When asking yourself about something to do near me in Raleigh with a group of friends or family, consider
Great Yarns
Why Great Yarns is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Great Yarns, located in Raleigh, North Carolina, is a beloved local yarn shop that has been a hub for fiber enthusiasts since 1986. Known as the "Little Yarn Shop That Could," it offers a welcoming atmosphere where knitters and crocheters of all skill levels can grow their craft. The shop showcases an impressive selection of yarns in beautiful colors and textures, ranging from natural fibers inspired by flora and fauna to diverse weights and price points, making knitting, crocheting, and weaving accessible to everyone. Beyond just a retail space, Great Yarns is a vibrant community where people come together to share their passion for fiber arts through structured classes, personalized help, and Knit or Crochet Alongs. Since 2017, under the ownership of Pam and Hank, the shop has continued to thrive, offering inspiration, support, and a warm creative environment, fostering friendships and encouragement among its patrons.
Here's what people think of Great Yarns
As of recent, Great Yarns holds a 4.7-star rating based on 103 reviews.
Customers consistently praise Great Yarns for its exceptional customer service, knowledgeable and friendly staff, and strong sense of community. Many reviewers highlight the helpful guidance they receive during classes and the personalized support that enhances their knitting and crocheting experience. The welcoming atmosphere and the quality of the yarn selection also receive positive mentions, with several noting the shop’s commitment to offering trendy and natural fiber options. On the other hand, some negative reviews mention occasional issues such as limited parking or the shop’s smaller size, which can make the space feel a bit crowded during popular events. A few customers have also expressed the desire for a broader range of supplies or longer store hours. Overall, the positive reviews far outweigh the negatives, reflecting Great Yarns’ reputation as a cherished destination for fiber artists in Raleigh. The community aspect and the quality of offerings make it an excellent place to meet up with friends and indulge in creative pursuits together.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Kim Nguyen
The yarns here really are great! The staff are very friendly, and there is truly so much selection, from norwegian Sandnes Garn to local yarns, and even some yarns I have never seen in a store! The widest selection of The Fibre Co that I have ever seen in person, and they stock Sewrella yarns as well. I also enjoyed looking at all the pattern samples for inspiration!
Lisa Ginn Puryear
They have a terrific selection of yarns from which to choose for any project. Their customer service is amazing. If you have an "issue" with a piece you're creating and are stuck, their VERY kind and knowledgeable team, no matter the day, will help you out! It's a friendly and inviting atmosphere. They have fun classes too! There are yarn stores but the above makes them a "GREAT" one!
Pamela A Goodwin
I found the store on Google and was very happy to come to see what Yarns they have. They have a lot of cotton Yarns that are local. So many selections and other knickknacks crocheters and Knitters me. The staff is very friendly and knowledgeable about fibers. They also have areas for you to sit down inside and create your pieces with and a yarn Winder as well for the Hank's.
Erin Jernigan
I took the beginner knitting classes and learned a lot! The instructors were very helpful and I love the in person classes so that you can ask questions. The class sizes are small and I liked the projects we worked on. I made a hot pad and now working on the cowl. The yarn and materials you use in the projects are extra and not included in the class price.
Alexis Pojafsky
Pam and her employees are very knowledgeable in crocheting and knitting. Yarns are fabulous! There is also an area where you can sit and stitch.
How to reach Great Yarns
None
Website: None
Why rally at Great Yarns with your friends?
Gathering your friends and family at Great Yarns is an exceptional way to combine creativity, relaxation, and social connection all in one inspiring space. Whether you are an experienced knitter, crocheter, or a beginner eager to explore the craft, Great Yarns offers an inviting atmosphere where you can share the joy of fiber arts. This renowned yarn shop, boasting a solid 4.7-star rating from over 100 reviews, is more than just a store—it’s a community hub where creativity flourishes through collaboration and learning. The warm, welcoming environment is enhanced by helpful and knowledgeable staff who are dedicated to making your visit productive and enjoyable. When you gather at Great Yarns, you’re not only shopping for high-quality yarns and tools but also creating memories with your group, exchanging tips, and encouraging each other’s projects. Whether you come prepared with your own work or want to start a new project together, Great Yarns provides a perfect backdrop to deepen friendships and share the satisfaction of crafting. This is truly a place where friends bond over threads, patterns, and shared inspiration.
What activities can groups enjoy at Great Yarns?
Great Yarns is much more than a retail shop—it’s a vibrant destination for a range of engaging activities that cater perfectly to groups. First, the store offers a massive selection of premium yarn, including sought-after brands like Malabrigo, which allows every member of your party to find the perfect material for any project. This diverse inventory sparks ideas and invites patrons to explore colors, fibers, and textures together. Besides shopping, Great Yarns frequently hosts knitting and crochet classes designed for all skill levels, from beginners who want to learn how to cast on stitches to seasoned crafters seeking advanced techniques. These classes foster a supportive learning environment, ideal for friends to encourage one another while mastering new crafts. Additionally, the store organizes knit nights and meetups where groups can work on their projects side by side, share patterns, and exchange ideas in a relaxed and friendly setting. The presence of expert staff, such as the personable owner Fontelle Jones and longtime employees, means your group always has access to expert advice and help locating the perfect tools and patterns. Whether planning a casual meetup or an event around a shared hobby, Great Yarns provides enriching, hands-on experiences that make group gatherings meaningful and memorable.
