Sydney, The Yarn Report-Tapestry Craft's Yarn Shop

   Tapestry Craft––The Yarn Shop

It took me a minute to get used to the subdued track lighting that gives this shop a slight loung-ey feeling. In the rear, there's a platform resembling a stage. My first impression, was that the store could double as a venue to see a band.

In reality, the economical lighting helped to keep the place cool, and focused on the merchandise (the most important thing you need to see). It is a clean, uncluttered space, and the rear platform holds a table for the weekly knitting group. The shop's manager Kris, did inform me that a cafe was opening soon (see? It’s only a matter of time before the band).

(Myself and Kris, a dynamic knitter and blogger)

The Layout

Yarns are merchandised in the classic manner for Aussie shops––according to weight and plies––with mega brands such as Noro and Heirloom having their own sections. Ball yarns remain in their plastic bags on the shelves (to keep from falling. You can remove them), but are accompanied by large stockinette swatches, with the appropriate written info. I found this a good move, especially in the case of  light colored yarns which can becomed soiled by continually falling.

There rather tranquil atmosphere––probably due to the time of year––allowed Kris, (an ex-pat American and ex-techie who has found her calling, much to the benefit of knitters in Sydney) and myself to have a convivial chat about, what else––the business. She further hipped me to Australian-produced yarns for the Asian market, which I haven't seen in the US. Yippee! I could purchase exclusivity. I still had enough Aussie money which I needed to spend in the country, so guess what I did…

The Yarns

In addition to classic Aussie brands––Cleckheaton, Heirloom, and Panda, there are Italian novelties, and Anny Blatt––my over-the-top favorite (puzzlingly, I didn't see US yarns anywhere during my trip). Yarn prices are reasonable, the cost rising in direct correlation to the distance between manufacturer and retail outlet. For the digitally challenged, finished samples are for sale (though the ones I saw could've use a bit of freshening).

Books and patterns are sold in conjunction with many of the yarns carried. This is a good thing. One shouldn’t have to push their brain beyond their skill level, without the proper support, which may be had, in terms of classes and a knitting group. Accessories are standard, and I finally got to see the Jordana Paige knitting bags in person. Nice. Time for a change, as they will compliment my spring attire.

Don't Let The Distance Stop You

Seriously worth mentioning, is Tapestry Craft's website. Yes fiends, you can enjoy Aussie brands before you go! Their website is extremely well organized, and performs price conversions in US dollars and Pounds sterling (the US prices will blow your mind!). Accurate color representations of the products are shown. Also featured, are great pics of Kris and the knitting group (hey there everybody! Hi and I'm sorry I missed y'all!).

So, if you’re from Oz already and reading this, then what are you waiting for?  If you're visiting, stay at the fabulous Grace Hotel, then make this place your first stop, and tell Kris I said hello. Otherwise, click on Tapestry Craft's link, and start planning your projects. Or, start saving your saving your air-fare. Seriously.

Comments

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I found this a good move, especially in the case of light colored yarns which can becomed soiled by continually falling.

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