The Explorers
We never have to go to Maj-R Thrift again.
12/3-12/4
Thrift stores and estate sales are probably our best chances of finding a cabbage-rose-print wingback and matching ottoman. But who says sorting through all that other crap is the fun part? We think it's a pain in the ass. Which is why we're so excited about the Urban Mining sale. Professional foragers do the hard part for us, and from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on the first Friday and Saturday of each month they present their discoveries in a warehouse at 3924 Walnut. Mary Rouse, who came up with the idea, tells us to expect vintage fabrics, antiques, furniture, accessories for the house, and art, among other things. "This is our third sale in this space, and so far we've had great response to the selection and the prices," Rouse says. We're sold. Call 816-529-2829 for more information. -- Annie Fischer
Knit Happens
New sewing circles leave us in stitches.
THU 12/2
It's never been hipper to learn how to sew. In conjunction with the breathtaking Cross Stitch fine-art textile exhibit, the Urban Culture Project begins a month of sewing circles at 7 p.m. Thursday at the Bank gallery (11th and Baltimore). Those attending the first class should bring something to embroider; other supplies are furnished. Call 816-531-5818 for more information. For folks who are more interested in socializing, the UMKC Women's Center (5120 Rockhill, 816-235-1638) kicks off the Women's Revolutionary Knitting Circle, which aims to promote open political discussion as well as effective needlework, the same night at 7. The $10 fee purchases a sewing kit; all proceeds benefit breast-cancer awareness. -- Jason Harper
Art Upstarts
FRI 12/3
While all eyes were on the Crossroads, Columbus Park got itself a legit gallery scene. Four of the six new Northeast galleries host openings at 5:30 p.m. Friday. The Art in Columbus Park gallery (1020 East Missouri) showcases ceramic ornaments by Gayle Martin, and 525 Gallery (525 Gillis) features the urban-decay-themed photography of Dan Freuh. Call 816-274-3525 for more information. -- Harper
