By Liz Nolan, Contributing Writer
Northborough – Whether you are looking for a special yarn for a project, learning how to knit, or purchasing a gift for a special occasion, Craftworks offers it all. The yarn and fiber shop and artisan cooperative is located at 243 West Main St. in Northborough and owned and managed by Ande Lockwood.
Craftworks recently updated its website and now includes a link to a 360 degree virtual store visit and the ability to shop online. Yarns and artisans will also be spotlighted on the new website.
The store’s variety is one reason for its success.
The Yarn Shop features yarns from commercial manufacturers and independent dyers offering yarns of all colors and textures within the right price range.
The Encore yarn is one of Lockwood’s recommendations.
“It’s a workhorse yarn,” she said. “It’s an acrylic wool blend and will last forever. It’s been around forever too. It feels nice and is good quality that can be used for sweaters and hats and can be washed and dried.”
The gift shop showcases a variety of handcrafted items from crafters with appeal to everyone. Jewelry, frames, clothing, porcelain on tile clocks, local honey, and seasonal items are among the numerous items available. Many are priced at $20 or less.
Lockwood is always looking to add local artisans to the Craftworks family. The membership application can be found on the store’s website. While some artisans are new, some have been with Craftworks for years, such as John Hagerty, who has been selling his dichroic glass pieces for over 40 years.
Craftworks also has a full schedule of classes and workshops including knitting, crocheting, needle felting, spinning, weaving, rug making, and drop-in classes. There are classes for all ages and levels offered throughout the week. Most classes have a rolling start to accommodate anyone needing a flexible schedule.
“Come in and shop local or take a class,” said Lockwood. “Classes are kept small so students receive personalized attention.”
The Beginner and Beyond classes generally have people new to the skill and those who have finished a first project. Classes, like the drop-in classes, can be a great night out with adults where good friendships are formed.
Craftworks will be hosting two workshops with the master of double knitting Alasdair Post-Quinn on Sunday, Nov. 10.
As a small local business owner, it’s important for Lockwood to stay on top of trends and continue to offer events that will increase her customer base. A recent event was the Yarn Crawl, which had 15 shops in the Greater Boston area participating over a four day period. Each shop had special activities throughout the weekend.
She hopes to expand her drop in spinning classes and reach more millennials and college students, who are knitting more as a stress reducer.
Lockwood reminds everyone that Small Business Saturday is on Nov. 30.
View the store’s website for store hours and the updated class schedule at www.craftworkscoop.com, and follow Craftworks on Facebook.