Lasting impressions: Hilo fabric shop celebrates 29 years in business

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Owners Tammy Bennett and Mary Pierson recently observed the 29th anniversary of Fabric Impressions, the shop that showcases their love of island fabric creations.

Owners Tammy Bennett and Mary Pierson recently observed the 29th anniversary of Fabric Impressions, the shop that showcases their love of island fabric creations.

Established in 1987 on Kinoole Street as a sewing shop, Fabric Impressions offered classes for teens and adults, custom sewing, alterations, upholstery work and fabrics.

In 2000, Fabric Impressions moved to its colorful location on Hilo’s bayfront, expanded their Made in Hawaii ready-made product line and evolved into a quilt shop specializing in tropical and oriental fabrics and patterns.

Fabric Impressions is known for unique island-inspired fabrics packaged and sold in “quarters” so visitors can take home a future quilt project reminiscent of their holiday in East Hawaii.

The store’s classroom is filled with Elna sewing machines and sergers for students’ use, and anyone can create and work on their own projects or attend the classes and learn from the pros. For inspiration, visit the business’ Facebook page with student photos posted of finished projects.

Fabric Impressions’ shop window houses some crazy, colorful hula girls and many examples of its customers’ fabric creations.

Nearing retirement, Bennett and Pierson are looking to “pass the torch” to the next sewing generation.

Everyone is invited to visit the shop or call 961-4468 for more information.