Everyone sometimes needs a cozy space to wrap up craft projects, acquire new skills, or even create whimsical art. Enter The Resting Bitch Place.
The vision behind The Resting Bitch Place (RBP) comes from Amanda Harman, who initially laid it out in a Google document, where it lingered for years as her whimsical “lottery win dream.” She had never believed it would come to fruition until her job in defense contracting was paused for eight weeks in the fall of 2025.
According to Harman, “Defense contractors don’t receive back pay when the government resumes operations.” After facing job loss during her furlough, she learned on April 1 that her position had been eliminated again. Driven by a desire to pursue what she had envisioned, she came across a suitable location earlier this year on Triadelphia Road in Ellicott City within The Shops at Westwood.
Now, The Resting Bitch Place is a bustling hub for creativity, offering classes, workshops, and special theme nights like the popular “Stitch and Bitch.” Yet, it is the “Craft and Yap” concept that Harman is especially excited about.
“The main idea is Craft and Yap, where attendees can bring their own projects for a relaxed crafting session at no cost, or for $15 per hour, they can make use of my extensive craft supply collection,” shared Harman. “My stash includes a variety of items like beads, fabric, wood blanks, a sewing machine, scissors, pattern books, markers, crayons, color pencils, disco balls, perler beads, stamps, and even paper.”
Along with the sewing machine, RBP is equipped with larger devices for novice crafters or those wanting to experiment, including a serger, heat press, laminator, paper cutter, and grommet press. Guests may bring their own projects or browse the “Unfinished Business” section, which consists of left-behind craft supplies and half-completed projects.
In Harman’s words, “If you’ve ever become hyper-focused on a project, collected all the materials, but then realized you won’t finish, you can bring in your supplies to share with others. Whether it’s a half-knitted sweater you no longer wish to see or just excess materials, others might find joy in completing what you’ve left behind.”
Harman’s commitment to inclusivity and community support extends further with a Little Free Library and a Little Free Food Pantry, allowing people to take what they need and contribute as they can. In addition, she has introduced “Community Care Drawers” stocked with health supplies, such as tampons, condoms, diaper wipes, emergency contraception, deodorant wipes, and more, all available for free. Signage on these drawers emphasizes, “Take what you need” and “No judgement.”
Harman’s focus on community support also extends to local animals. A unique fundraiser is set for Friday, August 14, called “Paint a Peen for a Purpose.” This adults-only event will benefit Dekota, a horse at Dragonfly Acres Farm, who is undergoing cancer treatment.
As Dekota celebrates his 21st birthday on July 21, the fundraiser aims to raise 100% of net proceeds for Dragonfly Acres Farm to help cover his veterinary expenses. Participants can expect an entertaining evening filled with quirky art, camaraderie, raffles, photo opportunities, and the much-discussed Peen Parade.
The concrete models provided by Fern and Folk—a local Catonsville artist known for their playful pottery—will serve as canvases for guests to paint. Prizes will be awarded in categories such as The People’s Peen, Most Unhinged, and Prettiest Peen. Guests can opt to decorate either a four-inch piece or a set of five mini models. Indeed, it promises to be an engaging and lively event!