Why is Great Yarns ideal for group meetups?
Great Yarns creates the ideal atmosphere for groups who want more than just a typical day out shopping; it offers a social and creative retreat with ample space and resources to accommodate several people comfortably. The store’s layout encourages browsing and interaction, making it easy for groups to explore yarns, tools, and patterns collaboratively. Its reputation for outstanding customer service ensures every visitor feels valued and supported, with staff ready to assist your group’s diverse needs. Another key advantage is the inclusive spirit of the store, welcoming crafters of all ages and experience levels, which makes it accessible for families and mixed groups of friends. The ability to combine shopping with learning activities like workshops or knit nights means you can customize your visit to suit any group’s interests and pace. Moreover, the cozy environment encourages lingering conversations and creative brainstorming, turning a simple meetup into a shared artistic journey. Whether your group comes to start a joint project, seek inspiration, or simply enjoy each other’s company in a craft-focused setting, Great Yarns stands out as a perfect destination that seamlessly blends fun, creativity, and community.
How diverse is the yarn and craft supply at Great Yarns?
Great Yarns prides itself on an extensive and varied inventory, catering to the eclectic tastes and needs of its clientele. The store specializes in premium yarns, including luxurious and colorful options like Malabrigo, known for its softness and vibrant hues. This wide selection appeals to knitters and crocheters who desire high-quality materials to elevate their projects. Beyond yarn, Great Yarns stocks essential tools such as needles, hooks, pattern books, and accessories that support all stages of crafting. The breadth of products allows groups with varied skill levels and project ideas to find exactly what they need without compromise. This diversity not only inspires creativity but also fosters learning opportunities as patrons experiment with different fibers and techniques. Staff members play a key role by offering personalized recommendations and helping customers navigate the rich inventory. Browsing through the shelves together allows friend groups and families to share their tastes, swap ideas, and discover new materials, making Great Yarns a well-suited venue for those looking to explore and deepen their appreciation for fiber arts.
What kind of community and support does Great Yarns offer?
Great Yarns shines as a community-centric business where support and connection are central to the experience. The dedicated and knowledgeable staff go above and beyond to create a welcoming environment, helping each visitor with expert advice tailored to their particular project or skill level. This personable approach builds trust and rapport, encouraging repeat visits and a loyal customer base. The shop’s history of over 40 years in business speaks to its strong community roots and commitment to fostering a craft-loving culture. Beyond retail, the schedule of classes, events, and knit nights acts as a magnet for like-minded individuals who appreciate both craftsmanship and camaraderie. Through these gatherings, Great Yarns nurtures friendships and peer learning, making it especially attractive for groups seeking more than just shopping but also an enriching social experience. The owner, Fontelle Jones, and her team take pride in maintaining this inclusive and supportive atmosphere, making every group feel at home regardless of experience. This genuine dedication to community support distinguishes Great Yarns as more than a store—it is a vibrant hub for fiber arts enthusiasts.
How accessible and convenient is Great Yarns for group visits?
Located at 4023 Rucker Avenue, Everett, WA, Great Yarns benefits from a convenient and easily accessible location, making it straightforward for groups to plan visits without hassle. The store is situated in an area known for its welcoming small business atmosphere, complemented by accessible parking and nearby amenities. This ease of access reduces stress when organizing group meetups, allowing attendees to focus on the fun and creative aspects of their visit. Additionally, the shop maintains flexible hours, accommodating varied schedules so that friends and family can find the optimal time to gather. The staff’s willingness to assist with both in-store and phone orders extends the convenience, enabling groups to coordinate purchases or prepare for classes ahead of time. The physical space itself is arranged thoughtfully to handle multiple visitors at once, providing enough room to browse comfortably without crowding. These factors combine to make Great Yarns a practical and inviting venue for groups planning creative outings, enhancing the overall experience with convenience and comfort.
What makes Great Yarns a special place compared to other yarn shops?
Great Yarns distinguishes itself through a blend of qualities that elevate it above typical yarn stores. Its longstanding presence in the community—operating since 1984—reflects a deep understanding of its customers’ evolving needs and tastes. Combined with a stellar 4.7 average rating and over 100 glowing reviews, the store enjoys a reputation for consistently excellent service and product quality. What truly sets it apart is the staff’s personalized attention and their passion for facilitating craft success, which turns each visit into something special. The store’s atmosphere is warm and inviting rather than purely commercial, encouraging exploration, creativity, and friendly interaction. This focus on customer experience, coupled with an impressive product range and an active program of classes and social events, creates a dynamic place where groups don’t just shop but genuinely connect and grow together. In a market crowded with specialty shops, Great Yarns stands out as a cornerstone for fiber arts enthusiasts looking for quality, inspiration, and a supportive crafting community, making it the go-to spot for group meetups.