23 Yarn Shops in ILLINOIS (Colorful, Durable, & Fluffy)

Knitting is one of the most popular recreational activities in America, and everyone has at least one aunt or granny that makes them knitted sweaters.

It takes some practice to learn, but it’s a fantastic skill, and you can use it to make many valuable items like sweaters, bags, and even dolls for kids.

Beyond the items you make, knitting is also great for relaxation, and it has been proven to help reduce stress and improve brain function.

Whether you’re an experienced knitter or a novice, you need a reliable store to make sure you never run out of yarn and other knitting essentials.

This article is precisely what you’re looking for, as it lists some excellent yarn shops around Illinois where you can always purchase knitting materials.

And by the way, you may also want to check out the best Boutiques in Illinois.

Yarn Shops in Springfield, Illinois

1. Hobby Lobby (Arts & Crafts Retailer)

Exterior view of a Hobby lobby store / Flickr / Hattiesburgmemory
Link: https://flickr.com/photos/hattiesburgmemory/3298927456/
Exterior view of a Hobby lobby store / Flickr / Hattiesburgmemory

Hobby Lobby is an American arts & crafts retailer and one of the country’s largest providers of arts & crafts supplies.

They have various products for various hobbies, including interior decoration, floral arrangements, framing, and arts & craft.

As knitting is one of the most popular hobbies in the country, it’s no surprise they also have an assortment of knitting products and materials.

You can find all sorts of yarn at the average Hobby Lobby store, with various colors, manufacturers, textures, and uses.

Due to their large-scale operations, you’re likely to have access to a wider variety of high-quality yarn products at pocket-friendly prices.

Hobby Lobby stores are open almost throughout the day, meaning you always have a convenient way to get your knitting supplies, and the fun never has to stop.

Address: 3325 S Veterans Pkwy, Springfield, IL 62704

2. Jo-Ann Fabric & Crafts (Prominent Retail Franchise)

Exterior view of a Jo-Ann Store / Wikipedia / Coolcaesar
Link: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jo-Ann_Stores#/media/File:Henderson_Jo-Ann.jpg
Exterior view of a Jo-Ann Store / Wikipedia / Coolcaesar

Jo-Ann Stores is a prominent American retail franchise specializing in the sales of fabrics, crafts, and art materials.

They have several branches nationwide and provide customers with a high-quality assortment of products for various hobbies.

As one of the largest retailers of fabric and craft materials, Jo-Ann Fabric & Crafts is one of the best locations to secure quality yarn for your knitting projects.

They have a large assortment of yarns from different manufacturers with various textures, colors, and quality.

Beyond yarn, you can buy high-quality knitting tools, including stitch holders, needles, scissors, and measuring tape.

Jo-Ann Frbairc & Crafts also sells supplies for other hobbies, including painting, paper crafts, interior decorations, and jewelry=making.

If you’re considering picking up a new hobby or combining hobbies, you can still get the supplies you need at your Jo-Ann store.

Address: 3051 Wabash Ave, Springfield, IL 62704

3. La Bead, Oh (Unique Beads & Materials)

Homepage of La Bead, Oh website / labeadoh.com
Homepage of La Bead, Oh website / labeadoh.com

La Bead, Oh! is a local bead store in Springfield that provides customers with various beading materials and supplies, including metal finding and crystals.

They sell all sorts of unique beads and jewelry materials, including African Trade beads, pearl beads, clay beads, and shells.

Naturally, they sell other bead-making tools and accessories, including string, metalsmithing materials, and yarn.

The store has a well-trained staff who offer excellent customer service and can guide you through your purchases.

They also offer various classes you can sign up for to learn amazing bead-making tricks and how to make other jewelry.

Dates for their classes and events are constantly updated on their website, and they feature world-class instructors with a wealth of knowledge.

Lastly, you can also visit their physical store, which is open all weekdays, to buy supplies and handmade jewelry.

Address: 1500 S 6th St, Springfield, IL 62703

4. Michaels (Large Arts & Crafts Chain)

Exterior View of a Michaels store / Wikimedia Commons / Michaels Stores, Inc.
Link: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Michaels_Store_Front_-_Euless,_TX.jpg
Exterior View of a Michaels store / Wikimedia Commons / Michaels Stores, Inc.

