After five years in the community, a local business is closing their doors for good.
Exeter’s Quilt Kitchen has not only provided supplies for avid crafters, but also served as an educational hub for the community – teaching quilting classes online and in person.
According to owner Tammy Sparling, The Quilt Kitchen succeeded in building a widespread community.
The past few years have been no picnic for small businesses – the challenges of the pandemic prompted the Quilt Kitchen to adapt and evolve.
The retail space on Exeter’s main street will be no more, as of February | Photo by B. Shakyaver
Tammy expressed the profound joy of serving the community, where customers became friends and, in some cases, almost family. The art of quilting, personal and diverse, allowed the Quilt Kitchen to play a role in creating memory quilts and fostering intergenerational bonding for customers.
However, with a heavy heart, Tammy revealed that the decision to close the doors of the Quilt Kitchen wasn’t one that was made lightly.
Sparling’s dedication to customer service and her love of quilting are what kept the store thriving throughout the past years | Photo by B. Shakyaver
Despite diligent efforts to find a suitable new location, time constraints proved challenging. The shop’s distinctive window decorations, changed regularly to brighten the street, will be missed.
The official closing date is set for February 28th, or earlier if inventory sells out. In a generous gesture, leftover inventory will be donated to those who create quilts for charitable causes.
Though the Quilt Kitchen will be missed, Tammy remains hopeful, acknowledging that a new and meaningful chapter awaits her.
As one door closes, the quilting community and Exeter bid farewell to a cherished establishment that has left an indelible mark on the fabric of their lives.
Written by: B. Shakyaver
