Celebrate Local Yarn Shop Day

Knitters are fiber enthusiasts. As such, we know that yarn is more than just a material—it’s a source of inspiration, creativity, and connection. This year, on April 26, 2025, we celebrate Local Yarn Shop (LYS) Day, a special occasion dedicated to the independently owned yarn stores that bring our crafting dreams to life. Organized by The National NeedleArts Association (TNNA), LYS Day is a chance to honor the small businesses that serve as the heart and soul of our fiber arts community.

Local Yarn Shops (LYSs) are more than just retail spaces; they are hubs of creativity, learning, and camaraderie. Whether you’re a seasoned knitter or just starting your fiber journey, your local yarn shop offers a unique experience that can’t be replicated online or in big-box stores. Here’s why supporting your LYS is so important—and why you might want to plan a visit (or even a shop hop!) in honor of LYS Day.

The Magic of Local Yarn Shops

Walking into a local yarn shop is like stepping into a world of possibilities. The shelves are lined with vibrant skeins of yarn, each one a potential masterpiece waiting to be created. But the magic of LYSs goes beyond their inventory. These shops are often owned and operated by passionate fiber artists who bring their expertise and love for the craft to every interaction. It is not uncommon for LYSs to employ certified Master Hand Knitters or Certified Knitting Instructors who can answer your questions, troubleshoot tricky patterns, and guide you through new techniques. Their personalized advice and hands-on support are invaluable, especially when you’re tackling a challenging project or exploring a new skill.

Community and Connection

Local yarn shops foster community and connection outside of home and work. They are places where you can gather with like-minded individuals, share your passion for fiber arts, and build lasting friendships. 

LYSs often host knitting circles, workshops, and events that bring people together. These gatherings create a sense of belonging and community that is hard to find elsewhere. Whether you’re attending a knit-along, checking out a trunk show, enjoying a yarn tasting, or simply chatting with fellow crafters, your LYS is a place where everyone knows your name—and your favorite yarn brand.

The Benefits of Shopping Local

When you support your local yarn shop, you’re not just buying yarn; you’re investing in your community!

Local Yarn Shop Day is the perfect excuse to explore yarn stores beyond your immediate neighborhood. Why not plan a day trip to visit a new shop or participate in a shop hop? Many LYSs host special events, workshops, and promotions on LYS Day, making it an exciting time to discover what they have to offer.

A shop hop is a fun and rewarding way to visit multiple yarn stores in a single day or weekend. It’s an opportunity to meet other fiber enthusiasts, collect exclusive patterns or kits, and expand your crafting horizons. Plus, it’s a great way to support multiple small businesses at once.

Encourage your local knitting guild take group shopping trips to all of the LYS in a certain radius of their group to shop & support the LYS in their area.  If you’re not sure if there’s a local guild near you, visit our Guild Finder. If there’s not a local guild near you, you can start your own and we are here to help! Click here for more details.

Encourage your friends, family, and fellow crafters to visit their local yarn shops with you and experience the magic for themselves. Together, we can ensure that these cherished spaces continue to thrive for years to come.