Pelagic Yarn Crawl — Spring 2011

Sarah and I took advantage of the LYS (Local Yarn Store) Tour in Seattle last weekend to investigate yarn shops we had not visited before. Diane, one of our students, accompanied us on the adventure – and we had a blast!

We planned our route in advance — knowing we could not hit all 25 shops in the single day we had, we narrowed it down to seven. We packed the car with snacks, water, and box lunches, as well as some information for a few quests (Sarah & I both had specific yarn we were hunting and Diane brought pattern books), and knitting for the car (of course!). Off we went! The trip took about 9 hours (which included to the drive to and from Seattle) and we were able to spend a goodly amount of time in each store. We each had some successes in our quests – and a few serendipitous successes as well! – and we came away with lots of new ideas, information, inspirations.

Our Favorite Four:

The Tea Cozy Yarn Shop (Ballard/Seattle)

Great yarn in a great space. I particularly appreciated the Scandinavian selections. This is a new shop – fresh, but with obvious underlying experience.

http://www.teacozyyarn.com/

Swedish Jarbo Garn — from Tea Cozy Yarn

Peace Fleece — from Tea Cozy Yarn

The Fiber Gallery (Seattle)

Huge! Lots of yarn – and a great selection of many popular favorites. A fine selection of books, as well, and a lively staff.

http://www.fibergallery.com/

Madelinetosh merino light (mutli at top), Organik (aqua) — both from Fiber Gallery

Schulana Mosco — from Bad Woman Yarn

Bad Woman Yarn (Seattle’s Wallingford Center)

A wide variety of yarns – and a nice selection of every type (sock, lace, sweater, etc.). Sensibly arranged, too. They have a generous “Discount Yarn” loft too with terrific bargains.

http://www.badwomanyarn.com/

Plymouth's Mushishi — from Bad Woman Yarn

Renaissance Yarns

This is a gem of a shop! Brilliant selection of yarn – reflecting both current trends and knitting classics. Warm, bright atmosphere – and especially welcoming to crocheters too. A fine selection of knit garments showcase both yarns and pattern books.

http://renaissanceyarns.com/