Michaels is a large and successful arts & crafts retail chain with over a thousand stores across America and Canada.

This retail giant is one of the world’s largest providers of arts & crafts supplies for various hobbies, including framing, interior decorations, and other crafts.

So, it’s little surprise that Michaels is also one of the largest suppliers of yarn and other knitting products to customers nationwide.

A Michaels store is a one-stop shop for all your hobby needs, so beyond high-quality yarn, you can also find excellent tools like needles and scissors.

As a large-scale retailer, Michaels stores often have discounts, sales offers, and other buyer incentives to help you get the most out of your money.

Lastly, you also have access to various products from different manufacturers, allowing you to sample different materials for your project.

Address: 2501 Wabash Ave, Springfield, IL 62704

Also see our article on Hobby Shops in Illinois.

Yarn Shops in Wheaton, Illinois

1. Jo-Ann Fabric & Crafts (Pocket-Friendly Prices)

Front view of a Jo-Ann Store / Wikipedia / Anthony92931

Link: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jo-Ann_Stores#/media/File:JoAnns_Fabrics_and_Crafts.jpg
Front view of a Jo-Ann Store / Wikipedia / Anthony92931

As one of the country’s largest arts & crafts retailers, Jo-Ann Fabric & Crafts also serves customers in Wheaton, like several locations nationwide.

This retail giant is a one-stop shop for materials, tools, and supplies for many hobbies, including framing, interior decoration, baking, and tailoring.

They have a specialty for fabric & crafts materials so you can expect various quality yarn products from different manufacturers.

Thanks to their large-scale operations, you can expect to find a variety of options to pick from, all at pocket-friendly prices.

You also have access to various discounts and sales offers that come with shopping at a supermarket.

Their staff are polite and glad to help you find what you need at the store.

Jo-Ann stores are open almost throughout the day, but you can also order your favorite products online for a seamless shopping experience.

Address: 36 Danada Square W, Wheaton, IL 60189

2. Blue Willow Mercantile (High-Quality Cotton Fabrics)

Homepage of Blue Willow Mercantile / bluewillowmercantile.com
Homepage of Blue Willow Mercantile / bluewillowmercantile.com

Blue Willow Mercantile is a fabric store that has served customers in and around Wheaton for over ten years and has branches in different locations.

The owner of this locally owned business is a talented quilter who leveraged her knowledge of fabrics and knitting to create a welcoming shop.

At Blue Willow Mercantile, they deal with a variety of high-quality cotton fabrics from renowned brands like Bernatex, Michael Miller, Camelot, and Moda.

These products are all available at pocket-friendly prices with a team of well-trained and friendly staff to walk you through getting the perfect fabric for your needs.

Beyond fabric, Blue WIllo Mercantile also sells sewing machines and has an excellent in-house repairman with over two decades of experience fixing sewing machines.

Additionally, they have a lot of resources on their website for customers who are just starting o sew, including events, competitions, and masterclasses.

Address: 1 Town Square, Wheaton, IL 60189

3. String Theory Yarn Company (Curated High-Quality Yarn)

Homepage of String Theory Yarn Company website / stringtheoryyarncompany.com
Homepage of String Theory Yarn Company website / stringtheoryyarncompany.com

The String Theory Yarn Company is a yarn shop that’s over fifteen years old and specializes in selling knitting tools and supplies.

Struck by an unfortunate loss, the owner of this local business found solace in knitting and decided to found The String Theory Yarn Company to spread the same joy to others.

True to its mission, The String Theory Yarn Company embarks on various charity missions worldwide and has given away over $40,000.

This yarn shop boasts a unique selection of carefully curated high-quality yarn products, including artisan Fairtrade and organic yarn.

They also sell various knitting tools and accessories to help you get more out of your knitting sessions.

If you’re a beginner or a veteran looking for new tricks, they regularly host virtual knitting classes and events where you can meet other knitting enthusiasts.

