Untitled
Free Patterns
Babies/Kids
Adult Clothing
Other Patterns
Knitters Will Love...
|
|
Yarn Shop Reviews
Michigan
Center Street Knits
111 Center Street
Northville, MI 48167
248 4349-6700
Reviewed by Nancy Ryder
Center Street Knits is just what every yarn shop should look like. Beautiful yarns, fabulous accessories and and staff is wonderful. An hour in this shop is like a day at a spa. Good smells, relaxing, friendly. It doesn't get any better than this. 11/10
City Knits
Fisher Building, C-9
3011 West Grand Boulevard
Detroit, MI 48202
313-872-9665
Reviewed by Margaret Westerman
With a wide selection of yarn, patterns, and needles, City Knits has all a knitter could want. In addition they carry buttons and flax clothing. The staff is friendly and helpful. I love this shop!
Clever Ewe
7205 Thornapple River, SE
Ada, MI 49301
616-682-1545
Reviewed by Jennifer Lewis
For my first visit I showed up on a Tuesday night at 7:30 pm thinking that they were open until 9 pm. Well, they closed at 6 pm, but were having a class and let me right in, let me look around, answered my questions. Just letting me in the door to shop after hours endeared me to them after a 20 minute detour finding the shop without directions. When I saw the wonderful selection of Brown Sheep Bulky and Baby Ull I knew that I would be back. The yarn was well displayed, lots of good light. I listened in on the class and it seemed like a supportive learning environment for new knitters. There were several rooms to wander through, different brands of yarns and patterns than the other yarn shops in the area. The owner was oh-so-wonderful and we had a nice chat and there was a comfy couch and rocking chairs on the porch. I will definitely be back.
Clinton Woolen Mill Yarn Shop
115 W. Michigan Ave
Clinton, MI
517-456-6727
Reviewed by Jackie Rooke
Beautiful shop with lots and lots of yarns. Owner is setting up a web site but in the meantime will mail order. Clinton is a picturesque town that's well worth the drive.
Crafty Lady
15401 Hall Rd.
Crosswinds Corner Shopping Center
Macomb, MI 48044 (Detroit suburb)
810-566-8008
Reviewed by Nancy Ferguson
This is a shop that specializes in both yarn and needlepoint, devoting approximately equal space to both. Carries numerous varieties and brands of yarns, from acrylic to cotton, linen to wool, and many blends.
Owner and employees are very helpful in helping to find a pattern and accompanying yarns, along with suggestions for substitutions for yarns if
desired.
A large variety of yarns on display, but remember to ask if you need a larger quantity of yarn than is out. They do special orders if needed.
Variety of needles including Inox, Addi Turbos, Susan Bates and the new flexible needles.
Classes are offered in knitting and crochet in the day and evening, even a Saturday class. Monthly all day or all evening sessions on a Friday, but
not for the absolute beginner.
This shop was reviewed by a second knitter.
Reviewed by Janine Lindsey
Another big YES to Crafty Lady. I've been to a lot of yarn stores in different states. This one is (lucky for me) close to home and one of the best.
In addition to an incredible variety of yarns in delicious colors and textures, the owner has a crystal shelf of sinfully expensive yarns that beg to be owned. This place has everything, including parking space. Designer yarns are available in quantity for the ordering. If you join a class you will find yourself elbow to elbow with all levels of knitters and truly inspired. I have never felt ignored, even when I only went in to see, touch and feel. I joined a knitting class (they fill up quickly) and was delighted with the owner's enthusiasm over new yarns and trunk shows. There are bargain bins and baskets worth a look with expensive yarn at serious markdowns. Circulars announce sales, classes, trips, guests and special events. You won't feel slighted or ignored here. I've been welcomed in my worst loafing duds. Staff is friendly and knowledgeable.
This shop was reviewed by a third knitter.
Reviewed by Skye MacAllister
Although I have found that you can find some great yarn at Crafty Lady, I am not impressed with much of the staff. I was looking for a certain color and texture of yarn and I asked the saleslady if they had anything like it at all. She said that no, they didn't. I was disappointed, as I was doing a special order. She told me that I'd have to just do it in a different color. I shouldn't have to, the order was for THAT particular color.
Another time, I was wanting to make a long, very fancy white scarf using four different types of yarn. The owner said they didn't have any of the yarn that I wanted in white, but pulled out every yarn in the pattern and it was to make a PURPLE scarf. I didn't WANT purple, I wanted white. She got very disgusted with me and told me that I wasted her time. I made it very clear to her that purple is not anywhere close to white.
The yarn selection is good, but there should be something done about the help.
Cynthia's Fine Yarns
702 S Huron Avenue
Mackinaw City, MI 49721
231-436-5882
Reviewed by Carrie Bethel
Cynthia's Yarn Shop is the best shop for variety that I have ever encountered! She has the largest selection of fine wool yarns for miles around. Most of all, Cynthia is a superb buyer, knowing what is popular today and what will be popular in the near future.
She offers many classes with top notch instructors and at various times so all can take advantage of the classes. She also offers retreats for experienced knitters.
Several of the women who met at the shop gather twice a week to knit and chat and share ideas and new patterns and helpful hints.
I'm willing to bet you've never seen so much variety in such a cute little shop! 7/07
This shop was reviewed by a second knitter.
