About Us

Tar Heel Trading Company was established in 1979 by Mary Ames. The goal was to bring fine handcrafts to the famous Outer Banks of North Carolina. Our name was inspired by Mary’s vision to emphasize representation of artists from the “Tar Heel” state . Our first location was at Sea Holly Square in Kill Devil Hills. Since then, we have had locations in several towns on the Outer Banks and in Key West, Florida. The Company was purchased by Judy Joyce in 1999 after Judy worked closely with Mary for 14 years.

In 2023, the store came under the ownership of Liz and Jamie McBain who, along with their family and loyal staff, operate Tar Heel Trading Company with the same careful attention to detail, quality and customer service that has set it apart since its inception.

We currently have one location in Scarborough Lane Shoppes in Duck on the Outer Banks. We proudly represent the work of over 200 local and nationally known American craftsmen. We invite you to visit our shop and experience the fun, hands-on approach and fine quality merchandise that customers have come to enjoy while shopping with us.