
While crafts have long been popular recreational activities in the United States, 2020 saw a surge in people picking up these relaxing pastimes. CNN reports that crafting provides valuable stress relief and improves cognitive abilities that keep your brain young.
Unleash your inner creativity with projects and supplies from these great craft stores around Northeast Ohio, Columbus, and Cincinnati.
1878 Pearl Rd., Brunswick, OH 44212
When it comes to paper, if you can't find it at Hollo's Papercraft, it doesn't exist. The warehouse-like store has shelf after shelf full of card stock, envelopes, stationery, and blank greeting cards in every color and style imaginable. Design to your heart's content with their amazing variety of pens, markers, stamps, stickers, and other artistic tools. Hours are 9 a.m. - 7 p.m. weekdays and 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Saturday.
15709 Detroit Ave., Lakewood, OH 44107
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In name and practice, The Quilting Bee honors the craft as a means of both individual expression and social connection. You'll be inspired by the impressive array of fabrics, organized by theme, designer, and color. Be sure to check out "Our Favorite Things," an assortment of supplies and accessories chosen by the shop's staff. Shop online for curbside pickup or delivery. The Quilting Bee is open 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Tuesday, 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Saturday, and 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. Sunday.
20085 Chagrin Blvd., Shaker Heights, OH 44122
After numerous conversations about what they wanted to see in a yarn shop, Pam Berkson and Beth Billings decided the solution was DIY and Around the Table Yarns was born. Customers are encouraged to post photos of their "Fabulous Finished Objects" for a chance to win gift cards. Hours for curbside assistance and pickup only are 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. Friday through Sunday. The online shop is open 24/7 and there are two daily Zoom sessions for shopping, help, and socializing.
743 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43215
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With so much interaction occurring online, eye-catching letters, invitations, and greeting cards are a fun way to make your communication stand out. On Paper has an extensive range of products, including gifts such as picture frames, ornaments, and guest towels, that can be personalized for added appeal. Brighten up your private writing with one of their stylish journals and notebooks. Embellish them with stickers and stamps to create your own individual design. Visit their new location Tuesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. - 6 p.m.
3607 Interchange Rd., Columbus, OH 43204
True to its name, Crafters Pantry serves as a convenient "storage" for your materials and supplies. Whether crafting is your hobby or business, Crafters Pantry can quickly provide whatever you need, when you need it. The shop buys in bulk from manufacturers and uses their own equipment to create smaller, more affordable pieces than you would be able to get directly. Order online for quick shipping.
4436 Indianola Ave., Columbus, OH 43214
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614 Knit Studio proclaims they are "fluent in fiber," and their goal is to help the local community become equally articulate. Owner Andrea Panzica has a strong background in fashion design and uses her experience to curate a yarn boutique with products from top independent dyers and artisans. The studio also offers a robust schedule of in-person and virtual classes focused on specific projects as well as general topics, such as knitting for beginners and spinning your own yarn. Hours are noon - 6 p.m. Monday through Wednesday, 10 a.m. - 8 p.m. Thursday, 1 - 8 p.m. Friday and 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Saturday.
735 Monmouth St., Newport, KY 41071
Frequently named as the best yarn shop in the Cincinnati area, Knit On! lets you shop for yarns from around the world without leaving home. In addition to purchasing from the shop's own inventory, you can place a drop-ship order from one of their suppliers. Knit On! is currently open from 2 - 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday for curbside pickup and limited in-store shopping. Call ahead to inquire about individual appointments outside regular store hours.
1334 Main St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
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The quirky name isn't the only unique feature of Indigo Hippo. Founded as the brainchild of a group of Cincinnati art students, Indigo Hippo is a nonprofit "creative reuse" shop. Donated materials are sold under a price range, allowing customers to pay what they can so arts and crafts are accessible to everyone, regardless of budget. Shopping is currently by appointment Thursday through Friday from noon - 5 p.m., although walk-ins are admitted as space permits.
1207 Vine St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
Carolyn Deininger has always loved the promise held by a blank sheet of paper. When Carolyn and husband Mike began receiving requests for more paper goods at their gallery MiCA 12/v, she saw it as the perfect excuse to open Paper Wings. The shop carries a lovingly curated selection of cards, notebooks, and accessories along with works from local artists. Hours are 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. daily except Sunday when doors close at 5 p.m. Their online shop is open 24/7, with free delivery within the Cincinnati 275 area.
