In the welcoming town of Bondurant, Iowa, Off the Rails Quilting has quickly become a go-to spot for quilters and crafters across the region.
This bustling quilt shop is the Regional Winner of the both the 2023 and 2024 LQS Contest for Iowa.
But it is more than just a fabric store. It’s a vibrant community gathering place and a family-friendly business that celebrates creativity and connection!
Off the Rails Quilting opened its doors in 2016, and has been expanding ever since. By April 2019, they added a spacious classroom area to accommodate growing interest in quilting workshops and events.
Two years later, they expanded again, acquiring the building next door as a “warehouse” for shipping, live selling shows, machine servicing, and additional office space.
In summer 2023, Off the Rails Quilting introduced The Yarn Nook—a cozy addition offering an array of yarn and fiber arts supplies to meet the needs of their growing customer base.
“The owners and the employees are very helpful and very nice!!!” ~ Marlee
Owners Ann and Jenny, lifelong friends and now business partners, bring a warm approach to running Off the Rails.
This shop is truly a family-friendly space, with teenage children of the staff often lending a helping hand, especially during school breaks.
The store even supports new moms by allowing them to bring their infants to work for those precious first six months.
Community and family are deeply valued here, and it shows in the shop’s welcoming atmosphere.
The Place for Wonderful People & New Finds
From classic designs to trendy new styles, Off the Rails Quilting offers a rich selection of fabrics and patterns to inspire crafters of all tastes.
Shoppers can also look forward to exciting sales and events, including their bi-annual week-long quilting retreat that brings over 100 quilters together from across the country.
Another popular event is “First Fridays,” where customers receive a free pattern card with any purchase—a small “thank you” to the shop’s regular visitors.
The store’s friendly, knowledgeable staff are part of what makes Off the Rails so special.
Whether you’re talking with Hannah and Taylor on the sales floor, seeking Jean’s yarn expertise, or catching up with Laura, the shop’s “chief delegator,” there’s always someone ready to offer guidance and a friendly smile.
Behind the scenes, Jordan keeps their social media and marketing vibrant, while Elizabeth and Judy keep the warehouse and inventory in smooth operation.
“The staff is friendly and always helpful and their choices of fabrics and patterns
are #1!!” ~ Fran
Frequent visitors know that Off the Rails Quilting is constantly updating its product selection. Even if you stop by often, you’ll always find fresh fabrics and new products.
A customer, Dolores, shares that “they turn over their fabrics very quickly, so there’s always something new to discover.”
Beyond quilting, The Yarn Nook opens up a whole new world of fiber arts for customers, expanding the creative possibilities. Customers are loving the expansion. As Dee said, “I am a knitter. I love having options so close to home.”
Whether you’re a seasoned yarn lover or just picking up the craft, there’s something for everyone here.
Discover Bondurant’s Downtown
Bondurant offers even more to explore. After browsing Off the Rails Quilting, stop by Reclaimed Rails Brewing across the street.
This two-story brick brewery was originally a legion hall from 1948 and now boasts both community history and great brews.
For those with a sweet tooth, the nearby Creamery serves up tasty ice cream treats, and, right next door at Home Slice, you can pick up a handmade pie.
Of course, the sweetest spot in town just might be Off the Rails Quilting and The Yarn Nook. Next time you’re in Bondurant, stop by, say hello, and dive into a world of color, creativity, and community!