The Best Knitting Shops

Whether you’re a knitting newbie or purling pro, these local shops offer products and classes you need to finish your fall projects


Photo by fotolia/Nataliia Pyzhova


There’s nothing better than the comforting sound of clicking knitting needles—besides wearing something that you’ve created. With the fall weather nearly here, it’s time to knit some warm wearables and visit the best yarn shops in the Twin Cities.

The Yarnery
Located on the corner of Victoria and Grand Avenues, The Yarnery is filled to the brim with all sorts of bright, fun-colored yarn all organized by weight—lace, fingering, bulky, and super chunky (which could be great for a scarf, by the way). Hanging on the corners of the shelves are knitted swatches of yarn so browsers can see and feel what a finished project might be like, and experts are always available to answer questions. The Yarnery offers five-week classes for beginners as well as pattern-focused classes for experienced knitters looking to try something new. 840 Grand Ave., St. Paul, yarnery.com  

StevenBe
If you are looking for exclusive yarns or already-assembled design kits, StevenBe is the place to shop. Owned by Steven Berg, StevenBe offers all sorts of knitting events including knitting circles, classes, and even tours of the shop for those interested in Steven’s personal collection of antiques and other art pieces. StevenBe also sets time aside every Monday night for Rx Knits, an open forum where knitters can come in and ask questions about any project, stitch, or technique they might be struggling with. 3448 Chicago Ave., Minneapolis, stevenbe.com  

3 Kittens Needle Arts
The tagline “get inspired” for this knitting shop is very fitting considering the number of classes and events they offer, including classes taught by acclaimed knitting and crochet authors. In late September, Patty Lyons, a nationally recognized pattern designer and knitting author, will be teaching three classes and giving her presentation “Oops! I Accidentally Knit A Dress.” In November, Melissa Leapman, a prolific American knitting designer, will teach knitters interesting stitch patterns that fool the eye. A helpful feature for anyone interested in taking a knitting class is 3 Kittens’ online class level guide which can help knitters knowledgably sign up for the class that’s right for them. 750 Main St. Suite 112, Mendota Heights, 3kittensneedlearts.com  

Needlework Unlimited
If you are looking for more opportunities to work on your projects and socialize with other passionate knitters, Needlework Unlimited has a few unique events dedicated to just that. Knitting clinics are held four days per week at $15 per session, and they also offer a book club knit along that meets every other Saturday. During the knit along, knitters work on their own projects while listening to a knitting-related audio book together. Right now they are reading Knitlandia: A Knitter Sees the World by Clara Parkes. If you are interested in any other needlework activities such as needlepoint or crochet, this is a great shop to explore new ideas. 4420 Drew Ave. S., Minneapolis, needleworkunlimited.com