Do you have a handmade item in your Ohio home that holds a special memory?

Valentine's Day is just around the corner, but planning the perfect date night might be tricky this year given indoor dining restrictions and health and safety concerns. However, that doesn't mean you can't enjoy the holiday with your sweetie in the comfort of your own home. With so many fantastic Ohio restaurants offering Valentine's Day takeout, you can have a date night at your own dining room table or while watching your favorite movie.
Whether you're planning to celebrate with your special someone or just getting together with a group of friends, a delicious meal is at the center of every great Valentine's Day. Below are some of our recommendations for Valentine's Day takeout around Ohio.
2198 Murray Hill Rd., Cleveland, OH 44106
Nothing says romance quite like a classic Italian dinner, so we recommend trying Michelangelo's Italian Restaurant in Cleveland. With exquisite Italian cuisine prepared by award-winning chef Michael Annandono, this restaurant is absolutely fantastic. The menu features a variety of pasta, meats, and fish, and for dessert, you can enjoy some of the best Tiramisu in Cleveland. Takeout is available for both pickup and delivery, and you can place your order online.
13664 Pearl Rd., Strongsville, OH 44136
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If you're just south of Cleveland, you might want to consider Don's Pomeroy House for takeout this year. This historic restaurant is on the National Register of Historic Places and is also a popular Valentine's Day destination. They serve a variety of winter comfort foods like Kobe Meatloaf and Chicken Parmesan as well as seafood sources from all over the world. If you'd prefer not to dine-in this year, you can order your food to-go, or for a truly romantic option, reserve one of their outdoor winter igloos.
11401 Bellflower Rd., Cleveland, OH 44106
Located in an old carriage house near Case Western Reserve University, L'Albatros is a classic Valentine's Day destination near Cleveland. This year, their entire menu is available for takeout so you can complement your stay-at-home Valentine's Day with some contemporary French cuisine. The French Onion Soup is a must-try and the braised pork shank with whole grain mustard sauce is a popular dish!
1447 Grandview Ave., Columbus, OH 43212
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For some delicious Italian dishes near Columbus, order a romantic dinner from Trattoria Roma. This restaurant has been open for over 30 years and offers all of your favorite pasta dishes with a personal touch. All ingredients are locally sourced, and they offer special takeout menus and specials that change monthly, so be sure to check out what they have in store for Valentine's Day. Carryout and delivery can both be ordered on their website.
641 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43215
Online ordering is available this Valentine's Day at The Pearl restaurant. This trendy, romantic establishment has two locations: one in downtown Columbus and one in Dublin, Ohio. The dinner menu has an excellent mix of seafood and modern dishes, and they also have a separate menu for their oyster room. Best of all, you can top off your stay-at-home Valentine's Day with one of their unique cocktail kits for two.
1092 Bethel Rd., Columbus, OH 43220
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Housed in a former church building, The Refectory has become a Valentine's Day tradition for many couples in Central Ohio. While they're open for limited dine-in seating, they also offer a wonderful three-course home dinner menu with French favorites like Boeuf Bourguignon and Roasted Cornish Hen. For dessert, try the Epiphany Cake — an almond frangipane baked in layers of puff pastry. They even offer a wide variety of cocktails to-go! Orders can be placed online, but they do request that you order home dinners at least one day ahead of time.
810 Matson Pl., Cincinnati, OH 45204
While this romantic Cincinnati destination is known for its view, they do have a delicious menu that is available for takeout this Valentine's Day. Primavista offers a fine contemporary menu with dishes from all areas of Italy. They really specialize in veal and fresh fish, and all sauces are made from scratch. If you're celebrating Valentine's Day with friends, Primavista is also offering a family-style menu with dishes that serve 4 to 6 people.
118 E. 6th St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
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For an excellent Valentine's Day dinner, try a takeout order from Sotto in downtown Cincinnati. Their takeout menu features delicious pasta classics such as Tortellini Con Zucca and Rigatoni Con Pomodoro as well as some classic Italian pork and seafood dishes. Not only do they have cocktail specials to go, they also have two bottle wine baskets available for purchase. For dessert, you have to try the famous ricotta donuts with sauce! Carryout can be ordered by phone.
580 Walnut St. #100, Cincinnati, OH 45202
This classic Cincinnati steakhouse is offering curbside carryout and delivery this Valentine's Day. Prime Cincinnati offers some of the best steaks in the area, with the highlight of the menu being the Ohio Reserve Waygu steak. They have a wide variety of seafood options that can be added to your steak to create the perfect surf-and-turf combination. The takeout menu features a create-your-own, three-course meal starting at $50 per person. If a romantic steak dinner sounds like a good Valentine's Day, be sure to try Prime Cincinnati.
