If you’re ready to roll up your sleeves, distress some wood and create a DIY masterpiece, then it’s time to book your reservation at downtown Melbourne’s newest crafting experience, Board and Brush Creative Studio.

Whether you’re looking to get together with the gals, enjoy a special date night out, or spend some quality time with the family, the 2.5-to-3-hour workshops offer an excellent opportunity for all ages and skill levels to let creative juices flow.

With more than 400 pick your project designs to choose from, the pro- cess from start to finish is simple.

After selecting a date and booking online, all you have to do is show up and leave the rest to your imagination.

Co-owners Tara Weigner and Meili Viera Porter, along with their husbands David and Daniel, opened the studio last September. The franchise operates hundreds of locations across the U.S. and is expanding into Canada, as well.

Weigner said she made the decision to inquire about opening the franchise in Melbourne after visiting a Board & Brush Studio in Ohio two years ago.

“My first thought was, ‘Why didn’t I think of this first,’” she said. “I knew right then I wanted to own this kind of business.”

Weigner said she has been crafting since she was a child, and as an adult was always looking for a creative outlet during her free time away from her corporate job.

“Our goal is to give our guests the best of both worlds: an amazing, rustic piece of home décor and the pride of having crafted it themselves.”

Pick your Project workshops are priced at $68 per person, and include a choice of a wood sign palette, with all materials and instructions included. Many of the designs can be customized to include names, dates, and addresses. The studio also offers “At Home Kits” which have approximately 100 designs to choose from. They can be ordered online and picked up within a few days at the studio.

“Whether the customer is looking to create a lush, modern, classic, fresh or vintage farmhouse look, all can be achieved by combining specific stains and paints,” Weigner said.

“Shades of colors can be fused together to bring out the natural beauty of the wood and create an ambience that compliments each design.”

Weigner is especially thrilled at the response she’s received from customers.

“It’s amazing to hear guests tell me how much fun they had, and how they can’t wait to come back and create more.”

“I had a husband who came to a workshop with his wife that was less than thrilled when he arrived. By the end of the evening, he admitted he was amazed at his ability to create what he described as a ‘Cool Sign,’ she said.

The studio can accommodate 20 people at a time. Private events also are offered, including birthday parties, bridal showers, corporate gatherings, fundraisers and more with special group rates.

Melbourne Board & Brush Creative Studio is a veteran-owned business and is located at 919 E. New Haven Avenue, Melbourne. For a sneak peek at upcoming promotions and special pricing, follow Board & Brush Creative Studios on Facebook or Instagram, or visit online at www.boardandbrush.com/Melbourne or by calling 321-372-9363.