History
Our Unique History
Sign of the Arrow was established in 1966 when nine women of the St. Louis Alumnae Club of Pi Beta Phi took a leap of faith to expand their fundraising efforts from the annual Carousel Craft Fair at Tilles Park to a year-round shop. On August 1st, 1966, the Eighteen Sixty-Seven Foundation was established and the first storefront for Sign of the Arrow opened on October 17, 1966 at 9666 Clayton Road. The original merchandise selection consisted of cards and paper products, baked goods, consignment needlepoint and crafts.
The shop grew and in 1972 moved one block west to 9740 Clayton Road. As needlepoint interest increased in popularity, Sign of the Arrow became known for its needlepoint kits, canvases and custom belts. Over the years, the focus on needlepoint continued to be strong and the shop expanded the gift selection. Through loyal customers and exciting innovations in needlepoint, Sign of the Arrow outgrew its home once again. In 2014 the shop moved to its current location at 9814 Clayton Road. With the added space, Sign of the Arrow further expanded both its needlepoint and gift departments. In August of 2024, the shop was able to expand once more into the space next door. Now there is more space for improved display of canvases, threads and needlepoint notions, more space for classes and retreats, as well as additional gift display and office space.
Today, the shop is staffed by 80+ community volunteers who give more than 22,000 hours annually to help run Sign of the Arrow. From the beginning, Sign of the Arrow was founded as a not-for-profit to support the St. Louis Community. As business thrived, the shop was able to donate to a greater number of charitable agencies and the need for a Philanthropy Committee arose. The committee reviews grant applications and makes the difficult decision of choosing grantees. Sign of the Arrow has donated over $4.1 million dollars in 800+ grants to over 200 different charities since its inception.
Sign of the Arrow continues to be known for its extensive selection of designer needlepoint, including hand-painted canvases, custom designs, custom finishing, furniture, fibers, trunk shows, and classes. Sign of the Arrow has not only a local, but also a national customer base receiving orders and finishing from around the country. Knowledgeable staff and volunteers assist both novice and experienced needlepointers for all their needs. The shop also offers unique gifts, including decorative accessories, holiday decor, sorority and baby items, picture frames, stationery, servingware, and more.
For over 50 years, Sign of the Arrow customers have truly impacted the community when they shop at Sign of the Arrow. As we look toward the future, we’re working to increase our giving while remaining the area’s premier needlepoint and gift shop.