(General BakeshopBrewster, NY)
The aroma of coffee wafting in the air, a cozy, homey atmosphere, and the gentle clinking of knitting needles– is there anything better than crafting in cafes? Knitting in coffee shops always feels like a mini-retreat and a place to relax and unwind.
Whether during the warm summer months or the chill of Northeast winters, the joy of packing up my favorite Yarnalia yarn, needles, and all the little notions to create something beautiful is always the same. Heading to my favorite local cafes feels like an escape from reality– I’ll pick a delicious drink (and, let’s be honest, a yummy treat to go with it), find a cozy corner where I feel at home, and begin my version of meditation; knitting.
Packing up some of my favorite Yarnalia yarns like Skylark, and Marvel makes the trip all the more special. Skylark, our 100% Superwash wool, is our soft-fingering-weight yarn, perfect for packable projects. I love to knit with Skylark in the peace of a cafe setting. The soothing environment of a cafe, combined with the repetitive motion of knitting, can be incredibly calming. It’s a perfect way to unwind after a busy day or week.
(VanessaKnits Harvest Cowl in progress in Skylark in Silver Dream)
(A Few of) My Favorite Things About Cafe Knitting
1. Inspiration: Cafes are filled with interesting people, decor, and ambiance. These can inspire your knitting projects, whether you choose new colors or patterns or simply enjoy the creative energy around you. Sometimes, I’ll notice someone in a knit item that attracts me, and I’ll get inspired to find a similar pattern or grab a yarn in a new colorway.
2. Community: Knitting in public places like cafes can attract fellow crafters or curious individuals. It’s a great way to connect with like-minded people, share tips, or even teach someone new to knitting. The sense of community knitting in cafes fosters makes the experience even more enjoyable.
3. Productivity: Cafes provide a relaxed yet focused environment. It’s incredible how much progress you can make on a project when you have uninterrupted time to devote to it. As a mama of two little ones, I’m always amazed at how rejuvenated I feel after taking some time and space to knit in a coffee shop. The productivity that comes with this setting is truly satisfying.
4. Enjoyment: Knitting in cafes combines two pleasures—knitting itself and the experience of being in a cafe. It turns a solitary activity into a social one without the pressure to engage in conversation if you prefer to focus on your craft. Crafting introverts, unite! The sheer enjoyment of this experience is enough to make any knitter’s day.
Tips for Knitting in Cafes:
● Choose your spot: Look for a comfortable seat with good lighting and enough space for your knitting supplies. I love finding a cozy corner that offers a view of as much of the cafe as possible so that I can observe, listen, and feed off the creative energy of my surroundings.
● Be mindful of others: Ensure your knitting doesn’t take up too much space or disturb neighboring patrons. All you need is a small table area and a comfy seat!
● Order thoughtfully: Enjoy a drink or a snack that complements your knitting time—perhaps something that won’t leave residue on your hands or project. (If you can’t resist that glazed donut to compliment your latte, bring some baby wipes to avoid getting anything on your gorgeous fibers!)
● Pack efficiently and thoughtfully: While it’s probably advisable to pack only the necessities for your current project to avoid clutter, I can’t resist packing more than one project. I love having options in my knitting bag to reach for a project that suits my mood. One of my favorite ways to do this without overpacking is to bring one project in process and some extra yarn for swatching. This way, I can stitch away on my current WIP (work in progress) and dream about the next one! Also, consider bringing a small notebook to jot down any ideas or inspirations that come to you during your knitting session.
My Favorite Local Cafes to Bring Knitting
GENERAL BAKESHOP, 871 NY-22, Brewster, NY 10509
Rustic wooden tables, a comfy corner bench, oldies tunes playing, whimsical rooster wallpaper: inspiration is everywhere at General Bakeshop. The carefully crafted beverages, from-scratch confections, and friendly staff make GB a gem in Brewster, NY, and my all-time favorite spot to bring my knitting. Depending on my mood, I’ll sometimes sit at the barstools and plan a project or work on a project on the cozy wooden bench, where it’s quieter. No matter where I sit, I’m comfortable and welcome to craft and sip at General Bakeshop.
GROUNDS DONUT HOUSE, 35 Lake Ave Ext, Danbury, CT 06811
Chic modern decor, specialty donuts, high-top tables, and an artificial greenery wall add to the charm of Grounds Donut House in Danbury, CT. I sat and stitched away at my 100% Superwashwool Harvest cowlwhile nibbling on a maple bacon donut. The fun Art Deco floral tile got me thinking about emulating the pattern on one of my fall colorwork knit projects.
HAYFIELD’S CAFE & FLORIST, 1 Bloomer Road, North Salem, NY 10560
Hayfields is a shop offering small bites, bakery items, coffee, and smoothies. The outdoor seating features a vine-covered pergola climbing with whimsical wisteria flowers. Creativity flourishes at this market-vibe cafe, from the florals to the comfortable atmosphere and the wide range of gifts. Whether gawking at the latest offering from the local florist or admiring the pastries, I gather inspiration for yarn color selections or project ideas based on what the local women are wearing for coffee with a friend. The cafe has an artsy feeling and is one of my favorite places to stitch.
For the month of August, be sure to take advantage of our 20% Discount on all our Machine Washable yarns to bring on your next coffee shop outing. Crafting in cafes is a beautiful way to combine creativity, relaxation, and a sense of community. It’s no wonder it’s a favorite pastime for many crafters!
