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New stitching studio opening in Uptown
By Deirdre Ryan, Marion Times | October 1st, 2015 |
Stitching, knitting, crocheting, spinning and “sew” much more! What once began as a childhood pastime and passion, has now led to a tangible truth for Kayanna Nelson of Cedar Rapids, Iowa.
“I love making things with my hands … making something from nothing. I love colors and textures. This work is so soothing and satisfying,” said Nelson, owner of Stitch Together, located at 720 10th Street in Uptown Marion.
Nelson got her hands into sewing and other similar “artsy” projects at a young age when she assisted her grandmother and mother with their designs. After high school, Nelson ventured into the world of graphic design and marketing, but always kept her love of stitching on the sidelines. It was a hobby she continued in her spare time. She even taught herself to crochet.
“I am excited to get away from a computer,” said Nelson. “Starting this business has been fun; I will get to be creative and do my thing.”
It was Nelson’s mother that actually found the property listing for her in Uptown Marion. She had looked into other buildings, but noted that the artistic feel and vibe of the Uptown Marion district was very appealing. She met with the Chamber and the Uptown Marion staff, and afterwards, “the decision was easy … they made me feel so welcome,” said Nelson.
“This just felt like the perfect time to do this,” commented Nelson. “This is something my grandmother and my mother always talked about doing … it’s something I have always wanted to do.”
In order to get Stitch Together ready to open its doors, Nelson has been very busy. There was the ordering of materials and supplies, putting together the store and lining up the specific vendors she was interested in. Nelson noted that Stitch Together will consist of specialty items. She makes an effort to purchase products that customers will not find in any other local venues.
“We will focus on small-business and one-of-a-kind items,” said Nelson. “I am just really looking forward to meeting more people that enjoy crafting and knitting, as well as getting others involved!”
Stitch Together will feature a wide variety of tangible threads, yarns, cloths, dyes and many other products for the pastime. Nelson also noted the shop will feature classes on knitting, crocheting, embroidery, sewing and spinning, as well some kid-focused activities. There will be open craft nights available to patrons, and Stitch Together will participate in many of the Marion community events.
The business technically will not open its doors until Friday, October 2 … just in time for Marion’s Harvest Moon Chocolate Walk. Normal operating hours for Stitch Together will be Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., Thursdays from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. A grand opening will be held in later October, possibly near Halloween.
“This really doesn’t feel quite real yet,” commented Nelson. “I love teaching people and seeing how it all comes together … This will bring in a new a new generation of knitters and sewers.”
