Hi, my name is Sammie Jo Thomas, and I am the proud owner of Knit Picky, Inc.

Let me tell you a little about myself. I have been an oncology nurse since 1990 and have knitted as a hobby for about the same number of years. As a nurse, I have been privileged to meet many people, care for wonderful patients, and to work with knowledgeable and friendly peers in the medical field.

As a knitter, I have been part of several knitting groups that have grown into fun and enriching friendships. We joke that our 'knitting therapy' saved us hundreds of dollars in counseling fees. We share ideas, patterns and stories. Our main goal is to relax and have fun together.

I have noticed a trend. Nurses, teachers, mothers, sisters, daughters, and women in general don't always take time to nurture themselves. I want to change that. Knit Picky is a place to do something nice for you. You will be able to visit with others, learn new tricks, create and expand your imagination. I want Knit Picky to be the 'Barnes & Nobles' of the knitting world. Come in to relax and have fun; prop your feet up in our Yarn Lounge. Sit, knit and enjoy a cool drink or a warm cup of coffee.

The shop offers a variety of classes for all levels. We can also schedule a one on one lesson to fit your needs. Bring your computer and take advantage of our wireless internet connection. Enjoy the breeze on the screened porch or sip lemonade under the shade tree. Knit Picky is for you. Stop by and let us know what you'd like...new yarns, special classes, weekend getaways, help with projects, you name it! We look forward to seeing you!   Wishing you the best, Sammie Jo

special thanks

A special thanks to my support team:

First, thanks to my sweetheart of a husband, Steve! He has been the most encouraging person imaginable. He has listened to my ideas over and over again and prompted me to 'go for it'! He tells me daily how proud he is of me and how successful I am going to be with this shop (I like to hear him talk!).

Next, I want to thank my son, Zach Thomas. After becoming frustrated with my lame attempts at designing a logo for Knit Picky, I decided to patiently wait on him to finish his junior year at Appalachian State University and ask for help. He stepped up and used his training in Industrial Design and his artistic talent to create the logo, the sign, and the advertising! Zach helped choose colors and painted several rooms in the shop; giving Knit Picky is colorful charm. He is terrific!

Melissa Smith, Zach's girlfriend, has been part of our family for almost 6 years. She is is a nutrition major at ASU. Melissa came up with many fun ideas for Knit Picky (including the name). She began knitting a few years ago and has created several great scarves, purses, etc. Luckily for me, Melissa is working with me in the shop this summer. I am looking forward to hanging out with her!

Carol Evans, my mom, is my number one public relations person. She has spread the word relentlessly about my shop to anyone who passes her way. She is quite enthusiastic and often relates experiences from her previously owned shop, 'The Hen House'. Thanks, mom!

To some of my best friends, or Fun Girls, as I call them: Susan, Nan, Karen, Belva, Wanda, Judy and Rhonda. Each one has given me helpful hints, encouragement and has always been available to give input or new ideas about the shop. You ladies are the BEST.

Special thanks go to Alan Wormick, Karen Tilley and LSB, Dewey and Betty Kiger, and Aaron Angle. Also, thanks to Susie Zanni who has been, and continues to be, a wonderful knitting shop mentor. And to all of you cheerleaders and supporters who are promoting Knit Picky, I am very appreciative.

Let's have some fun together!!