Reviewed by Amber Miner
This shop does not allow for disabled people. While planing a weekend trip to Mackinaw City from my birthday with my mother and aunt, I found this yarn shop on the web. I was so excited because it showed a wheelchair ramp on the front. My mother, who is unable to walk long distances due to two separate back injuries, is an avid knitter and I love to crochet. We both set aside a good amount of money to spend in this shop. We went the store on Sunday morning, right after breakfast. My aunt pushed my mom up the winding ramp, that was cluttered with flower pots, but manageable. Cynthia was outside the whole time watering some plants. When we get to the top of the ramp, she joins us there and points to my mother and says I don't think you wheelchair will fit in my store. We were baffled and my aunt said What? and she said I have a lot of stuff in there and there's not enough room for you to move around without knocking stuff over. My mom looked at her and said I guess that's your loss because I was planning to spend a lot of money. Cynthia replied, Well, other people like you have tried it and it just never works out. Sorry. We left completely baffled. How can she have a ramp and then tell people in wheelchairs that they can't come in. Needless to say we will be contacting the Americans with Disabilities association. If you are disabled or know someone who is disabled, don't go to her store. 11/10
The Dropped Stitch
1212 Wildwood Ave, Suite C
Jackson, MI 49201
517-768-8280
Owner: Lyn Dorman
Reviewed by Lili
Located in a neighborhood west of downtown, this shop is tucked into a pleasant house on a corner. Free parking alongside. Major yarn lines include Sirdar, Harrisville, Mountain Colors, Brown Sheep, Regia, Philosophers Wool, and Plymouth Encore. The owner also features luxury yarns and a number of natural fibers from small mills and local fiber
farms. She also carries lace weight wools, as well as quality fine crochet and tatting threads such as Manuela, and a good range of baby yarns. An excellent selection for a small shop.
Friendly service and knowledgeable help deciding what's best for your project. No web page; phone for mail order or special requests. Classes in knitting, crochet, tatting. Phone for schedule. Closed Sunday and Monday.
This shop was reviewed by a second knitter.
Reviewed by Betty Turner
With large bright windows the yarn comes alive. Service and helpful suggestions abound. A quiet, peaceful atmosphere with Kitty on a chair, makes shopping a pleasure.
Dutch Oven Shops, Inc.
US 31
Alanson, MI
616-548-2231
Reviewed by Becky Whitt
What a wonderful shop! It is part of a restaurant and bakery. The shop has a large selection of yarns, patterns and accessories. They also sell some cross stitch and needlepoint supplies. They have lots of things made up to see how the yarns look. You simply cannot leave there without sampling some of the northern Michigan pastries. Well worth the trip, but plan to eat breakfast or lunch while you are there.
This shop was reviewed by a second knitter.
Reviewed by Liz Hine
Make sure you stop in the village of Alanson located directly on your way to Petoskey or Harbor Springs. Store is on left side of US 31south right after turning off of M 68 from Indian River. You are in for a treat with all of the new yarn stock, patterns and accessories. Pleasant help is available and the new yarn is abundant. Major finished samples. Knitting needles and buttons are plentiful. I also found the greatest yarn bag where the yarn feeds out the side through a grommet hole. Bags are clear and you can see all of your equipment. These are so great.
Help is pleasant and have the answers. Dutch Oven will order and send anything / anywhere you can't get on the spot.
You can also get great bread and pastries made on the premise. Try the cinnamon bread.
Elaine's Yarn
219 East Flint Street
Davison, MI 48423
810-653-9010
Reviewed by Barbara Godby
A great yarn shop in a lovely home, easy to find (park in the rear). LOTS of inventory, no high-end yarn (well, okay, Debbie Bliss), and piles and piles of books and patterns! Three people came in while I was there, seeking advice on their projects, and the lady was very patient and knowledgeable. One customer commented that she drives 40 miles to get her fix, and I will be driving further than that - this is a 5-star LYS!
This shop was reviewed by a second knitter.
Reviewed by Janette Bertram
What a joy to shop here! Finding the shop was a little harder than we expected. NOTE: There is a West Flint Street that has similar addresses, but not a 219. The yarn shop is further east on Flint street in a beautiful Victorian house on the North side of the road. There is limited parking in the back. Lucky for us, the shop was empty while we were there. We had the owner entirely to ourselves and what a nice woman she is! She was more than willing to answer our beginner questions and suggest yarns, needles and notions for the pattern we brought in. They carry a nice selection of affordable yarns. This was the second yarn shop I'd ever been in and it put the first to shame. I'd highly recommend it. It was well worth the hour car ride.
Ewe-Nique Yarns
9864 East Grand River
Brighton, MI 48111
(810) 229-3579
Reviewed by Marilyn Veltman
A lovely shop with a wide selection of yarns and a good number of samples on display, which really inspire. New owner (Sherri) is doing a great job. She's extremely friendly and helpful and also very patient with students in her beginner classes. Shop is relatively hidden in the back of a shopping center that is perpendicular to the road, but worth the hunt. Lots of yarns and accessories to dream over. 3/08
The Evergreen Sampler
West Branch, MI
Reviewed by Jeanie Prentice
Located in victorian West Branch just off exits 212 and 215 of I-75. This shop has a growing selection of beautiful commercial and handspun yarns. Bamboo and Inox needles, patterns, classes and a very sweet dog. The owner is a long time knitter, just renewing her love of knitting and has jumped in with both feet. The yarn selection should be just about complete by Spring 2001 but stop by and see the beautiful yarns already in stock. She will also be at the Northern Michigan Lamb and Wool Festival on September 8 and 9 2001.
