The Quilt Coop

The Quilt Coop located near College Springs, Iowa may be in the middle of the country, but it is a shop you definitely should visit. In my many visits to quilt shops throughout the Midwest this is the first one that I have gone to that started in a chicken coop. She opened her shop March 1999 and has since expanded to a dairy barn. You will always get a warm and inviting greeting from Robin Ripley the shop owner who is ready to help you with all your quilting needs. The shop remodeled by Robin and her husband is located in her back yard. It may be a little difficult to find but it is well worth it.

As you walk in the shop you are embraced by the warmth and friendliness of this very cozy shop. The shop, with its barn wood walls and tin ceiling, makes for a visual delight. Every spot imaginable is stuffed with fabric and collectibles. Antique furnishings used as quilt displays fill the shop. There are a lot of nooks to explore and even visiting the restroom is an adventure. The shop carries lots of flannels, 30’s, homespuns and reproductions. There are thousands of bolts for you to look at, fondle and purchase.

Fabric lines that you will find in her store are Thimbleberries, Moda, RJR, and Red Rooster. There are always lots of samples for you to see to motivate you to buy and make one of your own. Plan to spend a couple of hours here because there is just so much to see.

My favorite fabric designer is Jo Morton and you will be able to find a large selection of her fabric line. Robin offers lots of classes, and some I have attended. The classes are held in a separate building with plenty of space to spread out and get comfortable. She also offers Saturday samplers and block of the month.

Once you have been to this shop you will not be able to resist going back again and again. Now, on to my next shop, and happy quilting till next time.

For more information, pictures, and directions to The Quilt Coop please visit http://thequiltcoop.blogspot.com