A Creative Haven in the Heart of St. John’s
Some quilt shops grow slowly over time. Others burst onto the scene with big ideas, bold creativity, and a team ready to bring those ideas to life.
That’s the story behind East Coast Quilting Co., a vibrant maker’s hub located in the historic downtown of St. John’s.
When co-owners Read Bowen and Debbie Northover opened the shop in July 2019, they envisioned a place where creativity could flourish across multiple crafts. Quilting would be at the heart of it, but weaving, stitching, and other fiber arts would also have a home there.
By July 2024, the shop had expanded into its current 7,500-square-foot creative space, turning it into a true crafting paradise where makers can explore, learn, and create.
Today, East Coast Quilting Co. is open seven days a week, offering workshops, creative events, and access to top-tier sewing machines as an authorized Bernina and Brother dealer. It’s a place where creativity doesn’t just happen — it thrives.
The Passion Behind the Shop
The energy of the shop comes from the perfect mix of personalities and passions.
Read Bowen, often called “the tall one,” has an undeniable love for fabric — curating collections, discovering new prints, and helping customers find exactly what sparks their creativity. Debbie Northover, “the short one,” brings energy in her own way: she’s a competitive powerlifter and recently won gold at her first national competition. Together, their enthusiasm shapes the fun, quirky, and welcoming environment that defines the shop.
A Bright and Inspiring Creative Space
Located right in the heart of historic downtown St. John’s, East Coast Quilting Co. is spacious and bright, with large windows at the back overlooking the bustling harbor.
Inside, the displays are a true work of art. The team spends a tremendous amount of time and creativity arranging fabrics, projects, and finished samples in ways that spark ideas and inspire visitors the moment they walk through the door. It’s the kind of shop where you might arrive with a simple plan — and leave with a whole new project in mind.
Why Quilters Love East Coast Quilting Co.
“Their shop dog Maggie is always there and brings a smile to my face no matter what.” —Marc S.
“So much quality variety in a gorgeously laid out store with incredibly friendly staff and fantastic workshops. You walk in and feel like you are a member of the community.” —Liz C.
“What stands out at ECQCo is the enthusiasm, encouragement, and support of all of the staff and management. I am very new to sewing and I have never been made to feel uncomfortable in any way among experienced and talented quilters. Everyone there seems to always have time to share their knowledge, offer helpful advice and opinions, or just have a chat. The atmosphere is always welcoming and warm.” — Patty D.
Inspiration Around Every Corner
With 7,500 square feet to explore, there’s no shortage of inspiration at East Coast Quilting Co.
The shop offers a wide variety of fabrics and supplies for quilting, stitching, weaving, rug hooking, knitting, and more. Whether someone is an experienced maker or just beginning their creative journey, there’s something for everyone.
Workshops and classes are a major part of the shop’s offerings. A talented group of instructors leads classes that range from foundational sewing skills to specialized techniques across multiple crafts. These workshops transform the shop into more than just a retail space — it’s a place where people gather, learn, and share their creativity with others.
A Team That Makes the Magic Happen
If you ask the owners what truly makes the shop special, the answer is simple: the team.
East Coast Quilting Co. is powered by a group of talented, energetic staff members who bring creativity, humor, and dedication to everything they do.
Kevin, Emily, Kerri, Cherise, Mehrnaz, Jessica, Donna Mac, Salina, Mark, Kristopher, and new team member Brann are known for delivering extraordinary customer service and rising to every challenge.
The team is also supported by a stellar group of instructors, including Bernadette, Christian, Colleen, Anna, Ann, Lori, Juliet, Nicole, and Lindsay, who recently returned after a hiatus.
And of course, no visit would be complete without meeting the shop’s official greeter and lunchroom supervisor — Maggie Magee, the beloved staff beagle.
A Creative Force in the Community
East Coast Quilting Co. is deeply connected to its local crafting community.
The shop regularly hosts guild sew days, youth camps, workshops, and community events that help introduce more people to quilting, stitching, and fiber arts.
In 2025, the shop received the Atlantic Canada Craft Award for Outstanding Retailer and was recognized as a Creative Hub and Newfoundland Regional Winner in the ByAnnie Local Quilt Shop Contest — honors that reflect the impact the shop has made in the crafting world.
A Creative Stop on Canada’s Rugged Coast
Visitors to St. John’s quickly discover that creativity thrives here far beyond the walls of the quilt shop.
The city sits along one of Canada’s most beautiful coastlines. Within minutes, visitors can find themselves standing along rugged cliffs watching whales breach offshore or spotting puffins nesting along the rocky shoreline. The region is also known for incredible seafood — from fresh cod and chips to lobster and tuna — along with lively music, welcoming locals, and endless outdoor adventures.
Hiking, biking, exploring coastal trails, or enjoying live music in the evenings all add to the experience. For those planning a visit, the shop owners offer one important tip: book your rental car early.
For travelers who love creativity, community, and coastal charm, East Coast Quilting Co. is a destination well worth the trip.
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