A STITCH IN TIME. Ann Sandler will open Stitch Supply Co. – a new craft supply store and retreat facility – in Altoona later this year.

Feelin’ crafty this season? At least one Eau Claire woman is.

Ann Sandler is breaking out the needle and thread this fall in order to complete her latest project-in-progress: a new craft supply store that will open later this month in Altoona.

Stitch Supply Co. was an idea conceived in the mind of a lifelong crafter. From sewing and quilting to yarn work and embroidery, Sandler has been a guru in the fabric world since the tender age of seven. “It’s been something I’ve done my whole life,” Sandler explained. “It’s just a hobby I’ve always been very passionate about.” 

“My ultimate goal is to bring people that love this hobby together.” – Ann Sandler, on her new store, Stitch Supply Co.

As each finishing touch settles in place, Sandler is finally able to see her childhood dream come to fruition. And while it was exactly one year ago that she purchased the land for her store, the crafter admitted that she’s had the idea for Stitch for as long as she can remember. “I just finally took the plunge to do it,” she said.

Customers are currently able to purchase craft and fabric items online through the company’s website, but soon every material will be available to examine and pick out first-hand.

Now finally able to live out her passion as the new store’s owner and operator, the crafty mom of three says that customers can expect far more than just high-quality materials for purchase.

Stitch Supply Co. will feature a fabric and yarn store, a large inner workroom, and – to the delight of area craft enthusiasts – a fully furnished space to be used for retreats. In addition, the new building will serve as a sanctuary for sewing get-togethers and classes open to every age and skill level. And even though Sandler can be confident in her own fantastic sewing skills, she recognizes the value of remaining humble.

“There’s always more that a person can learn,” Sandler said. “It’s just fun to grow in the process.”

Sandler explained that while the entire construction process has been a gratifying experience, positive reactions and excitement from others have given her the greatest satisfaction.

“It’s been amazing,” she said. “And I have tremendous support and enthusiasm from everyone I tell about it – that’s what I consider the most rewarding.”

Most of all, Sandler hopes that with Stitch Supply Co.’s debut she’ll be able to create an environment where fellow crafters and sewers can unite. “My ultimate goal is to bring people that love this hobby together,” she said. “I really hope that I can be the link between the younger and older generations.”

And it appears she is doing exactly that … one stitch at a time.

Stitch Supply Co. • 913 S. Hillcrest Parkway, Altoona • stitchsupplyco.com • search for “Stitch Supply Co.” on Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest.