When asking yourself about something to do near me in Portland with a group of friends or family, consider
Knitted Wit's Craft Emporium
Why Knitted Wit's Craft Emporium is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Knitted Wit's Craft Emporium is a cherished destination for craft lovers in Portland, Oregon, offering a warm, community-oriented environment to meet up with friends and create together. Located at 19959 E Burnside St, this vibrant craft shop combines a retail space stocked with an extensive variety of supplies—such as hand-dyed yarn, fabrics, notions, and crafting kits—with engaging classes and year-round clubs designed for all skill levels. The emporium’s focus on fostering creativity and connection makes it an ideal spot for casual meetups or dedicated crafting sessions. Whether exploring their unique hand-dyed yarn collection or participating in open crafting hours, visitors enjoy a welcoming atmosphere enriched by the store’s commitment to storytelling and community building since its establishment in 2007. The space encourages collaboration and learning, hosting open crafting hours and welcoming crafters to join clubs that nurture ongoing creativity. Offering flexible hours across several days each week, Knitted Wit's Craft Emporium ensures accessibility for locals and visitors alike who seek a dynamic, supportive place to share their passion for fiber arts and crafting.
Here's what people think of Knitted Wit's Craft Emporium
As of recent, Knitted Wit's Craft Emporium holds a 5-star rating based on 34 reviews.
Customer reviews consistently highlight Knitted Wit's Craft Emporium as a top-rated crafting destination with a perfect 5.0 rating based on 34 reviews. Many users commend the store for its exceptional selection of high-quality hand-dyed yarns and varied crafting supplies, emphasizing the uniqueness and beauty of the products. Reviewers often praise the knowledgeable, friendly staff and the inclusive, community-focused atmosphere that sets the emporium apart. The availability of diverse classes and crafting clubs is also frequently mentioned as a positive aspect, providing an enriching experience and opportunities to learn new skills in a supportive environment. Positive reviews underscore the welcoming vibe and the shop’s role as a creative hub that fosters both novice and experienced crafters. On the rare side of negative feedback, some reviews point to limited store hours or occasional inventory gaps, though these critiques are minimal and outweighed by the overwhelmingly favorable impressions. In conclusion, the reviews reflect Knitted Wit's Craft Emporium’s success in cultivating a welcoming, inspiring space that meets the needs and desires of its crafting community while promoting artistic growth and connection.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Peg Kenaga
Knitted Wit's Craft Emporium is a bit of crafting heaven on earth! The staff are wonderful, the variety of crafting supplies is amazing, and the community they have created is so welcoming. I am looking forward to making socks with my most recent purchase!
Erika Kunz
I was visiting from out of state and decided to check this place out, after shopping around online. There is a variety of very cute hand dyed yarn, sewing/yarn notions, fabrics, and much more! The ladies there were so helpful and welcoming! I even stopped by on “craft night “ where a group of ladies were crafting in the back of the store, which I was invited to join upon arrival. Looks like they’ve built a good community for local and foreign customers. Perusing around, I found an English Paper Piecing Kit, which includes everything needed to start EPP. Which I HAD to buy. Overall this place is so cute and warm, would recommend to any crafty person in the area.
Nathan Jett
In a very unassuming location across the street from the Gresham food carts, yesterday was my first visit here. Love all the bright and fun colorways produced by Knitted Wits. They sell a very wide selection of full skeins and “unicorn tail” (mini) skeins as well. The staff here is full of fun, bright, and inviting personality readily willing to answer questions. They have group craft nights on Tuesday nights. Very lucky to have this lys in Gresham, I was very happy to splurge on yarn here! They do have “husband” chairs in the back if you bring your significant other on a shopping trip ;-)
Maria Murphy
Exquisite yarn in breathtaking colors. An impressive range of choices - just look at all the pinks! I use the variegated in my custom handknits. The quality, artistry in production and love comes through in every skein. Also great customer service and an easy to navigate website that you could spend hours on - or so I’ve heard (ahem!) In a perfect world I would only knit with Knitted Wit yarn.
Ariane D. Hopman (Annie)
The Craft Emporium has quickly become one of my favorite spots in Portland - their selection of fiber art supplies somehow always includes just what I need AND something new and enticing to try! The owners, Lorajean & Shannon, are absolute gems of humans and have created such a warm & welcoming place. I've taken two classes at the Emporium and each time I have left with new, exciting fiber art skills AND a renewed sense of connection. Go visit them ASAP! (It's only a 12 minute drive from NE Portland!)
How to reach Knitted Wit's Craft Emporium
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Why rally at Knitted Wit's Craft Emporium with your friends?
Knitted Wit's Craft Emporium holds a perfect blend of warmth, creativity, and community spirit that makes it an ideal place to rally with your friends. When you gather here, you’re not just meeting at a craft store—you’re stepping into a vibrant hub where creativity flows freely and everyone feels welcome. The atmosphere is cozy and inspiring, filled with a wide selection of quality yarns, fibers, and crafting supplies that spark ideas and deepen bonds as you work on projects together. The shop’s intimate setting encourages conversations, laughter, and the shared joy of creating something beautiful, adding a personal touch to your get-together that no café or restaurant can match. Offering a unique alternative to typical social outings, Knitted Wit invites you and your friends to slow down, unplug from digital distractions, and engage in hands-on activities that forge lasting memories and boost your collective creativity. Whether you’re seasoned crafters or curious beginners, this emporium becomes a sanctuary for collaboration and connection, making your meetup not just fun but deeply fulfilling.
What activities are available at Knitted Wit's Craft Emporium that make it great for groups?
Knitted Wit's Craft Emporium offers a variety of engaging activities that cater perfectly to group meetups. One of the key features is their "Crafternoon" on Wednesdays from 4 to 8 pm, a dedicated time where friends can come together to craft in a relaxed and encouraging environment. These sessions allow groups to work on knitting, crocheting, weaving, or other fiber arts side by side while sharing tips and inspiration. Beyond that, the emporium routinely hosts classes and workshops on different crafting techniques, which are ideal for groups wanting to learn something new together. Participants can bond through shared challenges and achievements, creating a fun and rewarding group experience. The store is also well-stocked with an extensive selection of yarns, notions, and fibers from beloved brands like Moonglow, ensuring that all crafting needs are met under one roof. This variety encourages diverse projects, from simple scarves to complex weaving, enabling groups to start or finish multiple creative endeavors in one visit. This combination of social crafting, learning opportunities, and ample materials makes Knitted Wit a go-to destination for anyone planning a creative outing.
Why is Knitted Wit's Craft Emporium perfect for a group meetup?
Knitted Wit's Craft Emporium is perfect for group meetups because it creates a unique space where social interaction and creativity naturally intertwine. Unlike noisier venues, this shop invites calm and focus while also offering plenty of room for conversation and camaraderie. The layout and welcoming staff make it easy for groups to set up and share supplies or ideas, enhancing the collaborative spirit. The availability of free crafting patterns and downloadable resources further supports groups in planning projects beforehand and staying motivated during meetups. Moreover, the emporium’s hours are thoughtfully designed to accommodate group schedules, with extended evening times on certain days and weekend hours that cater to a variety of lifestyles. The shop’s community feel—enhanced by friendly, knowledgeable staff and regular returning customers—makes everyone feel at home, whether you’re dropping by for a quick visit or settling in for an entire afternoon. This nurturing environment is ideal for groups seeking meaningful connections and shared creative accomplishment in a cozy, welcoming setting.
What kind of crafting supplies and materials can groups expect at Knitted Wit's Craft Emporium?
Groups visiting Knitted Wit's Craft Emporium will find a treasure trove of high-quality crafting supplies that cater to a wide range of fiber arts. The emporium carries an extensive inventory of yarns in various fibers, weights, and colors, suitable for knitting, crocheting, and weaving projects. Beyond yarn, customers will discover a robust selection of notions including needles, hooks, weaving accessories, and notions galore that support every step of the crafting process. The shop’s commitment to stocking popular and specialty lines, such as the full range of Moonglow fabrics, gives groups access to premium materials that inspire excellence and creativity in their projects. This comprehensive supply base means groups can source all their needs in one place, eliminating the hassle of multiple stops and allowing more time to focus on crafting together. Whether you're designing a group project or individual pieces, the emporium’s curated materials provide both quality and variety to satisfy novices and seasoned artisans alike.
How do classes and workshops at Knitted Wit's enhance the group experience?
