A new form of art is making its way to Aventura with a newly opened needlepoint shop. Shana Benhayoun's needlepoint boutique, SBT Stitches, delivers the discovery of art, pleasure and memories for newcomers to the creative field.
The Miami native is not only taking an inspiring entrepreneurial route but is also giving Floridians a genuine opportunity to partake in the tradition of needlepoint, which she personally learned from her grandmother. At the heart of Aventura, this needlepoint boutique provides customers with an array of items ranging from canvases, threads, tools, and equipment for stitching.
Photo Courtesy: David Moreno
Miami Magazine caught up with her to discuss her new boutique.
Did the culture of Miami have any impact on your creative process?
"As a Miami native, I have always been inspired by our diverse culture, vibrant colors, and unique approach to life. When I set out to open my shop, I knew it had to embody this ethos and be young, modern, girly and vibrant. When designing the shop, I wanted my customer to feel they are entering a part of my life. I was inspired by the Art Deco architecture of Miami Beach and created a space that is open and airy, clean and colorful and most importantly, filled with good vibes! To me, the shop stands out among needlepoint stores (and I have visited many!) and fits perfectly into the Miami vibe."
What’s something in stitching you didn’t expect to learn during your time in the needlepoint industry?
"The best lesson I learned is that, although we bind canvases, needlepoint has no bounds. There is space in the community for everyone and for individuals to grow and evolve. Another vital lesson is that age does not matter. I meet people who have been stitching for longer than I have been alive, and I can teach them new skills. There is so much more to needlepoint than just putting needle and thread to canvas, and it has become my passion to teach this to people of all ages."
Photo Courtesy: David Moreno
Where do you see the growth of SBT Stitches going in the future?
"I opened my first shop in June 2022 and am excited for everything the future holds. I would love to become a staple in the needlepoint world nationwide. Another goal is to open summer pop-up shops in other vibrant and thriving cities to bring my love for the craft to more people around the country. It is my goal to continue to engage and teach the younger generations and encourage the needle pointers of tomorrow. Many people think of needlepoint as a dying hobby, but in my opinion, this is just the beginning."
What can you say to the customers that are new to needlepoint?
"My customers range in age, from 10 to 80 years old, and everyone is able to find something that they love to stitch. Needlepoint brings many benefits to one’s life, so it is hard for me to believe that not everyone does it. It is a stress reliever, provides time for self-care, disconnects you from the phone, computer or social media and is the best creative outlet. The sky's the limit with things that you can make out of needlepoint."
Benhayoun also teaches online classes, private and group classes and parties. She also runs a weekly zoom, Stitch Club, for stitching enthusiasts to gather virtually.
18525 W. Dixie Hwy., North Miami Beach / Website
Photography by: Photo Courtesy: David Moreno