Address: 477 N Main St, Glen Ellyn, IL 60137

Also see our article on Consignment Shops in Illinois.

Yarn Shops in Elgin, Illinois

1. Hobby Lobby (Variety of Knitting Products)

Exterior view of Hobby Lobby building / Flickr / M01229

Link: https://flickr.com/photos/39908901@N06/7066319097
Exterior view of Hobby Lobby building / Flickr / M01229

It’s only natural for one of the country’s largest arts & crafts retailers to appear on this list more than once, as Hobby Lobby stores are in almost every town.

If you’re a knitting enthusiast living in Elgin, you’d be pleased to know that there’s a Hobby Lobby store within the area for you to shop.

You don’t need to constantly worry about finding supplies because Hobby Lobby has various knitting products from different manufacturers.

Regardless of the color, texture, or quality you’re looking for, you can find it at a Hobby Lobby store.

Their staff is well-trained and professional, so they’ll gladly walk you through navigating the store and making your purchase.

Beyond yarn and knitting, you can access supplies for many other hobbies, including interior decoration, arts & crafts, and framing.

Address: 200 S Randall Rd, Elgin, IL 60123

2. Elgin Knit Works (Yarn, Tools & Classes)

Homepage of Elgin Knit Works website / elginknitworks.com
Homepage of Elgin Knit Works website / elginknitworks.com

This locally owned yarn shop was founded by two retired teachers in 2012 and has since provided local artisans and knit enthusiasts with quality yarn and fibers.

Elgin Knit Works was established to cater to local demand, and they do an excellent job maintaining an extensive catalog of quality yarn products.

Besides fiber, Elgin Knit Works sells different tools, including hooks, needles, scissors, and knitting purses.

They’re committed to building a vibrant community of knitters in Elgin, and they regularly host classes and events where you can learn new tricks and meet other knitters.

You can also subscribe to their newsletter, which goes out regularly and contains many helpful knitting tips and resources,

Their store is open from 1 pm to 6 pm on Wednesdays and from 10 am to 4 pm from Thursday to Sunday.

Address: 10 Douglas Ave, Elgin, IL 60120

3. Wool and Company (Various Yarn Types)

Homepage of Wool & Company website / woolandcompany.com
Homepage of Wool & Company website / woolandcompany.com

Wool and Company is a local yarn shop in Elgin that sells fabric, yarn, and various knitting tools and accessories.

They have a large inventory of different types of yarn, including lace, bulky, super fine, light, and medium yarn.

You can also find high-quality fabric from various brands, including Magner, Plymouth, Sadnes Garn, Regia, Cascade, Berroco, and Queensland.

Similarly, you can shop their inventory of different types of needles, including circular, single-point, and double-point needles.

Wool and Company is committed to creating and sustaining a vibrant community of knitters, and they frequently host events like charities and competitions to help knitters connect.

Their website also has many resources for knitters to learn new tricks or get inspiration for their new knitting projects.

You can also register for classes at their physical store, which is open from 10 am daily.

Address: 1687 N Lancaster Rd, South Elgin, IL 60177

Also see our article on Pet Stores in Illinois.

Yarn Shops in Decatur, Illinois

1. Jo-Ann Fabric & Crafts (Large Fabric & Crafts Store)

Front view of Jo-Ann store from the parking lot / Wikipedia / Neobatfreak

Link: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jo-Ann_Stores#/media/File:Jo-Ann_Store_(Fresno)_curbside_parking.jpg
Front view of Jo-Ann store from the parking lot / Wikipedia / Neobatfreak

Unsurprisingly, Decatur is home to a branch of one of the country’s largest fabric & crafts suppliers.

If you’re a knitter, a Jo-Ann store is a dream come true because it was designed to have all you need to complete an excellent knitting project.

You can access various knitting products from different manufacturers, so you can choose the exact color, texture, or quality you need.

Thanks to their pocket-friendly prices and constant sales offers, you can always get the best out of your money and stock up on quality products,

They also have an excellent support staff with great customer service, ready to help navigate the store and make the best purchases.

If you dislike shopping in person, you can use their website for seamless orders and deliveries.

