A new store in Camden is giving people the opportunity to learn an old style of artwork.

    The Tole Patch, located in the stable shops of Spruce Acres along Main Street, Camden, officially opened its doors in mid-July.

    Owner Gavin Standish has turned her passion for the artwork into a full-time, multi-faceted business after retiring from 25 years of teaching elementary school.

    A stint in Tacoma, Wash., introduced her to tole painting.

    “I attended a demonstration and thought it was something I would be interested in,” she said.

    The practice of tole painting began in 18th century New England, according to Wikipedia, and was practiced by German immigrants in Pennsylvania — commonly known as the Pennsylvania Dutch — and people of Scandinavian descent.

    Metal and wooden utensils, objects and furniture are commonly painted to create a folksy, Americana look that Standish said she fell in love with.

    Her store offers a well-stocked supply of wood and paint products for the tole painter; a consignment selection for those searching for a unique gift; and classes for anyone interested in learning the art form.

    “We try to meet everyone’s needs,” she said. “We do a little of this and a little of that.”

    Classes range from one-day courses to longer-term projects for the serious painter. A strategically placed camera allows students to watch a television screen to view Standish’s painting technique.

    A sampling of Standish’s artwork is on sale in the consignment section that also includes jewelry, quilts and baskets.

    “They’re made by local artists, I only carry handmade items,” she said.

    The Tole Patch is open from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday and from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturdays.

    For more information about classes, supplies or offerings, call 698-4488.

Email Melissa K. Steele at melissa.steele@doverpost.com.