Spotlight on a featured business in East Contra Costa County. This week, we hear from Created By You.

Created By You: Where Every Project Becomes a Personal Masterpiece

For over 25 years, Laura Whittington taught art and science to homeschool students, watching young learners discover their creative potential. As her classes grew larger and more popular, she realized the community needed something more than just occasional lessons. They needed a dedicated space where creativity could flourish any day of the week. That vision led her to open Created By You, a DIY art studio located at 1300 Central Boulevard, Suite D, in Brentwood, California.

"I am a homeschool mom, have homeschooled for over 25 years," Whittington explains. "Because the classes were getting to be so big, I decided to open a brick and mortar. We do a lot of work with students that are in charter schools and home schools as well. So it's nice to be able to have a place that provides something for everybody with all walks of life."

A Creative Menu for Everyone

Walking into Created By You feels like entering a treasure trove of artistic possibilities. Whittington or one of her team members greets each visitor personally, then introduces them to an impressive array of creative options. Same-day ceramics, canvas painting, glass painting, 3D wood art, wood signs, hat painting, dream catchers, a charm and bead bar, resin work, and more fill the studio with color and potential.

"We would just show people around and let them see the different projects in person," Whittington says. "And once somebody decides what they wanna do, we set them up in an area they feel comfortable working and get the materials needed to complete the project."

Building Confidence Through Art

The studio serves everyone from five-year-olds taking their first art class to adults seeking a creative outlet. Whittington's teaching background shines through in her approach to supporting visitors who might doubt their artistic abilities. Her team provides hands-on assistance and friendly suggestions, but always respects each person's creative vision.

"Anytime somebody's feeling a little bit uncomfortable with something or don't think they can pull it off, we might give suggestions," she explains. "But ultimately, it's still their project, and they're going to do what they do."

When asked about moments that make her especially proud, Whittington points to the transformation she witnesses regularly. "Everything from our littles art class, where we have five to eight-year-olds, and seeing them come to life and listening and following instructions while I walk them through, let's say, a canvas painting, and seeing them think that they can't do something, and then once it's all done, they're so proud of what they've accomplished. To teenagers, the same thing, and even adults."

Community Connections

Created By You has become more than just an art studio. It partners with the City of Brentwood to offer diverse art classes and hosts events for both children and adults. The studio also collaborates with other local businesses, creating opportunities for mutual growth and bringing fresh entertainment options to the community.

The studio constantly evolves by welcoming local artists to share their skills. Instructors teach everything from crochet to jewelry making, with Whittington actively encouraging people to step forward with their talents. "We love it when students even come in and say, 'Hey, I have... I can do this. Can I teach a class?' Sure, let's put it out there and see if we can share your experience with others. And it not only builds confidence in the instructors, but also provides another outlet for people."

More Than Projects

What sets Created By You apart is the personal connection Whittington fosters with each visitor. "We're so open to talking with you and really try and nail down what you would like to do when you have this free time to yourself, whether you're by yourself or you're with your family," she says. "It's just having that personal connection with people and letting them feel like this is a place that they can come in, you know their name, you smile when they walk in the door, and really provide just that comfortable outlet for people."

Whether you're looking for a creative outlet, a family activity, or a way to build new skills, Created By You offers a welcoming space where your vision becomes reality. Find them at 1300 Central Blvd D in Brentwood, call (925) 392-8672, or visit their website to discover what project is waiting for you to create.

Created By You
1300 Central Blvd D
Brentwood, CA 94513, USA
Phone: (925) 392-8672
Website: https://createdby-you.com/
Instagram: createdbyyouartbrentwood
Google Business: Link

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