“This isn’t just about crafts. It’s about creating a life where you feel connected, calm, and accomplished.”
When a man walked in The Cottage On Second last Saturday, he wasn’t just browsing a store—he was discovering a sanctuary. Jennifer, the owner, recalls the moment with a mix of awe and laughter. The man, in his 40s, eagerly shared that he had just found his place. For an hour, he showed her photos of intricate cross-stitch projects he and his military friends had created: Neil Diamond, Bruce Springsteen, and Dr. Who—painstaking works that had taken years to complete.
This story is the heartbeat of The Cottage On Second, a place where crafting and mental health intersect. Jennifer’s journey to opening the store is rooted in her own battles with depression and anxiety due to re-occurring trauma and intensified by years of a high-pressure corporate career.
“I’ve struggled with depression myself,” Jennifer shared. “It’s something I’ve had to actively work on every single day. And I know I’m not alone—mental health challenges are common now.”
After leaving a 23-year career as a private banker in Los Angeles, Jennifer sought a more serene life, one where she could focus on her own mental health while creating a supportive community. Crafting became her anchor. Needlepoint, embroidery, cross-stitch, and other hands-on hobbies helped her slow down, focus, and regain a sense of accomplishment.
“The trend is real,” Jennifer said. “People are saying, ‘I don’t want to scroll on my phone anymore. I want to create something with my hands.’ And I think it’s way past due. Taking control of your mental health—these are things that should have been a priority all along.”
Because of the surge in popularity, sourcing needlepoint materials has become a challenge nationwide. Factories and wholesalers are struggling to keep up with demand, leaving some makers frustrated. But Jennifer was ahead of the curve. With long-standing relationships and a commitment to providing high-quality materials, she’s secured a robust inventory for her store, and she travels to stitching trade shows across the country.
The Cottage On Second offers classes and community gatherings for all skill levels. Tuesday mornings host an embroidery and cross stitch group, and Wednesday night feature a new needlepoint circle that draws people balancing careers, children, and the chaos of modern life. Jennifer’s space is more than a store—it’s a hub for people looking to slow down, reconnect, and care for their mental health.
“This isn’t just about crafts,” Jennifer said. “It’s about creating a life where you feel connected, calm, and accomplished. Whether it’s a cross-stitch project, sewing machine club, or even candle-making, these things fill your soul.
They’re good for you. And they’re desperately needed in today’s world.” For the man who walked in last Saturday, for Jennifer herself, and for countless others discovering the joys of hands-on creativity, The Cottage OnSecond is proving that sometimes the simplest tools—a needle, thread, or a blank canvas—can have the most profound impact on the mind.
The Cottage On Second is conveniently located on the corner of 2nd Ave. and Old State in downtown Eagle. Follow @thecottageonsecond on Instagram for classes and events “This isn’t just about crafts. It’s about creating a life where you feel connected, calm, and accomplished.”
