After some tough competition throughout the entire 2025 Local Quilt Shop Contest, Kimz Sewing and Patchwork came out on top as the Grand Prize Winner for Australia!
For over 16 years, Kimz Sewing and Patchwork has been a vibrant part of the Sunshine Coast’s creative community.
What started as a relaxing hobby for Kim, a former nurse of 30 years, has grown into a bustling quilt shop filled with inspiration.
It’s truly a family-run business. Her husband, Neale, is the in-house longarm quilter and daughter Mads handles social media and customer support.
Even Kim’s mum, Joan, pitches in by keeping the shop tidy on Saturdays.
Kim’s love for ByAnnie bags and patchwork quilts is at the heart of the store. When she’s not sewing, she’s soaking up the coastal lifestyle — walking her dog with Neale, enjoying good food, or spending quality time with her three grandkids.
“The Local Quilt Shop contest has encouraged our customers to acknowledge their local stores in a different light. It really highlighted that we are not just a quilt shop but a safe community that inspires each other to be creative and express themselves through all things sewing. It has brought everyone together and reminded all our local and visiting customers to support the small businesses out there. We have loved being a part of this contest and appreciate all the hard work that Annie and her team do to make it happen! Most of all we love our customers!!” — Kim on the impact on the contest
It Takes a Village
Located in the heart of Warana, just a few streets from the beach, Kimz Sewing and Patchwork is a welcoming space where creativity flourishes.
The moment customers step inside, they’re greeted by vibrant displays of sewing machines, quilts, and beautifully-crafted bags.
A spacious workshop area hosts classes and events throughout the year, bringing together makers of all skill levels.
The shop carries an extensive selection of Bernina and Janome sewing machines, fabrics, threads, notions, patterns, and all the essentials for ByAnnie bag making.
Need some help getting started?
A variety of classes and workshops, featuring expert tutors, are available to guide you.
The heart of the business is its dedicated team. Christine, Kim’s right-hand woman for over 15 years, is a wealth of knowledge and a patient, talented teacher.
Hayley, the team’s expert dressmaker, is known for her handmade wardrobe and lightning-fast sewing skills.
Lee, with over 20 years in the industry, has a keen eye for fabric selection.
Mitch, the trusted technician of 10 years, ensures sewing machines are in top condition.
Neale brings precision to longarm quilting, and Mads captures it all on social media, sharing the shop’s magic with the world.
Whether you are a local or a visitor to the Sunshine Coast, stepping into Kimz Sewing and Patchwork will feel like coming home to a family that loves to create.
2025 Voters’ Comments
“From the first time I stepped into this wonderful space I knew I found my people. The shop is a wonderland for everything sewing. The staff are welcoming and inclusive.” — Franca
“(She) never makes you feel silly and is always there for advice.” — Jenny
“From the moment I moved to the Sunshine Coast, I felt like Kimz was part of my family. ” — Lindsey
Customers overwhelmingly commented on Kim’s incredibly positive energy, wealth of information, and strong sense of community. Plus, they pointed out, Kimz is the place to go for all things ByAnnie, Tula Pink, or Tilda!
Visit Down Under
The Sunshine Coast is a beautiful holiday destination.
Kimz is located just 40 minutes away from the famous Noosa region, with plenty of gorgeous beaches along the way.
The store is also located near a wonderful hinterland with plenty of forests to explore, delicious cafes to visit, and restaurants to tour.
There are quite a few quilt shops nearby, so make a weekend of it and do your own little Shop Hop!
Want to learn more?
