Stitches by the Sea is not just a needlepoint shop—it’s a sanctuary where art, creativity and community come together.
It’s also a place where the rhythmic movement of a needle through canvas is celebrated as much for its calming effects as its artistic possibilities.
Judi Alweil started the business 50 years ago in New York, but it has been a creative mainstay in Delray Beach for the past 13.
Daughter Karen shares this devotion with her mom and is always front center with encouragement, needlepoint lessons and making needlepoint magic.
The shop is filled with vibrant, hand-painted canvases that are so mesmerizing, they pull you in to start your own stitching journey.
But it’s not just the canvases that keep people coming back—it’s the sense of camaraderie and friendship that blossom. On Wednesdays, a group of women from, called the Rippers, gather around a long table and work on their individual needlepoint projects. After their shared stitchery, they all go out to dinner in Delray.
What began as a casual get-together has blossomed into a weekly ritual that Karen and her customers look forward to.
Michelle is an example. She recently joined the Wednesday early evening ritual with two canvases and a handful of threads.” I was supposed to be out with my husband and friends tonight, but he knows how important this group is to me. We canceled our dinner plans tonight so I could join the Rippers.”
That was the master plan. “When I started this group, I wanted to create a space where women could come together, stitch, and support each other,” said Karen. “It’s heartwarming to see how many women have found true friendships here.”
The repetitive motion of stitching calms the mind, and that’s what Karen and Judi want for everyone who walks through their door. “Beyond that, it’s also about creating a space for people to connect, support each other, and unwind,” adds Karen.
Karen is always nearby to lend a helping hand and give a lesson to those who buy their canvas at the store. She also reaches many people through social media (Instagram for sure). You can learn a lot about new projects, designer trunk shows and the Ripper Group just by following her.
For Carin Chapman, who moved to Florida from Chicago a few months ago, Stitches by the Sea has provided a creative outlet and a welcoming community. “I found the store on Instagram and started needlepointing during the pandemic.”
Now, she’s a Ripper. On a recent Wednesday she was stitching a stunning canvas of a leopard on a hot pink background. “This community has been such a great resource—it’s more than just stitching. It’s about connection,” said Carin.
The store’s community spirit extends beyond the weekly stitch-ins. Karen’s daughter, Mollie, recently designed a new needlepoint project called “You Are Beautiful,” that Karen created.
This feel-good canvas was created from a sticker someone gave Karen at a needlepoint show. “It was a simple affirmation that really spoke to me. Seeing those words every day helps me believe them. Thanks to Mollie’s design, we are sharing that affirmation with others.”
The “You are Beautiful” design comes in three colors and is being taught in-store and online. It’s a project that embodies Karen’s belief in the power of uplifting messages and the importance of embracing self-care.
Stitches by the Sea is not only a creative haven for those with nimble hands and a creative heart, but they’re also supporting the Arts Garage.
When this local theatrical and musical venue lost funding, Karen sprang into action and created a canvas with 32,448 stitches. For a donation of $10 anyone can add a stitch and support the mission.
“I believe in the power of the arts to bring people together,” Karen said. “We’ve already raised over $7,000, and every penny goes to The Arts Garage. It’s important to support the community that supports us.”
Stitches by the Sea has framed needlepoint canvases, needlepoint pillows, denim jackets, backgammon boards and crossbody straps. For Beth Fiske, whose aquatic canvas will be turned into an acrylic tray, the shop is an essential part of her week. “I call it my therapy, I told my family, ‘I’m going to therapy tonight.’”
For Teri John, a longtime needlepoint enthusiast, Stitches by the Sea is a home away from home. “It’s like Cheers for needlepoint lovers,” Teri said. “Everyone knows your name. We share stories and laugh together. It’s a sisterhood.”
Whether you’re an experienced stitcher or a beginner, this vibrant community (and Karen) will support you.
“Once you’re part of something like this, you understand why these circles have existed for centuries. If you’re a beginner I will teach you to Needlepoint in an hour. It’s more than just art. It’s about the connections we make along the way.”
After all, “Needlepoint is Yoga for the Mind® and for the Spirit as well. We welcome everyone.”
For information on products, upcoming events, and the Rippers group, follow Stitches by the Sea on Instagram at @StitchesbytheSea.
STITCHES BY THE SEA
710 East Atlantic Avenue
Delray Beach
561-865-5775
www.stitchesbythesea.us
