ASHLAND — Libby and Katie Wurtz of Ashland share more than a last name.

They share a studio at the Pendleton Art Center, where they display and sell their wide variety of gift items they hand craft.

The two are featured artists for December at the Pendleton.

Katie Wurtz, a 21-year-old graduate of Rose Hill Christian School was always a crafty person. She started making jewelry after receiving a gift of beads and other materials to make jewelry.

While earning an associate’s degree at Ashland Technical and Community College, she supplemented her income by making jewelry, decorative weaths and other crafts and going on the road, selling them at various craft fairs. Her mother, Libby Wurtz , traveled with her to shows and eventually started making items for sale.

The two were familiar with the Pendleton after visiting during the First Friday art walk but decided to get a studio there after talking to some of the artists there during one of their shows.

The occasionally work in the studio, using it mostly for display and sales, but are happy with their decision to rent a spot, Libby Wurtz said.

“We really like all the artists there. They’re great,” she said.

Libby Wurtz, a full-time registered nurse at King’s Daughters Medical Center, started sewing when she was a student in a junior high school home economics class. She made everything from Halloween costumes to Easter ensembles for her daughter, but eventually the demands of her job cut into her sewing time.

When the younger Wurtz started traveling with her wares, it occurred to them that Libby Wurtz also might have something to contribute.

That’s when she started making children’s clothing, including T-shirts, dresses, purses and hair bows.

Many of her items are seasonal, as are Katie Wurtz’s creations. During the First Friday art walk, the pair will have many Christmas items displayed and for sale.

Katie Wurtz said she believes her jewelry line offers something for everyone.

“Some pieces are dark but there are whimsical things teens would like and there is children’s jewelry, she said. Her favorite items to make are earrings because they come together quickly. She said she and her mother like to have earrings for every top they wear.

Both women most enjoy taking orders. Katie Wurtz said she enjoys custom orders and has made jewelry for women in wedding parties and jewelry with school and collegiate themes.

Libby Wurtz also takes custom orders for her mostly applique items.

Also during tonight’s art walk:

‰The Pendleton, at 1537-1539 Winchester Ave., will feature music by Glo and Embers.

‰Jesse Stuart Foundation will be open from 5 to 8 p.m. Refreshments will be served and six local authors will sign copies of their books: James Gifford, Mark Maynard, Stacey Nelson, Edwina Pendarvis, G. Sam Piatt, and Robin L. Ramey. The foundation is at 1645 Winchester Ave. For more information, call (606) 326-1667, visit jsfbooks.com, or friend us on Facebook.

‰TSHD Architects/1414 Gallery will feature Art by MiAppa (Made in Appalachia) Artists. The gallery is at 1414 Winchester Ave. For more information, call (606) 393-5190 or visit tshdarchitects.com/the-1414-gallery-at-tshd-architects-p_12.html.

‰December’s and half of January’s featured artist at The Upstairs Gallery is Nikki Holmes, photographer. The gallery is at 1428 Winchester Ave. For more information, call Barbara at (606) 325-2470 or (304) 633-4401 or visit yessy.com/TUG.

‰Thoroughbred Gallery will have the exhibit titled “Breath of Legend” by Jessica Brooks, Sharon Schmutz, Renee Schmutz-Sowards and Courtney Thompson. Entertainment will be provided by Brian Brown, guitarist. The gallery is at 1430 Winchester Ave. For more information, call Barbara at (606) 325-2470 or (304) 633-4401 or visit yessy.com/TUG.

LEE WARD can be reached at lward@dailyindependent.com or (606) 326-2661.