A local entrepreneur is turning her online passion project into a brick-and-mortar reality, bringing a new destination for quilting, fabric, and cross-stitch supplies to northeast Ocala.
Jodie Keach-Smith is currently preparing to open Simply Stitching Ocala at 2513-A NE 3rd Street. Signage for the new business has been installed above the storefront, and Smith has previously indicated that she plans to open in the third week of February.
The store is located in the Spring Hill Plaza, at the intersection of NE 25th Avenue and NE 3rd Street. It is situated next to the recently-opened Pink and Sweet Bakery and Restaurant.
“You’ll soon be able to shop yarn, fabric, quilting, and cross-stitch supplies in person,” reads a statement from Smith’s social media. “I can’t wait to welcome you into this cozy, creative space. Thank you for all your love and support!”
The shop will sell a variety yarns for crochet and knitting, a small selection of cotton precut fabrics for quilting and sewing, and some cross-stitch supplies.
Smith says that there will not be space for classes at this time because of the size of the shop.
The business owner previously reopened an Etsy shop in April 2024 to sell supplies for two of her “favorite hobbies,” but is now expanding that dream into a physical location. Since 2009, Smith has sold over 3,600 items from her Etsy shop.
She has amassed thousands of followers across her various social media channels, including her Instagram and YouTube channels she shares “Flosstube” videos detailing her projects.
In another recent social media post, Smith highlighted that the new store is a labor of love, heavily supported by her husband and co-owner, Ken Smith.
“It’s unloading boxes, assembling shelves, cooking dinner when I’m still working, and reminding me to breathe when the stress feels heavy,” Smith wrote regarding her husband’s assistance in building the store from the ground up. “Just know if you purchase online or in person at the store, it was built with love, hard work and opened with gratitude.”
To follow Smith and her shop, visit Simply Stitching online, or on Facebook, Instagram, or YouTube.
EDITOR’S NOTE: This article was edited to clarify the services and products offered by the company.