Flying Sheep
1954 S. Industrial
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
734-623-1640
Reviewed by Amy Polcyn
Recently I visited Flying Sheep, a tiny but pleasant shop in Ann Arbor. On my visit (the weekend of the Super Bowl) they were having a 20-40% off end-of-season sale on wools and other wintry yarns. What a delight! Stocked up on some of the brands they carried: Brown Sheep, Plymouth, Rowan, Mission Falls, Opal, Classic Elite, and Dale of Norway. The
selection of Lamb's Pride was especially extensive. I don't use a lot of novelty yarns, and I appreciated that their stock of novelties did not overwhelm the real yarn, as it seems to in some shops. The customer service was adequate. There was sufficient staff to handle the heavier
traffic due to the sale, but not all were invested in assisting the customers. One sat behind the counter knitting and seemed annoyed that I wanted to check out. The others, however, were friendly and helpful. The stock of needles and notions was more than adequate, though some sizes were
out of stock. Overall, it was a nice experience.
This shop was reviewed by a second knitter.
Reviewed by Karen Lindenberg
I always found the staff to be pleasant, although you have to ask a question to get them to leave the counter and help. The selection of yarns are nice, but if you do knit with novelty yarns, they do not have a depth of stock. If you need four balls of yarn and they only have three, you are out of luck. They did go out of their way to order 6 balls of Jaeger silk fingering for me rather than the rigid rule I found everywhere else that I had to order a whole bag of 10. However, on two other occasions, I asked them to order a Jaeger book (not even yarn), and never heard from them. So my experience with them is they are uneven, and I suspect it depends on whether you talk to the owner or not.
Friends of Wool
442 Washington Ave
Holland, MI 49423
616 395-WOOL
Reviewed by Cindy Visser
Friends of Wool is a wonderful yarn shop. The owners are brilliant and can help answer knitting questions. The yarns they carry are beautiful and are unlimited. It is very worth the trip to the beautiful city of Holland, MI. Lake Michigan is only a short distance away. 5/08
Gail's Darn Yarn
2028 Hazel St.
Birmingham, MI 48009
248-593-9288
Reviewed by Libby Foster
I visited this adorable shop over the Thanksgiving Holiday. Gail, the owner, has a wonderful eye for color and fun projects. Gail is very helpful to her customers. She was in the middle of rescuing a knitter with her project when I came in the store and she was so patient with her customer. Her yarns include a lovely selection of Noro, Art Yarns, Jamieson's, and Crystal Palace, to name a few. She has a great selection of felting yarns and also has many inspiring books for big or small projects (felted or not). The layout in the store is very appealing due to the yarns being arranged by color palate. I highly recommend this store and I can't wait to return to it. 12/08
Gaylord Imagiknit
403 W Main St.
Gaylord, MI 49735
989-732-9276
Reviewed by Loreen Keeth
Friendly yarn shop, great yarn, SWTC, SVALE, Cherry Tree Hill, etc. There is a charity project, an afghan project and group knitting on Sat. AM and Thursday evenings, the 3rd Thursday is reserved for a local spinning group. Maureen, the owner, will special order anything. There is space to just sit and knit, have a cup of tea and touch all the new yarns. 5/08
Have You Any Wool
3455 Robina
Berkley, MI 48072
(248) 541-WOOL
Reviewed by Amy Polcyn
Have You Any Wool is a small but solidly-stocked shop that features extremely pleasant customer service. They carry a wide array of yarns, including Manos, Noro, Jamieson's Shetland (hard to find, I've found), South West Trading Company, Debbie Bliss and Lorna's Laces. They also had a nice selection of Hanne Falkenberg kits, something I'd love to buy! On my visit, there were a number of yarns on sale at 50% off, which was a treat! The store was easy to find, right off of 12 Mile Rd. in downtown Berkley, with a handy parking lot next door. Some of the yarns seemed a bit more expensive here than other places I've shopped, but the service was so great it was hard to care.
Heritage Spinning and Weaving
47 E. Flint Street
Lake Orion, MI 48362
248-693-3690
Reviewed by Margery Townley
Heritage is a shop that specializes in fiber that is Close to the Sheep. There are only a few varieties that do not have some wool in them. Along with over 100 sock yarns there are techno fibers, fabulous lace yarns, and many fibers that would appeal to the spinning/weaving enthusiast-on cones and as roving. The shop is divided approximately one-third spinning and weaving and two-thirds knitting. There is a separate classroom, child play area, reading area for waiting husbands. Many patterns from top designers are arranged according to the article: one doesn't have to sift through all the Fiber Trends designs to find a child's felted hat. Classes are offered on a variety of subjects: knitting, spinning, weaving, crocheting, and sewing. There are drop-in classes, evening classes, teen classes. The owner rents looms and spinning wheels. For a small shop in a small town, this one has it all! The owner, Joan Hoover, is friendly and helpful, very patient when it comes to answering questions about which yarn should I get for this or what do/did I do here?
This shop was reviewed by a second knitter.
