I’m Carolyn—the stitcher, designer, and serial hobbyist behind Bird Dog.

I grew up just outside of Chicago in a family of makers (and bird dogs), so making things with my hands has always been part of the deal. I studied Graphic Design at Auburn, spent more than a decade working in advertising, retail, and building a floral business from the ground up. Basically, I’ve managed to make a career out of making things pretty and figuring out how things work.

I decided to try needlepoint 8 years ago and (reasonably) chose a stocking as my first project. Eight months later, I finished it! And then immediately started another (smaller) canvas. I’ve been stitching ever since.

After years away, I found my way back home to Chicago, and the idea for Bird Dog came with me. I want to create the kind of needlepoint shop I’ve been looking for: thoughtful and well-made, but never too serious. A place for beautiful canvases and great finishing, but also for sitting around a table, learning something new, playing a game, having a glass of wine and finding people you actually want to hang out with.

The name comes from my two bird dogs at home—a German Shorthaired Pointer (Ginny) and an English Setter (Maple) who you'll see around the shop once we're open. My grandfather raised English Setters, so bird dogs have been part of the family for a long time. Naming the shop after them just felt right.

We’re starting with finishing, and this is one thing I do take seriously. I know exactly how many hours (and how many episodes of whatever you’re watching) can go into a canvas. When you send your stitching to Bird Dog, I’ll treat it with the same care and attention I’d want someone to give my own.

I’m so glad you found us. This is just the beginning, and I hope you’ll stick around for what comes next.

See you around!