Buying Yarn: Online vs. Local Yarn Store – What Works Best?

Back in the day, visiting a yarn store was one of my favorite treats: seeing the colors in person, feeling the textures, and getting lost in creative inspiration. And to be honest – I still love it. Today, I'm lucky enough to often receive yarn samples directly from manufacturers to design new patterns or test out fibers. It's a huge privilege – but it also made me see yarn shopping from a different angle. After all, not everyone can touch or compare yarns in advance.

That's why I've put together this comparison of buying yarn online vs. in-store – to help you find the best option for your needs.

🛒 Shopping Online – Convenient & Diverse

Online shops offer a huge selection of colors, fibers, and brands – often available 24/7. Especially for those living in rural areas or looking for a very specific yarn, the internet is a treasure trove.

Advantages:

• wide selection

• convenient home delivery

• often more affordable

• easy to compare prices

Disadvantages:

• no tactile experience

• colors may differ from real life

• no personal advice

• shipping takes time 

🧵 Shopping In-Store – Sensory & Direct

If you've ever wandered through a well-stocked yarn store, you know the joy: touching yarn, seeing colors in person, and being able to ask questions – it's a real experience.

Advantages:

• real touch & color perception

• personal advice

• inspiration from chats & local projects

• instant availability

Disadvantages:

• possibly limited selection

• potentially higher prices

• limited opening hours

• not always nearby

💡 Conclusion: You Decide!

As so often in life, it depends on your situation. Are you searching for a specific yarn? Or do you just want to browse and feel inspired?

👉 My tip: Combine both! Visit a local yarn shop for inspiration and that special tactile feel – and use online shops when you know exactly what you need.

How do you prefer to shop for yarn? And do you have a favorite place – online or offline? Tell me in the comments or in our Facebook group!

#strickenimtrend #knittingwithlove #yarnshopping #fiberfacts #onlineshopvsstore

Tell me your favorite way of buying your yarn!

Yours,
Kathrin ☀️🧶