Reviewed by Jennifer Lewis
Heritage Spinning and Weaving is a neat little shop tucked in down the street from the Palace of Auburn Hills on the east side of the state. I was over there for a retreat and skipped over there during the afternoon free time. I walked in the door and received a warm welcome. They specialize in wool and I found some beautiful lace-weight yarns in less than a minute. They have the sock room which has regia, cascade, opal and a bunch of other sock yarns. I don't think I've seen a larger selection of sock yarn anywhere else. They had a number of lace books and knitting books that I hadn't seen in other stores but had read about online. The back room is for weavers and knitters. They had wheels, roving, and drop spindles. Some knitters are using roving. The colors and selection they were good. For spinners they had an exotic sample package that had bamboo, soy silk and some other goodies. They did have needle felting supplies. If you're a sock yarn starved knitter, it's worth a trip. If you're a fiber-holic in the area, you must go. Joan answered all my questions about wheels and let me try out the single treadle Ashford Joy.
In Sheep's Clothing
The Shops At Marshall House
100 Exchange Street
Marshall, MI 49068
269-789-1210
Reviewed by Jackie Rooke
This is a beautiful yarn shop in picturesque Marshall, MI. They don't currently have a catalog but mail order your request and give endless information over the phone. They stock all the latest yarns and natural fibers. Gorgeous patterns and everything you could want in accessories!
This shop was reviewed by a second knitter.
Reviewed by Jennifer Lewis
I found the Shops at the Marshall House. The house itself is set off the main road. In Sheep's Clothing is on the first floor. There were colors of Noro that I hadn't seen before. There were many examples of felted bags, knitted hats and scarves. It was a nice clean place, but it seemed to lack the inventory I was expecting. They did have some beautiful mohair tucked in shelf. I don't know that it's worth a special trip, but if you're in the area stop by.
If you're a quilter, the shop in the next room is wonderful. I really enjoyed the selection of quilting fabric and overall Marshall was well worth the stop.
Indigo Rose Yarn and Fiber Arts
37804 Van Dyke Avenue
Sterling Heights, Michigan 48315
586-795-8282
Reviewed by by Amy Polcyn
The other day I visited Indigo Rose, a cute and tidy yarn shop on Van Dyke, just north of 16 Mile. The first thing I noticed was the class table, which was under a gazebo! There was tea and cookies out, and they even gave my 6 year old daughter a piece of chocolate. The range of yarns was limited, but the good array of colors in each made up for it. The shop had a ton of Dale of Norway, Brown Sheep Lamb's Pride, Takhi Cotton Classic, Lana Grossa, Rowan, and Nashua Handknits. In addition, they carry rug hooking supplies and dyes- perfect for knitters who are starting to dye their own yarn. Bonus- they are open until 9 pm on Wednesdays and Thursdays! Overall, a great experience.
Knit A Round Yarn Shop
2663 Plymouth Rd.
Ann Arbor, MI 48105
734-998-3771
Reviewed by Amy Polcyn
Knit A Round is, without question, the best yarn shop I have ever had the pleasure to enter. It was large, airy, and extremely well-stocked with yarn, books, and supplies. The needles and notions area was the most extensive I've ever seen! Combined with outstanding customer service and a generous frequent buyer program (they keep the card on file--you can't forget or lose it!) Knit A Round will be my LYS of choice from now on.
This shop was reviewed by a second knitter.
Reviewed by Jennifer Lewis
I love this yarn shop. The first time I visited they had the most colors of Cascade 220 that I'd ever seen in one place. They had Koigu and Lorna's Laces in abundance not to mention Colinette, Manos De Urugay and many others. They have an impressive selection of books and patterns. There are windows galore (great light), plenty of chairs for leisurely knitting and table space to spread out skeins and patterns for planning the next big fiber adventure. The staff was helpful and encouraged me to move from the floor to the tables. There's a good discount program and they keep the cards at the store.
This shop was reviewed by a third knitter.
Reviewed by Karen Lindenberg
This is my first choice for yarn shopping in the Ann Arbor area. The owners (Carrie and Sherrie) are friendly, knowledgeable and I have never had a problem with their advice. They will wind your skeins for you, they have a discount buying program which they track for you, and the selection of yarn is wide and well organized by fiber and weight. When they knit something in a substitute yarn or their own pattern, the whole sales staff is knowledgeable about what was done and how to replicate it. They have a good selection of books as well. They also offer interesting classes. When the Shadow Knitting book came out, there was a course offered at Knit Around the next session to explore the technique.
Knitter's Kove
4080 Haggerty Rd.
Commerce, MI 48390
248-366-8136
Reviewed by Amy Polcyn
Recently I had the pleasure to visit Knitter's Kove. It is a small but charming shop that chooses to carry a deep selection of a few selected brands rather than a wide assortment with limited color choices, as I have typically encountered elsewhere in the area. The primary brands in stock are Rowan, Classic Elite, and Brown Sheep (among my favorites). Also, this is the first store I have found that carries Opal sock yarn and Lorna's Laces. Sock knitters will certainly rejoice! The service was wonderful and the store offers a frequent buyer program as well.
Knitters Nest
10861 West Cadillac Road
Cadillac, MI
616-775-9276
Reviewed by Becky Whitt
We took a fall color drive up and wanted to locate this shop. It is in a beautiful
part of Michigan. It is attached to a home and very warm and friendly. I was surprised by the amount of yarn and patterns. Great variety of mid price yarns. Owner was extremely friendly and helpful.
