Though I admit that I do love to peruse the aisles of big box craft stores now and then for good deals, it is especially exciting to highlight some of Ithaca’s smaller and more unique artsy/crafty shops. There are a number in town that specialize in sewing, art supplies, stationary, and yarns and knitting. For all Ithaca’s knitters (and would-be knitters) out there, today’s post is about a cool shop that I recently discovered: Knitting Etc.

Knitting Etc. is tucked within the shops at Triphammer Marketplace (which surprisingly houses some other interesting gems…a Russian grocer, Terra Rosa – an eye-candy gift boutique,  Finger Lakes Reuse Center, a Chinese grocer, Instant Replay Sports, and Ithaca Coffee Company – a food store for the gourmand. But more on these other shops later…). Knitting Etc. is filled with a colorful array of yarns in all textures and colors, knitting books, patterns, supplies, tools, and a friendly and knowledgeable staff who want to share their love of knitting with you. Beyond a storefront, Knitting Etc. has created a small community of knitters replete with classes, open knitting sessions, and knitting-related events.

Ever wondered about rigid heddle weaving? No problem, they’ve got you covered. Oh wait, never heard of rigid heddle weaving? (Ok, me neither), then you can start with some basic classes in knitting socks. Started a project but got tangled up? Knitting Etc. invites you to their regular Thursday night Open Knit Night where you can get help on that half-knitted sweater you’ve been trying to finish for the past year. Or just come for some social knitting. This place has a full events calendar with classes, workshops, invited teachers, and open knitting sessions most days of the week. You’ll never be bored again! Though admittedly I am no knitter myself (I crocheted some potholders for mom in grade school), I love finding places like this in Ithaca with a rich and in-depth devotion to a single craft or field of study. And the staff, led by owner Hickory O’Brien Lee, is clearly passionate about their craft and can answer any knitting-related question you put to them.

So with the polar vortex tormenting upstate New York, what better a time get out your knitting needles, cozy up to a movie, and knit that winter scarf. Have fun stocking up in some exotic yarns from Knitting Etc. for the project.

Knitting Etc. is located in the Triphammer Marketplace at 2255 N. Triphammer Rd. Phone: 607-277-1164.