Oxford Quilts: Building Community Through Sewing and Quilting

In the heart of Oxford, Mississippi, a new haven for sewing enthusiasts has emerged. Before April 2024, local sewists faced a void in their community with no small businesses offering sewing supplies or classes. This gap was filled by Margie Hamilton. After returning from Alaska, she launched an online business that evolved into Oxford Quilts, a brick-and-mortar store located at 1306 North Lamar Blvd. This establishment not only provides essential sewing materials but also fosters a sense of community among sewing aficionados.

The Birth of Oxford Quilts

Margie Hamilton’s journey began with a simple online business designed to serve the sewing needs of Oxford locals. Upon returning from an extended stay in Alaska, where she cared for her grandchildren, Hamilton realized there was no local quilt store. *There was no place to go unless I went to Memphis or Tupelo,* she recalled. To address this, she initially allowed people to purchase supplies from her home, which eventually led to the opening of Oxford Quilts in a physical location.

A Physical Store: The Importance of Tangible Choices

Hamilton believes that having a physical store is crucial for sewists. *You can order things, but you never get what you think you’re going to get,* she explained. *It’s always better to feel the fabric and look at it because the shades are so different on the internet even though they try their best to display the colors.* This tactile experience is something online shopping cannot replicate, making Oxford Quilts an invaluable resource for local sewists.

More Than Just a Quilt Store

Despite its name, Oxford Quilts offers a wide variety of supplies, patterns, and resources for all types of sewing. The store is not limited to quilting; it caters to a broad spectrum of sewing needs. Hamilton’s vision extends beyond retail; she aims to create a community hub where people can gather, share ideas, and learn from one another.

Classes for All Levels

One of the standout features of Oxford Quilts is its commitment to education. Hamilton prioritizes frequent and flexible classes for sewers of all levels. *What I do is, I rotate the sewing and the beginner quilting, so if you miss one, don’t worry, we’ll have another one,* she said. The store also offers private lessons for those who prefer a one-on-one learning environment.

Inclusive and Welcoming Environment

Hamilton emphasizes that sewing and quilt making are for everyone, regardless of gender. *Some of our famous quilters are men. Some of the first longarmers were men. Being a tailor, a lot of men did that,* she noted. This inclusive approach encourages a diverse range of people to explore the craft, breaking down traditional gender barriers associated with sewing.

A Resurgence of Quilting Among Younger Generations

Hamilton has observed a resurgence of interest in quilting among younger generations. She encourages anyone interested to take the leap and learn the craft. *Anyone can learn to quilt. I can teach you to where when you leave here you know how to quilt in one day,* she said. While she may not teach everything in a single day, she provides enough knowledge to get beginners started on their quilting journey.

Community Support and Future Plans

The Oxford community has warmly embraced Oxford Quilts. People in town are very supportive, and they have been saying ‘I am so glad you’re here,’ and that makes me feel good, she shared.

This community backing is a testament to the store’s impact and the vital role it plays in bringing sewists together.

For more detailed information about Margie Hamilton and Oxford Quilts, you can read the full article on The DM Online.