The Knitting Room
251 Merrill Street
Birmingham, MI 48009
248-540-3623
Reviewed by Margie Stein
The Knitting Room is a fabulous shop, located on the second floor of a The Merrillwood Building in downtown Birmingham. I'm delighted that it is in my hometown, and I consider it my LYS.
Their inventory is quite extensive for basic and specialty/unusual yarns, patterns, buttons, needles, and supplies. They stock a great variety of creative yarns...enough textures, nubbies, variegated, blends, chenilles, ribbons, and other trend setting yarns to keep a knitter dreaming creatively for a very long time. They will happily take a special order if your dreams include colors they don't have in stock.
The Knitting Room is owned by four women who take a wonderful interest in sharing their craft. They offer classes at a variety of times, and take care to limit the class size to assure that there is time and attention available for each student. This shop is definitely worth driving some distance to visit.
This shop was reviewed by a second knitter.
Reviewed by Amy Polcyn
Yesterday I made my first trip to Knitting Room and it was certainly worth the drive. The shop was spacious, attractive, and neatly arranged, with a wide selection of yarn, including Koigu, Noro, Rowan, Debbie Bliss, and many
others. It was so pleasant to walk into a shop and not feel crowded by the inventory! The staff was friendly and helpful and willing to answer any questions I had, even on a busy Saturday. Unlike many shops I have visited, there was more than enough room for class tables, so shoppers do not have to
squeeze around chairs to get to the yarn. Knitting Room also had a extensive supply of needles and notions and a vast selection of patterns and books. I'll definitely be back.
Knitting Shack
5261 S Division, Suite C
Wyoming MI 49548
616-532-4975
Toll Free 1-800-417-0192
Reviewed by Lauren Kowalczewski
I found this little shop while looking for another. OH, my...I was in heaven!! We have some good craft stores in the area, but small exclusive stores are hard to find, especially around here. It's in a little strip mall set back off the street. There is a large sign with the name, but you have to look for it. There used to be a large beauty shop but it's been literally partitioned in half and the new half is the Knitting Shack. It's one of those little 'hole-in-the-wall' shops with every inch packed with goodies. I was looking for wooden needles and found so much more. They have some yarn I've only seen online, from $3.00 sales prices to $30.00 imported yarn, crochet thread and everything else. I didn't see any Red Heart or everyday things, but lots of Patons and imported yarns. Things that are very beautiful and very affordable.
There are books in baskets on the floor, stuffed in cubby holes between the floor to ceiling colors of yarn, stacked on the counter and every surface is sprinkled with just about every kind of embellishment and accompaniment to projects that you could wish for.
The owner was friendly, helpful and not pushy. If I'd had more time and money, I would have gone crazy buying there! I will definitely go back to look for things for future projects. It was busy with people coming in and grabbing up lots of things for their handmade items.
Mary Maxim
Port Huron, MI
Reviewed by Becky Whitt
The store is every bit as good as the catalog and more so. Everything in their catalog can be found here. Moderate priced yarn, but tons of displays and needlework of every kind. We make trips to Port Huron just to go here.
Beautiful park by the river that is ideal for a nice afternoon picnic after a morning of shopping.
Nautical Yarn
108 S. Rath Ave.
Ludington, MI 49431
(231) 845-9868
Reviewed by Amy Polcyn
The next time you are on the west side of Michigan, be sure to visit Nautical Yarn in Ludington, just steps from Lake Michigan. They have a nice selection of mid-priced yarns-a superb assortment of Brown Sheep and Berroco, as well as others. About a third of the store is dedicated to cross-stitch and needlepoint supplies. The staff is very helpful and they feature a frequent shopper program and a great newsletter. Another unique offering is their Merrytime Academy program, where students earn points by taking classes and workshops that lead to a progressively higher discount at their special graduation sale held each year. A nice bonus. Too bad I only get to visit when we go up there in the summer!
Neighborhood Knits
23305 Ford Road
Dearborn, MI 313 357-7772
Reviewed by Nancy Ryder
Great store. Enthusiastic owners! Beautiful yarns. Wonderful seating area. Very nice lighting. On a scale of 1-10 dpn's...I'd give it an 8.
This shop was reviewed by a second knitter.
Reviewed by SH McCannell
This is a great neighborhood knit shop, conveniently located on Ford Rd. right off of Outer Drive, with parking on the side of the building. The owners are very friendly, service is excellent and the ambience very cozy. Not only is there a lot of light coming in from the store front, but the shop is nicely displayed with lots of yarns out for touching, a sofa and chairs in which to sit while reviewing the good assortment of books and magazines, as well as a terrific collection of handmade glass buttons, a true treasure. In addition, they have a very nice collection of needles and supplies, as well as a number of knitted samples of patterns. They also have a nice teaching area farther back in the store and overall the shop has a very warm and welcoming sense to it. It is a treasure that fortunately replaces that other now departed fine needlepoint shop previously run by the noted Shay Pendray. Thank goodness Neighborhood Knits is here to provide wonderful service, great selection, and a great place for neighborhood knitting. 5/07
Old Village Yarn Shop
42307 E. Ann Arbor Road
Plymouth, MI
734-451-0580
Reviewed by Becky Whitt
Beautiful shop with a very large assortment of moderately priced yarn. Loads of patterns and many items made up. A good split of children's samples and ladies. Employees are very helpful and they have excellent classes.
This shop was reviewed by a second knitter.
