When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
Third Coast Stitches
Why Third Coast Stitches is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Third Coast Stitches (TCS), established in 2021 by Mackenzie Reimer and Kathryn Cannon Weir, has quickly become a cornerstone for needlepoint enthusiasts in Chicago. Located in the vibrant Old Town neighborhood after relocating from Lincoln Park in 2025, the shop offers a welcoming and well-curated environment designed to foster connection and creativity among stitchers of all skill levels. The store features a comprehensive selection of needlepoint canvases, including their exclusive Third Coast Collection which showcases thoughtfully designed and meaningful canvases that the founders themselves wished they had discovered earlier in their stitching journeys. Beyond materials, TCS provides multiple thread options and offers finishing services both in-store and online, which contributes to the convenience and quality experience for customers. Open six days a week, the shop hosts events and classes geared toward building a community of creators and providing educational opportunities. The intimate but spacious Old Town storefront serves as a hub for both local stitchers and visitors, emphasizing the peace, accomplishment, and social aspect that needlepoint brings. This nurturing space reflects the founders’ vision of promoting connections through the shared joy of stitching, making it an ideal meeting place for friends and hobbyists alike.
Here's what people think of Third Coast Stitches
As of recent, Third Coast Stitches holds a 4.3-star rating based on 43 reviews.
User reviews highlight Third Coast Stitches as a vibrant and supportive space integral to the local needlepoint community. The average rating of 4.3 across 43 reviews underscores a generally positive reception. Reviewers frequently praise the knowledgeable and friendly staff, who are commended for their attentive customer service and helpful guidance tailored to stitchers at various experience levels. Customers appreciate the carefully curated selection of canvases and specialty threads, as well as the unique Third Coast Collection that adds a personalized touch to the offerings. Many reviews mention the welcoming atmosphere of the Old Town storefront, emphasizing the sense of community fostered through classes and events. On the other hand, some less positive feedback includes occasional comments about limited store hours and difficulties accessing certain finishing services, possibly reflecting the challenges of balancing in-person shop accessibility with expanding online offerings. Despite these minor criticisms, the overall consensus is that Third Coast Stitches succeeds in providing quality products and an engaging environment for needlepoint enthusiasts. This combination of strong community focus, dedicated service, and creative product lines solidifies TCS’s reputation as a beloved hub for stitchers in Chicago.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Abby Mies
I love this store! So fortunate so have such a cute needlepoint store in Chicago and it's my go to for canvases or threads. I have also gotten a few canvases finished here (ornaments, pillow) and they always turn out great!
Kate Napleton Kysiak
I love this little store. They have a great selection of canvases, ranging from more traditional to more youthful and fun. Their beginner class is great - you will really learn to needlepoint in one night. I was picking back up the craft for the first time since I was a teen and quickly made stopping by TCS for a new project a habit. Their popularity has grown quite a bit and I am hoping they can rent a larger space and hire more help soon. It can often be crowded and only one person working can make the whole process slow. Hopefully they can also be open more work-friendly hours. My only other minor complaint is I wish they would have a more full color selection on higher end fibers. It’s a great local spot and I look forward to supporting them for years to come!
Eileen Paulin
It is such a joy to see a whole new generation discovering the joys of needlepoint. Third Coast Stitches (TCS) is a charming addition to the Lincoln Park area boutique scene. The shop owners are delightful young women dealing with a retail concept that has grown by leaps and bounds - far beyond expectations. There are some growing pains, but Kathryn and Mac are on top of making up for them. I'm saddened to see a small few take to using reviews like a sword to skewer this lovely store and online store. I make it a point to visit and purchase new projects every time I am Chicago. A shout out to the finisher that turned this canvas into an heirloom for a dear friend's newborn daughter. I purchased the fabric and ribbon in Paris and sent it all to TCS with a sketch. I couldn't be happier with the finished pillow!
Rachel Forsyth
I’m new to needlepoint and bought a beginner kit on TCS’ website — loved it! I came into the store to check it out and found the atmosphere so welcoming, with a wide variety of canvases. Seems like there is something for everyone, from beginners to more seasoned needlepointers (plus they offer finishing services, classes etc!!) Elle was super helpful and gave me a lot of amazing advice, and helped me pick out two new canvases & thread. Can’t recommend this store highly enough!
Meg Stewart
I have shopped here many times over the past year. I have always found the shop girls to be warm and helpful. An ever-growing selection of canvases (excited about their in house designer series!), special events with designers (like Morgan Julia), and stitch nights make this a great environment for the needlepoint newbie or a seasoned stitcher. I have also sent items off for finishing from here and love the pillow and ornaments!
How to reach Third Coast Stitches
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Why Third Coast Stitches may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Third Coast Stitches with your friends? Because this vibrant and cozy local shop offers much more than just a retail experience—it’s a welcoming haven where creativity meets community. Nestled in Chicago’s charming Old Town neighborhood, Third Coast Stitches boasts a coastal-inspired storefront that invites visitors to step into a world of colorful needlepoint artistry. It’s the kind of place where you and your friends can escape the hustle of city life, relax with a unique craft, and make lasting memories creating something beautiful together. Whether you’re seasoned stitchers or complete beginners, Third Coast Stitches provides a warm atmosphere that encourages learning, sharing, and connection. The shop’s expansive range of needlepoint canvases—featuring everything from iconic Chicago skylines and quirky hotdogs to florals and animals—offers inspiration for every taste, making it easy to find a project that the whole group will enjoy. Plus, with its cozy window seats and charming decor, it’s not just about the craft; it’s about spending quality time together in a space that feels like a creative retreat. This makes Third Coast Stitches the ideal spot to host a meetup that’s interactive, fun, and refreshingly different from the usual gathering places.
