Johnstown-based Flood City Stitch is going viral – here’s why
Photo: Bridge Perspective
As a child, Karlie Kendig learned how to crochet from her neighbor. She shared, “I got addicted to it!” She always carries yarn with her and after transitioning to working from home she said she “worked up the guts to do it full time” and started Flood City Stitch, an online retailer selling made-to-order knit and crochet items like a keepsake baby blanket, bookmarks and an Octopus Snuggler.
Photos: Karlie Kendig
Kendig said her shop is unique in its goals. “I don’t want to just sell things. I want to create keepsakes, and for my business to be a positive thing for Johnstown. This is different than just going online and buying from someone,” she shared.
“Everyone wants to be ‘authentic,’” Fleegle said. “Authenticity pours out of Karlie and her customers love her for it,” he added.
Kendig knew she was onto something when her Easter bunny product drop sold out in minutes. She explained, “I left my job in February 2021 and in April I did an Easter launch. I listed twenty bunnies and they sold in two minutes.” At that point, she said that she realized if she worked hard, she was on her way to a successful business. Karlie’s strong social media presence has been a big factor in growing a loyal fan following and spreading the word.
Photo: Bridge Perspective
Karlie went from making her items on the side to working alongside her Startup Alleghenies coach Blake Fleegle to get Flood City Stich business off the ground. Kendig said, “Blake helped me find funding and grants. I wanted to make sure I was doing everything right, and he helped to make sure I was.”
Fleegle said, “One-on-one coaching can really make the difference for your business. Karlie is a testament to that.” Kendig added that it’s nice to have concrete in-person business help, noting she and Fleegle sometimes meet for coffee to go over her questions.
Photos: Karlie Kendig
Kendig raved about the endless support she has received from her Johnstown community. She said, “There are so many resources for getting supplies locally, business support and opportunities for vendor events.”
“I don’t want to just sell things. I want to create keepsakes, and for my business to be a positive thing for Johnstown.”
Kendig said in the future she would love to have a mobile shop: ”A funky bus maybe,” she said. In the meantime, she’s making – and selling out – her creations and building a following. “Everyone wants to be ‘authentic,’” Fleegle said. “Authenticity pours out of Karlie and her customers love her for it,” he added.
Startup Alleghenies helps startup and emerging small businesses succeed by providing free coaching to entrepreneurs in Bedford, Blair, Cambria, Fulton, Huntingdon and Somerset counties. To access personal, one-on-one support from a coach in your county, including guidance, resources, tools and networking opportunities, sign up at startupalleghenies.com.
