top yarn stores in northern Michigan

Planning a trip to Northern Michigan and want to find some great yarn stores? I recently took a trip up there and visited a few places. It was a fun weekend filled with beautiful drives and, of course, yarn shopping. Here are some of the yarn stores I found that are worth checking out if you're in the area.

Key Takeaways

• Knitology in Traverse City offers a great selection of yarns, including locally milled options and their own dyed Reaction yarns.
• Lost Art Yarn and Needlepoint, also in Traverse City, has a large back area dedicated to knitting yarn with many popular brands.
• Knit Knorth, located upstairs in downtown Traverse City, features premium yarns, many from small mills.
• Thistledown Shoppe in Suttons Bay is housed in part of an old home and carries a variety of beautiful yarns, including their own line.
• Wool and Honey in Cedar is known for luxurious yarns and has hosted well-known designers, drawing customers globally.

1. Knitology

When we first pulled up to Knitology in Traverse City, I'll admit, the outside of the building didn't exactly scream 'cozy yarn haven.' But step inside, and wow, what a difference! This place quickly became my favorite stop. Michael and Randy opened up in January, and they've already managed to stock a really nice selection of yarns. You'll find over 15 brands here, including popular names like Berroco, Cascade, Malabrigo, and Madelinetosh, all neatly organized on the shelves.

One thing that really stood out was a yarn called Shepherds Yarn, milled locally in East Jordan. They had samples knitted up, and I'm pretty sure Michael made most of them himself. It's clear they put a lot of care into what they carry.

What to Expect at Knitology

• Unique Local Yarns: Keep an eye out for special finds like the Shepherds Yarn.
• Wide Brand Selection: From everyday favorites to luxury fibers, they have a good variety.
• Community Space: There's a large open area perfect for sitting and knitting with others.

They are known for their Reaction yarns, which are dyed right there on-site. It's pretty neat to see that kind of local artistry.

If you're looking for a great spot with a friendly vibe and some really interesting yarns, Knitology is definitely worth the trip. You can find some fantastic indie yarn dyers if you look around. It’s a real gem in Traverse City.

2. Lost Art Yarn and Needlepoint

A Haven for Yarn and Needlepoint Enthusiasts

Lost Art Yarn and Needlepoint in Traverse City is a bit of a surprise when you first walk in. It might initially feel more like a general needlework store, but don't let that fool you. Venture further into the shop, and you'll discover a substantial back area dedicated entirely to knitting yarns. The selection here is quite impressive, with overflowing shelves showcasing brands like Opal, Malabrigo, Berrico, and Trekking. You'll find the basic solid colors neatly displayed along an outer wall, while the more unique, specialty yarns occupy the shelves in the middle of the room. It’s a well-organized space that allows for relaxed browsing, and the staff are generally quiet, letting you explore at your own pace. It’s a great spot if you’re looking for a variety of yarns, and they also carry a good range of needlepoint supplies, making it a dual-purpose destination for fiber artists. They have a nice selection of needlepoint canvases that are hand-painted.

• Brand Variety: Expect to see popular names like Opal, Malabrigo, and Berrico.
• Organization: Solids are on the walls, specialty yarns are in the center.
• Atmosphere: A calm environment perfect for browsing.

The shop has a good mix of both knitting and needlepoint supplies, which is a nice change from some places that focus on just one. It’s easy to spend a good chunk of time here just looking through all the different fibers and projects.

3. Knit Knorth

Location and Accessibility

Knit Knorth is tucked away in Traverse City's downtown shopping district. You'll find it upstairs, but don't worry about the climb – there's both a large staircase and an elevator to make getting there easy.

What to Expect

While the shop itself is on the smaller side, the yarn selection is really something special. Knit Knorth focuses on premium yarns, often sourced from small, independent mills. You'll find some really unique fibers here, including yarn from the Stonehedge Mill. The staff are super helpful and happy to assist you in finding just what you need.

Our Picks

• Crazy by Stonehedge Fiber Mill: We couldn't resist picking up some of this yarn during our visit. It's a beautiful example of the unique, high-quality fibers you can find at Knit Knorth.

The owner, Adle, wasn't there when we stopped by, but her team really made the visit a pleasant one. They know their stuff and are happy to share their knowledge.

4. Thistledown Shoppe

Located in the charming town of Suttons Bay, Thistledown Shoppe is a real gem for anyone who loves yarn. This place is tucked away in an old house, and honestly, it feels like stepping into a cozy, yarn-filled wonderland. They've managed to fill at least four rooms with an impressive selection of fibers. The owner is super friendly and really knows her stuff, offering great advice on patterns and yarn choices. You'll find popular brands like Madelinetosh and Dream in Color, plus their own unique Thistledown Shoppe line. It’s definitely worth the drive north of Traverse City if you're looking for something special.

