Redwood Coast Stitchery has opened its doors at 320 Second Street in Eureka, becoming the first full-service needlepoint shop on California’s North Coast. Inspired by the beauty of the surrounding redwoods and coastline, the store offers thoughtfully curated canvases, threads, accessories and classes for stitchers of every experience level, from absolute beginners to accomplished needlepoint artists.
The shop reflects a lifelong dream for owner Karin Reese, MS, RN. After more than 40 years in oncology nursing and healthcare leadership, she is beginning a new chapter devoted to creativity, community and wellness.
Throughout her nursing career, Reese cared for countless patients facing cancer. Then, in 2019, she faced the disease herself. Now cancer-free, she has transformed that experience into a place where creativity, connection and self-care come together through the art of needlepoint.
“After 40 years in oncology nursing and serving in nursing leadership, I know firsthand how important it is to care for the whole person: mind, body and spirit,” Reese said. “During my years in nursing, I met a dear friend and fellow oncology nurse, Damian Doherty, RN, who was also an accomplished needlepoint artist. She introduced me to needlepoint and generously taught me everything she knew. What began as a friendship and a shared creative hobby grew into a lifelong love of stitching.”
When Doherty passed away from breast cancer more than 20 years ago, the gift she had given Reese became even more meaningful. Needlepoint became a way to slow down, focus and make space in her life for creativity and joy. Its importance became even clearer when Reese faced her own cancer diagnosis in 2019.
“Through all of it, I came to understand the value of having something that brings you back to yourself,” Reese said. “Redwood Coast Stitchery grew from that understanding. I wanted to create a place where people could find beautiful things to make, learn something new, connect with others and simply slow down. Whether you’ve been stitching for years or have never picked up a needle before, I wanted Redwood Coast Stitchery to be a place where everyone feels welcome.”
Located in the heart of Old Town Eureka, Redwood Coast Stitchery features hand-selected canvases from leading designers, fibers in hundreds of colors and textures, finishing supplies, books, tools and accessories. The shop will eventually offer classes, personalized guidance and opportunities for stitchers to learn, share ideas and build friendships.
As the first full-service needlepoint shop on California’s North Coast, Redwood Coast Stitchery is more than a retail store. It is a welcoming creative space where artistry, mindfulness and community come together one stitch at a time.