Where will you order your takeout this Valentine's Day?

January 29th is Puzzle Day, so head to your local shop and buy some to work out on your own or with family members. Simple puzzles with just a few pieces can help kids get started on this fun pastime while working on their fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination. Before you know it, they'll be helping you on more complex 500- or 1,000-plus puzzles that take days to complete. And no matter what your interests, you'll probably be able to find a puzzle that matches them.
Check out the following 9 places around Ohio to puzzle it out:
342 E. Smith Rd., Medina, OH 44256
The Sweets & Geeks name says it all – the store is a pop-culture haven that carries sweet candy as well as retro and modern "geeky" games, collectibles, and puzzles. Located near the heart of Historic Medicine Square, the shop has a good selection of puzzles, including ones with Coca-Cola, DC, Marvel, and Harry Potter themes. And while you're at the store, pick up some candy to enjoy while you're working your puzzle at home. From "weird and gross" choices to nostalgic candies you might have grown up with, you'll find something to please everyone who's working on the puzzle. Hours are 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Monday-Saturday and 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Sunday.
19285 Detroit Rd., Rocky River, OH 44116
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This family-owned toy store has been open since 1984 and been in its current location since 1988, so it has many satisfied customers throughout the northeast Ohio area. It's a good spot to shop for puzzles, including ones from the popular Ravensburger brand. Their puzzles range from 15-piece ones that appeal to young children to 9,000-piece scenes that will keep the family busy for days. You'll also find uniquely fun 3D puzzles. Visit the shop from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Saturday and noon-5 p.m. Sunday.
885 W. Main St., Smithville OH 44677
Toyrifix carries a large selection of toys, games, and puzzles and prides itself on inspiring creative interactions between generations. You'll find plenty of puzzles, including one with a "Wine Time" theme that's perfect for these times of social distancing. Others follow a color theme, such as red, orange, or green, or depict colorful flowers or cute llamas. Hours are 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Thursday, 9 a.m.-8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and 12:30 p.m.-5:30 p.m. Sunday.
631 S. Third St., Columbus OH 43206
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You'll find much more than books at The Book Loft at German Village – which is one of the country's largest independent bookstores – including a huge collection of jigsaw puzzles. It's located a few blocks south of the state capitol building in a location with a rich pre-Civil War history. Since it takes up an entire city block and encompasses 32 rooms, you're sure to find additional items like board games, posters, and more. Hours are 10 a.m.-11 p.m., 7 days a week.
2424 E. Main St., Bexley OH 43209
Locally owned Gramercy Books carries a selection of carefully curated puzzles, books (of course), and more. It's located in the heart of Bexley, at the intersection of East Main Street and Cassady Avenue. After you select the puzzles you'd like to buy, take time to visit the store's café, Kittie's, to enjoy Stumptown coffee, snacks, and their famous cupcakes. And don't forget to pet Wally, the store's adorable dog. Hours are 10 a.m.-6 p.m., 7 days a week.
25 W. Winter St., Delaware, OH 43015
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Originally started as Fundamentals Parent-Teacher Store, Beanbag Books has been one of Delaware's favorite shops for over 30 years. Shop for puzzles, games, books, and more educational and fun activities you can share with your child. Hours are 3 p.m.-5:30 p.m. Tuesday, 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Wednesday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Thursday and Friday, and 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday. The shop is closed on Sundays and Mondays.
4139 Apple St., Cincinnati, OH 45223
Downbound Books has an extensive selection of puzzles, including those that have 500 or more pieces and ones that are well suited for children or for the entire family. The shop is open for curbside pickup from 4 p.m.-7 p.m. Monday-Friday and 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday. You can also set a shopping appointment for groups of up to 5 people, and neighborhood deliveries are also offered.
3040 Madison Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45209
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King Arthur's Toys was started over 40 years ago as a tiny hobby shop, growing over the years to become a popular – and larger – store that carries puzzles, games, and toys. Shop for gorgeous Pomegranate puzzles, which are beautifully artistic. Choose from a depiction of Van Gogh's Irises, Old-World map, Renoir's Luncheon of a Boating Party, and many more. They're so attractive that they're perfect for preserving and framing to hang on the wall. Hours are 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Monday-Saturday and 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Sunday.
