Rittenhouse Needlepoint — Local services in Philadelphia

If I could give this shop and its owners more stars, I would!!! I have done needlepoint for too many years. I deliberately seek out shops when I travel. This is one of only two I could literally live in if they let me.

Their selection is vast and varied; and if for some reason nothing suits you, don't worry. Their in-house artist can create any vision you have, including, but not limited to, a scary accurate rendition of your favorite pet.

You can work in a endless array of fibers, and advice is everywhere, if you ask. The staff go out of their way to make you feel welcome; no one is in a hurry to make the deal and escort you out. Quite the contrary. They want you to stay and enjoy their shop.

Rittenhouse Needlepoint is again, one of only two finishers I allow to touch my projects. Their work is impeccable. Also in-house. They promise 4 weeks to finish, and they mean it. You can dictate exactly what you want, or leave it to them and you will be guaranteed a beautiful product. At any price point. I happen to specialize in pillows, and I've done simple to ornate; each one is unique and exquisitely detailed.

In short, I LOVE this shop and these people!! They get...

I am torn between a 3/4 for this store, but I don’t want to deter someone with a 3. Not that a 3 is bad, but, just “ok”. It is definitely worth the visit, if you know what to expect. (And my experience, is not everyone’s, of course.)

Loved the selection. When I say selection, get ready for a HUGE inventory. Everything is very well organized. Lots of options for all. Needles? Every good brand and then some. Thread? Every color and quality you can imagine. Kits with upcoming season in mind. Books. And more!

Location was a pain. The sidewalk sign out front was wonderful, but I didn’t know it was a second floor location. We turned to look for the door, confused, there was no signage on the building. Customer service was lacking. We got a “hello” as we entered and that was it. No offer of assistance while we shopped or even chit chat. It was like we weren’t even there. Prices are high. This is not a beginner store. The quality is good, but the prices are high. Lots of thread, wanted to see more yarn.

Would have walked out with a ton, if we got some help. I run a sewing business - quilting, bags, clothing and am starting to dabble in embroidery, but needed some help or...

I’ve shopped here for the past year for my needlepoint supplies, and Ive always been super impressed with the quality of the products and the salespeople are really friendly and helpful. I’m giving the store a negative review for three reasons:

First, the last time I went into the store, I saw a roach in the bathroom (and when there’s one roach, there’s an infestation). Considering the cost of the threads I purchase and their quality, this is incredibly upsetting. Additionally, the air conditioning wasn’t working and the store was sweltering. Finally, I’ve seen the store manager openly berate her staff. As someone who worked in retail for years, I find this kind of behavior completely unacceptable (as well as unprofessional).

This is supposed to be one of the top stores in the nation for needlepoint supplies, and much as I like have liked shopping here, I will take my patronage to a store that values their product and treats their staff...