6 Great Knitting Shops and Activities

Monday, January 03, 2011

GoLocalProv Lifestyle Team

Knitting just gets hotter and hotter. And when the weather gets colder and colder, you want the best shops and classes for inspiration and guidance. Here's what the experts love:

Top Shop: Fresh Purls

769A Hope St, Providence
One of the most fashion-forward knitting shops in the state, and tucked right into the cozy Rochambeau neighborhood of Providence's East Side (pictured, below). Staff picks up trends from trips to NYC (everyone's wearing big cowls or infinity scarves), and the shop offers great sessions and classes nearly every weeknight, including Knit Therapy every Wednesday.
Added benefit: Fresh Purls advises a knitting circle every Monday night, 6:30-8:30pm at the Rochambeau Library.

Secret Supplies: Peter Patchis Yarns

174 Cross St, Central Falls
This is a find for high-production knitters, whether by hand or on machines. This family business was founded in 1958 by Peter Patchis, a loom fixer in local textile mills who got his own winding machine and began selling plied yarn to local mills. Passed down to his son (also Peter), the retailer recently became the exclusive US distributor of home knitting machines, and occupies a former textile facility in Central Falls. A great legacy, and great yarn at great prices. 723-3116.

Country Classic: Sakonnet Purls

3988 Main Rd, Tiverton
This remarkable institution never loses pace, and devoted knitters drive miles just to sit in the shop, browse the yarn, and chat with staff. With a vibrant online shop at www.letsknit.com, this claims to be the most complete knitting and needlework store in the USA.
Added benefit: Check out the free patterns that are available with the purchase of yarn, online.

Purls Getaway: Knitting Weekend at Slater Mill

Is there anything better than a weekend with the girls? How about your girlfriends who knit? The Community Guild Studios at Slater Mill is hosting its 3rd Annual Knitting Weekend on Jan 21-13, a non-stop two-days of classes, marketplace activities, and yes, knitworking. Pricing is by class, so you can make it fit your budget. For a brochure, go here.

Crochet Crossovers: Knitter's Nook

127 Dean Ave, Smithfield
Recently moved from Johnston to new digs in Smithfield, the longtime favorite has a special offering: beginner crochet classes every Thursday (and for anyone who knows anything, crochet is the hot needlework of the year). 349-3909.

East Bay Addicts: Knitaholics RI

This vibrant group of knitters has been meeting on Tuesday nights at the Coffee Depot in Warren since 2007. Although more real-group than online group (and there are plenty of them, easily searchable on the incredible www.ravelry.com), the Knitaholics do a wonderful job posting photos of projects done by members. It's like leafing through a family album. For many more knitting groups, check ravelry.

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