Spotlight on Topstitchery, LLC: A Quilting Journey of Passion, Persistence, and Community

Photo submitted by Donnette Mickelson

By Donnette Mickelson

Topstitchery, LLC, founded by Jean Potter, embarked on its quilting journey in August 2011. Initially starting as a longarm quilting service, the business quickly became a cornerstone of the quilting community. In 2017, the shop expanded its offerings by adding a wide selection of fabrics, enriching the experience for quilters and sewers alike. Just a year later, in 2018, Topstitchery found its permanent home in a new location in downtown Roberts, where it continues to thrive.

Topstitchery prides itself on offering something unique that you won’t find at many other quilt shops in the area. Not only does the shop offer an impressive selection of fabrics, but it is also the only local quilt shop to provide longarm machine rentals. After completing a certification class, quilters can rent time on the shop’s top-of-the-line longarm machines to work on their own quilts. This hands-on experience has become a hallmark of Topstitchery’s services, giving customers the opportunity to learn, create, and quilt in a supportive environment. Overcoming Challenges on the Path to Success Like many small business owners, Jean faced significant challenges when starting out. The most daunting of these was the fact that she had never operated a longarm machine before. Despite having no prior experience, she took the leap and purchased a machine. With only eight hours of training and encouragement from the shop where she bought it, Jean dove in headfirst. She began by longarming donation quilts for her guild, gradually gaining confidence and skill. It took a full year before the business gained traction, but the perseverance paid off, with the community eventually recognizing and supporting her efforts.

Since its humble beginnings, Topstitchery has experienced substantial growth. What started as one longarm machine, rented out only a couple of times a week, has now blossomed into a bustling business with three machines rented daily. This growth has been a testament to Jean’s commitment to providing high-quality services and a space for quilters to learn and create.

As a business owner, Jean has enjoyed several proud moments. Perhaps the most notable achievements were being voted Business of the Year not once, but twice. The first recognition came in 2022 when the Roberts Lions Club honored Topstitchery, and then again in 2024 when the Central St. Croix Chamber of Commerce followed suit. These accolades have affirmed Jean’s hard work, community involvement, and dedication to delivering exceptional service.

Looking Ahead: Goals for the Future

Looking forward, Jean has clear goals for the next 5 to 10 years. Topstitchery will continue to focus on providing top-notch longarm quilting services, training on high-quality machines, and offering a variety of quilting classes. The shop will also maintain its commitment to offering high-quality fabrics, ensuring that quilters have the best tools and materials available to create beautiful works of art.

While there are no immediate plans for new projects or expansions, Jean remains focused on maintaining the high standards that her customers have come to expect. Every day at Topstitchery is an opportunity to learn, grow, and further nurture the community of quilters that has supported the business from the start.

Advice for New Sewers and Quilters

For those just starting out in sewing or quilting, Jean has one piece of advice: “Take classes, join a guild, and surround yourself with like-minded people.” Engaging with others who share your passion will not only help you improve but will also provide the support and encouragement needed to stay inspired and motivated.

One of the ways Jean and her team stay inspired is through their interactions with customers. Longarming quilts for others, hearing their visions for the finished products, and experimenting with new techniques keep the work fresh and exciting. The shop’s constant evolution stems from the vibrant creativity of the quilting community and the willingness to learn from each other.

What Makes Topstichery Unique?

Topstitchery is a proud member of a vibrant quilting community, with nine shops located in relatively close proximity to one another. What makes Topstitchery unique is the personal touch that Jean and her team bring to the business. Each shop has its own distinct charm, with different fabrics, samples, and class offerings. Topstitchery stands out by offering a curated selection of fabrics, handpicked by Jean to reflect both her personal taste and the preferences of the local quilters.

Jean Potter’s journey with Topstitchery is a story of passion, resilience, and community. From humble beginnings with no experience on a longarm machine to becoming a beloved local business, Topstitchery has become a destination for quilters seeking quality products, services, and a welcoming environment. With a focus on education, inspiration, and collaboration, the shop continues to grow and evolve, bringing joy to the quilting community for years to come.