Schmackers Home Galleries to purchase next-door Sewing Basket

The Schomacker family is buying the Sewing Basket to operate as part of the Schomackers Home Galleries business in Luverne.
In a statement released Friday, Sharon Schomacker said the Sewing Basket will be a good addition to the family business (mattresses, appliances, flooring and cleaning services).
“Being next door for the last three years, we see the traffic that the Sewing Basket brings to Luverne’s Main Street,” she said. “We want that reputation and that traffic to continue.”
For decades, the Sewing Basket operated between two legendary downtown businesses, Renfro Variety and Luverne Style Shop (now Schomackers).
In July, Barb Bork announced she would retire after more than 40 years and offered her fabric and sewing business for sale. This fall she entered into an agreement with the Schomacker family to purchase and operate the Sewing Basket, beginning Jan. 1.
Schomacker’s Home Galleries will continue operating the Sewing Basket as is and will integrate its products services — including Husqvarna and Viking sewing machines — into the Schomacker business offerings.
“With a shared wall, customers will be able to walk in and out of both stores from the inside,” Schomacker said.
She said the coronavirus and shelter-in-place orders have created a demand for sewing masks, blankets and other items.
“That Luverne has this essential store right here is so valuable to the community,” Schomacker said.
The Sewing Basket hours will be expanded to match the Home Galleries hours: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday; 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Thursdays; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturdays and closed Sundays.
Schomackers are seeking a full-time manager to operate the business.  Applications will be accepted until Nov. 30.  
See www.star-herald.com for the June 27, 2019, story about Bork’s retirement.