7754 Camargo Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45243
You'll find a variety of puzzles and books at The Bookshelf, so a visit to the shop will have you well-stocked for at-home fun. If you become a frequent customer at The Bookshelf, you may want to purchase a frequent buyer card to receive a 10% discount, and if you're a teacher, you can score 15% off even without the card. Hours are 10:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Monday-Friday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday, and 1 p.m.-5 p.m. Sunday.
What kind of puzzles will you piece together as you spend time bonding with your family?

March 14th is National Pi Day! The mathematical constant π, which numerically begins with the digits 3.14, is celebrated on the fourteenth day of the third month in the United States. How can you celebrate Pi Day in the Queen City? Indulge yourself in sweet and savory pies! We're doubling down this Pi Day by exponentially increasing our happiness — we're diving into a fresh pizza pie then taking down a tasty bakery pie for dessert. Here are a few perfect pizza parlors and bakeries in Cincinnati, where you can celebrate National Pi Day in style.
1739 Elm St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
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Local tastes better, and Harvest Pizzeria proves it with their locally sourced all-natural ingredients. Get a true taste of Cincinnati's local farms in every bite when you create your own pie. You can also let them whip up one of their signature pies like the Geary Street with clams or the Ohio Double Bacon with mozzarella and roasted red pepper. Be sure to ask which farms they source their ingredients from — you may be eating a pizza from your community farm!
3301 Madison Road, Cincinnati, OH 45209
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Rated one of the Hot 100 Independent Pizzerias by Pizza Today, you may know Catch-a-Fire Pizza from their humble beginnings as a food truck. Their brick-and-mortar pizzeria within MadTree Brewing Company pairs custom wood-fired pizzas with craft beer. Serving up tasty-titled pizzas named after Bob Marley songs, the Buffalo Soldier, Natural Mystic, Goettup Stand Up, and Soul Rebel absolutely rock. Trust us, "every little thing gonna be alright" at Catch-a-Fire Pizza.
1220 Vine St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
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Gather together with friends and family at A Tavola, a modern interpretation of the timeless Italian trattorias. Family recipes pepper the menu, including their delicious pizzas. Choose a traditional Gorgonzola or Margherita pie, unless your taste buds desire a unique blend of ingredients, such as the EVOO, fontina, caramelized onions, and shaved brussels sprouts on the Brussels Sprout pizza or the fig jam, Parmigiano Reggiano, and arugula on the Fig & Prosciutto pizza.
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Enjoy authentic Italian cuisine prepared in classic Tuscan tradition at Via Vite. Using only the finest local and imported ingredients, Via Vite offers favorites like Sausage & Onion, Bianca, Margherita, Calabrese, and Pizza Regina. We suggest that you pop-in mid-day to take advantage of their $7 pie special.
4831 Spring Grove Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45232
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Local beer and New Haven-style "apizza" are on tap at Taft's Brewporium. This unique pizza is a hotter and crispier version of Neapolitan-style pie, using imported dough and tomatoes straight from Italy. They have seven specialty pies to choose from, or you can add any of their 30 toppings to create your own delicious pizza. Pair a pie with one of their award-winning beers like Gustav Vienna lager, and you'll have yourself a presidential Pi Day.
1527 Madison Road, Cincinnati, OH 45206
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Torn between sweet and savory pies for National Pi Day? O Pie O is ready to serve you the best of both worlds. Bite into savory offerings like the Greek Quiche or Quiche Lorraine, or sweeten up your day with their Honey Vinegar Pie, Lemon Bar Pie, or Dark Chocolate Pie. Each day, they also prepare a variety of signature hand pies in sweet and savory options, but be sure to visit early as these special daily pies are sure to sell out!
116 E. 13th St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
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Brown bear, brown bear, what do you see? Thoughtfully made baked goods at Brown Bear Bakery! Chess pies, cream pies, fruit pies — every type of pie is available and made from scratch at this scrumptious bakery. Cooking up classics and innovative creations with unbelievable flavors, Brown Bear Bakery invites you to enjoy National Pi Day with a slice of pie and a freshly brewed coffee.
6836 Main St., Cincinnati, OH 45244
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Fork and Pie Bakery take farm-to-table seriously — they use natural ingredients that they've grown themselves in their own gardens and farms. Their made-from-scratch offerings change daily, serving up delicious yet healthy pies that you won't regret trying. They also have a signature gluten-free crust, so those with gluten allergies can enjoy their amazing seasonal pies throughout the year.
