News Alert: DIY Studio is closing the Creative Reuse Brick and Mortar Store

Last night the board voted to close the Creative Reuse Brick and Mortar Store. Below are a few answers to some questions that many of you might have.

Why are you closing the store?
The board took a great deal into consideration before making its decision. We know DIY Studio provides value to the community through events, waste reduction education, and inspiration, however there was little income from the low-cost reuse materials or upcyled artwork. Many days we’d staff the studio with volunteers to receive a $5 sale; some days there wouldn’t be any sales. DIY Studio did not receive assistance for operational costs and our crowd funding campaign did not reach its minimal operational goal of $10,000 for the year. With little income coming in, and our rent doubling, it did not make financial sense to continue to operate as a creative reuse center. Good stewardship of your money is our highest priority and we will continue to fundraise, reduce overhead, and search for alternative ways of accomplishing our mission.

Will DIY Studio still operate as a non-profit?
DIY Studio will continue with its mission, stay a 501(c)(3) organization, and continue adding value to our community. DIY Studio believes that Salem is currently unable to sustain a creative reuse center. We’ve tried hard to make it work, however this simply may not be the right time. DIY Studio will cast a larger net to include programming for a broader audience while focusing on our talents and continue providing value to our community. We have some exciting new projects as described below.

I have a gift certificate, can I use it?
Absolutely! Come in before March 22nd and we will be happy to honor your certificate. After March 22, gift certificates become null and void.

Will you still do events and projects?
Without a doubt! We will have a Trashion show in October. DIY Studio will continue with Cultural Craft Nights, Free Art Friday, and lead our DIY Kids Club. Another project that we are thrilled to get started on is a online magazine promoting our mission of creativity, community, self-sufficiency, and environmental awareness through reuse. This will spread the message of the importance of creative reuse and the DIY spirit to a larger audience. Let us know if you would like to contribute to any of these projects by emailing (info at diystudio.net)

Do you still love Salem?
Signs point to yes! Through DIY Studio we have come in contact with generous spirits, talented artists, and big picture thinkers. We have volunteered and invested countless hours to the community and love the volunteers and the community we have fostered. We have received over 35 donors in our latest campaign and are very grateful for the continued support from the community.

I became a member. Can I get something in return?
As a 501 (c)(3) organization, donations are tax-deductible and because we are partners with Oregon Cultural Trust any matching donations to them receives a tax credit. If you aren’t using your membership as a donation, then we are happy to offer a $20 bag FREE, along with a high five, to all of our members . Simply show your membership card at check out by March 22nd.

Where is the money going when the studio closes?
All funds raised will be used to continue quality programing, events, and community outreach that supports DIY Studio’s mission. See project information above.

Will you open the creative reuse center again?
Reply hazy, try again later. DIY Studio will continue to promote creative reuse and monitor the climate in our community. Perhaps in the future with greater funding and community awareness, DIY Studio can reopen as a creative reuse center.