Cleveland Place

At Cleveland Place, since 1988, the rhythm of the seasons sets our pace.

Beginning in mid-May, the Shops at Cleveland Place will open from Thursday through Sunday—sometimes by chance, sometimes by appointment— to welcome wanderers, readers, and the quietly curious. Here, time slows a little. Our Book Shop holds classics and newly discovered voices, while handcrafted pieces in the Artisan Shop reflect the textures, tides, and talents of the Maritimes. Whether you arrive with purpose or simply happen upon us, there’s always a sense that you’ve stepped into something both enduring and delightfully unplanned.

We are so grateful for the steady support that keeps these small spaces alive—support for Maritime artists, for local makers, and for the seasonal businesses that give Main Street in Alma its character and charm. Every visit, every conversation, every purchase carries forward a tradition of creativity and community that has lasted for decades. Thank you for being part of it, for valuing the handmade and the heartfelt, and for helping ensure that places like this continue to open their doors, season after season.

Won’t be long before I ask Steve to get back on the ladder for seasonal refreshes in the Artisan Shop at Cleveland Place🥰— I can’t be in charge of doing EVERYTHING!!😝

We spent a wonderful Long Weekend holiday with family in the sun and fresh air— today’s back-to-reality efforts landed us at Loomlust and WallyAnna Farm— tomorrow I’m back in the Studio at Cleveland Place with happy memories and new toys!

Afternoon sunshine gives opportunity for pause in today’s project. I’ll take it.

So many of my creative outlets have speedier, more efficient or modern approaches, but so much is lost in the experience once it’s hastened.

The hooks I use in rug-hooking were used by both my dad, Wallace, and his dad, Allyn. Dad says Allyn made them out of old nails and hooked mats in the 1930’s which he sold for 10 cents. He carved the hooks’ wooden handles to more comfortably fit his fingers— no adjustments needed for mine here in the living room.

There are things to think about as I pull each loop; no real skill is required which allows my mind to wander, and slower work gives way to ideas, insight, and sometimes even self-reflection. I could speed up the process, but then so much is lost— and, after all, like so much in life: what’s the hurry?