GENTRY ó Adding a personal touch is what Marta Harper does every day at Pioneer Patchworks.
Whether it be embroidering a company logo on a cap or garment or adding a monogram or personal message on a baby blanket, Marta does it at her Main Street shop.
After her parents, Marty and Cindy Nance, bought the business from Chris and Julie Coonrod several years ago, Marta helped out in the shop part time.
ì We found out it was more my thing than hers, î Marta said of working in the shop with her mother. ì I like doing the specialty gifts, and I like the customers and dealing with the public, î she said.
Marta took over the business from her parents about a year ago and now works full time making items special for her customers.
ì I always wanted some type of gift shop, î Marta said. And now she personalizes gifts and awards for other people.
Pioneer Patchworks handles custom embroidery work, team apparel, uniforms, screen printing, trophies, plaques, gifts and other items.
Not only does Marta personalize the usual items such as caps, shirts and jackets, she also makes and personalizes specialty items, including purses, blankets, towels and baby gifts.
Items can be ordered or purchased through her shop, but Marta also permits customers to bring in items for an added personal touch. One of her customers has her add embroidered art to saddle blankets to be given as awards in barrel racing competitions.
ì I like Gentryís small-town atmosphere and the people here, î Marta said. She looks forward to all the Main Street buildings being occupied and used for business once again.
Pioneer Patchworks is located at 236 E. Main Street, Gentry. Business hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Fridays. The business can be reached by telephone at 736-8177.
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