Top Yarn Stores in Southern California

Looking for the perfect yarn store in Southern California? Whether you're a seasoned knitter, an enthusiastic crocheter, or just starting your fiber arts journey, Southern California offers an impressive collection of yarn shops that cater to every skill level and style. From cozy neighborhood boutiques to waterfront studios with stunning views, these shops provide not just supplies but community, education, and inspiration. Let's explore the best yarn destinations across LA, Orange County, San Diego, and beyond.

Los Angeles Area

1. The Knitting Tree, L.A.

Location: Los Angeles
What Makes It Special: More than just a yarn store, The Knitting Tree has established itself as a true community sanctuary for fiber enthusiasts. This lifestyle store features an extensive selection of fine yarns curated by Los Angeles-based designers, alongside unique handcrafted items from local artisans.

The shop offers an ever-expanding resource of knitting tutorials, inspirational project ideas, and hands-on instruction. Their personalized service ensures that yarn enthusiasts of all skill levels feel welcome. Regular events include Wednesday night potluck social knitting from 6-8 PM and Sunday sessions from 12-5 PM. The Knitting Tree actively participates in the annual LA County Yarn Crawl and provides a warm gathering place for knitters to learn, share, and participate in charitable causes.

2. The Little Knittery

Location: Los Angeles
What Makes It Special: This cozy neighborhood yarn shop has earned a reputation for its beautifully curated selection and charming atmosphere. Every skein feels thoughtfully chosen, from luxury wool blends and hand-dyed yarns to durable cottons and linens. The shop offers yarns in all weights from delicate lace to super bulky.

The Little Knittery participates enthusiastically in the LA County Yarn Crawl each May, featuring special yarns, patterns, and daily raffles. The knowledgeable staff excels at helping customers choose the perfect yarn for their projects, and the shop stocks a thoughtful selection of needles and notions. Both their physical location and online store provide access to their carefully selected inventory.

3. Jennifer Knits

Address: 108 Barrington Walk, Los Angeles, CA 90049
Phone: (310) 471-8733
Hours: Wednesday-Saturday: 12pm-5pm; Sunday/Monday/Tuesday: Closed
What Makes It Special: Celebrating over 20 years in business, Jennifer Knits has become a Brentwood Village institution. This boutique specializes in premium yarns and offers the nation's largest selection of cashmere, including exclusive Italian cashmeres.

Founded by Jennifer Turchen, a knitting veteran who's been in the industry since 1985 and author of "Teen Knitting Club," the shop goes beyond retail. They offer complimentary knitting and pattern instruction with purchase, custom pattern design services, and even personal measurements for custom sweater patterns. The shop features validated parking at the nearby VA Parking Lot and carries luxury brands alongside their famous kits for cowls, hats, blankets, and shawls—all with free patterns.

4. Alamitos Bay Yarn Company

Address: 174 N Marina Drive, Long Beach, CA 90803
Phone: (562) 799-8484
What Makes It Special: This waterfront yarn shop offers a unique shopping experience with beautiful marina views. Established in 2000, the store provides personalized assistance for project selection and yarn matching. They offer a wide range of high-quality yarns including a good selection of sock yarns like Lorna's Laces.

The shop hosts drop-in help sessions every Wednesday from 6-7:30 PM and Friday from 11:30 AM-1 PM in their Annex. Classes range from beginner to advanced levels, and the staff is known for offering to wind yarn for customers—especially helpful for beginners who haven't invested in equipment yet. The location near other shops and restaurants makes it a pleasant destination for a day out.

Orange County

5. Sheared Sheep

Location: Newport Beach (Westcliff Court)
Hours: Tuesday & Thursday: 11am-3pm; Friday: 12pm-closing
What Makes It Special: Your local yarn shop since 2005, Sheared Sheep relocated from Costa Mesa to a charming location in Newport Beach's Westcliff Court. The shop is nestled in a cozy courtyard that provides a calming entrance to the store.

With lavish fibers and vibrant colors to tempt even the most discerning knitter and crocheter, Sheared Sheep prides itself on creating a friendly environment where customers return often. Their Master Knitter and teacher Martha leads classes and is known for the motto "Knit faster, buy more yarn." The cozy atmosphere and expert instruction make this a beloved destination for Orange County fiber artists.

6. Strands Knitting Studio

Address: 111 Avenida Granada, San Clemente, CA 92672
Phone: (949) 496-4021
What Makes It Special: Located in beautiful San Clemente, Strands Knitting Studio caters to both beginners and advanced knitters with private and group classes, plus workshops. The studio offers a Kids Knit Camp on Sundays from 4:30-6 PM, making it family-friendly.

The shop hosts special events like trunk shows with local yarn dyers, yarn tastings, and raffles. Customers praise the friendly, well-stocked studio and appreciate the variety of completed project examples on display. The owner Fay Lynn receives particular acclaim for her workshops and teaching style, with many customers reporting they've learned more in her classes than in years of self-teaching.

7. Weave & Wander Yarn Shop

Location: Orange County
What Makes It Special: This shop stands out for its commitment to sustainability, specializing in recycled and sustainable products. They've created a cozy sanctuary where every stitch tells a story of mindful living and creative expression. The shop offers materials for crochet, knit, embroidery, and macramé.

