East Indianapolis residents now have a new neighborhood resource for fabric lovers. In September, Meredith Rowan and her husband Jeff opened Sycamore Sewing Co. at 412 S. Ritter Ave., a modest shop that aims to provide high‑quality cotton fabrics at prices that won’t break the family budget.
Affordable fabrics and a community focus
Rowan, who describes herself as a “fabric collector,” says the shop’s inventory is deliberately chosen. Most of the material is 100% cotton and sells for about $6 a yard, while select higher‑end brands run roughly $14 per yard. “Other companies may mark it up two times,” she explained, “we just mark it enough to keep the shop going.”
After the national craft‑store chain Joann filed for bankruptcy and shuttered its locations, many local sewers found it harder to locate affordable fabric. Rowan saw the gap as an opportunity to serve the community, offering both low‑cost material and a welcoming space for hobbyists of all skill levels.
Creative use of space
Instead of traditional shelving, the shop repurposes old bed frames and entertainment centers to display colorful bolts of fabric, seasonal patterns and knickknacks. Exposed brick walls and a cozy layout give the store a home‑like feel. “I don’t want to be some big, high‑end shop,” Rowan said. “I want anyone who walks in to feel at home.”
Family‑run and community‑oriented
Both Meredith and Jeff maintain full‑time jobs, while their adult children help run the store. Their daughter, Peytan Mills, often works the floor with her six‑month‑old son Hendrix strapped in a carrier. Mills notes a strong local response, with many customers asking about sewing classes and community events.
“People want intro to sewing, how to work a machine, and how to make things like placemats,” Mills said. “It’s a really good place for community in the sewing world.” The Rowans hope to launch formal classes and events at the start of 2027.
Encouraging beginners and seasoned sewers alike
Jeff Rowan describes the shop as a place where neighbors bring projects to the table for collaborative help. “Someone will say, ‘OK, this is what I need to do. Can you help me?’ and we’ll work together,” he said.
While Meredith enjoys smaller projects such as table runners, she also experiments with clothing and accessories, even crafting tiny outfits for a decorative desk goose. She invites anyone, even those without a sewing machine, to stop by and explore the fabric selections.
Hours and location
Sycamore Sewing Co. is open Wednesday through Sunday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. The shop’s central location on South Ritter Avenue makes it easily accessible for residents throughout Irvington and the broader east side of Indianapolis.
As a locally owned business, Sycamore Sewing Co. adds to the neighborhood’s small‑business ecosystem, offering both economic activity and a gathering place that aligns with traditional family values and community spirit.
Original reporting: Mirror Indy — read the source article.
