FORT MADISON - In June 2026, Tumblers & Threads, a new women owned business sprouted on the corner of 9th Street, its exterior a black and white building with a charming pink and blue sign of their name with their sale sign on the sidewalk.
For anyone looking for a gift for their family or friend, this shop can find or personalize blankets, clothes, and plenty more.
Owners Deena Chamness and Alisha Thomson opened the business downtown June of this year, after Thomson said she was let go from her job.
“My husband encouraged me to start my own business. It had been my dream for 17 years. After I got the start-up going I called Deena and asked if she would like to join me. From there, we took off running,” said Thomson.
Thomson and Chamness also both have children with autism, so they knew that owning their own business goes far beyond the transaction. Thomson said because they know the challenges their kids face, they want to create a safe space through accommodation and customization.
“Our goal is to offer merchandise our community may not find elsewhere. Also, to offer custom merchandise to meet the customers needs,” said Thomson.
Branding themselves as the shop for unique finds at affordable prices, they sell custom made and sourced tumblers, koozies, and clothing, accessories, wallets, purses, jewelry, and stationery. Thomson is the artist of the custom orders.
“Business has been a little slow but is picking up. We are fairly new so we are still working on getting our name out there,” said Thomson. She and Chamness spend their day replenishing, stocking, processing, waiting on customers and fulfilling custom orders.
If you want to get your mom a glitter cup with a her name on it, or a your daughter a blanket before she moves to college, shop local at Tumblers and Threads for meaningful gifts.
“Everyone is welcome here. We are continuing to grow and you never know what you may find. We want to give back to the community and we achieve that with our community supporting us,” said Thomson.
Tumblers & Threads Boutique's address is 709 9th St, Fort Madison, IA 52627, the phone number is (319) 371-8867, and hours are Monday to Saturday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
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