The Blackstone Antiques and Crafts Mall, owned by Janette Baranishyn, is one of the largest of its kind in southside Virginia and features a wide selection of antiques, collectibles, primitives, hand crafted items, mid-century modern items and more. From furniture to glassware, ceramics and paintings, they have something for everyone.
When asked what made her want to run an antique mall, Janette answers, “I love antiques. I’ve always been an antique-er. I never thought I’d run an antique store,” she laughs, “it was just one of the things like, what do you do with 19,000 square feet?”
“We bought the building in September of 2006. At that time, it was designated blight in Blackstone. The idea was to save the building, do the rehabilitation that it required and keep it maintained. And to do that, we opened the Antiques and Crafts Mall.”
Among the more popular items currently being sold are dressers and tables, furniture being about 50% of total sales. Garden items such as lawn art, wind chimes, spinners, metal birds and cranes are another trending category. Farmhouse décor is another style being sold with lots of primitive looking towels, placemats, and even furniture. Wise Owl Paints are sold here and work really well when painting furniture that is older and dark like mahogany and cherry.
The lighting section is yet another reason to visit, with the bits and pieces to restore antique oil lamps, vintage table lamps and electric lamps. They even offer lamp repair and restoration, “and that’s a dying art- there aren’t too many people who do that anymore.”
Vendors travel throughout Virginia and the surrounding states to find unique, unusual, and authentic items that have survived the test of time. Whether you’re searching for a Chippendale sideboard in pristine condition or a primitive farm table with lots of character, they have an extensive selection of quality furniture.
A trip to Blackstone’s Historic Business District is not complete without a visit to Janette and her vendors to explore the vast number of stalls located at 121 North Main Street.