They also have various knitting and craft resources on their website to inspire you.

Address: 4298 Prospect Dr, Decatur, IL 62526

2. Hobby Lobby (Quality Yarn & Supplies)

Front view of a Hobby lobby store / Flickr / Rob Corder
Link: https://flickr.com/photos/rocor/51238541711/
Front view of a Hobby lobby store / Flickr / Rob Corder

Thousands of residents in Decatur rely on Hobby Lobby to get supplies, materials, and tools for their various hobbies.

Knitting isn’t left behind, as Hobby Lobby has various high-quality knitting tools and supplies, including needles, scissors, and yarn.

All knitters understand the importance of using high-quality materials, and Hobby Lobby has an extensive catalog of yarn from different manufacturers.

You can also say goodbye to never being able to find one particular color of yarn, as Hobby Lobby has a vast inventory of affordable products.

A big store can be intimidating, so you’d be grateful for the team of professional and empathetic support staff that can guide you through the store.

If you’re dabbling into hobbies besides knitting, you can also check other Hobby Lobby sections for supplies and materials for various hobbies.

Address: 1146 Hickory Point Mall, Forsyth, IL 62535

3. The Fabric Cobbler (Yarn, Fabric & Notions)

Homepage of The Fabric Cobbler website / thefabriccobbler.com
Homepage of The Fabric Cobbler website / thefabriccobbler.com

The Fabric Cobbler is a small, locally-owned yarn shop founded by Scarlett Wells in 2012 as an online fabrics store.

In 2014, The Fabric Cobbler became a brick-and-mortar business and has provided knitting materials, fabric, and accessories to customers around Decatur.

Their inventory includes various types of yarn, other fabrics, knitting publications, notions, patterns, and knitting tools.

As a knitting enthusiast, Scarlett Wells is passionate about building a community of knitters, so The Fabric Cobbler hosts a series of events to help knitters connect.

They also offer classes for a token which are an excellent option for beginners that want to start under guidance or veterans who want to hone their skills.

Their physical store is open from 9 am daily, except Sundays, which are usually closed, except they announce otherwise.

You can also visit their website to order online and view updates about their events, classes, and new inventory.

Address: 324 E Ruehl St, Forsyth, IL 62535

4. Off the Hook by Chrissy (Specializes in Patterns)

Homepage of Off the Hook by Chrissy website / offthehookbychrissy.com
Homepage of Off the Hook by Chrissy website / offthehookbychrissy.com

Off the Hook by Chrissy is a small crocheting business founded by Chrissy Allison, a knitter, designer, and crochet blogger.

You can find a variety of knitting fabrics and tools; however, Off the Hook by Chrissy specializes in the sale of knitting patterns.

Also, you can visit the store’s website for various resources on knitting, including educative tutorials and knit-along sessions.

Similarly, you can read through the blog to learn about the founder’s journey, her love for knitting, and other tips she can share from her wealth of knowledge,

This business was designed to be a safe space for knitters and enthusiasts to come for inspiration on their knitting projects.

Whether as a beginner or veteran knitter, Off the Hook by Chrissy has something for you, including tips on sourcing the best knitting materials.

Address: 39 Dellwood Ct, Decatur, IL 62521

Also see our article on Tattoo Shops in Illinois.

Yarn Shops in Chicago, Illinois

1. Firefly Fiber Art Studio (Environmentally Safe Yarn)

Homepage of Firefly Fiber Arts Studio website / fireflyfiberarts.com
Homepage of Firefly Fiber Arts Studio website / fireflyfiberarts.com

Firefly Fiber Art Studio is a family-owned small business started by a mother and daughter who love knitting and crocheting.

The locally-owned yarn shop and studio have been in business since 2017, selling knitting materials and accessories to customers around Chicago.

At Firefly Fiber Art Studio, they’re particular about selling yarn that’s safe for the environment, and all their products are free from chemicals and plastics.

Beyond yarn, Firefly Fiber Art Studio has a large inventory of tools and accessories, including needles, spinning wheels, knitting kits, notions, and patterns.

