After her grandson was diagnosed with eczema as a baby, Etta Perry was determined to find a soap recipe that would soothe his skin. After many hours of researching, Etta stumbled upon the "gentlest of cleansers." Her grandson is now eczema free thanks to the all-essential, moisturizing oils used in Etta's soaps. Her product is great for dry, sensitive, or acne-prone skin. Etta also makes a shampoo bar that will leave your hair silky and your scalp moisturized. "I haven't bought a bottle of conditioner since," said Perry. Her soaps come in a variety of scents, including Honey and Oatmeal, Summer Spice, and Avocado.

Stitches by Mary

Sewing has always been a hobby for local crafter, Mary Lotts. She opened her own business 12 years ago in Roanoke, Va., selling originally designed placemats. When customers approached this avid stitcher about placemats that don't overlap on round tables, Mary went straight to the drawing board. Visit The Depot and take home a set of Mary's original round or rectangular placemats for your home. Also available are Mary's round and oblong casserole carriers and double oven mitts. Add extra pizzazz with a matching table topper made by Mary's long-time friend and partner, Anita Luke.  

Bill's Hiking Sticks

Bill Lyons began making hiking sticks four years ago from the comfort of his Carter County home. With too much free time on his hands, Bill turned to carving. "It comes naturally," said Bill. Each handmade stick takes about two hours to make. The sticks are cut and dried for an entire year before they are sanded and varnished. With a creative mind and a steady hand, Bill then carves intricate designs into the wood. A second coat of varnish and a leather hand strap finish off these unique hiking sticks.

Straw Mountain Brooms

Bring home a decorative and functional piece of Appalachian history with these handcrafted brooms. Straw Mountain brooms are made from broom-corn, a member of the sorghum family. Founders Bob and Patsy Wiggins are dedicated to preserving the traditional and historical broom making methods of the 19th century. The brooms are made on original broom shop equipment, such as the "kick-winder." Bob and Patsy also do their own sewing in an original 1878 broom vise. Various Straw Mountain products are sold in The Depot, including adult, child, and whisk brooms. Also available for purchase are toy mops and cake testers like grandma used to use.

3D Stained Glass

 You will be amazed at the unique and random items peering back at you from these 3D stained glass creations.  Artisan Paula Jo Lynch got her start over 12 years ago while doing professional gardening for a couple in Florida. The wife was a "master stained glass woman," who was impressed with Paula's artistic eye. The couple paid for Paula to take stained glass classes, hoping she would help with the wife's business.  Paula now works out of her home studio in Stoney Creek. Her 3D stained glass feature a variety of objects, including glass bottles, stove handles, silverware, horseshoes, and much more. She also makes custom pieces for clients who want to preserve or display a special item. "They really trust me with their treasures," said Paula. For more information, visit www.pjs3dglass.com.

Custom Creations

Linda Bradsher's custom jackets are a perfect addition to any outfit. Her originally designed jackets come in an array of colors, patterns, embellishments and fabrics. Her "strip" and "cut-a-way" jackets display her great skill and attention to detail. Linda has been sewing since she was a little girl, learning her craft from both her mother and years of experience. Homemade chenille, detailed embellishments and custom sizes are also among her specialties. You'll for sure turn heads in one of these custom designer jackets.