Top yarn stores in Portland, Oregon

Planning a trip to Portland and looking for some great places to get your yarn fix? The city has some really cool spots for knitters and crocheters. I recently checked out a few of them and wanted to share what I found. It's always fun to explore local yarn stores, and Portland definitely has some gems. Whether you're after hand-dyed skeins or specific brands, there's a good chance you'll find something you love.

Key Takeaways

• Ritual Dyes is known for its unique yarns and pleasant atmosphere, with options from local dyers and popular brands.
• Fibre Rhythm Craft and Design is a larger store offering a wide variety of yarns and supplies for various fiber crafts.
• Portland's Oldest Yarn Shop has a long history and offers project kits, gift ideas, and features new yarns like Feederbrook Farm.
• Spincycle Yarns is a well-regarded brand often found in Portland shops, known for its distinctive colors.
• Several other notable yarn sources mentioned include Biches & Buches, Daughter of a Shepherd, De Rerum, Lanivendole, and Woolfolk, indicating a rich local fiber arts scene.

1. Ritual Dyes

Ritual Dyes is a really cool spot for knitters and crocheters looking for something a bit special. They focus on hand-dyed yarns, which means you get these gorgeous, unique colorways that you just won't find anywhere else. It's the kind of place where you can easily get lost browsing the skeins, imagining all the amazing projects you could create. They have a good selection of their own exclusive yarns, often in collaboration with designers, which is pretty neat. You can find everything from fingering weight to bulkier yarns, all with that signature hand-dyed look.

Beyond just the yarn itself, they also carry some really nice project bags and other accessories. I saw some really cute ones that would be perfect for carrying your current knitting project. They also do events sometimes, like crafting and movie nights, which sounds like a blast. It’s a smaller shop, so it has a more intimate feel compared to some of the bigger craft stores. If you're looking for that perfect skein of yarn that will make your next sweater or shawl truly stand out, this is definitely a place to check out. They also have some great kits available for specific patterns, which takes some of the guesswork out of choosing yarn.

They have a really nice selection of exclusive products that you can only find at their shop. It's worth popping in just to see what unique items they have.

If you're in the neighborhood, it's worth stopping by. You might even find them mentioned alongside other great yarn shops in the area, like those near Lake Oswego. It’s a great stop if you’re exploring the Portland craft scene.

2. Fibre Rhythm Craft and Design

Just across the street from Ritual Dyes, you'll find Fibre Rhythm Craft and Design. This place is quite a bit bigger than Ritual Dyes, and they have a huge selection of yarns. You can find everything from budget-friendly options to yarns from local dyers. They also cater to other fiber crafts like crochet and weaving, and it looks like they host classes, which is pretty cool. I chatted with one of the staff members, and they were super friendly, pointing me toward what I needed and telling me about all the other things they carry. I ended up leaving with some new circular knitting needles and a cute stitch marker. It's a great spot if you're looking for variety and a friendly atmosphere. They also have a good selection of fabrics if you're into sewing, plus notions for all sorts of fiber arts. It's definitely worth checking out when you're in the neighborhood, especially if you're interested in exploring different types of yarn or even trying out a new craft. You can find a variety of tools for different crafts here, including knitting supplies. They also offer a monthly yarn club, which could be a fun way to discover new yarns regularly. If you're interested in learning more about local craft businesses, you might find this list of pottery businesses in Eugene helpful.

What to Expect

• Wide Yarn Selection: From budget-friendly to local artisan dyers.
• Other Fiber Crafts: Supplies and tools for crochet, weaving, and punch needle.
• Classes and Workshops: Opportunities to learn new skills.
• Friendly Staff: Helpful and knowledgeable about their products.
• Fabric and Notions: A good range for sewers and other crafters.

The store has a really welcoming vibe. It felt like a place where you could easily spend an afternoon just browsing and getting inspired.

3. Portland's Oldest Yarn Shop

When you're looking for a piece of Portland's history alongside your next knitting project, you've got to check out "Portland's Oldest Yarn Shop." It's a place that really feels like it's been a part of the community for ages, and honestly, that's part of its charm. They've got a good mix of yarns, from everyday basics to some really special, hand-dyed options that you won't find just anywhere.

They also do a summer bingo game, which is a fun way to get inspired and maybe win a prize. Plus, they have their own branded merchandise, like shirts and totes, if you want to take a piece of the shop home with you. It's a solid spot if you appreciate a shop with a long-standing presence in the city.

What to Expect

• A wide selection of yarns, including local and unique finds.
• Project kits and gift ideas for knitters and crocheters.
• Seasonal events like their summer bingo.

Merchandise

They offer branded merchandise, perfect for showing your love for the shop.

Community Involvement

This shop participates in local events, like the Multnomah Days Festival, where they set up a booth for crafting.

This shop has a real sense of place, connecting the past with the present through its yarn selection and community involvement.

