As shoppers were out in full force Saturday for the day-after-Christmas shopping, downtown business owners reflected on what Christmas sales have meant to business this year.

Today marks the four-month anniversary for the opening of What’s Needlin’ Ewe, at 411 N. Main St. Owner Sharon Johnson sells knitting, crocheting, spinning and weaving supplies and provides classes in those areas for those interested in either learning or becoming better at those skills.

Saturday, Johnson said sales were brisk.

“People now want to start on after-Christmas projects,” Johnson said.

She said her busiest time so far was six weeks before Christmas. Because of the nature of her business, her customers needed to buy supplies in enough time to make handmade gifts for Christmas this year. She did, however, have one customer who came in Christmas Eve to get supplies.

“I know she went home and finished it that night,” Johnson said about the customer who wanted to knit a neck warmer for a gift.

For now, Johnson said she is planning to close on Sundays. She said she will probably go back to the seven-day-a-week schedule in the spring. Right now, her store is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Her store is open on Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Fridays.

Mike King, owner of Dry Bridge Station, a specialty, hobby train store, said sales have been great this year considering the economy.

“We didn’t set any records this year, but it’s been good. I think we’ve done exceptionally well, considering we are a niche business,” said King.

Pages bookstore was one of the many businesses open on Main Street the day after Christmas. Owner Sandy Gwyn said the day after Christmas was a busy one.

“According to the economy, business has been good,” said Gwyn. “Christmas sales picked up a couple of weeks ago. Because of the snow storm, people who waited until the last minute sure came out. Christmas made our December,” Gwyn said.

Pages is open Monday through Thursday 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sunday from 1 to 5 p.m.

Customers filled Meadows of Dan Trading Company the day after Christmas as well. Owner Lorrie Riccitello said it has been a very good Christmas at the store.

“Considering the economy, it’s been a very good Christmas. I’m sure not every year is a record year, but still we have done well,” Riccitello said.

The store has been on Main Street for 15 years. Riccitello said because her store offers such unique products, she has a very loyal customer base.

“We make it a fun experience for shoppers. We always have coffee going. This is not just a place for shopping, it’s a gathering place. We have such a good atmosphere, it keeps people here longer,” Riccitello said.

Steven Martin, owner of The Candle Station, said it has been a good Christmas for the store. He said his business has tripled this year. He said the tourist industry is alive and well.

“There have been lots of shoppers downtown — 2009 has just been fantastic. The economy is a little better than what people think,” Martin said.

The Candle Station opened in 2003. He said his biggest seller are electric candles and Mayberry collectibles.

Contact Mondee Tilley at mtilley@mtairynews.com or at 719-1930.