Hello Fibre and Yarn Enthusiasts,
If you are gearing up for a FUN summer adventure in Ontario's cottage country, we have compiled a list of EIGHT fabulous yarn and fibre destinations to visit along the way!!
Granny Bird's Wool Shoppe is named after the owner's quirky nickname for her grandmother (Granny Bird). This shop has a lovely community feel and carries a wide variety of hand dyed and commercial yarns plus a large selection of needles, hooks, buttons and accessories. Look for free parking throughout the village and please note that there is a six inch rise at the front door. Ask for directions to Old Dog Brewing Co. for a refreshing sip on the patio or if its the best grilled cheese sandwiches and homemade soup in town that tempts your palate- Grilled Cheese Hideaway is a 'hidden gem' worth seeking out. Afterwards, sweeten your visit with a treat from Cake By The Lake or The Bobcaygeon Bakery located just steps away from the shop. Enjoy your treat along the waterfront, while watching the boats go by.
Happenstance Books & Yarns is situated on Queen Street in an enchanting heritage building in the tiny village of Lakefield. Look for free on street parking or the municipal lot located across the street. There are two steps at store front or back to navigate, with helpful hand grips for accessibility. Unique and charming, this shop doubles your browsing pleasure with a lovely curated collection of books and an extensive yarn selection in all weights and fibre types from suppliers such as- Amano, Berroco, Cascade, James C Brett. King Cole, Opal, and West Yorkshire Spinners. Queen Street offers an interesting mix of shops and three great lunch suggestions- The Nutty Bean Café with outdoor dining verandah, Cassis French Bistro or Angle Iron Kitchen. After lunch, visit the Christ Church Community Museum featuring village history or stroll along the scenic Otonabee River and follow the interpretive sign trail.
Needles In The Hay has been a downtown fixture in Peterborough's historical Commerce Building for more than a decade with a passion for heirloom quality ethically-produced natural fibres to entice both knitters and crocheters alike. Some of NITH's flagship brands are Brooklyn Tweed, The Fibre Co., Hudson + West, mYak, June Cashmere and Pascuali, all happily nesting in a twelve foot wall of wool. Parking is free on Saturdays, and during the week there is plenty of metered parking available on the street and in adjacent municipal lots. Set the mood for yarn shopping with a scrumptious hand-made donut from Tragically Dipped, St. Veronus for lunch and dinner. To the right of NITH, Watson & Lou has a wide selection of handmade goods by local makers. And to the left, you’ll find Plant Goals, a house plant lover's paradise! Don't miss this local hidden gem- Peterborough Lift Lock an engineering marvel and largest hydraulic boat lift in the world.
Mariposa Woolen Mill is a fun experience for the entire family. Located just outside Lindsay, this old dairy mill operation provides a glimpse inside the everyday workings of a farm and a woolen mill. The shop features local made food items and plenty of ethically-produced yarns, needle felting supplies and more... accessible entrance with plenty of parking, and... oh yes! A great spot for the kids to experience farm life, or take a mill tour. Be sure to bring your appetite for poutine or a burger at the chip truck.
Muskoka Yarn Connection is located in an old automotive factory in Bracebridge, but don't let the outside looks fool you, once inside, this bright and airy shop offers knitters a selection of natural fibres and blended yarns complimented with original-designed sweater and accessory knitting kits. This shop is also the home of an exclusive line of locally-dyed yarns, Muskoka Yarn Goddess. Free parking is right at storefront and this shop is fully accessible. Within the same building you'll discover two hidden gems- Veranda Outlet, a big, beautiful furniture store and Sasha Designs, featuring locally made cosy wraps and clothing, both just steps from Muskoka Yarn Connection. After a day of shopping therapy, sit and collect your thoughts in the fresh air or meander along the walking trail at the Bracebridge Falls with its shady spots to picnic and knit.
Wave Fibre Mill in Seguin Township, is a full-scale fibre production facility, workshop space and adjacent wool shop with locally-made products, all housed within an airplane hangar. The vintage mill equipment is rich in history and constantly in motion, custom processing fibre from Canadian farmers using only sustainable and ethical milling practices. Mill tours are available by appointment. and don't miss a chance to check out the neighboring Milford Bay Smokehaus or stop in for coffee and a sandwich at Wings Cafe. Ask for a window seat with a view of the airfield to watch the planes take off.
For info on these TWO exciting fibre festivals in cottage country please click on links below-
KAWARTHA YARN & FIBRE FESTIVAL June 8th from 10 to 4:00
MUSKOKA YARN & FIBREFEST Saturday June 22nd from 10 to 4 pm
Happy Adventures in COTTAGE COUNTRY!