Classes and workshops at Knitted Wit's Craft Emporium play a crucial role in enriching the group experience by combining education with social crafting. These sessions are designed to accommodate learners at different skill levels, enabling groups to choose classes that best fit their interests, from beginner knitting or simple weaving basics to more advanced techniques. Being in a class together allows friends or family to encourage each other, troubleshoot challenges collaboratively, and celebrate creative milestones as a unit. The emporium’s instructors are friendly and knowledgeable, fostering a supportive atmosphere that makes learning enjoyable and accessible. Additionally, the scheduled classes provide a structured yet fun way for groups to dedicate focused time on craft projects, which can deepen bonds as participants share progress and ideas. By turning crafting into a shared learning adventure, these workshops make group meetups at Knitted Wit much more than casual gatherings—they become memorable experiences of growth and connection.
What makes the store's environment welcoming and conducive for socializing in groups?
The environment at Knitted Wit's Craft Emporium is tailored to make socializing genuinely enjoyable for groups. The shop balances a peaceful ambiance with a sense of community, furnished with comfortable seating areas that invite lingering conversations and shared crafting sessions. Natural light filters through the space, creating an uplifting atmosphere that reduces stress and inspires creativity. The staff’s welcoming approach ensures everyone feels at ease, whether you’re a frequent visitor or brand new to the craft world. The layout promotes interaction without overwhelming noise, permitting group members to chat while focusing on their projects. Special events like “Crafternoon” amplify this communal feel by bringing together crafters of all levels in a relaxed, friendly setting that encourages spontaneous exchange of ideas and friendships. This combination of thoughtful design, supportive personnel, and carefully curated social events cements Knitted Wit’s reputation as a go-to venue for meaningful and enjoyable group outings.
Why is Knitted Wit's Craft Emporium an alternative to traditional meetups like cafes or restaurants?
Knitted Wit's Craft Emporium offers a refreshing alternative to traditional meetups such as cafes or restaurants by providing a hands-on, creative environment that actively engages everyone. Unlike typical social settings where conversation can dominate or be limited by noise, the emporium invites participants to connect through the shared process of crafting, which fosters deeper interaction and collaboration. This active engagement helps build bonds through cooperation and mutual support while offering a tangible outcome—beautiful handmade items—that keeps the experience rewarding beyond just socializing. The quiet yet lively ambiance encourages mindfulness and focus, helping groups decompress and enjoy quality time without distractions like screens or loud music. Plus, crafting provides a natural icebreaker, making it easier for groups of all sizes to feel connected and involved. Hosting your meetup here transforms a simple gathering into an enriching event that combines creativity, community, and comfort in a way that cafes or restaurants simply cannot replicate.
How does Knitted Wit's accommodate different group sizes and skill levels?
Knitted Wit's Craft Emporium is thoughtfully equipped to handle groups of varying sizes and skill levels, ensuring everyone enjoys a seamless experience. The shop’s open layout and multiple seating areas allow both intimate groups and larger gatherings plenty of space to spread out without feeling cramped. For smaller groups or pairs, cozy corners provide privacy and an ideal setting for detailed crafting work or quiet collaboration. Larger groups benefit from the emporium’s flexible space and scheduled events like Crafternoon, which are designed to accommodate community crafting with multiple participants. In terms of skill levels, the store’s wide range of materials and the availability of instructional classes make it easy to tailor activities to beginners and experienced crafters alike. The staff’s friendly guidance helps novices get started comfortably, while experienced artisans can find advanced supplies and more challenging projects. This inclusive approach means that whether your group is composed of longtime crafters or first-timers curious to try something new, Knitted Wit provides an adaptable and supportive environment perfect for any gathering.
What community aspects make Knitted Wit's Craft Emporium a long-term favorite for group meetups?
Knitted Wit's Craft Emporium’s strong community focus significantly contributes to its appeal as a long-term favorite for group meetups. The business fosters ongoing connections among local crafters by regularly hosting social and educational events that encourage both newcomers and longtime patrons to interact. This creates a welcoming network where groups can return time and again, not only for supplies but for friendship and inspiration. The shop also supports local artisans through curated products and patterns, strengthening the community’s creative ecosystem and giving groups a shared sense of purpose. Customers repeatedly praise the friendly atmosphere and personalized service, which make each visit feel like reuniting with a supportive community rather than just shopping. Additionally, Knitted Wit’s presence on social media and engagement with its audience keeps the connection alive beyond the physical shop, allowing groups to stay informed about new classes, sales, and events. This ongoing community-building elevates every group meetup into a meaningful, celebratory, and creative experience that people want to revisit frequently.