Stitchin’ Heaven celebrated its return to Quitman with a groundbreaking ceremony last Thursday.

Co-owner Deb Luttrell said the new location should be open March 31 in the Quitman Business Park. After five years in Mineola, the Luttrells are returning to Quitman, where the shop began in 1996.

Moving back to Quitman gives the quilting shop room to house a retail store, a retreat center and a potential distribution center in the future.

Quitman Mayor David Dobbs thanked Luttrell and Quitman Development Corporation Executive Director Denea Hudman for their efforts in getting Stitchin’ Heaven to Quitman.

“I don’t think Quitman has ever seen anything quite so fast as what Deb and Denea were able to put together,” Dobbs said. “We’re excited you’re coming back home to Quitman.”

Dobbs then gave a blessing for the business and its construction.

Luttrell and her son Clay shoveled the dirt for the ceremony. After the ceremony, the guests then sang happy birthday to Deb.

“It’s an incredible birthday present I tell you,” she said. “It’s about 18 months in the making. Thank you very much. It should be a very good day for me and the rest of my life.”

The Luttrells will also bring five other businesses to Quitman, including Lone Star Laser, Stitchin’ Heaven Travel, The Bunkhouse (the retreat center), their Block of the Month headquarters and Tony B’s Texas Kitchen.