Best Yarn Stores in Chicago, Illinois

Bolly’s Hobbies Yarn ETC is a Chicago-based yarn store aiming to be a welcoming and community-focused space for yarn enthusiasts. It offers a wide selection of high-quality yarns at various price points, including unique options like cotton tubing yarn, and strives to create a ‘home away from home’ atmosphere with a lounge area and family photos. The store emphasizes community building, supporting artisans, and preserving fiber arts. While reviews consistently praise the friendly owner, reasonable prices, and good selection, some customers have noted occasional organizational challenges and a slightly limited online presence. The shop actively participates in the Chicago Yarn Crawl, hosting events and offering a range of classes and workshops.

Maria’s Needle Craft is a beloved Chicago craft store known for its welcoming atmosphere, personalized service, and extensive selection of yarn and needlecraft supplies. While some reviews highlight its friendly staff and helpful owner, Carlos, and its dedication to special occasion items like Sweet XV doll sets and First Communion gift boxes, others mention occasional issues with customer service and a lack of consistent hours. The store’s commitment to carrying high-quality brands like Omega, La Espiga, and Hilo Piloto is appreciated by many. It’s a place where crafters can find inspiration, guidance, and everything they need to bring their creative visions to life. However, some customers have experienced difficulties with shipping and returns, particularly when dealing with orders placed outside of store hours. Despite these occasional challenges, Maria’s Needle Craft remains a cherished local gem for needlecraft enthusiasts.

Nina Chicago is a well-regarded yarn store in Chicago, known for its curated selection of high-quality yarns, particularly focusing on local and unique options like Cotton Lino, Bamboo, and Uneek. They cater to a wide range of skill levels, offering both a diverse selection of yarns and exclusive knitting patterns. While some reviews highlight the helpfulness and knowledge of the staff, particularly regarding pattern selection and yarn recommendations, there are also mentions of a potentially unwelcoming atmosphere for some customers, with a perceived coldness from the owner. The store is praised for its beautiful space and the overall experience of browsing and discovering new materials. They also offer a variety of fiber arts classes and events. Despite the positive feedback, some customers have expressed a desire for a more friendly and approachable environment. The store’s commitment to unique yarns and patterns is a key draw for many visitors. It’s important to note that some reviews mention a lack of responsiveness to inquiries and a somewhat rigid approach to customer service.

Sister-Arts Studio is a beloved local yarn shop in Lincoln Park, Chicago, known for its welcoming atmosphere, commitment to customer service, and curated selection of high-quality yarns. While it receives positive reviews for its knowledgeable staff, beautiful yarn selection, and community-focused events like the Yarn Crawl, some customers have reported negative experiences with a particular employee exhibiting condescending behavior and discouraging beginner knitters. The shop’s focus on color and offering color consultations is a unique selling point. Despite occasional issues with customer service, the overall experience is generally positive, with many customers appreciating the shop’s dedication to fostering creativity and building a strong fiber arts community. The owner is passionate about the craft and dedicated to helping customers succeed in their projects.

Firefly Fiber Arts Studio is a yarn store dedicated to providing high-quality, sustainable yarns and fostering a community of fiber artists. They prioritize environmentally and socially responsible practices, offering a curated selection of yarns and wools free from synthetic materials. The studio provides private lessons in crochet, knitting, and spinning on a wheel, tailored to individual maker goals and accommodating up to two students. They also offer online learning resources. Events include Summer Craft Camp for Adults and Monthly Trunk Shows showcasing the work of independent yarn dyers. The store currently has a sale on Jamieson yarn, kits, and bags, and an additional discount on closeout yarns and accessories. Product highlights include Eric & Christopher Travel Pouches and YOGA OF YARN by Kristin Drysdale. Firefly Fiber Arts Studio is deeply committed to sustainability, ensuring all offered yarns are free from synthetic materials and sourced ethically.

Fiber Friends Studios is a community-focused yarn store dedicated to fostering a welcoming environment for knitters, crocheters, and fiber enthusiasts in the South Side of Chicago. While reviews mention a positive experience with helpful advice and a wide selection of yarns, including budget-friendly options like Lion Brand, some reviews note a small selection and friendly staff. The store actively promotes social interaction and skill-building through events like Crafter-mornings and supports local charities through initiatives like Knitted Knocker, Warm-up Hyde Park, and Knit for Foods. It’s a hub for fiber artists seeking connection and resources. The store’s location is convenient with street parking and proximity to public transportation.

The Dropped Stitch is a yarn store and fiber arts emporium in Andersonville, Chicago, focused on accessibility and trustworthiness. It offers a curated selection of high-quality yarns from renowned brands like Malabrigo and Noro, along with a comprehensive range of knitting and crochet notions and gifts. While praised for its friendly staff, helpful advice, and welcoming atmosphere, some reviews mention a slight lack of ADA accessibility due to a step-up to the entrance. The store’s community-focused approach, stemming from the owner’s background in event planning and ‘Jeopardy!’ winnings, aims to create a space for crafters to gather and learn. It’s known for stocking local dyers and offering a variety of classes and workshops. However, some customers have noted that the store can be a bit pricey, particularly for luxury fibers. Overall, it’s a well-regarded and popular destination for fiber artists in the area.

Yarnify! | Chicago is a welcoming and well-stocked yarn store catering to both beginners and experienced knitters and crocheters. They pride themselves on offering a diverse selection of yarns in various weights and fibers, alongside a comprehensive range of needles, hooks, and notions. The store’s commitment to community is evident through events like Open Knit Night and Thursday Social Knit, creating a friendly and supportive environment for crafters. While some reviews mention a slightly higher price point, the quality of the yarns and the helpfulness of the staff are consistently praised. A minor inconvenience noted by some is the requirement to enter via a buzzer system at the entrance. Overall, Yarnify! provides a pleasant and inspiring shopping experience for yarn enthusiasts.

Miss Purl is a vibrant yarn store and maker salon located in the South Side of Chicago, dedicated to fostering a love of knitting and providing a supportive community for crafters of all skill levels. Founded by Kamaca Champion, the store emphasizes accessible patterns and a joyful creative experience. It’s a welcoming space with a good selection of yarns, tools, and notions, and the staff are friendly and helpful. While some reviews mention occasional issues with pricing transparency and communication, the overall experience is overwhelmingly positive, with customers highlighting the store’s community atmosphere, beautiful packaging, and commitment to accessibility. The store’s focus on beginner-friendly patterns and regular workshops makes it a great place for new knitters to learn and grow. It's a place where creativity thrives and connections are made. Some customers have mentioned a slightly cliquey atmosphere, but the majority of reviews indicate a warm and inclusive environment.

The Bloomin’ Spindle is a charming and welcoming yarn store located in Portage Park, Chicago, offering a delightful experience for knitters and crocheters. It stands out for its focus on accessibility and trustworthiness, evident in its friendly service, transparent pricing, and clean, organized environment. While some reviews mention occasional dog-related issues (specifically, a dog’s presence and a potential for allergies), the overall atmosphere is described as warm and inviting. The store’s unique offerings include a curated selection of specialty brands like Boutique les Garcons, Maison Corlene, Beehive Yarn Uk, and Gnome Depot Fiber, as well as an artist in residence who dyes yarn in-house. Regular community events, such as WIP Wednesday and Thursday Evening Knitting Group, further enhance the store’s appeal. The owner’s passion for creating a supportive crafting community is palpable, and the store’s design, inspired by a French pastry shop, contributes to a bright and cheerful ambiance. Despite some minor concerns about dog management, the store is consistently praised for its helpful staff and overall positive experience.