XPress it Studio in Crofton Looking to Sell

Andrea Phillips has had nine great years running the Xpress it Studio in Crofton, but is looking to return to work as a practicing artist. 

The owner of the paint-your-own pottery shop is looking to sell the business, which has proven to be a popular spot for young people and even adults looking for something creative and fun. 

Phillips is a sculptor and hopes to spend her time developing pieces for exhibits, possibly in partnership with her mother, who is also an artist. She said she hopes to sell to an owner who will keep the studio going. 

"After nine years, I just said 'what else can I do?'" she said. "Whatever it is, it will still be in an artistic direction. Running a store allows for no time extra for things."

Phillips, who has a degree in fine arts, opened the store in 2004. Prior to that, she served as a manager for a similar studio in Annapolis. 

At Xpress it Studio, customers are invited to select an undecorated piece of ceramic or pottery and then glaze it they way they wish. After the item is fired in a kiln, they can take it home. Phillips said the studio has been a popular place for birthday parties, but also has a lot of walk-ins. 

Phillips, who lives in the Piney Orchard section of Odenton, said Xpress it Studio is profitable and thrived even during the recession. Customers are drawn from all over the area including parts of Bowie, Davidsonville and west Anne Arundel County, and its closest competitors are in Annapolis and Pasadena. There is two years remaining on the store's lease in the Route Three Centre. 

Those interested in inquiring about the business can email xpressitstudio@comcast.net or call Jack Phillips at 410-305-8180.