Reviewed by Amy Polcyn
Old Village Yarn Shop stocks a wide variety of yarns, though the color selection is not great. The most frustrating part of shopping there is the apparent lack of organization-- the yarn seems to be all over the place and not separated by weight, color, or brand. Needles and notions are kept behind the counter, which makes for less-than-convenient shopping. Despite its shortcomings, it is a good all-around shop.
This shop was reviewed by a third knitter.
Reviewed by Leeann Jones
I was very happy to find a LYS so local! They had quite the selection of novelty yarns (eyelash, ribbon, etc.) which impressed me. However, I didn't find a price tag on any of the items I picked up. Also, as Amy Polcyn stated, the needles and notions are kept behind the counter. I was not overly impressed with what they had in stock. However, the great location is reason enough for me to go again. I'm sure there are gems to found in this store; they just did not appear to me on my first visit.
Right Off The Sheep
359 S. Old Woodward
Birmingham, MI 48009
248-646-7595
Reviewed by Amy Polcyn
Right Off the Sheep is a tiny shop in downtown Birmingham. On the afternoon of my visit a rather boisterous class was in progress, and the store was so crowded with students I could barely walk. The selection of yarn was limited and the needles were located behind the counter, which made browsing
difficult. There were very few books and patterns offered for sale. In addition, the staff was very busy with the class and did not ask if I needed assistance. I hate to say it, but with the Knitting Room only a few blocks away I don't think I'll be back to this shop.
This shop was reviewed by a second knitter.
Reviewed by Sarah Swart
This shop, located in downtown Birmingham, Michigan, is one of the best shops I have been in. The staff there are very knowledgeable and help knitters at whatever level they are currently knitting. They are very realistic about what is achievable for the individual knitter. They offer classes in six week segments where each person works on their own projects. It is so much fun to see the projects of other knitters and get new ideas. The shop has a wide selection of yarns of all types and keeps a fresh inventory so that there is always a lot of new yarn to choose from. They will also write a basic pattern for you. They are so friendly and personable as are the participants in their classes. I have been participating in classes for over four years now! I'd highly recommend this shop!
This shop was reviewed by a third knitter.
Reviewed by Marie M. Fiellman
This small jewel of a shop has it all. Anne and her expert staff are ready to suggest yarn selections, substitutions, color possibilities and where else can you have a personalized pattern written for you with yarn purchase? Take some time, relax, savor the colors, fondle the textures of the yarn and various fibers and examine the newest knitting accoutrements at Right Off the Sheep. The range of yarn assembled in this intimate space reflects experience and wise selection choices by the owner. Classes are warm and convivial; the camaraderie observed in each group is rare in today's rushed and competitive society. There are great sale bins in the back room and the shop has extended its hours to include Sunday and Monday in order to accommodate the schedule of today's busy knitter. Calm, easy-going, laid-back, relaxed haven WITH YARN!
Rochelle Imber's Knit Knit Knit
6369B Orchard Lake Rd.
West Bloomfield, MI
248-855-2114
Reviewed by Amy Polcyn
Knit Knit Knit is a very small shop located in the Orchard Mall, which also sells needlepoint supplies. The stock is rather limited, and the customer service poor. They do have an interesting (and old) selection of needles, which interested me as I love to collect them. I was able to get a few pairs that have been discontinued for some time. I don't think I'll be back-- there are many better options nearby.
This shop was reviewed by a second knitter.
Reviewed by Suzie Mitchell
This small shop in West Bloomfield offers individualized instruction, custom patterns and the most fabulous selection of yarns and buttons available. The staff teaches the knitter as she goes along, and Rochelle writes patterns to fit the knitters imagination. I never knitted before and a year ago when I walked into the shop, took a private lesson and began. The difficulty of my patterns has increased with my ability, and today knitting is my favorite pastime.
Skeins on Main
428 Main St
Rochester, MI 48063
(248) 656-9300
Reviewed by Marilyn Veltman
Skeins on Main was a wonderful surprise. Located in the heart of downtown Rochester, a charming far-north suburb of Detroit, the shop itself is just as charming as the town, which is saying something. Upon first entering, I thought the shop would be very small, as it is quite narrow. Much to my surprise, it was quite large, as it extends all the way to the back of the old building it's in. If I had to guess, I'd say nearly half a block! Yarns are many and displayed beautifully, along with many unusual knitted samples. For example, I saw gloves knitted sideways, something I've never seen anywhere. Unfortunately, they were out of the pattern but have ordered it for me. Also displayed a beautiful Aran afghan, which I will have to tackle someday! Very helpful owner. The whole shop was worth the trip. Save some time afterward to eat in one of the many charming restaurants on Main Street. I'll be back! 3/08
Stitch in Time
722 East Grand River
Howell, MI
517-546-0769
Reviewed by Becky Whitt
Very limited supply of yarn. Disappointed in this shop.
This shop was reviewed by a second knitter.
Reviewed by Betsy Ann Dey
The shop is quite quaint and filled with a lot of collectible non-needlework items--Boyd's Bears especially. The selection of cross-stitch supplies was wonderful. The selection of yarn was limited as was knitting needles and notions. The customer service was horrible and based on that alone, I will not be returning. If you're happen to be passing by, it's worth a stop in but I wouldn't go out of my way to visit.
This shop was reviewed by a third knitter.
