From First Stitch to Main Street: The Story of 5 Little Monkeys Quilts 💚

Some quilting stories begin with generations of tradition.
Others begin with a simple thought:
“I just need to get out of the house for a minute.”
Back in 2005, Angie signed up for her first quilting class just for the heck of it. With five kids at home, carving out time for herself felt both necessary and slightly rebellious.
What she didn’t expect?
She’d be hooked from the very first lesson.

When a Hobby Becomes a Calling
It didn’t take long before DJ decided to give quilting a try, too. And as he’ll happily tell you—he was pretty good at it. (We agree.)
What started as a creative outlet quickly turned into a full-blown love affair with fabric, thread, and the rhythm of stitching. Quilting and sewing became more than hobbies. They became shared passion, creative therapy, and a family adventure.
And then came the idea that changed everything.
If you’re going to be a quilting addict…
Why not bring others along for the ride?
A Dream on Main Street
In April 2017, that idea became reality when Angie, DJ, and their family opened a little shop on Main Street in Weaverville, North Carolina.
Nestled in the breathtaking Blue Ridge Mountains—just outside the artistic hub of Asheville—5 Little Monkeys Quilts found its home in a community that deeply values handmade creativity.
Weaverville may be small, but it’s surrounded by a culture of makers, artists, and dreamers.
In other words—it’s the perfect place for a quilt shop built on heart.
More Than Fabric on the Shelves
Angie and DJ believe quilting, sewing, and crafting are powerful.
Not just because they produce beautiful, one-of-a-kind handmade pieces.
But because they transform thoughts and emotions into something tangible.
Every stitch holds intention.
Every project carries a story.
And when you step into their shop—whether in person or online—you can feel that philosophy woven into everything they do.
Their mission is simple but meaningful:
✨ Provide the highest-quality fabrics
✨ Offer trusted tools and supplies
✨ Create a friendly, supportive environment
✨ Make sure every maker feels welcomed
Because quilting isn’t just about fabric. It’s about confidence.
A Family-Focused Foundation
The name “5 Little Monkeys” isn’t just charming—it’s personal.
This is a family-rooted business, built on teamwork, creativity, and the belief that handmade matters.
From juggling kids and creativity to running a thriving shop, Angie and DJ understand what it means to build something from the ground up.
And that grounded, real-life experience is exactly what makes their teaching and community presence so special.
They know what it’s like to:
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Squeeze creativity into busy seasons
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Learn through trial and error
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Fall in love with fabric (over and over again)
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Turn passion into purpose
What They’re Bringing to The Handmade Collective ✨
We’re beyond excited to welcome Angie & DJ into The Handmade Collective—and if you’ve ever shopped with them or followed their journey, you know why.
Here’s a little sneak peek at what you can expect:
💚 Practical, Real-World Quilting Wisdom
They don’t just sell tools—they use them daily. Their tips and insights come from hands-on experience and real projects.
💚 Encouragement for Every Skill Level
Whether you’re brand new to quilting or have stacks of finished quilts, they believe there’s always something new to learn.
💚 A Love for Quality Tools & Supplies
Expect thoughtful recommendations rooted in years of working with fabrics, rulers, cutting tools, and sewing essentials.
💚 A Reminder That Quilting Is Joy
Above all, they bring enthusiasm. The kind that reminds you why you fell in love with quilting in the first place.

A Shop That Feels Like Home
In today’s fast-paced world, there’s something grounding about a quilt shop that still believes in connection.
Angie & DJ have built more than a storefront.
They’ve built a gathering place.
A space where:
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Questions are welcomed
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Creativity is encouraged
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Makers feel supported
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And inspiration is always within reach
Whether you’re browsing fabric for your next project or diving into something completely new, their approach is rooted in service and sincerity.
Why We’re So Excited
The Handmade Collective exists to bring together creators who lead with heart.
Angie and DJ do exactly that.
Their journey—from a single quilting class in 2005 to a beloved Main Street shop in 2017—is proof that creativity can change the course of your life.
And now, they’re ready to share even more of that passion with this community.
So whether you’re stitching late at night, dreaming up your next quilt top, or just beginning your creative journey…
You’re in good company.
We can’t wait for you to experience what 5 Little Monkeys Quilts brings to The Handmade Collective.
Because when makers support makers, something beautiful always happens. 💚🧵✨

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Posted in
Handmade Collective