4. Spincycle Yarns

If you're into hand-dyed yarns with a really unique look, you absolutely have to check out Spincycle Yarns. They're known for their amazing colorways that just seem to shift and change as you knit. It’s like each skein tells a story, you know? They have this one line, Elemental Fingering, that’s just gorgeous in their North colorway. It’s perfect for shawls or anything where you want the color to really be the star.

What Makes Spincycle Yarns Special

• Unique Dyeing Process: They use a special technique that creates these incredible, slow-transitioning color changes. It’s not just random splotches; it’s art.
• High-Quality Fibers: You can tell they care about the wool they use. It’s soft and lovely to work with.
• Portland Roots: It’s a local company, which is always a plus in my book. Supporting local makers feels good.

They really have a knack for creating colors that are both vibrant and sophisticated. It’s not something you see every day, and it makes your finished projects stand out.

Popular Spincycle Yarns

• Dream State: This is probably their most famous yarn. It’s a worsted weight that’s perfect for sweaters and cozy accessories. The colors are just wild.
• Noro Silk Garden: Just kidding! That’s a different brand. But Spincycle has their own amazing lines like the aforementioned Elemental Fingering, and also Swish, which is a super soft merino. You can find their yarns at several shops around town, including Ritual Dyes Yarn.
• Mewesii: This is a fingering weight yarn that’s great for socks or lighter garments. The colorways are just as stunning as their other lines.

Visiting Spincycle Yarns

While Spincycle Yarns is primarily a production studio, you can often find their yarns stocked at various local yarn shops in Portland. It’s worth checking their website or social media to see where their latest collections are available. They also sometimes have studio sales or events, so keep an eye out for those if you want to snag some of their beautiful yarn directly. It’s a good idea to check their hours before you head over, as they can vary. They are usually open Monday through Friday from 10 am to 6 pm, with extended hours on Wednesdays.

5. Jessie Maed Designs

Jessie Maed Designs is a name many knitters recognize, and for good reason. Jessie herself is a talented designer, and her patterns often feature a lovely, approachable aesthetic that makes you want to cast on immediately. You might know her from popular designs like the Sundae Swirl Tank, which has these really neat lace-framed cable columns. It’s a project that looks impressive but is totally doable for many knitters.

She often collaborates with yarn companies, and you can sometimes find kits for her designs. This is super convenient because it takes the guesswork out of yarn selection.

Jessie Maed's approach to design often balances intricate details with wearability, making her patterns a joy to knit and to wear. Her focus on creating garments that feel special yet are practical for everyday life really shines through.

If you're looking for a new project, checking out what Jessie Maed Designs has released recently is always a good idea. You can often find her latest creations and sometimes even find kits available through various yarn shops or directly from her. It's a great way to support independent designers and get a fantastic finished object. Keep an eye out for her work, especially if you enjoy garments with a bit of flair and thoughtful construction. You can find her Sundae Swirl Tank pattern and other designs that are sure to inspire your next knitting adventure.

6. Biches & Buches

Biches & Buches is a really cool spot if you're into knitting and want to find some unique yarns. They have a great selection, and it feels like a place where you can really get inspired.

They're known for their own line of yarns, which are pretty special. It's not just about the yarn itself, though; they also carry a nice range of knitting accessories and patterns. If you're looking for something a bit different, this is definitely a place to check out.

What to Expect

• Unique Yarn Selections: They stock a variety of yarns, including their own popular lines, often featuring natural fibers and interesting textures.
• Patterns and Kits: You'll find a curated collection of patterns, many designed to showcase the specific yarns they carry. They also offer kits for popular projects.
• Knitting Accessories: From project bags to notions, they have the tools you need to get your knitting done.

Brands You Might Find

Biches & Buches carries a good mix of their own creations and other well-regarded yarn companies. You'll often see brands like:

• Bouclelaine
• Daughter of a Shepherd
• De Rerum
• dLana
• GARTHENOR
• Iroiro Yarn
• Lanivendole
• Mominoki Yarn
• Sandnes Garn
• Spincycle Yarns
• Wandering Flock
• Woolfolk

It's a place that feels very thoughtfully put together, with a focus on quality and a slightly European vibe, which is a nice change of pace.

7. Daughter of a Shepherd

Daughter of a Shepherd

Daughter of a Shepherd is a really interesting place if you're into unique, hand-dyed yarns. They focus a lot on natural fibers and colors that feel really earthy and inspired by nature. It’s not your typical big-box yarn store; it feels more like a curated collection from a passionate maker.

They often have limited runs of colors, so if you see something you like, it’s probably best to grab it. It’s a good spot to find something special for a project that needs a bit of personality.

The vibe here is very focused on the craft itself, with an appreciation for the process of dyeing and spinning. It’s a place that respects the materials.

