A Modern Day Fabric Shop
I have been sewing for as long as I can remember. When I was 16, I worked in an embroidery shop where I helped run the multi-needle embroidery machine, hemmed pants, sewed on patches, and helped with simple sewing. I loved the job and dreamed of having my own embroidery machine one day. It was years later when I was able to get a home embroidery machine and dove into doing embroidery again.
Supporting small businesses is my passion, machine embroidery is my hobby, and, as with any hobby, finding a local shop to buy supplies is essential. When the opportunity arose to write an article about The Stitchery, I was so excited because The Stitchery is one of my favorite places to go. The Stitchery In Rome is so much more than a place to purchase fabric and supplies; it is a group of people who are just as passionate about sewing as I am and are very knowledgeable about everything sewing. They have everything I need to supply my sewing room.
Along with fabric, The Stitchery also sells vinyl. Vinyl is another popular hobby where you can personalize shirts, mugs, home decor, and just about anything you can imagine.
Meeting The Needs Of The Community
The Stitchery has been in business since 2011. Stephanie Bradshaw and Susan Horton started the business because they saw the need for a fabric shop in the area. A mutual friend introduced the ladies to each other after expressing a need for a fabric shop, which is how The Stitchery was born. Susan’s interest was in sewing and quilting, and Stephanie’s background was in interior design. Together they made a great team, and when Susan retired, the foundation of the business was well laid, and Stephanie was able to take over.
The Stitchery was just what our community needed. It provided for the need of a fabric store, supply store, machine dealer, and highly knowledgeable staff about the craft. It has been nine years since The Stitchery came to fruition, and the local community has supported it.
When people have a hobby like sewing, they seek out places that can fill their need for supplies and offer support. That is why when people discover The Stitchery, they come back repeatedly. The shop’s design is open, bright, and welcoming, a modern-day fabric shop.
Machines
They also sell machines, fabric, notions, vinyl, and sewing tables. From the start, they knew they wanted to sell machines. Susan was familiar with BabyLock, so they have been selling Babylock from the beginning. Since then, they have added Janome. They know their machines and can help you choose the best machine for your needs.
They can repair and service Babylock, Janome, and Brother if you already have a machine.
Classes
The Stitchery not only has the best selection of machines, fabric, and supplies around but also offers classes. If you are new to sewing and want to learn how to begin, you can take a class to teach you the basics. It is a hands-on class that teaches basic techniques while creating a project. The Stitchery also offers classes to teach you how to use an embroidery machine.
If you are interested in learning the reviving art of quilting, a specialized class teaches you quilting techniques. A popular trend is creating a Barn Painting, a painting of a quilt square hung on the outside wall of a barn or shed. The Stitchery offers a painting class that allows you to create your own Barn Painting. I had not heard of this type of art, but I love the idea.
In the past, The Stitchery has hosted the Georgia Sewing Workshop. This three-day event held off-site teaches sewing, quilting, and embroidery. The Stitchery provides machines for the students to learn on. The class sizes are around 50 people from all over the area. The Georgia Sewing Workshop is an event that Stephanie is looking forward to doing again soon.
Once Stephanie even incorporated quilting into a geometry class her daughter was taking. Quilting blocks are a great example of geometrics, and the kids could learn and apply geometry with a hands-on project.
Rebranding
After nine years in the business, The Stitchery is rebranding its image to give it a new look. Stephanie feels it is good to refresh your look, and rebranding will provide them with the new look they seek. I look forward to seeing the new branding.
Sewing has had an uptick in popularity, especially among the younger generation. They are learning how to make quilts and basic sewing techniques, such as upcycling wardrobes, which have recently become popular. Upcycling involves reimagining old garments and making something new. Creating home decor with a sewing machine is another popular craft that catches the younger generation’s interest.
Stephanie is always looking for opportunities to grow with the business. She is fantastic at staying on top of trends and styles.
A Hidden Gem
The Stitchery is truly a hidden gem right here in Rome, Georgia. People that have discovered The Stitchery will drive miles to visit. I am fortunate to live close by and visit anytime I have a sewing need. The staff is fantastic and always willing to help by giving you personalized service. They offer what other stores can’t, a team with a passion for sewing, quilting, and embroidery matched with knowledge of sewing, machines, and techniques. Once you discover The Stitchery, you will be hooked (like I am!) on this hidden gem right here in Rome, Georgia.
The Stitchery is located at 9 Central Plaza, Rome, Ga. For more information on The Stitchery, visit the website www.thestitcheryrome.com or follow them on Facebook @thestitcheryrome
While you are there, sign up for their text messages that send you information on sales and specials and sign up for the Fabric Appreciation Card. Anytime you buy regular-price fabric, you get your purchase recorded, and after six visits, you get 10% off.
Stephanie, your shop looks exciting and fun! I am so happy you are getting to do something you love. Wishing you continued success.