On the way to Springfield, Illinois, I made a detour south of Indianapolis to Back Door Quilts. Just six and a half miles from the I465 bypass, this growing shop is owned by Teri Dougherty and Linda Hale.
It is slowing taking over the strip mall where it is housed. Every time a neighboring business leaves, they expand into the freed space. This allows them to have really large classrooms and carry a wide selection of fabrics. There are about 1,000 bolts of batiks (there is a wall of blues behind the counter), and another 3,000 plus bolts of other fabrics. There is a room of flannels, and a cabinet of wools. There are also blenders and Cuddle Backings.
Some of the Batiks 
Brights in another room 
Civil War and Vintage Machines 
Flannel
The fabric is only half of the story. There are samples available for inspiration just about everywhere. Many of the samples are miniatures, so more can be displayed in the space available. There is a wide selection of patterns – more than 200 at a quick count, and that was just on the main rack. Also look as you are browsing for the old sewing machine drawers being used to display fat quarters – very clever!
Note the Laura Heine Collages 
Samples and patterns 
A cubby of miniatures 
Jelly Roll Rugs – Take the class!
Did I mention large classrooms? Back Door Quilts hosts events, classes, and clubs. These change by the season and are listed online, so if you are going to be in the area for awhile, plan to take a class or two while you’re around.
There are English Paper Piecing supplies to be found here, plus gadgets and rulers and gift items. If you want to see the whole store, plan on at least an hour.
| Back Door Quilts | Hours: M-Th 9:30-9 F-S 9:30-5 1st and 3rd Sunday 1-4 |
| 2503 Fairview Pl. W | Phone: 317-882-2120 |
| Greenwood, IN 46142 | Email: teribackdoor@indy.rr.com |
| www.backdoorquilts.com | Mail Order: Yes Fabric Online: Kits and Books |