When asking yourself about something to do near me in Berkeley with a group of friends or family, consider
ImagiKnit
Why ImagiKnit is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
ImagiKnit is a beloved yarn shop located at the corner of 18th and Sanchez in San Francisco, just a block from Dolores Park. Established in 2002, it has become a vibrant community hub for knitting and crocheting enthusiasts of all levels. The shop offers an extensive and diverse selection of yarns across all fibers, weights, and textures, making it a perfect place to find materials for any knitting or crochet project. Beyond retail, ImagiKnit provides a welcoming, creative environment with classes, workshops, and social stitching events such as "Social Stitch" on Thursdays and a monthly Queer Stitch Night supporting LGBTQIA+ community members. The store’s history reflects a strong community focus, starting with founder Allison Isaacs and now under the dedicated ownership of Katelyn Randolph, who grew up knitting and brings expertise in business and marketing to the role. Whether one is looking for expert advice, knitting patterns, or a friendly place to meet fellow crafters, ImagiKnit excels in providing inspiration and support to its patrons. Its longevity and loyal customer base highlight its exceptional combination of product variety, helpful staff, and a warm atmosphere that fosters creativity and connection.
Here's what people think of ImagiKnit
As of recent, ImagiKnit holds a 4.6-star rating based on 19 reviews.
Customers consistently praise ImagiKnit for its vast yarn selection and knowledgeable, friendly staff who offer personalized guidance and knitting advice. Positive reviews highlight the welcoming atmosphere and the variety of classes and events that encourage community building among knitters of various skills. Many appreciate that the store serves both local San Francisco residents and online customers, with timely and well-packaged orders. Additionally, the social stitching gatherings receive commendations for fostering a relaxing, inclusive environment for creative expression. On the other hand, some negative feedback points to occasional challenges with order accuracy or inventory availability online, as well as limited parking around the busy neighborhood location. A few reviewers mentioned that the store’s hours might not align perfectly with everyone’s schedule. Overall, despite minor logistical issues, the overwhelming consensus is that ImagiKnit offers high-quality products and a unique, community-centered experience that makes it a standout destination for yarn lovers. The strong reputation built over two decades and consistently positive customer interactions demonstrate its success as both a retail and social knitting destination.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Mir Farrokh Salek
Amazing collection of yarn. They have a place for sitting and knitting as well. It is a fun store to visit and also shop
Alicia Cabrera
I love this store so much that if they ever left, I’ll have to move. The vibe is so warm and inviting…everyone is so kind and helpful. A bunch of us meet on Sundays just to knit as a group…all ages and genders. It’s my most favorite store in the world. Their yarns are beautiful!! Did I mention the staff? They feel like best friends. Everyone is made to feel so welcome.
Judy Chadwick
The folks at Imagiknit believe in community. They share their space with crafters of all types. They are so welcoming and helpful. Their stock of yarn and supplies is amazing, and includes items for all budgets!
Alice
Very disappointed with the customer service. I bought a crochet hook together with some yarn, which they recommended according to the size of the yarn I bought. The hook was terrible when I tried it, that it was so shallow that the yarn just kept slipping off, and also too big for the yarn. I went there the next day for a return or exchange, and I put the hook back to it’s original package. But I was told that no return or exchange is allowed on the crochet hooks. But no one told me about this store policy at all when I placed the order, NO ONE. Instead they tried to get me to open an account. I mean come on, you remember to tell me to open an account but too busy to inform me that return is not allowed? Hilarious.
Catherine Patchell
Great range of yarns and the staff has always been helpful! If you're visiting from out of town, a stop into ImagiKnit is best paired with a visit to Dolores Park to cast on that new project.
How to reach ImagiKnit
None
Website: None
Why rally at ImagiKnit with your friends? Imagine a cozy, welcoming space where creativity flourishes, and every yarn enthusiast feels at home. ImagiKnit, located in the vibrant San Francisco neighborhood, offers just that—a perfect gathering spot for friends and family who love to engage in crafty, collaborative activities. Whether you’re seasoned knitters or complete beginners, the atmosphere encourages sharing, learning, and bonding over intricate patterns and colorful yarns. The store's charm lies not only in its extensive collection of high-quality materials but also in its warm and knowledgeable staff, who are always eager to assist and inspire. Meeting here transforms a simple outing into a memorable experience filled with creativity and laughter, making ImagiKnit an ideal venue to deepen friendships through the shared joy of crafting.
Moreover, ImagiKnit is not just a retail shop; it’s a community hub where your group can simultaneously nurture new skills and enjoy leisurely social time. The inviting seating areas provide comfortable spots to knit together while swapping ideas and stories. Hosting your meetup at ImagiKnit means indulging in a tranquil yet stimulating environment where everyone can explore varied fiber arts, from knitting and crocheting to weaving and spinning. Because each visit offers new inspiration and personalized guidance, it encourages repeated meetups, becoming a cherished ritual with friends or family. For anyone seeking a unique, creative, and friendly venue to connect with loved ones, ImagiKnit stands out as the perfect destination.
What kinds of activities does ImagiKnit offer for groups? ImagiKnit's main appeal for groups centers around a rich variety of fiber arts activities, supported by a comprehensive selection of materials and expert instruction. Visitors can engage in knitting and crocheting using yarns ranging from luxurious cashmere and silk to familiar wool and cotton. This wide assortment caters to all interests and skill levels, allowing each participant to find the perfect project. The store’s numerous tools and accessories, from different needle sizes to crochet hooks, further support crafting endeavors. This ensures that every member of your group can tailor their projects to match their preferences and experience.