While they don't seem to have a huge physical presence in Portland itself, their yarns are definitely sought after by local knitters. You might find their products at various local fiber events or through other shops that carry independent dyers. It’s worth keeping an eye out for them if you appreciate artisanal yarn. They are part of a larger group of makers that includes brands like Biches & Buches.

8. De Rerum

De Rerum Natura

De Rerum Natura is a yarn company that focuses on creating beautiful, high-quality yarns. They are known for their unique colorways and their commitment to sustainable practices. Their yarns are dyed in small batches, ensuring that each skein is truly one-of-a-kind.

They have a few different yarn bases, but some of their most popular include:

• Alice: A light fingering weight yarn made from 75% Arles merino and 25% linen. This blend gives it a lovely drape and a subtle sheen, perfect for warm-weather projects.
• Undine: A fingering weight yarn that's a blend of cotton and linen. It's a favorite for summer knits because it's breathable and has a beautiful texture.
• Undine DK: A DK weight version of their popular Undine base, still featuring that delightful cotton and linen blend.

If you're looking for something special for your next project, De Rerum Natura yarns are definitely worth checking out. You can often find their yarns featured in kits for popular patterns, like the Albina Sweater from Boyland Knitworks. It's a great way to get a curated experience with their beautiful fibers. You can find more about their yarn collections and see what's new on their website.

The company's dedication to quality and unique color palettes makes them stand out in the yarn world. It feels like you're getting a little piece of art in every skein.

9. Lanivendole

Lanivendole is a bit different from the other shops on this list. It’s not a brick-and-mortar store you can just walk into. Instead, it operates more like a curated online boutique, focusing on bringing unique, high-quality yarns to knitters. They often feature smaller, independent dyers and brands that you might not find elsewhere.

If you're looking for something truly special and aren't tied to a physical shopping experience, Lanivendole is definitely worth checking out. They have a good selection of luxury fibers and often have limited edition runs. It’s a great place to discover new favorites.

What to Expect

• Exclusive Yarn Selections: They partner with independent dyers and mills.
• Focus on Quality: Expect to find premium fibers like cashmere, merino, and silk blends.
• Online Convenience: Shop from home and have beautiful yarns delivered to your door.
• Limited Runs: Keep an eye out for special collections that sell out fast.

10. Woolfolk

Woolfolk is a brand that really focuses on natural fibers and creating yarns that feel good to work with. They have a pretty distinct aesthetic, often leaning towards minimalist designs and a muted color palette. It’s the kind of yarn that makes you want to just sit and knit for hours.

They're known for their super soft merino wool, which is a big draw for a lot of knitters. It’s not just about the feel, though; the way the yarn takes dye is also really lovely, giving projects a sophisticated look. If you're into simple, elegant sweaters or accessories, Woolfolk is definitely a brand to check out.

The brand emphasizes a connection to nature and sustainable practices, which is something I always appreciate when picking out yarn for a new project. It feels good to know where your materials come from.

They have a few different lines, but their mainstays are usually the ones that highlight the natural qualities of the wool. You can often find their yarns at various local yarn stores, and they're a popular choice for knitters looking for that high-quality, natural fiber experience. It’s a good idea to see their collection in person if you can, just to feel the difference. You can find out more about their philosophy and yarn types on the Woolfolk website.

Happy Stitching in Portland!

So, that’s a quick look at some of the great yarn spots Portland has to offer. Whether you’re after unique hand-dyed skeins or just a good selection of everyday yarns, these shops have you covered. It’s always a good idea to check their websites or social media before you go, just in case hours have changed or they have special events happening. Portland has a really nice craft scene, and these stores are a big part of that. Happy knitting and crocheting, everyone!

Frequently Asked Questions

Do Portland yarn shops offer classes?

Yes, many Portland yarn stores offer classes for different skill levels, from beginners to more advanced crafters. It's a great way to learn new techniques or meet other fiber fans!

What kind of yarn can I find in Portland stores?

Most yarn stores in Portland carry a variety of yarns, including those from local artists and well-known brands. You can find everything from budget-friendly options to unique, hand-dyed skeins.

Do these stores sell supplies for other crafts besides knitting?

Yes, several shops carry supplies for other crafts like sewing, crochet, and weaving, in addition to yarn. They often have a good selection of tools and accessories for all sorts of creative projects.

Can I get help picking out yarn?

Many stores have friendly staff who are happy to help you find what you're looking for or suggest new yarns and projects. Don't hesitate to ask for their advice!

Are there any yarn clubs or crafting groups?

Some stores have special clubs or events, like monthly yarn clubs or crafting circles where people get together to work on projects. It's a fun way to connect with others who love to create.

What else can I find besides yarn?

You can often find unique items like project kits, gift ideas for crafters, and even clearance sales on yarn and supplies. Some shops also have their own branded merchandise like bags or shirts.