From Letterpress to Moravian Stars: 5 Local Ornaments that Shine
As a city that’s known for a thriving art scene, it’s no surprise that the traditional technique of letterpress printing lives on in Winston-Salem, thanks in part to local artisan Alan Henderson of Pinecrest Printery.
Alan Henderson inherited his love of art from his grandparents and a knack for business from his mother. From early beginnings as a photo stylist at Southern Living Magazine to now running his own shop in downtown Winston-Salem, Henderson continues to create inspiring designs for customers seeking a personal touch on greeting cards, wedding invitations, or even one-of-a-kind ornaments.
Learn more about his passion for letterpress in this two-minute video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kw0D3lw4z08&=&feature=youtu.be
Each holiday season, Henderson handcrafts letterpress ornaments which come “packaged” as greeting cards. These one-of-a-kind miniature works of art make the perfect unexpected, yet thoughtful stocking stuffer. Pick your favorite holiday design at his website PinecrestPrintery.com retailing at $6 each.
And because we simply couldn’t choose just one tree trinket to tout, here are four more local stops to find the perfect ornament to spruce up your holidays:
Deck the Halls Sale at Sawtooth School for Visual Art (Nov. 30 – Dec. 22)
Find the Sawtooth School for Visual Art in the heart of downtown Winston-Salem. Formerly Shamrock Mills, the century-old building, was the first hosiery factory built by the Hanes Hosiery empire. The name, “Sawtooth,” is a tribute to its jagged roofline that’s continued to inspire architecture and design concepts found around the city. Beautifully displayed in the Sawtooth School’s gallery and gift shop setting, Deck the Halls features a unique variety of work from more than 80 local and regional artists and craftsmen.
Go shopping: 251 N. Spruce St., Winston-Salem, NC 27101
Alan Henderson's 2017 holiday ornament
Piedmont Craftsmen Gallery
Located in the Downtown Arts District, Piedmont Craftsmen Gallery represents nearly 400 of the most talented artisans across the country. In addition to seasonal ornaments, the shop carries fine handmade garments, jewelry, one-of-a-kind housewares, and other decorative objects.
Go shopping: 601 Trade St NW, Winston-Salem, NC 27101
T. Bagge Merchant in Old Salem
Located in the 1766 Moravian settlement of Old Salem, T. Bagge Merchant was originally the town's community store. Today the shop offers an array of Moravian Star ornaments, pottery made in Old Salem, and other items including traditional beeswax candles, children's toys, and books.
Visitor’s Tip: Some the glass Moravian star ornaments double as beeswax candle holders. Use them as beautiful centerpieces or atop a fireplace mantle.
Go shopping: 626 S Main St, Winston-Salem, NC 27101
With so many local boutiques, retail shops, and galleries, Winston-Salem takes the stress out of holiday shopping. Start planning a visit to find one-of-a-kind treasures for everyone on your list.