They source their products from various small businesses, which they certify use only sustainable and environmentally-friendly processes to make their yarn.

Beyond selling knitting materials, FIrefly Fiber Art Studio hosts various classes and events to help knitters hone their skills and connect.

Address: 2860 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60618

2. Yarnify! (Modern Yarn Shop)

Homepage of Yarnify website / yarnify.com
Homepage of Yarnify website / yarnify.com

Yarnify! is a modern yarn shop that provides customers across Chicago with yarn, fabric, and other knitting materials and accessories.

The yarn shop has selections from various high-end brands, including Addi, Circulo, DMC, Knit Circus, Sirdar, and Amano.

Beyond yarn and fabric, Yarnify has a large inventory of knitting tools and accessories, including scissors, measuring tape, needles, and accessory bags.

If you’re looking for inspiration for your knitting projects, you can also browse through their magazines, books, and other publications.

You can also give their gift cards to any of your friends or loved ones who love knitting so they can use them at their physical or online store.

Their physical store is open from noon every day except Tuesdays, and with their extensive yarn collection, you’re sure to find what you need.

Address: 633 S Plymouth Ct Unit 1, Chicago, IL 60605

3. Sister Arts Studio (Materials & Private Classes)

Homepage of Sister Arts Studio website / sisterartsstudio.com
Homepage of Sister Arts Studio website / sisterartsstudio.com

Sister Arts Studio is a local yarn shop located at the heart of the famous Lincoln Park.

They provide customers around Chicago with excellent quality yarn materials, accessories, and tools.

Beyond selling materials and tools, Sister Arts Studio also hosts various private classes to help knitters and knitting enthusiasts hone their skills,

They also host various events to help knitters interact, connect, and grow into a thriving creative community.

A mother and daughter founded Sister Art Studio, and the family-owned enterprise has a team of well-trained and knowledgeable staff.

If you want to experience their excellent staff in person, you can visit their physical store, which is open daily.

You can also visit their website for more information on their events, classes, and products and to order from their online store.

Address: 721 W Wrightwood Ave, Chicago, IL 60614

4. Nina Chicago (Modern Fabric & Yarn Shop)

Homepage of Nina Chicago website / ninachicago.com
Homepage of Nina Chicago website / ninachicago.com

Nina Chicago is a modern fabric and yarn shop that sells various high-quality knitting materials, tools, and accessories to customers in Chicago.

They have a large selection of knitting needles, crochet hooks, stitch markers, jewelry, bags, accessory cases, embellishments, ceramics, and other accessories.

This small business has a team of polite and friendly staff who are available to walk you through their products.

Located in the Noble Square neighborhood, Nina Chicago is focused on building a vibrant community of knitting and crochet enthusiasts.

As a result, they host various classes, workshops, private lessons, and events to help knitters improve their skills and meet other like-minded creatives.

You can also visit their blog for various posts on knitting tips and inspirational designs for your knitting projects.

Their physical store is open to customers every day except Tuesdays, and you can make orders over the phone.

Address: 1256 W Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60642

5. Knit 1 (Renowned Yarn Brands)

Homepage of Knit 1 website / knit1chgo.com
Homepage of Knit 1 website / knit1chgo.com

Knit 1 is a local knitting and crocheting store providing customers in Chicago’s North Side with high-quality knitting materials and resources.

This yarn shop is a boutique with a warm and inviting ambiance and a vast inventory of fabric, yarn, and other crocheting supplies and accessories.

They feature several renowned yarn brands, including Spincycle, Ewe Ewe Yarns, The Plucky Knitter, and Malabrigo.

Beyond selling knitting materials, Knit 1 also hosts excellent practical classes featuring expert instructors for a token.

Similarly, they regularly host various events to bring together knitters and knitting enthusiasts around Chicago to interact and share knowledge.

You can visit their website for more information and updates on their events and classes.

Their physical store is open every day of the week except Mondays and Thursdays, so you can always pick a lazy weekend to restock your supplies.

Address: 3856 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago, IL 60613

Also see our article on High Tea in Illinois.

