Spotlight on Blueberry Line Quilting: Stitching Community and Creativity Together

By Donnette Mickelson

Nestled in the heart of Ridgeland, Blueberry Line Quilting has been inspiring creativity and connecting a community of quilters since it opened its doors in August 2016. Owned and operated by Darla Peters, this charming quilting business located in an over one hundred-year-old historic building is more than just a place to buy fabric—it’s a place for learning, sharing, and celebrating the art of quilting.

A Passion That Sparked a Business

For Darla, quilting is more than a craft—it’s a lifelong passion rooted in sharing stories, skills, and inspiration. “I love to share my experiences and knowledge of quilting and its history,” she says. “But even more, I love to see how creating quilts inspires others.” Her enthusiasm is contagious, and it’s evident in every corner of her shop, from the carefully curated fabrics to the personal guidance she offers customers.

The business began while Darla was still working full-time as a nurse. Balancing long shifts at the hospital with running a quilt shop and offering longarm quilting services was no small feat. “Yes, I was burning the candle at both ends,” she admits, “but I have the best friends who will jump in to help out to make it all work.” That support—and a deep love of quilting—helped Blueberry Line Quilting grow into what it is today.

What sets Blueberry Line Quilting apart is its personalized approach. Whether customers need help selecting fabric, designing a quilt, or finishing a long-overdue project with longarm quilting, Darla is there every step of the way. “We are willing to help you find that missing fabric you are looking for,” she says. It’s this attention to detail and personal service that keeps customers coming back.

Since its opening, the business has grown steadily, and quilting has become Darla’s full-time focus. “I strive to keep a creative environment to inspire others to create quilts of their own,” she explains. Monthly day retreats hosted at the Ridgeland Community Center are just one of the ways she fosters that sense of community. These gatherings—held every Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday—bring together sewists and crafters to work, learn, and share ideas in a relaxed setting.

Among the many highlights of her career, Darla cherishes moments when she helps others bring their quilting dreams to life. “I especially take pride in helping an individual design a quilt or longarm quilting a quilt that has been in their possession for decades but had never been finished,” she says.

Over the next five to ten years, Darla hopes to keep Blueberry Line Quilting steady and thriving, despite the challenges of rising costs and global supply chain shifts. “With so many of the fabrics manufactured outside of the US, the tariffs could make it difficult to budget,” she notes, “but we all have stash.” Stash is a quilter's term for a personal fabric collection. Her goal is to continue offering fabrics that blend beautifully with what her customers already have.

Even more exciting is her passion for welcoming the next generation of quilters. “I get especially excited when I see young quilters interested in quilting and creating art with fabric,” she shares.

For newcomers to sewing or quilting, Darla’s advice is to “Engage in local quilt groups, attend quilting retreats, watch quilting tutorials, sign up for a beginning quilt class.” Learning from others is at the heart of her philosophy. She stays inspired by attending retreats and quilt club meetings herself, where Show and Tell sessions never fail to spark new ideas.

Blueberry Line Quilting also plays an active role in the local quilt hop scene. “Each shop in our section has its own style—eclectics, brights, reproductions, or modern fabrics,” she says. Shoppers can enjoy small shop hops throughout the year, as well as the larger State Quilt Shop Hop. This year, the shop will open its doors on Sunday, June 22, for a special “Sunday Funday,” giving participants an extra chance to complete their hop.

From its warm, welcoming atmosphere to its commitment to creativity and connection, Blueberry Line Quilting is a place where quilts—and friendships—are stitched with care. Whether you're a seasoned quilter or just beginning your journey, Darla Peters and her team are ready to help you turn your fabric dreams into cherished creations.