Homestead Stitches

June 14, 2013
This fun, fresh Canadian shop, surrounded by the lush forest and spring-fed waters of North Bay, Ontario, embraces traditional styles. It is a dream come true for owners Allan and Annie Boomhour.
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Surprise Inside

The 1898 storefront exterior only hints at the quilters' treasure trove that lies within the former jewelry store. Although small in space, its character compensates, Annie says.

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Meet the Staff

From left:

Allan Boomhour (co-owner), Annie Boomhour (co-owner), Barbara Belanger, Margaret Tomkins, Kathryn Boomhour, and Ara Linda Houle.

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Touches from the Past

The shop's built-in cherry cabinets have scrollwork trim, etched-glass globes hang from light fixtures, and original tin ceilings hover over countless quilted samples.

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Every Nook and Cranny

Rather than dismantling the original jewelry store fixtures, the Boomhours opted to retrofit them to accommodate fabric bolts and small samples.

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Color and Creativity

Homestead Stitches is known for its color sensibility and creative kits for nearly every quilted sample. The kit resembling a child's diaper contains all you need for a baby quilt. In other instances, wall hanging kits are tucked in jars and the pieces for a summer strip quilt fills a slushy cup.

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Small Space, Big Effect

Vignettes of wool and cotton samples and patterns make a big statement in a small space.

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Reflect on Inspiration

Glass domes that formerly reflected light on faceted jewelry now glimmer above quilting treasures. "I'd define our fabric as warm and country," Annie says. "A lot of our customers have cottages and want that woodsy, cozy feeling."

For more information on Homestead Stitches, visit www.homesteadstitches.com.

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