Reviewed by Amy Polcyn
Although it's not nearly the closest shop to my home, I am happy to make the drive to Stitch in Time. The shop itself is charming, and while the stock may not be extensive, what they have is often exactly what I've been looking for- lots of unusual items. Their selection of Addi Turbos is wider than I've seen elsewhere, with better prices too. The customer service was very nice-- I felt very welcome.
Stitching Memories
1808 W Milham Rd.
Portage, MI
616-552-yarn
Reviewed by Becky Whitt
What a delight this store is. Half of it is dedicated to cross stitchers, the other half contains loads of yarns of all types. Very traditional type yarns. Loads of patterns. Everything very organized with lots of garments made up on display. I would highly recommend to any knitter or cross stitcher to take a ride and visit this store.
This shop was reviewed by a second knitter.
Reviewed by Carina Gunnerson
This is a decent shop for the average crafter. Half of the store is for stitchers (needlepoint and counted cross stitch with some beadwork and other kinds of stitching), and she carries just about everything any stitcher could want. The other half is for knitters. For the knitters, she carries a little bit of everything from Plymouth to Berroco to Vittadini to Debbie Bliss. She only carries
Addi turbos and Clover bamboo needles, with a few Skacel sock needles thrown in. The markup is a bit high, but the selection is good.
A word of caution: Don't expect the best in customer service. It is not unusual for customers to be ignored, insulted, or taken advantage of. As a former teacher for the shop, I know whereof I speak. The customer might not come first before the dollar.
This shop was reviewed by a second knitter.
Reviewed by Christi Tersteeg
Amazing!! Plan to have lots of time when you visit this shop so that you can see all the wonderful yarns and fibers tucked snugly on the shelves. The teal awning shop is filled to overflowing with the latest yarns- mohair, metallic, eyelashed and furry!! Special orders
are genuinely welcomed and the staff is both friendly and skilled. This shop is truly the most complete knit shop in southwest Michigan.
Strawberry Patch
116 W. Exchange
Owosso, MI
517-723-1478
Reviewed by Becky Whitt
This last Saturday was such a beautiful, sunny Michigan winter day. We went for a ride and visited a yarn store that I can't believe was so close and I had never been there. She had beautiful, moderately priced yarn. Lots of it. A moderate amount of patterns and accessories to choose from. The owner and her daughter were very helpful. The owner was assisting someone trying to make an afghan while I was there. She said she has been in business 20 years and recently had to add a room of art supplies, (paints, etc.) to keep her business
going. I would recommend to anyone to visit this shop. The town is also quaint with an old fashioned dime store and JoAnn Fabrics right around the corner.
Sweet Celeste's
61 New St.
Mt. Clemens, MI
(586)783-6243
Reviewed by Elisa Collins
Located in downtown Mt. Clemens near lots of other neat places and restaurants, this is a yarn store that is worth the drive all on its own. For such a small space they certainly have lots of yarn and display it well. I was not looked down on for being a crocheter exclusively (which I have had happen at other places) and they even offered to help me do surgery on a project that didn't quite fit. The second time I came in they remembered me even though they were having their monthly gathering and were technically closed. I bought yarn, a bamboo hook, and was offered a snack. Very kind people, owners and regulars alike. Theme classes and regular gatherings are offered. Come to Mt. Clemens for yarn, and schedule an extra 3 hours to eat fondue at a nearby restaurant.
ThreadBear Fiber Arts Studio
319 S. Waverly Road
Lansing MI 48917-3615
(517) 703-YARN (9276)
Mon 10am-9pm
Tues-Fri 10am-7pm
Sat 10am-6pm
Sun Noon-5pm
Reviewed by Lois Howell
Although we live in Kent, Ohio we had visited Matt and Rob's ThreadBear shop when it was in Columbus, Indiana and have now on two occasions visited their new location (since this past summer) in Lansing, Michigan. The fact that five members of our knitting group drove four hours each way on a Sunday afternoon to attend a class and shop at ThreadBear is the best recommendation I can give. On a Sunday afternoon in October the store was busy with two different classes being held, approximately 20+ knitters relaxing throughout the store working on various projects, and then a steady stream of customers coming and going. We were just sorry our schedules didn't allow us to make a weekend of it by including a visit with an author on Saturday afternoon and their monthly Saturday movie night to our trip. I read one comment on a blog that referred ThreadBear to a community center gathering place rather than a retail store. Our visit just added to our disbelief that the yarn shops in our area of Ohio are not open on Sundays.
ThreadBear's yarn selection is the best and they offer the fairest prices we have ever seen in a shop. Although they try, there are just too many questions and demands for Matt and Rob to handle it all on their own so they have added some helpful staff in the store. Don't miss a visit.
This shop was reviewed by a second knitter.
Reviewed by Kathie Horning
Having shopped most of the United States I feel like I have seen my share of tiny to large knitting stores. When entering Threadbear....there is a feeling that one has died and gone to fiber heaven! The store is large, displays lovely, selection of yarns beyond compare and Rob and Matt and knowledgeable and full of passion and energy. My favorite shop and definitely worth a visit. You will not be disappointed. 5/08
The Threadbender
2767 44th SW
Wyoming, MI 49509
888-531-6642
Reviewed by Sharon Meeuwsen
Threadbender in Wyoming (a suburb of Grand Rapids), MI handles a nice variety of knitting yarns in cottons, mohair, wools, alpaca, angora, silk blends, novelties, and synthetics in a wide range of colors. Brands include but are not limited to Rowan, Jo Sharp, Starmore, Galway. Julie Anderson, the owner, has a good eye for color, gives each customer personalized attention, and has an 800 number. I recently phoned one morning and had the necessary circular needle in my mailbox the following noon. The shop also caters to weavers (I'm not one) and has a very limited inventory of rovings for spinners and a nice button display. Needlepoint and beads have been phased out.
