Our Mission

At Extra Yarn, our mission is to stitch together an inspiring, inclusive, and sustainable community of crafters.

We’re a woman- and queer-owned, community-centered local yarn shop located in the heart of Illinois. Focusing on sustainability, community connection, and growth, Extra Yarn specializes in supplying knitters, crocheters, spinners, weavers, and others with fiber and tools for their crafts. Additionally, we offer a comfortable space where crafters of all skill levels can gather to learn, connect, and be joyful.

Our Story

Denise and Shelby renovating the shop space

Shelby and Denise outside of Extra Yarn on opening day

My love of fiber arts began when my mother-in-law taught me how to knit while I was pregnant with Shelby. I loved it so much I would bring my knitting with me wherever I went, and as a child, Shelby would watch me with wonder. Sometimes I would catch her pretending to knit by clicking some of my knitting needles together, so I taught her to knit when she was 10 years old. Crafting became our love language, and we’ve shared our crafting stories with each other ever since. Through the years, we’ve both honed our skills in fiber arts, learning crocheting, spinning, weaving, needlepoint, cross stitch, and more. We both love sharing these skills and teach fiber arts to children, teens, and adults regularly in our respective roles as librarians. As a result, Shelby and I have 20+ years combined experience working with diverse community members, and thrive on building connections with people through education and shared interests.