hello from Peg's Knit & Spin

We are so looking forward to being allowed to spend some quality time with all those participating in the 2026 Yarn Discovery Tour, whether you are a returning “tourist,” or someone new to our shop. We have some good solid standards, including the “wall of color” (i.e., mostly Cascade 220, but the entire colorful wall is either 100% superwash wool or a superwash blend). But we also have some lovely new yarns, including Queensland’s Fiji, Jody Long’s Whisper and Diva along with Louisa Harding’s Gabrielle.

But why do what we do . . .

Knitting, crocheting, weaving, spinning and other crafting are not just hobbies, they are inherited art forms, acts of love and ways we turn ordinary materials into beauty, memory, and usefulness. While in the past, these skills were needed to put clothes on our backs and blankets on our beds, it is now also a way to slow down, connect with others, care for ourselves, and express who we are. What was once a necessity has become a source of creativity, comfort, community, and joy.

The beauty is not only seen in the finished piece. It is felt in the making. Knitting, crocheting, sewing and other crafts offer more than creativity. These practices and activities support our well-being, giving our hands something purposeful to do and our minds a peaceful place to rest.

The rhythm of making stitches can be calming and meditative, helping reduce stress and quiet the mind. Working with yarn, fabric or other materials also keeps the hands active, supports fine motor skills, and gives the brain a creative challenge through counting, pattern-reading, color choices and problem-solving. Who hasn’t had that pattern that totally flummoxed them, only to have that “aha!” moment when it all came together?

Just as important, crafting gives us a sense of accomplishment. Whether we finish a scarf, a blanket, a handmade gift, or even just a few rows at the end of a long day, we are reminded that we can create something meaningful with our own hands.

And let’s not forget the community. Last year, we were thrilled to welcome so many yarn lovers into our shop. What made it even more fun was discovering how many of them were also participating in the All Ohio Shop Hop, a quilting “crawl.” It was a wonderful reminder of how many cross-over crafters there are … people who find joy in yarn, fabric, thread, color, texture, and the simple pleasure of making something by hand.