History Amy James Founded Unique Pewter in 1994. With two daughters at home, she worked part-time at a picture framing shop in Paoli, PA. Amy made a modest start creating pewter charms and enhancing them with glass beads and semi-precious stones. She found delight in a wide range of imagery: animals, angels, whimsical tea pots, hearts, flowers, nautical and holiday themes. People responded so positively to her work that she loaded up the station wagon and started exhibiting in art and craft shows.
In 2000 Amy opened a storefront and spent seven years as a retailer in Malvern, PA. Unique Pewter at 13 East King Street offered handcrafted products, later expanding to The Olde Malvern Firehouse.The Firehouse transformed into an antique co-op and gift store. “Come Bead with Me” was first offered there, where Amy began teaching jewelry making to kids and adults.
In the past as a member of The Malvern Business and Professional Association she was instrumental in establishing two juried art shows in Malvern. This brought the town together and helped artists and retailers gain visibility and a sense of community. These events are now a staple of the borough of Malvern and attended by thousands every year.
When her creative interest channeled into working with glass, Amy decided to close the brick-and-mortar stores. This allowed her to spend more time developing her skills with lampwork, which then led to learning the techniques of kiln fired glass. Both of these techniques in glass work have led to her primary passion for creating distinctive glass pieces.
Come Visit Amy and see where the magic Happens!
History continues
Over the last few years of history, the glass and jewelry studio has expanded to offer custom, high quality, conservation picture framing. Amy’s multi faceted talents under one roof in picturesque Chester County outside of the Historic St. Peter’s Village. UP Design Studios offers hundreds of mat and frame samples to match customers’ unique styles and personalities. Amy is happy to assist with more basic picture framing, but is also equipped to handle complicated projects. For example, mounting any type of needle-art, cut mirrors, dry-mounting, frame restoration, shadow-boxes for 3D art or memorabilia, and cut oval mats and glass. UP offers pick-up and delivery service with a way for you to make selections digitally. However, for the full experience of beautiful Northern Chester County and the warm welcoming environment of the studio, we recommend stopping by to discuss your project. As the designer, Amy will walk you through all of your options. She will help design a piece that complements your art, home, and you, considering the display environment.