Weave & Wander features products made or headquartered in California, supporting local companies. They offer beginner knitting classes with patient, hands-on instruction in a fun learning environment. The shop also runs special programs like Crochet Creations Camp for children aged 9-12, teaching basics in an engaging way that develops creativity and fine motor skills.

San Diego County

8. Apricot Yarn & Supply

Address: 2690 Historic Decatur Road, Barracks 19, Suite 101, San Diego, CA 92106 (Liberty Station)
Phone: (619) 223-3603
Hours: Monday-Saturday: 10am-5pm; Sunday: 11am-5pm; First Friday monthly: 10am-8pm
What Makes It Special: Located in the historic Liberty Station since 2017, Apricot Yarn & Supply has quickly become a beloved community hub. This independent yarn shop features a curated collection of natural fiber yarns from local indie dyers and high-quality international sources.

The bright, open atmosphere and helpful staff create a welcoming environment for all skill levels. They support socially and environmentally responsible companies, carrying brands like Malabrigo, Manos del Uruguay, and Amano Yarns. The shop offers both group classes and private lessons (30 minutes for $15 or 1 hour for $30), plus a self-winder in the hall. Their location in Liberty Station provides free parking and proximity to other art studios and galleries.

9. Emy's Yarns

Location: San Diego
What Makes It Special: San Diego's largest yarn store, Emy's Yarns stocks thousands of skeins including wool, alpaca, cotton, acrylics, and blends. The shop began 21 years ago when Emy, who had been knitting "for a century" as a hobby, decided to sell yarns in a small section of a warehouse.

Now a full-scale operation, the store attracts yarn sales representatives from across the industry. The shop maintains a kaleidoscope of yarns and spectacular inventory of accessories, including Addi and Lykke needles (straights, circulars, and sets) and Clover crochet hooks in all sizes. Staff members Gloria, Myer, Miguel, and Luz provide expert advice and maintain the shop's reputation as the largest yarn store south of Los Angeles.

10. Yarn & Thread Expressions

Location: East San Diego County
Phone: (619) 460-9276
What Makes It Special: Serving East San Diego County and beyond since 2007, this friendly yarn shop offers a unique approach to education. Customers can come in for knitting or crochet classes any time during regular business hours by appointment, receiving one-on-one instruction in a stress-free environment.

Saturday mornings from 10 AM to noon are reserved for children under 14 (who must be accompanied by an adult). The shop helps customers pick projects appropriate to their skill level and provides personalized instruction to help them advance at their own pace. They offer birthday month discounts and maintain an active mailing list with special offers.

Ventura & Santa Barbara Counties

11. The Knit Shop SB

Location: Victoria Court, Downtown Santa Barbara
Hours: Tuesday-Saturday: 11am-5:30pm
What Makes It Special: Located in the heart of Victoria Court in downtown Santa Barbara, this shop provides a central location for fiber artists in the area. The charming setting and regular hours make it a reliable destination for yarn shopping and community gathering.

12. Cast Away Yarn Shop

Location: Santa Barbara County
What Makes It Special: Housed in a stunning 4,000 square foot 1906 brick warehouse/loft, Cast Away Yarn Shop offers a unique shopping experience that customers love. The shop features sustainable and ethical natural fiber yarns, with products organized by gauge for easy browsing. Customers can filter selections by fiber content, making it simple to find exactly what they need for their projects.

The LA County Yarn Crawl Experience

One of the highlights of the Southern California yarn scene is the annual LA County Yarn Crawl, held each May. In 2025, it runs from May 15-18, with all participating shops open Thursday through Saturday from 10am-6pm and Sunday from 10am-4pm. The crawl features 12 of LA's best local yarn stores offering:

• Featured yarns at each shop discounted by 10%
• Free patterns specific to each shop's featured yarns
• Daily raffles at 4pm
• Prizes for crawlers who visit all participating shops, including Yarn Crawl Bucks redeemable at any participating store
• Special trunk shows and events at individual shops

Tips for Visiting Southern California Yarn Stores

Class Offerings: Most shops offer classes from beginner basics to advanced techniques. Some provide drop-in help sessions, while others require advance registration. Don't hesitate to ask about private lessons if you prefer one-on-one instruction.

Community Events: Many stores host regular knit nights, crochet circles, and social crafting times. These are excellent opportunities to meet fellow fiber artists and get help with challenging projects.

Parking Considerations: In busy areas like LA and Long Beach, check if shops offer parking validation. Some have dedicated lots while others rely on street parking—bring change for meters when needed.

Online Shopping: Several shops maintain online stores, perfect for when you can't visit in person or need to reorder a favorite yarn.

Special Services: Many shops offer yarn winding services, custom pattern design, and project help with purchase. Some even provide measurement services for custom-fit garments.

Supporting Local Fiber Arts Communities

These Southern California yarn stores offer far more than just supplies—they're vibrant community centers where crafters gather to learn, create, and connect. Whether you're seeking luxury cashmere, sustainable fibers, or budget-friendly options, you'll find knowledgeable staff eager to help you succeed in your projects.

Each shop has its own personality, from waterfront locations with marina views to historic buildings with vintage charm. By supporting these local businesses, you're helping maintain these creative spaces where generations of crafters can continue to grow their skills and share their passion for fiber arts.

So grab your project bag, round up your crafting friends, and explore the wonderful world of Southern California yarn stores. Whether you're working on your first scarf or your hundredth sweater, you'll find inspiration, community, and beautiful yarns to fuel your creativity. Happy stitching!