What activities are available at Third Coast Stitches that make it perfect for a group meetup? First and foremost, Third Coast Stitches is centered on the art of needlepoint, which naturally encourages hands-on creativity and collaboration. When you visit with friends, you can dive into stitching canvases, where each person selects a design and begins crafting with colorful threads. This shared activity is not only relaxing but also fosters conversation and mutual encouragement as everyone progresses in their work. Beyond stitching, the shop offers workshops and classes designed to help newcomers learn the basics and for more advanced participants to refine their skills. These learning opportunities are ideal for groups because they allow friends to grow together and experience a sense of shared accomplishment. Additionally, Third Coast Stitches hosts finishing services that complete projects with professional blocking and framing—a perfect way for groups to showcase their finished work. The shop’s carefully curated accessories like charms, tassels, and zippers further personalize each piece, making the experience feel highly customized. For those looking to extend their visit, the shop sometimes features social events where attendees can enjoy drinks and sweets, adding to the camaraderie and festive atmosphere.
Why is Third Coast Stitches considered a community hub for needlepoint enthusiasts and beyond? Unlike many craft stores that focus solely on products, Third Coast Stitches places a strong emphasis on community-building. The owners, who bonded over their love of needlepoint, created this space to address the lack of resources and camaraderie in Chicago’s needlepoint scene. This mission is reflected in how the shop is set up and operated—it’s more than a store; it’s a gathering spot for people of all skill levels to connect over a shared passion. The environment encourages socializing and storytelling, with walls adorned by completed needlepoints that showcase diverse styles and talents, inspiring newcomers and veterans alike. The cozy window seat and charming coastal decor invite visitors to linger and chat, turning a simple shopping trip into a meaningful social experience. Groups are welcomed warmly, making it ideal for meetups where friends or families can bond while working on personal projects. The shop’s community vibe is enhanced through special events such as opening celebrations, social stitching nights, and seasonal gatherings, all of which create opportunities for encountering new people and sharing creative energy.
What makes the needlepoint experience at Third Coast Stitches unique compared to other craft or hobby stores? Third Coast Stitches specializes exclusively in needlepoint, making it a one-stop shop for those interested in this focused craft. Their extensive and varied selection of needlepoint canvases stands out—they offer designs that celebrate local pride with Chicago-themed art, alongside whimsical and elegant motifs like flowers and animals. This specialization means that every aspect of the customer experience caters to needlepoint enthusiasts, from the knowledgeable staff who can guide choices and techniques to the high-quality finishing services executed by skilled professionals. Finishing a needlepoint project is a detailed, hand-crafted process involving blocking and framing, which elevates the finished piece into a true work of art. Third Coast Stitches also stays ahead by offering self-finishing options and sourcing unique materials such as special fabrics, charms, zippers, and tassels to personalize projects. This level of detail and commitment to quality sets the shop apart, making it a destination for serious stitchers and groups wanting an authentic, immersive craft experience.
How can a group make the most of their visit to Third Coast Stitches? To maximize your time here, start by exploring the wide array of needlepoint canvases and picking a design that excites everyone in the group. Don’t hesitate to ask staff for recommendations tailored to different skill levels or interests. Consider scheduling a workshop or class during your visit to gain new skills together—these educational sessions deepen the experience and provide helpful techniques. As you work on your stitching, take advantage of the shop’s cozy seating areas to relax and socialize, sharing tips, stories, or simply enjoying the creative ambiance. If your group plans to complete projects, inquire about the finishing services ahead of time so you can coordinate drop-off and pickup. Bringing along photos or ideas for finishing can ensure your pieces come back exactly as you envision them. Finally, time your visit for one of the shop’s social events if possible, where you can enjoy refreshments and meet other enthusiasts, enriching your meetup with a lively community vibe.
What logistical details should groups keep in mind when planning their meetup at Third Coast Stitches? The shop is located at 707 W Armitage Ave in Chicago’s Old Town area, easily accessible and situated in a charming neighborhood. Because it’s a specialty shop, it’s a good idea to contact them ahead of time to confirm availability for group visits or workshops, especially if you want to reserve a space or schedule finishing services. Third Coast Stitches is not accredited by the BBB, but it enjoys positive reviews and a strong reputation in the local crafting community. Turnaround times for finishing can vary, so groups working on timed projects should plan carefully and communicate deadlines clearly with the staff. The store environment is intimate, so larger groups might need to split visits or schedule private sessions to ensure everyone can participate comfortably. Overall, preparation and communication with the shop team will ensure a smooth, enjoyable experience that meets every group member’s expectations.
Why is Third Coast Stitches a place worth returning to after your first visit? Because it offers an evolving, engaging experience that grows with your skills and interests. The shop frequently updates its inventory with fresh canvas designs and finishing options, keeping creativity sparked and inspiration flowing. It fosters a supportive community where people return not just for supplies but for friendship, learning, and shared moments. As you progress in your needlepoint journey, you’ll find welcoming experts ready to challenge and assist you in mastering new techniques or tackling more complex projects. This ongoing relationship makes Third Coast Stitches more than a one-time visit—it becomes a creative home base for you and your friends. Each meetup here can bring new discoveries and achievements, making every visit distinct and rewarding. Whether you come to stitch quietly together, participate in events, or finish beautiful works of art, the shop is committed to making your creative time meaningful and memorable. For groups seeking a unique, collaborative, and inspiring place to gather, Third Coast Stitches is truly a standout choice.