Shells, sand and sculptures

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By VICKI BROWN

If anyone grows bored with summer fun, there is something else new to do…Simply Sand Creations.

This unique business gives you the opportunity to become an artist. You actually create your own personal sculpture with molds and casting.

Cathy Cole is the owner of the business, which is located on Edisto Island at 51 Station Court, Suite A. 

Not only does she assist residents and tourists at the beach, she also offers mobile services in Edisto, Walterboro, Charleston and surrounding areas.

“We offer a space for families to create art together and make great memories.  Anything from handprints, footprints, plaques and fun shapes can be cast to preserve the moment,” said Cole.

Basically, Cole provides a large bin of sand. She assists clients with finding the perfect mold, which is then placed in the sand, along with shells, sea glass, or other ornamentation. Then she pours in a type of plaster. The plaster hardens and the result is a beautiful, textured sculpture of a fish, Aztec sun, turtle, gator, or even a handprint. Some parents have visited the business to get handprints of their infants.

The Charleston native and mother of an energetic 4-year-old was looking for a way to balance daycare and work as a single mom when she came across a similar business in Daytona, Florida. “Being a single mom and facing the challenges of this seemed like a fun way to spend more time together,” said Cole.

Now her business has grown, and she has taken to the road to travel with her “sandbox.”

“We can host parties up to 12 people comfortably in the studio,” said Cole. “We are open seven days a week by advanced reservation from 10 a.m.- 4 p.m. in the studio. And now, our mobile service can provide fun to groups large and small, including corporate functions, parties, special events, camps and more,” she added.

“We can bring the sandbox to you.” People can book appointments online at simplysandcreations.com or on Facebook.

Casting in the sand isn’t a medium of art that is commonly seen in this area.  According to Cole, it is the artists themselves make it art so interesting. 

“The creativity I see each day is inspiring,” she said.

Cole’s budding artists can create plaques, wall art, ornaments and magnets. She also hosts candle-making, oyster shell crafts, custom jewelry design and other special events throughout the year. “Everyone has been so enthusiastically positive. Clients often come back to bring more family/friends to create or refer others.  I am beyond grateful for the support of the Edisto community and the artists that visit the studio,” said Cole. “Everyone that comes in to create, leaves as a friend.”