During Amana’s Communal Era, it seems that every woman was involved with some sort of needlework as a hobby. From knitting mittens and hats to putting up a quilting frame and stitching the unique Amana Colonies’ quilts where the pattern is done with the needlework and not be different fabrics. This unique style is still made by Colony Omas (Grandmothers) for special occasions like weddings and newborns, it’s a tradition in the Amanas.
Today, you’ll find that this hobby continues and our needlework shops are world class offering a variety of products. If you love to do needlework you must stop at these shops.
Owner Chris Davies and her staff invite you to experience Heritage Designs, a destination for quilters, stitchers and those who love the needle arts. Heritage Designs Quilting & Needlework was established in 1976 and is located in a renovated old granary built in 1895 in the heart of historic Amana. With 14 foot ceilings, the space is perfect for showcasing the shop’s HUNDREDS OF SAMPLE PIECES that are sure to inspire your creativity. In addition to being a full service quilt shop with nearly 4000 fabrics, you can find a full line of supplies for counted cross-stitch, punchneedle, embroidery and Read more...
Fern Hill Gifts and Quilts has a unique and inviting collection of Handmade Iowa quilts, antique quilts, fabric and Stephanie Brandenburg and Frond Design Studios fabrics, architectural antiques, antique furniture, gifts, cards, home decorating, garden, florals, sweets and beverages. There are 3 floors brimming with wonderful items to decorate your own home. Open year-round! Read more...
Something for everyone! Creative Colony has whatever style you’re looking for, country to Americana, primitive to contemporary. You’ll be amazed at the diversity of our handcrafted products. We carry items for your home; furniture, framed art work, flower arrangements, quilts, baskets, pottery, kitchen wares, hand-woven rugs, and soy candles. We have unique gift ideas; soaps and lotions, fused glass and stained glass, whimsical signs, garden art and pet accessories. For the personal touch; we have jewelry, hand-woven scarves, stylish purses, appliqued t-shirts and sweatshirts. Our children’s room offers doll clothes, wooden toys, bibs, blankets and small treasures. No matter what your Read more...
Visitors to Amana often arrive with a preconceived notion of Iowa as a flat expanse adorned solely by endless cornfields. Yet, upon arrival, they are greeted by rolling hills adorned with lush textures that have inspired vibrant landscapes and portraits by renowned artists like Grant Wood. Amana’s community is dedicated to preserving its rich artistic heritage. The Amana Arts Guild actively recruits and supports blacksmiths, coppersmiths, broom makers, and tinsmiths, breathing new life into the traditional trades of the region. At this pivotal moment in its history, Amana faces the challenge of balancing innovation with tradition to uphold the expertise Read more...
Tinsmith and Metal Work An Amana tradition from the start Metalwork has been taking place in the Colonies from the beginning. These artisans are keeping…
Woodworking + Furniture Making Woodworking from Amana Craftspeople with Over a Century of Tradition From the village cabinet maker to the furniture maker to the…
