10 great knitting and yarn shops across North America

Knitting and yarn stores aren't mere retailers. Many are also cozy waystations with classes, supplies and a place to relax and work on your next scarf, afghan or fiber-art masterpiece. Some have even become travel destinations in their own right, says Amy Singer, editor and publisher of Knitty.com. "The ones that are thriving have found ways to provide something unique." She shares some of her favorite shops with Larry Bleiberg for USA TODAY.

A Verb for Keeping WarmOakland, Calif.This Bay Area store with a memorable name has built its reputation as a leader in natural dyed yarn and fabric — the shop owner has even written a book on the topic. "It's their signature, trademark thing. It's not common. It's more work and less predictable, and they know so much about it," Singer says. "These are people with big, huge hearts." averbforkeepingwarm.com

Churchmouse Yarns and TeasBainbridge Island, Wash.Singer calls this cozy Puget Sound retailer a destination shop, selling tea and accessories, along with indie-produced yarns and products from larger companies. It's not uncommon to see knitters working on projects on the 35-minute ferry ride from Seattle. "There are people who come just to see them, and I think it's worth the trip. The shop is a perfect jewel, in a jewel of a town." She also likes their knitting patterns, which have an elegant modern appeal. churchmouseyarns.com

Purl SohoNew YorkA pioneer in the modern yarn shop movement, this Manhattan store has expanded over the years from a closet-size space to stretching across multiple storefronts. It has collaborated with Martha Stewart and is known for a clean, elegant, upscale designs — "without being obnoxious," Singer says. "It's the grand dame of yarn shops, the place you go when you go to New York," Singer says. purlsoho.com

Knit PurlPortland, Ore.In a city packed with knitting shops, this store stands out for producing its own line of Japanese-inspired yarn and patterns called Shibui Knits. "The colors are amazing," Singer says. It also has a system of matching yarn weights, which can be a challenge for knitters. "You can combine yarns and have some assurance that what you make is the right size." knit-purl.com

Fancy Tiger CraftsDenverThis full-service shop is fully versed in the needle arts, with yarn and fabric, along with notions and accessories. "If something is wonderful and rare or brand new, they will likely get it first," Singer says. "They’re inspiring and creative and very unique and comprehensive in what they carry." fancytigercrafts.com

Hill Country WeaversAustinWith a name that sounds like a folk band, this legendary store has been roping in crafters since 1981 with a huge selection and knowledgeable staff. Although it still caters to weavers, its largest market is knitters, Singer says. "The shop has been there forever. They have a huge rambling place." hillcountryweavers.com

WebsNorthampton, Mass.This destination shop is popular for its separate warehouse, which attracts knitters with a wide selection and volume discounts. "They have great deals. You go there because they have everything." yarn.com

Jimmy Beans WoolRenoFor many knitters, Jimmy Beans is a pilgrimage, a famous online retailer with a welcoming brick-and-mortar shop. Customers love the company because it supports charities and sponsors special events like Downton Abbey knit-alongs. "They have a huge collection of stuff. People are very excited about going there in person," Singer says. jimmybeanswool.com

The Purple PurlTorontoSinger deliberately chose her apartment's location to make this her LYS (local yarn shop) where she buys supplies, socializes and works on projects. The store carries Canadian yarns and offers a full range of knitting, crochet, felting and spinning supplies. "They’re really good people and they have all the basic necessities: a café and sitting room to knit," she says. thepurplepurl.com

StevenBeMinneapolisShop owner and designer Steven Berg is a rock star of the knitting world, operating out of a restored firehouse with a crystal chandelier. The glam shop offers classes from top-name designers. "It's like Hollywood in the middle of Minnesota," Singer says. "Steven uses lots of super brights and crazy colors." stevenbe.com