Nine years ago, lifelong knitter Kerrie Cervenka wanted to create a welcoming space for people to learn fiber arts and build community.

More than a store, A Bit O’ Yarn has become exactly that in its near-decade presence in Englewood. It’s a thriving small business that allows people to experience the joy of knitting, where beginners and experienced makers gather to knit, crochet and connect.

True to the spirit of Englewood, this sense of belonging invites local yarn enthusiasts to be stewards of the craft — for both personal fulfillment and community outreach through charity knitting and disaster donations.

Sage Higgins, who is often the first point of contact when customers enter A Bit O’ Yarn, started with the company about five years ago with little experience in knitting.

Over time, she’s gained a deeper respect for handmade work and the joy of making things by hand — for herself, children and others. Once a frustrating task, knitting has taught her to slow down, be persistent and stick with the process long enough to see results.

“I really value the relationships we have with customers and our positive, supportive environment. This is truly a place where people gather and I couldn’t be more thankful for the community that has embraced me over the last five years and taught me so much,” Sage said.

Like most beginners, Sage started with a washcloth to learn foundational skills. From there, many people move on to hats, scarves and sweaters, as they realize how transformative the craft can be.

START WITH A CLASS

A Bit O’ Yarn has a number of classes for beginner, intermediate and advanced learners to hone their skills, led by instructors Linda, Irene, Sheila, Meg or Tracy.

Beginner Crochet classes: For anyone ready to learn the basics of crochet, A Bit O’ Yarn offers a two-hour session every Tuesday from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. for beginners. During this session, you’ll make a simple dishcloth, an ideal first project for practicing foundational stitches.
Beginner Knitting classes: For more personalized instruction, A Bit O’ Yarn offers private classes every Wednesday with flexible time slots available throughout the day.
Fixing Knitting Mistakes monthly: This once-a-month class is dedicated to helping creators learn techniques for fixing common mistakes, so that you don’t have to pull everything out and start over. Mistakes happen!
Tunisian Stitch Workshop: This eight-session workshop features a different stitch every month. From simple stitches, knit, purl and half double crochet stitch, there’s so much to learn!

YARN THERAPY

Twice a week, A Bit O’Yarn hosts a popular yarn therapy gathering, where customers bring their projects in, share ideas with others and spend time together.

“Everyone gathers and has a blast — talking, laughing, sharing ideas,” Higgins said. “It’s informal and a great way to connect with others.”

GIVING BACK

Volunteer crafters at A Bit O’Yarn participate in several charitable knitting efforts that support the community during times of crisis or ongoing need.

Hats for Sailors provides handmade hats for sailors in the U.S. Navy and Coast Guard.
Sock Drive collects handmade socks for the homeless community.
Knitted Knockers provides handmade breast prostheses that are soft, comfortable and beautiful for any breast cancer survivor who wants them.
Shawls for Paws is a curation of high quality shawls sold to benefit Englewood Animal Sanctuary.

“I find it impactful the way we can knit and contribute to something bigger than ourselves and serve a purpose with our craft,” Sage said.

LOCAL AND SUSTAINABLE

A Bit O’ Yarn‘s selection of yarn and supplies comes primarily from small, independent yarn producers, offering alternatives to big-box retail chains.

The shop prioritizes supporting makers and independent dyers, helping small brands grow while providing customers with unique, high-quality materials. This approach results in yarns that are often softer, more durable and one-of-a-kind. Shop online or learn more about A Bit O’ Yarn’s classes at abitoyarn.com