Yarn Shops in Naperville, Illinois

1. Stitcher’s Garden (Local Needlepoint Store)

Homepage of Stitcher's Garden website / stitchersgardenil.com
Homepage of Stitcher’s Garden website / stitchersgardenil.com

Stitcher’s Garden is a local needlepoint store providing customers with various fabrics, thread lines, and yarn from different manufacturers.

The store has a team of professional staff who are very knowledgeable and can help you select the best materials for your knitting projects.

They also sell various embroidery artwork and painted canvasses, which are excellent options to beautify your living space.

Their store is open to customers between 10 am and 5 pm from Tuesdays to Saturdays and Mondays for group appointments only.

You can also visit their website if you’d prefer to order online or to view updates on their events and new inventory.

If you’d like to learn how to needlepoint or improve your skills, they offer private classes with expert tutors for a token.

You can also sign up for their newsletter for regular tips, tricks, and resources.

Address: 1163 E Ogden Ave Ste 713, Naperville, IL 60563

2. Yarns Untold (Membership Plans Available)

Yarns Untold is a local yarn shop at the College Square Shopping Center that sells yarn, fabric, and other knitting materials and accessories.

Regardless of your knitting project, you will likely find suitable materials and accessories to sew that sweater, sock, or hat.

Their shop has a team of well-trained and friendly staff who can walk you through their various products and help you pick the best one.

If you have a passion for knitting but little experience, you can easily sign up for any of their private lessons for a token.

They also have membership plans that you can pay to access some special privileges.

Their physical store is open to customers from 12 pm to 4 pm every day except Wednesday, when it’s open from 2 pm to 8 pm, and Tuesday when it’s closed.

Address: 6476 College Drive, Lisle, IL 60532

Yarn Shops in DeKalb, Illinois

1. Michaels (Open All Day)

Exterior View of a Michaels store / Wikimedia Commons / M01229

Link: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Michaels_store_-_Brooklyn_Center_Minnesota_(40826843701).jpg
Exterior View of a Michaels store / Wikimedia Commons / M01229

As one of North America’s largest arts & crafts retailers, it’s no surprise that Michaels has a branch serving customers in the DeKalb area.

Michaels stores have almost any arts & crafts supplies you may need, and their stores are open throughout the day, making them the perfect one-stop shop.

As a retail giant, Michaels can afford to give you the best prices on excellent products, and you can take advantage of their discounts and offers to save money.

Excitingly, saving money doesn’t mean you have to compromise on quality, as you also have access to various products from different manufacturers.

Thanks to their excellent customer service, navigating a Michaels store is relatively easy, and someone will always answer your questions.

Lastly, if you’re considering a new hobby, Michaels’s stores aren’t just limited to yarn; they have a wide selection of supplies and materials for various hobbies.

Address: 2341 Sycamore Rd, DeKalb, IL 60115

2. Hobby Lobby (Large Chain in DeKalb)

Parking lot view of a Hobby lobby store / Flickr / Ajay Suresh

Link: https://flickr.com/photos/ajay_suresh/51788715359/i
Parking lot view of a Hobby lobby store / Flickr / Ajay Suresh

Hobby Lobby store has been saving knitting enthusiasts nationwide by providing access to high-quality supplies, and Dekalb is no exception.

The retail giant also has a large and active branch in this quiet town where you can find an assortment of high-quality yarn for knitting.

Beyond yarn, you can also browse the store for other knitting supplies, including needles, stitch holders, measuring tapes, and scissors.

The Hobby Lobby franchise has built a solid reputation from decades of doing business, and you can trust that all products are of the best quality.

Every branch has a responsive and well-trained staff that’ll guide you to the best products at pocket-friendly prices.

Beyond knitting, Hobby Lobby is a one-stop shop for all types of hobby supplies and materials, making them a must-visit for all hobbyists.

Address: 2500 Sycamore Rd, DeKalb, IL 60115

If you liked this article, you may also like to read about the best Boutiques, Consignment Stores, and Hobby Shops in Illinois.

Looking beyond Illinois? Check out our articles on the best Yarn Shops in Texas and Florida’s finest yarn shops.

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