PARKERSBURG – After 51 years in business, Kreinik Manufacturing Company has been sold to fellow thread maker Rainbow Gallery of Burbank, Calif.

Second-generation owner Doug Kreinik and his wife, Myla, have decided to retire and move closer to their grandchildren, according to an announcement on the company’s website at www.kreinik.com.

Doug Kreinik joined his parents’ business 41 years ago and expanded the thread lines both in variety and global reach in that time.

He will remain involved, sharing his extensive knowledge and passion for creativity through talks, shows and other ways, the announcement said.

“We understand that this may be a shock and concern; it is a big transition for all of us. It may be a bumpy ride at the beginning, but plans are in place to improve and expand production, making delivery faster,” the Kreiniks said in the announcement.

Rainbow Gallery offers a complementary line of threads used in needlework, fiber art, and fly fishing. A staple in the needlework market for 41 years, they are a natural fit for the Kreinik thread lines, the announcement said.

“Our common goal is to ensure that Kreinik threads continue to inspire your creativity, hobbies and passions for many years to come. We love seeing what you do with Kreinik threads, and thank you for using us in your projects and businesses all these years,” the announcement said.

There will be a transition period when equipment and inventory are shipped across the country, when no threads will be made, and order shipments will be delayed.

The company apologizes for the inconvenience and any frustration this may cause, adding they are transitioning as quickly as possible to provide minimal interruption to projects, communities, events, and businesses.

The West Virginia factory and factory outlet store in south Parkersburg will close Monday, with no orders to be shipped from there after Monday. Production is moving to Rainbow Gallery’s factory in Burbank, Calif.

The Kreinik web site and social media will remain an active, up-to-date source of Kreinik news. However, any orders placed on the site after Monday may take up to six weeks to be delivered. The company recommends using the website’s Store Locator to contact shops carrying Kreinik products.