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Guests show off their results at a Designs by Deseray Paint Party June 11 in Grafton. Artist and owner of Designs by Deseray, Deseray Hardwick, led the party at her home studio for a friend from Missouri who is pregnant and did a baby sign while the rest of the group did other items, guided by Hardwick, an artist in her own right. The June paint party attendees, left to right, are Sharon Eagan, Taylor Manzotti, Jackie Sievert, Kaitlyn Sexton, Alexis Clary and Lacey Clary.

A self-portrait of Deseray Hardwick, of Grafton, artist and owner of Designs by Deseray.

Designs by Deseray's art activity table at Brussels' Art In The Park this month. Owner and artist Deseray Hardwick, of Grafton, provided all the materials and laser-cut wooden bookmarks for visitors to paint for $5. 

GRAFTON — Designs by Deseray doesn't throw your typical paint party. It's not everyone making the same thing, watching a person at the head of a class.  It's individualized, full of passion and creativity. 

"Everything is personal to guests," said  Deseray Hardwick, of Grafton,  founder, owner and artist at Designs by Deseray. She also leads workshops to teach techniques.

"I've always been passionate about art and creativity," she said. "Over the years I've dabbled in photography, design and painting. Over the last three years I've been researching laser engraving and cutting machines. I finally decided to purchase one the beginning of this year."

Through videos and support groups Hardwick learned enough about her machine to start creating things she loves and thought others would enjoy as well.

"My intention was to offer workshops for people to paint designs they pick out or personalize to enjoy gathering with friends and being creative," she said. "Art and creativity can be very therapeutic, and I believe transmits feelings of love. In addition, I make other items when I'm feeling inspired or someone has a request."

Hardwick is just getting started with Designs by Deseray.

"I have a lot of ideas, drive and passion to create an environment of fun, creativity and experience with a beautiful piece for guests to take home," she said. "Being located in Grafton also offers guests who come to paint, all the great places to experience while in town."

Paint parties and workshops are scheduled by appointment only and for groups of up to 14 guests. Parties/workshops are held evenings and weekends only at Hardwick's Grafton home. Message her at the Designs by Deseray Facebook page discuss details and schedule, and to see a variety of Hardwick's artwork.

Jill Moon is an award-winning journalist and features editor for Hearst Newspapers. She also is editor-in-chief of Hearst's award-winning On the Edge of the Weekend monthly culture and entertainment magazine.