04/11/2026
It’s no secret that we at Midgett Realty love a good beach vacation–it’s kind of our passion. From the feeling of sand between our toes to long days spent soaking up the sunshine, it’s hard to beat time on Hatteras Island. But every now and then, the weather has other plans, the sunscreen gets left behind, or you simply find yourself ready to try something new.
Whether you’re searching for a rainy-day activity for the whole family, a break from the heat, a meaningful way to spend time together, a creative outlet, or even just a great cup of coffee, Studio 12 in Avon offers a refreshing alternative to your usual beach routine.
With their coffee bar, gallery, and art center, Studio 12 is a triple threat for vacationers of all ages and creative interests. The place “where makers gather” is a welcoming, creative space that invites visitors to slow down, sip something yummy, and tap into their artistic side. Whether you’re painting pottery, exploring a new craft, or simply relaxing in the cozy Swept Away Café, Studio 12 provides something for everyone. It’s the kind of place where you can walk in exactly as you are, no experience required, and leave with something meaningful. That might be a handmade piece, a new skill, or just a great memory from your time on the Outer Banks.
One of the best things about Studio 12 is how approachable it feels. You don’t need to consider yourself “artistic” to enjoy it. The environment is relaxed, friendly, and encouraging, making it easy for everyone, from kids to grandparents, to jump in and have fun. Whether you want step-by-step guidance or prefer to do your own thing, there’s space for both.
Swept Away Cafe and Studio 12 offer a perfect mix of dining and local shopping in Avon
Classes & Creative Experiences
Studio 12 offers a rotating schedule of classes and workshops, so there’s always something new to try. If you are looking for a guided class, you can sign up for these on their website (24 hours in advance is recommended to reserve a seat). Depending on when you visit, you might find:
• Pottery classes
• Pottery painting
• Canvas painting classes
• Decoupage seashells
• Glass art experiences
• Jewelry making
• Kids’ art classes
• Seasonal or themed workshops
These sessions are designed to be fun and low-pressure, making them perfect for families, date nights, or even a little solo creative time.
Just Show Up & Make Something
In addition to classes, Studio 12 offers a variety of walk-in services and experiences that make it easy to spend a few hours or more enjoying the space without the pressure of a schedule. Walk-in art activities you can do at your own pace can include:
• Glass fusion and mosaics
• Ceramics painting
• Candle making
• Sea glass wire wrapping
• Jewelry making
Creativity comes to life at the art stations inside Studio 12
More Than Just an Art Studio
Beyond the hands-on art experiences, the Inspiration Gift Shop doubles as a gallery where local creativity truly shines. Featuring 100% handcrafted works by local artisans, it’s a shopping experience that is unique in that you’re likely to meet at least one (or two) of the artists themselves, making each piece feel even more special.
Get Swept Away
The Swept Away Café brings the whole experience at Studio 12 full circle. Grab a breakfast sandwich, get your caffeine fix, or delight in a boba tea. From the pastries to the drink specials, this sweet café’s offerings are the perfect compliment to your time at Studio 12, but can also serve as your daily go-to coffee shop while you’re here.
Whether you’re escaping a rainy afternoon, taking a break from the heat, or simply looking to try something different, Studio 12 truly has something for everyone. It’s a place where creativity meets community, with no pressure or expectations, just a genuinely enjoyable experience.
So next time your beach plans shift or you’re craving a change of scenery, consider stepping inside Studio 12. You might just discover that some of your favorite vacation memories happen off the sand.
Local art, unique gifts, and a warm welcome at Swept Away Cafe and Studio 12
A Note from the Author
My 12-year old niece was in town from New York and we stumbled into Studio 12 thanks to a Google search for an afternoon coffee spot. Living in Hatteras Village, I tend to stay in my little bubble, and I’m embarrassed to admit that despite passing by countless times, I had never stepped inside. What a gem!
Dawn (the owner who also has a very cool story that you can read about here) and her team have done an amazing job curating a welcoming space that is fun and inviting, while also allowing you to flex your creative muscle. If a space can keep a 40-something Hatteras Island native and a 12-year-old New Yorker happily engaged for an entire afternoon, I would say it’s absolutely worth experiencing.
It was late afternoon during our first visit, so we opted to go back another day to get our hands dirty in the studio and had the best time giggling, sipping, shopping, and creating. Seriously, I’m not sure who had more fun, myself or my niece! She painted a ceramic mug, we both made candles, and I could not resist bringing home three beautiful pieces of pottery by Aime. As it turns out, Aime, the very talented potter, was also teaching a sea glass wire wrapping class when we arrived AND served as our barista during both visits. Each of the women we met were choc-full of talent and stories rich with life, making our time at Studio 12 extra special.
Today, the pottery is neatly situated throughout my open kitchen, where I know every time I look at them I’ll fondly remember Aime’s story of how she landed in Hatteras as well as one of my favorite days with my beautiful niece.
Thanks, Studio 12! Art on. 😊