What to Expect

• Diverse Yarn Selection: From well-known brands to unique, locally sourced options.
• Helpful Staff: The owner provides excellent guidance for your projects.
• Unique Atmosphere: Housed in a historic building, offering a cozy shopping experience.

Featured Brands

• Madelinetosh
• Dream in Color
• Fyberspates
• Thistledown Shoppe's own line

Location Highlights

Suttons Bay is a lovely town, and Thistledown Shoppe fits right in with its quaint, welcoming vibe. It's a great stop if you're exploring the Leelanau Peninsula. You can find a variety of quilt block patterns, including the "FLOURISHES" pattern from Piece O'Cake Designs, which is ideal for quilters who appreciate vintage fabrics, yarns, and needlework kits. Explore unique designs to enhance your sewing and quilting projects at Thistledown Shoppe.

5. Wool and Honey

If you're looking for a truly special yarn experience, Wool and Honey in Cedar is the place to go. This shop has gained a serious following, attracting knitters and designers from all over, and it's easy to see why. They have a fantastic online presence, but visiting in person is something else entirely. The owner is super friendly and really knows her stuff, making the whole experience a pleasure. The store itself is immaculate, and the yarn selection? Let's just say it's some of the most luxurious I've ever laid eyes on.

They even host well-known designers for classes, which is pretty cool. I heard they recently had Stephen West there, and I can only imagine how amazing that must have been. It really speaks to the shop's reputation and the quality of their events.

What to Expect

• Luxurious Yarn Selection: Prepare to be amazed by the sheer quality and variety of yarns available.
• Expert Advice: The owner is incredibly knowledgeable and happy to help you find the perfect yarn for your project.
• Designer Events: Keep an eye out for special classes and events featuring well-known figures in the knitting world.
• Popular Yarn Clubs: Don't miss out on their sought-after yarn clubs, like the Sleeping Bear Yarn Club.

Wool and Honey isn't just a shop; it's a destination for serious fiber enthusiasts. The attention to detail, from the curated selection to the welcoming atmosphere, makes it a standout.

If you're exploring the Leelanau Peninsula, make sure to add Wool and Honey to your itinerary. It’s a gem that truly represents the best of Northern Michigan's crafting scene. You might even find some unique yarns from places like North Bay Fiber that you won't see anywhere else.

6. Nautical Yarn Shop

Nautical Yarn Shop

This shop is a bit of a surprise, tucked away in a location that might not immediately scream "yarn haven." But don't let that fool you. Once you step inside, you'll find a well-curated selection of yarns that can satisfy a variety of knitting and crochet projects. They carry a good range of brands, and the staff are usually pretty knowledgeable about what they have.

• Selection: They stock a decent variety of fibers, from basic wools to some more unique blends. You'll find popular brands alongside some lesser-known but equally lovely options.
• Atmosphere: It's a cozy spot, perfect for browsing without feeling rushed. It’s the kind of place where you can spend a good chunk of time just looking at all the colors and textures.
• Staff: The people working here are generally helpful and happy to offer advice or help you find a specific type of yarn.

While not the largest shop you might visit, Nautical Yarn Shop makes up for its size with quality and a friendly vibe. It’s a solid stop if you’re in the area and looking for something specific or just want to see what’s new.

If you're looking for a specific type of yarn or just want to see what's available, it's worth checking out their selection of gift items which often includes some lovely yarn-related accessories too.

Wrapping Up Our Northern Michigan Yarn Adventure

So, that was a little peek into some of the yarn shops we found up in Northern Michigan. It was a fun trip, full of pretty drives and, of course, lots of yarn. Whether you're looking for a specific luxury brand or a unique local find, it seems like there's something for everyone. We definitely enjoyed our time exploring, and it’s clear that this area has some great spots for knitters and crocheters. If you're planning a trip up north, maybe add a couple of these shops to your route – you might just find your next favorite skein.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do these stores have a good selection of yarn brands?

Yes, many of these shops carry a wide range of yarn brands, including popular ones like Berroco, Malabrigo, and Madelinetosh, as well as unique, locally milled options.

Where are these yarn stores located?

Most of the shops mentioned are located in or around Traverse City, Michigan. Others are found in charming towns like Suttons Bay, Cedar, and Ludington.

Are the stores large or small?

While some shops might be small, they often pack in a wonderful variety of premium and specialty yarns. Some even have their own unique yarn lines!

Are the shop owners and staff helpful?

The staff at these shops are generally very friendly and helpful. They can assist with finding specific yarns, suggesting patterns, and even sharing local recommendations.

Can I find special or high-quality yarns at these places?

Absolutely! Several shops offer unique, high-quality yarns, including luxurious options and yarns dyed on-site. You might even find special clubs or events.

Can I combine visiting these shops with other activities?

Many of these stores are located in beautiful areas of Northern Michigan, perfect for combining with scenic drives, exploring small towns, and enjoying the natural beauty of the region.