Cross and Stone - Mike's Shop Story

About CrossStoneStudio
Faith you can hold.
CrossStoneStudio began with a simple belief. Faith deserves to be held, not just spoken.
After a season of grief, Mike Ayers picked up a piece of limestone on a quiet creek walk. That weight in his hand became the first prayer object. What started in sorrow grew into a practice of making things that endure.
Today every piece is hand carved in our shop in Saint Charles, Iowa. We work exclusively with Indiana limestone from Owen County, Indiana, chosen for its tight grain, warm buff color, and the way it takes a hand-rubbed finish. Each stone is paired with native Iowa hardwood, then bound by hand with leather, natural cord, or twisted wire. No molds, no mass production, no stains to hide the material.
Because stone and wood are natural, no two pieces are exactly alike. The weight, usually between two and four pounds for our standing crosses, is intentional. It is meant to be felt in the palm during prayer, set on a desk altar, or given as a memorial gift.
These are not seasonal decor. They are small, permanent tools for contemplation, made to age gracefully with handling.
Kelly Ayers, owner and marketer
Mike Ayers, designer and maker
Saint Charles, Iowa

