OXFORD YARN STORE
The centre of Oxford’s knitting community for over a decade, the independent Oxford Yarn Store is at the heart of the local Oxford knitting community. Alongside yarns and notions, they offer a wide range of workshops, social gatherings and special events including visits from major knitwear designers, charity projects and even sheep shearing in the street! Specialising in natural fibres and British wool, their store (available both online and in-store), is a testament to the beauty and importance of yarns. 
Image courtesy of Oxford Yarn Store
The shop is always busy with knitting and crochet groups, classes or people popping in for a bit of advice. We’re always here for a good chat, to help people learn and share new skills, and to knit; we’re here for everyone.
With an ambition to make knitting and needle craft accessible for everyone of all abilities, they are passionate about promoting the use of British Wool and supporting small businesses and producers - both new yarns and staple favourites.
Image courtesy of Chilton Grounds Farm
One of their suppliers, Chilton Grounds Farm, makes Chilton Wensleydales yarn in a variety of densities and colours. Chilton Zwartbles are an elegant Dutch breed sheep, tall and have plenty of milk to feed their lambs, which they are very protective over. They produce a fleece that is medium to fine with excellent crimp along the length of fibre. It ranges from dense black to chocolate brown with sun-bleached tips. Many fleeces have fine silver hairs dispersed throughout the wool which has a lustre when worked.
Image courtesy of Plants Dream in Colour
Locally produced Plants Dream in Colour naturally dyed yarns can be bought in-store (sadly not available online). As Oxford Yarn Store explain, the colours have to be be seen to be believed. 
Image courtesy of Plants Dream in Colour
Independent stores like Oxford Yarn Store are integral to our towns and cities, sourcing and supporting local textile makes and producers. They will be part of Handmade Oxford (16-18 June 2023), alongside craft makers and designers.
Find out more about Oxford Yarn Store HERE.
Find out more about Handmade Oxford HERE.