RED OAK, Iowa – U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Ranking Member of the Senate Small Business Committee, today announced her Small Business of the Week: Tillies Quilts of Webster County. Throughout this Congress, Ranking Member Ernst plans to recognize a small business in every one of Iowa’s 99 counties. 

“Tillies Quilts provides a gathering place and welcoming atmosphere for folks of all ages and skill levels to practice the time-honored tradition of quilting,” said Ranking Member Ernst. “Jo’s work to pursue her passion and remember her Great Aunt’s legacy is admirable. I’m proud to recognize this business that not only provides customers with quilting products, but encourages learning, creativity, and fellowship in Webster County.”

Driven by her dream of owning her own quilt shop, Jo Seltz founded Tillies Quilts in 2011 to serve both expert and novice quilters in Webster County. Housed in a remodeled, historic building in downtown Fort Dodge, the shop offers designer fabrics and patterns, quilt kits, quilt supplies, and quilting classes. Customers can also attend a block of the month club and social events hosted at the shop. Jo received her first quilt from her Great Aunt Matilda “Tillie” Jacobs. That gift inspired Jo’s love for quilting and ultimately the creation of Tillies Quilts. Although Tillie passed away in 1994, Jo continues to honor her legacy of hard work, kindness, and passion for quilting with the business.

Stay tuned as Ranking Member Ernst recognizes more Iowa small businesses across the state with her Small Business of the Week award.

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