Yarn Traveler

IKnit

This is the hardest review for me to write objectively, because I really, really wanted to love this store. I wanted this store to be my London LYS, my yarn home away from home.

Planning our move to London, I did some research online and I found IKnit’s blog and later their Ravelry group, which I subscribed to immediately. On paper (or screen) they sounded perfect; they have a license to sell beer and wine in the store, they have two weekly knit nights, they host a monthly Sunday knit roast at a local pub, they have a loyal and rabid enthusiastic group of fans, and they seem to be the driving forces behind every knit-community event in the greater London area. However, from the very first visit (and I have gone back multiple times, thinking that my first impressions were wrong, or that it would grow on me) I just didn’t love it. I didn’t feel comfortable in the store, no one was engaging, and my attempts to start conversation with the store owners/workers were met with apathetic replies at best.

I do feel that my experiences must be out of the norm for the store to have such a vocal online fan base, and I admit that I may have let my expectations run a little unchecked.  My Portland LYS, Twisted (and nearly all of the Portland stores in general), has set such a high standard for me.

But, that shouldn’t stop you from checking this store out while you’re on vacation. They have the best selection of British yarns (either from British wools, and/or spun or dyed in Great Britain) that I’ve found in London so far. This was where I found the Christmas yarn that I sent home to my knitting friends. They also have a large book selection, and the previously mentioned beer and wine. If you stick around for a knit night, come early as space is limited and they fill up quickly.

The store is near the Waterloo Station and the South Bank. It would make an easy stop if you’re in the area, checking out the Tate or the London Eye.

SUMMARY
Pros: Good selection of interesting yarns, especially British yarns; beer and wine available.

Cons: They don’t quite live up to all of the online hype, it can get overcrowded during knit nights (don’t expect to be able to shop or ask many questions during that time).

How to Get There: Waterloo Station. It’s very easy to get turned around inside the station and end up at the wrong exit. The easiest way is to take Exit 1 (by Whistlestop) at the south end of the station. Turn right and cross the road at the crossing, then take the steps down, left and straight ahead. Lower Marsh is the first street on the right.

Filed under: London Yarn Stores on March 27th, 2009