“When things get bad in the world, the first thing a stitcher’s going to do is get [the] needles ... running,” she said.
3 Stitches, an embroidery shop, located on Louetta Road, celebrated 25 years of business in April. With more than 40 years of experience in the craft, Brazell’s shop offers an inventory of needlework supplies and classes in cross stitch, needlepoint and Norwegian Hardanger embroidery.
Since the outbreak of the coronavirus pandemic, Brazell said her shop has had to limit the number of people allowed in the store, switch to private classes and offer curbside pickup for online orders. Despite the changes, Brazell said customers are using this time to stitch.
“It has given them something to do in these stressful times,” she said. “There are people who have gotten back into needlework in order to have something to do.”
According to Brazell, needlework has been a part of her life since being taught the craft as a child. It was not until the end of a career in the oil and gas industry, however, that Brazell said she finally had time to focus on her passion.
“When I retired at Gulf [Oil company], I went home, ... and I said, ‘Now what am I going to do? Clean the pots and pans? That’s not very much fun. ... Let’s go find something to do,’” she said.
Now after 25 years of business, Brazell said sharing her passion with students is still her favorite part.
“[Owning] the shop is not where my heart lies; it’s [being] able to teach classes, to take my knowledge and help put it in somebody else’s head,” Brazell said.
Each year, Brazell leads 40 women on a three-day retreat to Trinity for a weekend getaway filled with needlework lessons and projects. This year, however, Brazell was forced to postpone the March event until Aug. 21-23 due to the pandemic. Brazell said those interested in attending can call the shop to learn more about the event.
“[There will be] no [children], no ... men, no TVs, no one asking you to do anything,” Brazell said. “All you’ve got to do is stitch, eat, hang out and run your mouth. That’s it.”
3 Stitches
7822 Louetta Road, Spring
281-320-0133
www.3stitches.com
Hours: Tue. 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Wed.-Sat. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., closed Sun.-Mon.
