Owner Susie Walker and new manager Tawny Nicholas celebrated the re-opening of The Quilting Shack in Broken Bow on Wednesday morning, January 7. Members of the Broken Bow Chamber of Commerce and customers were on hand to witness Nicholas cut the red satin ribbon signifying a new chapter in the story of this resource for fabric, craft supplies, and community.
With Walker battling health issues, it appeared that the Quilting Shack was on the verge of closing permanently. That was when Nicholas, who also works for Walker’s husband, Mark, at the Smoke Shack in the neighboring building, stepped up.
“It has been a God’s blessing, it really has been,” said Walker of Nicholas joining the store. “Tawny has come in and has done things that I haven’t been able to do. And until I’m fully well again, I need someone and she fit the role just perfectly. We get along so well and so it wasn’t hard to let go at all. It was easy to just stay here, and we talk and it’s like we finish each other’s sentences. So it’s been really good.”
Although Nicholas is from the area, she had lived away for some time and found coming back to small-town Nebraska difficult at times.
“It’s hard coming to a small town,” said Nicholas. “But I’m trying to find my place back here after having all of that. This has given me that purpose to get coming back here.”
Looking ahead, Nicholas said that a large variety of craft and sewing classes will be on offer at the shop, suitable to all ages and experiences. These include a pot holder class through January, a “Prosperity Hens” sewing class toward the end of the month, and fabric collages for beginner to advanced upcoming. Quilters need not worry, as long-arm quilting services will continue to be available as well.
Nicholas maintains a strong Facebook presence for the Quilting Shack, and has introduced a monthly email newsletter showcasing sales and upcoming events. Nicholas also emphasized flexibility in when the shop will be open.
“If Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, 9 to 3 doesn’t work for somebody, we’re always happy to open the doors Monday or Tuesday or Saturdays”, said Nicholas. “We do try to open up at least every other Saturday as well.”
For appointments, classes, to subscribe to the newsletter, or any other information that the Quilting Shack can provide, call 308-872-6221 or email [email protected].
