January 2009 Simple Threads Inc began it's new look, new ownership and new inspiration.
Simple Threads Inc is owned by Janet Carnahan (who started Simple Threads in Oct 2003) and Carmen Dolbeare (who was employed by Simple Threads when the Bottineau Shop opened in July 2007)

Janet started quilting in 1999, she and her quilting friends would go on annual fall trips to quilt shops in Minnesota, North Dakota, Wisconsin and Canada. After visiting several shops, Janet decided she wanted to follow her passion and open one of her own. From the beginning her vision was to have a warm, welcoming and comfortable shop for quilters to gather. The shop would offer advice, inspiration and social gatherings.

In 2007, Janet decided to expand the shop to Bottineau, North Dakota. Janet choose Bottineau because she had built up quite a large client base attending Retreats at Metigoshe Ministries and classes at the Tech Center. Upon the suggestion of one customer, Janet was told a shop would make it if she got Carmen to work for her.

Janet approached Carmen at the Quilt Camp June 2007, asked her if she would be interested in working at Simple Threads II in Bottineau. She agreed!

In May of 2008, it was determined to close Simple Threads I in Rock Lake. It was a difficult and tearfull decision. Janet misses all the good times, friends and partners she left behind in Rock Lake.

But the dream to follow her passion continues, just 60 miles from home.

In Nov 2008, Janet and Carmen were on a trip to Market in Minneapolis, while traveling, conversations began about the need to make some management changes to ensure the future of Simple Threads. Janet pulled off the interstate and took Carmen to one of shops that Janet was inspired in. As they were standing in the shop, Janet said to Carmen - "This is where I had the thought I want one!"
Carmen then understood where the desire to follow our passion.

As we traveled miles and miles and miles, ideas, thoughts and changes were the topic of all the conversations. From those conversations, we joined together and created Simple Threads Inc,
expanded our floor space, brought in Collectibles and Antiques and
the dream continues.


Janet is married to Doug Carnahan and together they have 3 children.
A daughter Jamie and 2 sons, Micheal and Shawn. Janet and Doug live on a farm north of Rock Lake.

Carmen is married to Jim Dolbeare and together they have 3 children.
2 Sons Brent and Curtis, a daughter Alissa and 4 grandchildren.
Carmen and Jim live on a farm west of Willow City with 4 dogs, several cats, a turtle and goldfish.