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Dawna’s Design Threads

There is a story behind every quilt and few know this better than Dawna Sanders, owner of Dawna’s Design Threads, who has quilted more than 3,100 quilts during her time in business. Dawna’s own story is moving quickly as she is in the final stages of closing on the purchase of The Quilt Store, a major leap for her business. 

For more than 10 years, Dawna has been successfully running Dawna’s Design Threads, which provides long arm quilting services and unique quilt designs, from her home. When Dawna first went into business years ago, she toyed with the idea of having a storefront, but ultimately decided the circumstances weren’t right at the time. Fast forward to 2021 and Dawna has now expanded her business to the limit in her home, but as is the case with many entrepreneurs, is not ready to stop there.

When she was approached by the current owners of The Quilt Store with a proposal to sell their business to her, Dawna was ready to consider their offer and began by seeking guidance from lead SBDC Consultant, Nancy Barnett. Dawna knew there were several factors to consider if she were to purchase The Quilt Store and after a few meetings with Nancy she was recommended for the SBDC’s LEADING EDGE™ for Entrepreneurs course, a 9-week deep dive into business planning.

 Of her experience in the course Dawna reflects, “Working with Nancy and taking the LEADING EDGE™ course gave me empowerment that I can do these things. There are some things that are hard and stressful and things aren’t always going to happen the way you have it in your mind, and that is okay; you just keep going.”

Starting the new year off, Dawna will have several challenges facing her, namely adjusting to the larger scale. The Quilt Store will offer her the opportunity to bring on more employees and will also provide a convenience to customers by providing the quilting materials and sewing services all in one location.

Dawna’s patience in waiting for her storefront dream has paid off and she has done the hard work of preparing her business for the new transition. Continuing to work with the SBDC for guidance and support Dawna says, “The SBDC has been an invaluable partner for me and I wouldn’t have the confidence that I have the ability to do this without their backing.”

Keep your eyes out for news about Dawna’s Design Threads dba The Quilt Store’s grand opening in January and for a sneak peak of the types of services and designs that are offered you can check out her current website here.

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