenberg recently returned to her hometown after living and working in places as far away as Great Britain.

Upon her return, she reconnected with friends involved in knitting and crochet groups. They were looking for local places to buy supplies. They were particularly seeking soft, skin-friendly acrylic yarn.

At the time, Cheney only had one store offering that type of yarn, and it was a long trip to Spokane. Her friends suggested she open a store.

That idea took root.

Inspired by a friend who had just opened a bookstore in town, Fredenberg considered displaying her supplies in a small cupboard there. This concept led to the name for her store: The Craft Cupboard.

"Even now, the name feels just right," Fredenberg said.

Kate McDonald, owner of Paperbound Used Books, voiced her support.

"I told Macey she might not have enough space-there's such a demand for yarn and crafting supplies here," she said.

Fredenberg wasn't content to offer only new items. So, she decided to source yarn and craft materials from yard sales and garage sales, finding unused or gently used items at discounted prices.

That allowed her to pass those savings on to her customers, while staying true to her core values of sustainability and ethical sourcing.

As her business idea took shape, Fredenberg was also exploring career options in health economics, a field tied to her master's degree. Though she was waiting for job offers, fate intervened when a storefront became available in July, vacated by Cocobee's move back to Colfax. By the end of August, The Craft Cupboard was up and running.

In addition to offering both new and lightly used craft supplies, Fredenberg has created a space for local artists to showcase their work. Her store now houses Cheney's first permanent gallery wall, featuring artists like Zarth, known for his Fotografik, and Anette Lusher, whose small paintings have already gained attention. Fredenberg hopes to expand this part of the store and foster more connections within the local arts community.

Looking ahead, The Craft Cupboard will soon offer craft classes taught by local artists.

"I believe everyone has the capacity to be creative," Fredenberg said. "It's something we all have within us."