One of my favorite past times is shopping for fabric. I love
to stand among the bolts, fat quarters, and tiny little treasures of a good
fabric store and soak up the colors, feel the yardages, and experience the
essence of the threads. Sounds pretty fantastical, I know, but it is true. I
can truly spend hours just experiencing the atmosphere created by rows or
shelves of gorgeous fabrics.
When I first started quilting and sewing for fun, I would
research our family vacation destinations to see how many quilt stores I could
locate in the desired area or along the way. If I could find at least one store
that looked promising, I would add that particular destination to the
“possibilities” column. Consequently, I have been in wonderful quilt stores in
Kentucky, Tennessee, Wisconsin, Illinois, Georgia, Iowa, Louisiana, Mississippi,
and of course Missouri. That was when my children were young and week-long car
trips to somewhere rapidly became stressful for all four of us. The perfect
cure for this stress was a swimming pool, go carts, and despite the protests a
very long tour of a quilt store for me. I think my kids really thought it was more
about revenge than stress reduction, but only I know the real truth on that
one.
Today my sons are grown and most of our vacations consist of
me, my husband, and some kind of bike trail. They are typically pretty
relaxing, and fabric shopping is encouraged. However, I no longer pick
destinations based on the number of fabric stores I will encounter. I think
that has something to do with my finding a more local shop that satisfies my
fabric addiction, provides creative support, and makes me feel like a cherished
family member every time I cross the threshold.
I plan my trips to Material Girl Quilt Shop whenever I need
fabric, or a mood boost. Even if I am
not in the market for that perfect fabric to begin or complete a project, I
benefit so much from simply entering this little shop and basking in the
positive atmosphere. Meredith, the owner, has a friendly manner and creative
eye that will put even the most novice quilter at ease. Her modern fabric
selection is supported with just the right combination of classic prints and
beautiful solids, and the ideas and samples dancing on the walls turn the small
iconic building into a quilter’s palace.
Throw in some wonderful conversation, a friendly and very talented
community of sewists, and the staff, which includes her vivacious mom and two
delightful aunts and you have a family that always makes you feel at home.
So Meredith, my family thanks you for providing me with
sewing supplies and total stress relief.
As for me, I thank you for just being you and continuing to allow me to
come in your shop and soak up the essence of the threads.
M
P.S. You can find this shop online here. Drop by and check it out.
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