In addition to materials, ImagiKnit offers numerous classes and workshops designed to foster skill development and creativity within a supportive community setting. Group visits can include scheduled sessions that cover everything from basic stitches for beginners to advanced techniques for seasoned crafters. These classes provide an excellent opportunity for your group to learn together, share accomplishments, and encourage each other’s progress. For more personalized needs, they also offer private lessons, making it easy to accommodate different learning paces within your group. Combined with their collection of instructional patterns and books, these educational opportunities make ImagiKnit an enriching venue where every group member can grow their artistic capabilities.
Why is ImagiKnit a perfect place for a group meetup? The space itself is thoughtfully designed to facilitate social crafting and collaboration. ImagiKnit features dedicated seating areas allowing your group to comfortably chat and craft simultaneously. This social aspect transforms simple fiber arts into an engaging group experience, where conversation, relaxation, and creative expression blend seamlessly. The friendly and knowledgeable staff enhance this environment by providing tailored assistance and sharing tips, which elevates the overall experience for everyone involved. Whether you’re selecting yarns or troubleshooting project challenges, expert guidance is always close at hand.
Furthermore, ImagiKnit is located in a lively and diverse San Francisco neighborhood filled with interesting shops and cafes, which means your group can easily extend the outing before or after your meetup. This makes it convenient for groups who might want to grab coffee, lunch, or explore the area, enriching your day together. The store’s reputation for exceptional customer service and welcoming atmosphere is reflected in its excellent 4.6-star rating from numerous reviews, highlighting customer satisfaction and a strong community vibe. This combination of quality materials, expert help, cozy ambiance, and convenient location creates an ideal setting that encourages frequent and enjoyable group gatherings.
How can ImagiKnit accommodate different skill levels within your group? One of the outstanding features of ImagiKnit is its inclusivity towards all levels of knitters and crocheters. The store’s extensive collection of yarns, patterns, and instructional materials means that each person—from novices learning their first stitches to experienced crafters tackling challenging designs—can find suitable resources. Their classes are carefully structured to address various skill levels, ensuring that no one feels left behind or overwhelmed during group sessions.
Additionally, private lessons allow for customized guidance, which is perfect when a group has a mix of abilities. Staff members are attentive and ready to support individuals with different paces, helping beginners gain confidence while offering advanced crafters new techniques to master. This personalized approach cultivates a nurturing environment where everyone in your meetup feels valued and encouraged. By fostering skill development alongside social interaction, ImagiKnit ensures that the group’s creative potential is fully realized, making your collective experience both educational and fun.
What makes the yarn selection at ImagiKnit special for a group experience? ImagiKnit is renowned for its vast and diverse yarn inventory, which appeals to a broad spectrum of fiber artists. The store stocks every major fiber type, including luxurious cashmere and silk blends, reliable wool, cotton, bamboo, and other plant-based yarns. This impressive variety allows group members to experiment with different textures, weights, and colors, often sparking lively discussions and inspiration exchanges. The availability of such high-quality and specialized yarns elevates any knitting or crocheting project, making the creative process more enjoyable and rewarding.
For groups, this means everyone can select yarns that best suit their tastes and project types, enhancing individual satisfaction while contributing to the overall lively crafting atmosphere. Floors-to-ceiling bins packed with thousands of yarns create an awe-inspiring shopping experience where discovery and excitement thrive. Though the store carries limited locally dyed yarns, its general assortment ensures any fiber enthusiast will find something unique. This extensive selection also makes ImagiKnit a perfect destination for group gifts or souvenirs, adding another layer of fun for meetups.
What is the community atmosphere like at ImagiKnit? The community vibe at ImagiKnit is one of its most cherished attributes. Customers frequently praise the welcoming and helpful staff, noting how their expertise and friendliness make the store feel like a second home. The seating areas provide a relaxing environment not just to shop but also to knit, chat, and connect with others. This inviting setup encourages group members to linger, share stories, and celebrate progress together, fostering an unspoken camaraderie among creative souls.
Regular events such as open houses and special gatherings add to this tight-knit community feel. These occasions often feature guest designers and special workshops that offer fresh inspiration and learning opportunities. Such events are fantastic ways to bond as a group while engaging more deeply with the fiber arts culture. ImagiKnit’s position within a diverse and culturally rich neighborhood further enhances the community experience, making every visit feel vibrant and full of potential discoveries.
How does the location of ImagiKnit enhance a meetup experience? Situated at 3897 18th St in San Francisco, ImagiKnit benefits from being nestled in a lively, interesting neighborhood. Surrounding the store are a variety of shops and cafes, providing ample opportunities to extend your gathering beyond yarn and needles. Your group can explore local eateries for meal breaks or enjoy a coffee together, turning a yarn meetup into a full-day outing. The store is accessible by public transportation, making it convenient for groups coming from different areas of the city.
The eclectic and colorful environment around ImagiKnit adds an extra dimension to your visit, stimulating creativity not only through fiber arts but also via the surrounding urban culture. This accessibility and neighborhood charm make the venue adaptable for different meetup styles, whether a casual afternoon or an all-day crafting retreat. Overall, the location complements the in-store experience perfectly, creating a well-rounded and enjoyable day out for all group members.