It is with sadness that I announce the closing of Dragonfly Fabrics here in Ottawa. I've taught a lot of classes there in the last few years. Linda Doyle, the owner of the shop, has been a fantastic employer, supportive of her teachers, and known for her fabulous customer service. Sherry, who works full-time at the store was always supportive and knowledgeable too. Linda employed the best known teachers in Ottawa, some of whom are also on the provincial, national, and international teaching circuit.
For me it was a good thing. Because my schedule of out-of-town classes fills up well in advance, it was always easy to fit in classes at Dragonfly when the season was slow or on weekdays if my other bookings were on weekends. It was also an opportunity for Ottawa residents to take my classes locally.
Losing this many bookings will be a big loss of income for me. However, I also know that as one door closes another will likely open. At least that has been my experience. I wanted to send this email for all my students who've taken my classes at Dragonfly. I will be sure to announce any plans to offer classes at another venue in Ottawa. Stay tuned.
Dragonfly Fabrics closes May 29.
It's always sad when a fiber arts shop closes. Over the past 10 years or so several quilting and knitting shops have closed here in the Toronto area. Fiber arts is a multi-billion dollar industry, so why so many closures? I can only assume that online etailers have replaced bricks-and-mortar shops.
ReplyDeleteYour work is beautiful, I've no doubt you'll be able to pick up other teaching work, hopefully close to home.
Why thank you so much Maria for your kind comments. I think Canadian stores suffer due to cross-border shopping. Tariffs charged on fabric here require them to sell at a much higher price. It is also a lot of hard work ... so many quilt shop owners work 24/7. I would imagine the rent in Toronto proper is pretty high too, which is why most of the quilt stores are in outlying communities.
DeleteThat is a bummer Elaine! Hope something good shows up soon=)
ReplyDeleteThanks Jackie ... I'm sure I'll figure something out.
DeleteI'm so sorry to hear of the closing of Dragonfly fabrics. Linda and Sherry always made us fell so welcomed, it was like taking classes in someone's home. Linda, Sherry and Dragonfly Fabrics will be missed.
ReplyDeleteYou are absolutely correct, when one door closes another usually opens. Here's hoping exciting things are just around the corner for you.
See you at the quilt show this weekend,
Josée
Look forward to seeing you on the weekend Josée. Drop by my booth and see how much fabric I've dyed!! I also look forward to lunch when I get back from France.
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