I’m a few days behind on this news, but per their Facebook page, Signature Needle Arts has begun the process of closing down.
Owner Cathy says she recently retired from Bothe Associates (the machine shop that made the needles) and “I simply don’t have the energy to continue to shepherd Signature in the coming years.”
Their final sales began last week, and accessories, kits, yarn, books and patterns are now 20 percent off. The announcement said there are currently no plans to discount the needles, which are beloved in the knitting community and carry a high price tag.
The website says that all sales are final and orders and being processed on a first come, first served basis. There is no guarantee items will be available because of the high volume or orders, and shipping is delayed at least five days as they work through orders.
The company made interchangeable circular knitting needles, fixed circular small circumference sock needles, double pointed knitting needles and single point needles. They also sell accessories, a selection of yarn and pattern kits, and a selection of patterns. It was founded because Cathy, who was president of Bothe Associates, was struggling with knitting fuzzy yarn and wanted needles with sharper points. She had the needles made at the shop and the stiletto point was born. They also make “middy” and blunt tips for knitters who prefer a less-sharp point.
I was poking around this morning and it looks like some needles have sold out already, so if you want to get some you should check in and order quickly. The note says items may go out of stock and not come back, but others may reappear as they work on finishing products in progress.
The note did say they are open to serious inquiries about selling the business, so there’s a chance someone out there will be able to take over the company and keep these great needles coming.
