Hip Stitch in Albuquerque is the Regional Winner for New Mexico!
This shop is focused on giving back to the community and supporting local artists. Read on to learn more!
Please tell us your store’s story.
Suzanne Kelly founded Hip Stitch in 2008. Steve Hamlin joined her in 2013 and brings his marketing and business background. Suzanne is a former special education teacher and lifelong creative maker.
Hip Stitch is the first of its kind in Albuquerque with the concept of a sewing lounge for community gathering.
Suzanne said, “We believe in giving back to our community. We host charity groups on a regular basis and also help support the community of Creel, Chihuahua, Mexico with donations of sewing machines, fabric, and in 2022, some of the Hip Stitch team traveled there to teach sewing.”
— 2024 Contest Customer Comment —
“The owners break the mold of what is traditional. Their fabric choices are phenomenal and always inspire my creative side. Their community involvement and awareness of their impact on the fabric world also impresses me.”
SARAH
For those who have not seen the store, please describe it.
Hip Stitch is a 3,000 square foot store located in Albuquerque, New Mexico. We feature modern fabrics, fabrics we print for local artists, curated bundles and kits, classes, and painted Featherweight sewing machines.
— 2024 Contest Customer Comment —
“The gals are amazing and the fabrics they carry are so fun and relevant to New Mexican pop culture. They capture the spirit of our city in their customer service and fabric selections!”
ANASTASIA
— 2024 Contest Customer Comment —
“They are very knowledgeable and their “hands on” help is always available. Everyone who works there is genuinely friendly and welcoming. I always feel that I belong there. A wide selection of fabric and other quilting tools and supplies are readily available. They are just the BEST!”
KATHRYN
Please tell us about your staff.
— 2024 Contest Customer Comment —
“The staff are super-friendly and they remember my name. I never feel rushed when shopping and they always have fun and unique fabrics to choose from. I also love how community-oriented they are with all their charity sewing groups/classes, the donations of fabric and supplies, and time they make to communities in need.”
LAURA
Please tell us about any upcoming special events at your store.
We’ll be celebrating our 16th birthday in July 2024. We’re participating in an annual Albuquerque area Shop Hop August 22-24, 2024.
Local attractions
Balloon Fiesta! The most photographed event in the world takes place every October as hundreds of hot air balloons take to the skies in Albuquerque. Rich history, red and green chile, and famous blue skies also make New Mexico the enchanted place it is.
In conclusion
When asked about the impact of the Local Quilt Shop Contest, Suzanne said, “We loved the wonderful comments voters/customers left about our store – they reflect our mission to be a part of the community where we live and have our store.”