I have no comparison prices for most of the inventory but discovered a few years ago that another yarn shop in our general area with a more limited inventory was charging $.40 more per skein on Galway.
Like many knitters I travel a distance to shop for yarn...45 minutes in this case. Several of the places I once shopped have closed or now limit their yarns to synthetics. That means some catalog shopping, which is never totally satisfying because I like to see and touch yarn before purchasing it, if possible.
Tawas Bay Yarn Co.
1820 E US 23
Tawas City, MI 48730
989-362-4463
Reviewed by Paula Kelley
Whenever I enter this shop, I am greeted by an array of exquisite yarn selections. Large windows fill the shop with natural light, including a view of the Bay. Peg (the owner) is a natural teacher who offers classes suited to your specific needs.
The color wheel is fully represented in her Lamb's Wool selections. Many choices of sock yarn are available, including the hard to find heel and toe reinforcement elastic. Needles are available at prices less than I've found anywhere else.
Tweeds, mohair, silk, cotton, merino and various combinations - all price ranges, including some sale selections. Peg carries a comprehensive selection of knitting magazines and the latest books. I always feel welcome to come in and touch the yarns and loose myself in their textures and colors. And, of course, sit and knit. 9/06
The Whippletree Yarn and Gifts
3504 Chicago Drive
Hudsonville, Mi 49426
616-669-4487
Reviewed by Susan Nuckolls
Great LYS. The owners, Sherry and Terri, are helpful and knowledgeable. Monthly classes with interesting yarn and techniques. Willing to help you find just what you are looking for. Will also order yarn and patterns. Lots of ideas.
The Wool and The Floss
397 Fisher Rd.
Grosse Pointe, MI 48230
313-882-9110
Reviewed by Laura Jastrzemski
Ah Heaven. Located directly across the street from the high school, this quaint little shop is packed to (almost) overflowing with yarns (and needlepoint supplies). Great selection of yarns from Tahki, Berroco, Alice Starmore, Dale of Norway and many many others. The staff is most helpful with color selection, yarn substitutions, questions etc. On my first visit I spent almost 2 hours, since the yarn my pattern called for is no longer available. The lady who helped me offered several substitutions to choose from in several different fibers and colors. My two year old daughter and I were invited back anytime. A great shop, great staff, great selection and wonderful atmosphere. I highly recommend them to knitters of any skill level.
This shop was reviewed by a second knitter.
Reviewed by Kathleen McCann
Beautiful store. It was recommended to me by a long-term customer. I went in to sign up for knitting classes, the women who 'helped' me told me all classes were full. I asked if there was a waiting list and she looked me up and down and told me she didn't have a pencil. 6/12
The Yarn Garden
111 W. Lawrence Ave
Charlotte, MI 48813
517-541-9323
Reviewed by Jennifer Lewis
I went home and told my mom about this yarn shop that I had found and I couldn't wait until Saturday so I could visit. Mom had the next day off and beat me to the shop. She came home with lovely Fortissima sock yarn, a book the the magic loop technique and boy was she hooked! I borrowed the book and learned the magic loop technique and have been using it ever since. When I finally visited the store it was wearing the socks my mom made from the fortissima. It's a narrow shop off the main drag in Charlotte. There is a comfortable couch across from the books. A nice selection of sock yarn, novelty yarn and a great variety of Rowan colors. It's a bit of a tight fit, people with mobility issues, crutches, walkers, chairs or huge purses may find navigation difficult. The good news is that the last time I was in they were preparing a new facility. Yeah! The owner is ultra helpful, but not over bearing or annoying. She keeps her little poodle there with her which was great fun to play with and small enough not to be intimidating. What I absolutely love is the fact that she carries Spin Off, which has GREAT knitting patterns for adventurous knitters that are willing and ready to interpret patterns and substitute yarns. The Yarn Garden gets a double thumbs up from me and is a regular stop when looking for yarn.
This shop was reviewed by a second knitter.
Reviewed by Sherry Binkowski
This charming little store is located off the main street in Charlotte and is owned by a young lady who is very passionate about knitting, is helpful, and knowledgeable about her products. Though this store is geared towards knitters, crocheters are very welcome. Lindsay will help you with all your needs. Classes for knitters are always happening with a lovely comfortable classroom set apart from the store area. I highly recommend you take time to stop. 2/11
Yarn Quest
819 S. Garfield Ave.
Traverse City, MI 49686
231-929-4277
Reviewed by Brenda Miron
I was pleasantly surprised at the wonderful array of yarns, even some beautiful painted or hand dyed. I picked up some wonderful Rowan yarn and am excited to start my next project. While in the store my husband even said he felt at peace there. The ladies were very helpful and had a table with chairs at the rear where questions were answered about knitting problems etc. There was a good selection of needles and patterns, bags, I'm sure I saw buttons there too. I was so busy touching yarn I couldn't take it all in. There is also a wonderful authentic Mexican restaurant in the same strip. The whole experience just made it a wonderful trip. 8/11
|
|
|