29 Village Square, Cincinnati, OH 45246
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Bluebird Bakery has been a Cincy favorite since 1996. Owner Jenny Dennis dreamed of opening her own bakery since she began baking as a child in Sharonville. Today, Bluebird Bakery & Café and their newest location Bluebird ToGo continue to feature her made-from-scratch pastries. Jenny's pies are second to none, especially her award-winning Apple Crumb Top. This scrumptious treat joins her Triple Berry, Coconut Cream, Peanut Butter, and Key Lime creations that are available all year. She will also bake Egg Custard, Cherry Lattice Top, Chocolate Cream, and Southern Pecan pies by request. However, some of her best offerings are available only by the season, such as her Peach Lattice Top, Old Fashioned Pumpkin, and Apple Cranberry pies. Taste any of her pies just once, and you'll find yourself coming back throughout the year to try the rest!
6927 Miami Ave., Madeira, OH 45243
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What's better than celebrating Pi Day with your best friend? Celebrating it with your four-legged friend, too! The Brewhaus Bakery is a not-for-profit organization that provides learning and work opportunities for young adults in the community with disabilities. Together, they prepare handcrafted baked goods for people and pets alike. Bring your pup in for a treat while you dive into one of their fresh pies.
Where is your favorite place for pie and pizza in Cincinnati? Let us know where you're celebrating National Pi Day in the comments below!
Photo courtesy of Taste of Belgium
Findlay Market is Ohio's oldest continuously operated public market and one of Cincinnati's most loved institutions. Here, you can peruse local produce, meats and handmade items from more than 40 indoor merchants all year long. While you could spend an entire day meandering through the market and trying something from every vendor, we recommend heading here for breakfast. Taste of Belgium is one of the most popular spots in the market, serving warm, mouthwatering Belgian waffles and foamy lattés. After you've eaten your fill, spend time perusing the market. A few of our favorite, must-visit spots include Saigon Market, Blue Oven Bakery and Artichoke. For details on everything you can do and eat in Findlay Market, check out: 25 Must-Visit Places in and Around Findlay Market.
Photo courtesy of Washington Park
Honestly, we can't imagine a better way to spend a sunny mid-morning in OTR than exploring the 6-acre beauty that is Washington Park. Not only does this park offer plenty of green space to roam, there's also a dedicated dog park, a kids' playground castle, spray grounds and the American Classical Walk of Fame. The park hosts various entertainment events and festivals throughout the year — including music performances, markets and outdoor movies — so be sure to check out their website to see what happenings are going on when you're visiting!
Photo courtesy of Taft's Ale House
You can't pay a visit to OTR without visiting at least one brewery. Taft's Ale House is a local favorite, located in the old St. Paul's Evangelical Church building. At Taft's, you can experience the history of Cincinnati while sipping on a cold pint of craft beer. If you're still hungry when you stop by, don't hesitate to order the Alehouse, which features their juicy tri-tip steak, Alehouse onions, bleu cheese and red ranch sauce.
You can never go wrong with a good candle. The Candle Lab sells pre-poured natural soy candles in more than 100 fragrances, but they also invite you to customize your scent. One of their Scent Stylists can help you narrow down your list to just a few scents that blend perfectly together. Then, you'll design your own label, pick your favorite jar and mix your oils at the Fragrance Bar. The process of candle cooling takes about 90 minutes, so you're welcome to wait or you can spend some time perusing the neighborhood and pick it up later.
The Know Theatre of Cincinnati is a non-profit theater company that produces a wide variety of shows throughout the year. In their 99-seat contemporary black box theater, you can experience unique performances from local actors and really feel like you're a part of the show. Afterward, take advantage of Underground, a full bar and cabaret stage where you can hang out and enjoy a second show for free!
Fun and silliness don't have to end after childhood, and 16-Bit proves that 100 times over. This unique bar caters to all children at heart, gamers and science fiction fanatics with its immersive arcade experience.
16-Bit is outfitted with around 50 traditional and new arcade games, and the selection is always changing (you can find a current list on the 16-Bit website here). The staff also equips the bar with RetroPi, retrofitted consoles that allow guests to play hundreds of older games that look and feel just like the originals. If you want to learn more about this eclectic bar, check out Ohio-Based 16-Bit Bar + Arcade is a Dream Destination for Any Kid at Heart.