Best Yarn Stores in Columbia, Maryland

SO Original is a yarn store located in Columbia, Maryland, offering a diverse selection of yarns for knitters and crocheters. The store specializes in both affordable and luxury yarns, catering to a wide range of budgets and preferences. It's known for its sparkle and value sections, a strong focus on Urth Yarns, and convenient services like curbside pickup and virtual shopping. The store is fully accessible and offers private and virtual knitting/crochet lessons. While some reviews highlight the helpful and knowledgeable owner, Lana, and the welcoming atmosphere, a recent review noted a negative experience with a lack of helpfulness from the owner, raising concerns about potential discrimination. The store also offers assistance with knitting mistakes. Overall, SO Original strives to be a community-focused and accessible resource for yarn enthusiasts.

Hillcreek Yarn & Fiber is a family-owned business dedicated to serving fiber enthusiasts since 1982. The business operates as part of Hillcreek Fiber Studio, with a strong emphasis on providing personalized service and a wide selection of high-quality materials. They distinguish themselves as a small business capable of providing individual attention while maintaining a substantial inventory. Their offerings include: Yarns: A large selection of yarns; Natural Dyes: A comprehensive range of natural dyes, from Alkanet to Zinc; Weaving & Spinning Tools: A variety of tools and equipment for weaving and spinning; Fiber-Related Books: A collection of books related to fiber arts. Hillcreek Yarn & Fiber has developed particular expertise in the following areas: Continuous Strand Weaving Looms: They are recognized for their knowledge and supply of continuous strand weaving looms; Natural Dyeing: They specialize in natural dyes and dye aids; Nature-Dyed Yarns & Wool Potholder Loops: They offer yarns and wool loops dyed with natural pigments; Self-Published Educational Materials: They produce and sell self-published books and DVDs, including: "Continuous Strand Weaving Method, Techniques and Projects on Triangle, Square, and Rectangle Looms" and "Nature Provides Dyes for Rainbows". The business prides itself on its ability to provide personal attention and assistance, reflecting its small size and commitment to customer satisfaction. It’s part of a larger family business, Hillcreek Fiber Studio, demonstrating a generational commitment to serving the needs of fiber artists.

The Knotty Goat is a dedicated fiber arts store and community space, fostering creativity and connection among knitters, crocheters, and fiber artists. It’s more than just a retail location; it’s a place where passion for fiber crafts is celebrated. The store specializes in providing a curated selection of high-quality yarns and tools, catering to individuals looking to create garments, accessories, and home décor items. They aim to inspire customers through their product offerings and create a welcoming environment for learning and sharing. While some reviews mention a slightly cliquey atmosphere, the overall sentiment is positive, highlighting the store’s cleanliness, organization, and helpful staff. Customers appreciate the wide selection of yarns, including unique and indie brands, and the store’s role as a community hub. There are occasional mentions of the price point being a little high, but the quality of the yarn justifies the cost for many.

Winterberries Yarn is a charming yarn store located in Columbia, New Jersey, founded by Stephanie Sosnovik Goodlow, a lifelong enthusiast of spinning and dyeing. The store distinguishes itself through its commitment to supporting local indie dyers, offering a curated selection of hand-dyed yarns, including Stephanie’s signature ‘Mega Berries’ line and pieces from Kelly Shultes, Lauren, Liz, and Tara. It’s known for its welcoming atmosphere, friendly service, and a focus on community, as evidenced by its classes in weaving, spinning, knitting, and crochet, and its store mascot, Jexie. While some reviews mention a slightly rustic or unkempt exterior, the quality of the yarn and the helpfulness of the owner are consistently praised. Some customers have noted limited parking options, requiring parking in the back. Despite a few minor criticisms regarding accessibility, the store is generally considered a delightful destination for yarn enthusiasts seeking unique and high-quality materials and a creative community. The store has a rich history, having previously operated in Columbia before its closure and subsequent revival.