The Forest Needle has long been a cherished part of Chicago’s North Shore. In 2022, it entered a new chapter when it was purchased by Cindy Annibali, who dreamed of creating a welcoming space where stitchers of all ages could gather, connect, and enjoy the craft.

After raising her daughter and navigating significant health challenges, Cindy poured her heart into the shop and the community around it. In the spring of 2025, she passed away, leaving behind a legacy of warmth and creativity.

Today, her daughter Ellie carries that legacy forward. Having learned to needlepoint from her mother and grandmother, Ellie is committed to keeping the store thriving in Cindy’s honor. The Forest Needle remains exactly what Cindy envisioned—a place where people come together, find joy in stitching, and feel at home.