If there’s one quilt shop in France that deserves the spotlight, it’s Au Fil d’Emma, the Regional Winner for France in the 2023 and 2024 Local Quilt Shop Contest.
Located in Fleury-les-Aubrais, a charming suburb just outside of Orleans. This shop is a destination for quilters far and wide.
Let’s talk about Emma Coutancier, the creative force behind Au Fil d’Emma. Like so many sewing enthusiasts, Emma’s love for stitching began in childhood when she made dresses for her dolls.
That passion grew, leading her to study fashion and even work in the industry. But Emma’s heart found its true home in contemporary textile art, and quilting became her ultimate passion.
Personal Passion becomes a Business
The journey to her dream shop wasn’t without its challenges. Back in 2007, Emma decided to solve a personal problem—finding quilt materials in France—by opening her own store.
The first shop was small, with Emma as the only staff member. Over the years, the team grew, the inventory expanded, and the customer base flourished.
Fast forward to modern day, and Au Fil d’Emma now resides in a spacious 400-square-meter building.
It’s a hub of creativity, with a classroom, workshop, stock storage, and offices.
Don’t Judge a Book by Its Cover
Local customers like to call the shop Aladdin’s Cave, because it’s truly a diamond in the rough.
Sure, the outside might be unassuming, but step inside, and you’ll be greeted by a vibrant world of colors, textures, and smiling faces.
The shop boasts a carefully curated selection of modern fabrics, traditional quilting fabrics, and batiks.
But it doesn’t stop there.
For those who love a little help with planning, Emma creates hand-picked quilt kits that are as inspiring as they are convenient.
From precuts and sewing kits to patterns, notions, threads, and dyes, Au Fil d’Emma has everything a quilter could dream of.
This year, they’ve added Janome sewing machines and Grace Company longarm machines to their offerings, solidifying their place as a one-stop shop.
The team of eight—Sloane, Gwendoline, Aline, Alice, Carole, Corinne, and Marie-Laure—brings their passion for quilting to life, making every visit a memorable experience.
For those who can’t make it in person, the shop’s website offers online Sew Alongs and events, perfect for quilters near and far.
Say “Bonjour” to Orléans
And if you’re lucky enough to visit France, Au Fil d’Emma is just one of the many reasons to stop by Orléans.
This historic city, best known as the site of Joan of Arc’s triumph in 1429, offers medieval architecture, the stunning Loire River (a UNESCO World Heritage site), and nearby castles like Amboise, Chambord, and Chenonceau.
Whether you’re visiting for the quilting, the history, or the scenery, a trip to Au Fil d’Emma and Orléans is sure to be unforgettable.
A toute à leur et bonne couture!
I love this shop, unfortunately far from where I live… so I order on their great website and always find what I need for my art! 🤗