Where to Buy Yarn: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction

Where to Buy Cheap Yarn

1. Local Craft Stores

Local craft stores are often the first stop for many crochet enthusiasts. These stores offer a wide range of yarn options, from different fibers to colors and brands. Local stores frequently run sales, offer discounts, and have loyalty programs, making them excellent choices for finding cheap yarn. Here are a few popular craft store chains where you can find affordable yarn:

• Joann: Joann Fabrics and Crafts is a well-known chain with both physical stores and an online presence. They offer regular discounts and coupons for yarn purchases, making it a budget-friendly choice.
• Michaels: Michaels is another popular craft store chain that carries a variety of yarn brands and often hosts sales and promotions, especially during holidays and seasonal changes.
• Hobby Lobby: Hobby Lobby is known for its diverse selection of crafting supplies, including yarn. They regularly offer sales and discounts on yarn, making it a budget-friendly choice for crochet enthusiasts.

2. Online Marketplaces:

The internet has opened up a world of opportunities for buying yarn online. Numerous online marketplaces provide a vast selection of yarn types, colors, and brands at competitive prices. Shopping online allows you to compare prices, read customer reviews, and find the best deals. Here are a few examples of online marketplaces where you can buy cheap yarn:

• Amazon: Amazon offers a wide range of yarn options from various sellers. You can find budget-friendly yarn choices and often benefit from free shipping if you’re a Prime member.
• eBay: eBay is a treasure trove for yarn shoppers. You can often find discounted yarn in bulk, as well as vintage or discontinued yarns that are no longer available in stores.
• Etsy: Etsy is a great platform for discovering unique, hand-dyed, or artisanal yarns. While some yarns on Etsy can be pricey, you can also find budget-friendly options from independent sellers.

3. Discount and Thrift Stores:

Discount and thrift stores may not be the first places that come to mind when thinking about yarn shopping, but they can be goldmines for budget-conscious crocheters. These stores often carry discontinued yarns, overstocked items, or donated yarn from fellow crafters at significantly reduced prices. While the selection may vary, it’s worth exploring the possibilities at stores like:

• Dollar Tree: Dollar Tree occasionally stocks yarn, and it’s hard to beat the price of $1 per skein if you happen to find it in stock.
• Goodwill and Salvation Army: Thrift stores like Goodwill often receive yarn donations, making them an excellent place to discover affordable yarn options. Prices are typically low, and you might uncover hidden gems.
• Big Lots: Big Lots is known for its discount offerings, and they sometimes have yarn at very reasonable prices, especially during seasonal sales.

4. Yarn Sales and Expos:

Yarn manufacturers and retailers regularly host sales events and expos, which present excellent opportunities to purchase yarn at discounted rates. To stay informed about upcoming sales, follow social media accounts, participate in crafting forums, and subscribe to newsletters from yarn companies. Some well-known yarn sales and expos include:

• Vogue Knitting Live: This annual event often features a marketplace with a wide variety of yarns, including discounted options from different vendors.
• Yarn Company Sales: Keep an eye on your favorite yarn companies, such as Lion Brand, Red Heart, and Bernat, as they often run promotions and sales on their websites or through retail partners.

5. Online Yarn Retailers:

Several online yarn retailers specialize in offering affordable yarn options. These websites often have dedicated clearance sections and offer sales throughout the year. Here are some examples of online yarn retailers where you can find budget-friendly yarn:

• Knit Picks: Knit Picks offers a wide selection of yarn at budget-friendly prices. Their website features clearance and sale sections, making it easy to find discounted yarn options.
• Ice Yarns: Ice Yarns is known for its low prices and bulk options. They offer a variety of yarns at wholesale rates, making it a great choice for crocheters looking to buy in bulk.
• Furls Crochet: Furls Crochet is another online retailer that offers discounted yarn. They frequently have sales on popular yarn brands and types.

Where to Buy Yarn in Bulk

If you’re a crochet enthusiast with larger projects in mind or running a yarn-related business, buying yarn in bulk can be a cost-effective option. Here are several avenues to explore when looking to buy yarn in bulk:

1. Wholesale Yarn Distributors:

Wholesale yarn distributors specialize in selling yarn in large quantities. While they may require a minimum order quantity, the savings can be substantial when buying in bulk. Look for wholesalers that cater to your specific needs and preferences. A few notable wholesale yarn distributors include:

• Yarn Paradise: Yarn Paradise is a popular source for bulk yarn purchases, offering a wide range of yarn types, colors, and textures at wholesale prices.
• Darn Good Yarn: Darn Good Yarn is known for its sustainable and recycled yarn options. They offer bulk discounts for environmentally conscious crocheters.
• Yarn Canada: Yarn Canada offers a variety of yarns, including budget-friendly options and bulk purchases. They often have promotions and sales on popular yarn brands.

2. Yarn Co-ops:

Yarn cooperatives, often referred to as “yarn co-ops,” are groups of crafters who come together to buy yarn in bulk at discounted rates. By pooling resources with others, you can access wholesale or discounted prices on yarn that may not be available to individual buyers. Yarn co-ops are often organized online or within local crafting communities.

3. Local Fiber Producers:

For crocheters interested in specialty yarn or unique fibers, consider reaching out to local fiber producers. Some small-scale farmers and artisans produce their own yarn and may be willing to sell it in bulk. This not only supports local businesses but also provides you with high-quality, distinctive yarn options for your projects. Search online directories or visit local fiber festivals to connect with these producers.

4. Craft Shows and Fiber Festivals:

Craft shows and fiber festivals are excellent venues for discovering yarn vendors who offer bulk discounts. Many vendors attend these events to showcase their yarn collections and are open to negotiations for large quantity purchases. Attending these gatherings can also be a fun and inspiring experience for crochet enthusiasts.

5. Online Wholesale Marketplaces:

Several online wholesale marketplaces provide access to a wide range of yarn suppliers from around the world. These platforms allow you to browse and compare bulk yarn options, making it easier to find the specific colors, materials, and quantities you need for your crochet projects. Be sure to research the reliability of sellers and inquire about samples before making bulk purchases.

• Alibaba: Alibaba is a global marketplace that connects buyers with suppliers. You can find a wide variety of yarn options from different manufacturers and wholesalers.
• DHgate: DHgate is another online marketplace that offers bulk purchasing options for various products, including yarn. Be sure to read reviews and check the reputation of sellers before making a purchase.

Conclusion

As a crochet enthusiast, finding affordable and bulk yarn sources is essential for embarking on a fulfilling and cost-effective crochet journey. Whether you’re creating cozy blankets, intricate doilies, or fashionable garments, a multitude of options are available to cater to your needs and budget. Explore local craft stores, online marketplaces, thrift shops, and discount stores for cost-effective yarn choices. If you’re looking to stock up for larger projects or your growing yarn stash, consider wholesale distributors, yarn co-ops, local producers, and craft events. With these diverse resources at your disposal, you can crochet to your heart’s content without breaking the bank. Happy crocheting!