The Strand

05/24/2026

We are closed today and tomorrow for the Memorial Day weekend.

Have a wonderful holiday, everyone.

05/21/2026

MAY NEWSLETTER
What's New @ The Strand

Hello Fiber Friends!

Karla here. Welcome to our May newsletter. We've had a lot going on. Read on!

🧶 The Premier Update: We Fought For Your Favorite Yarns!

If you noticed our Premier yarn shelves looking empty lately, you are not alone.

Since early 2026, backorders escalated to the point where nearly every SKU became unavailable.

Here is the inside story of what happened—and the great news ahead.

🚫 What Caused the Shortage?
Distributor Drama: Premier stopped shipping to their main distributor, Notions Marketing, in early spring.

Direct Order Hurdles: We tried ordering directly from Premier, but their wholesale rules required buying a full case per colorway. As a small shop, that simply was not feasible.

We brought in Cascade and Ella Rae to fill the gaps. But let's be honest. Nothing truly replaces the beauty of Painterly, Spun Colors, Parfait, or Plush.

✈️ Road Trip to the Rescue
Yarn addicts do not give up easily! In early May, Tara and I traveled to Chicago to meet face-to-face with Hal and Yonca, the owners of Premier and Universal Yarn.
We pleaded our case, shared our love for the brand, and they listened.

🎉 The Good News
Earlier this week, we received official confirmation: The Strand is approved to buy direct with new, reasonable minimums!

Your absolute favorite Premier yarns will be back on our shelves very soon. Thank you for your patience while we sorted out this knit-knot!

🧶 Ella Rae is in the House!

Get ready to fall in love with Ella Rae yarn. It is absolutely delightful!

Founded by top Australian knitwear designer Leanne Prouse, this brand famously blends premium luxury fibers like extrafine merino, alpaca, and virgin cashmere with easy-care machine washability.

Here is why knitters and crocheters adore it:

* Classic, Everyday Wear: Yarns are designed to be practical for everyday lifestyles without sacrificing crisp stitch definition or garment longevity.

* Vibrant, Modern Colors: The brand features bold, highly-saturated, and regularly updated color palettes designed to look great for both accessories and large garments.

* Affordability: Ella Rae balances the feel and drape of luxury yarn with accessible pricing, making high-end blends budget-friendly for everyday projects.
Stop by the shop today and give it a squish!

☀️ It’s Cotton Time!

Ready to stitch your favorite warm-weather wearables? We just unloaded a massive delivery of premium cotton and breathable "cold fibers" perfect for summer.

Fresh shipments have just hit our shelves from your favorite brands:
* Cascade: Noble Cotton, Nifty Cotton, and Cantata
* Juniper Moon: Cumulus Cotton
* Noro: Sonata
* Lion Brand: 24/7 Cotton
* Universal Yarn: Bamboo Pop..and many more!

Coming Soon: We are currently stocking up on your favorite Premier cotton yarns, including Hipster and Faire.

🌱 Fresh from the Earth: Meet Our Two Newest Sustainable Yarns!

At The Strand, we believe that what goes onto your hooks and needles should feel good. Not just on your hands, but for the planet, too. That is why we are thrilled to introduce two incredible, eco-friendly yarns from Círculo made entirely from renewable plant fibers: Aloe Vera and Sugar Cane!

Both of these beauties offer a luxurious, skin-friendly alternative to synthetic, petroleum-based microplastics like nylon or acrylic. They are 100% plant-based, fully biodegradable, and manufactured with strict global standards for sustainability.

Here is why you will fall in love with them:
✨ Círculo Aloe Vera: The Ultimate Skin-Soothing Blend

This yarn is a breath of fresh air for your summer projects, combining three powerhouse plant fibers:

* 30% Aloe Vera Fiber: Sourced directly from renewable aloe plants, giving your fabric a naturally soothing feel, built-in antibacterial properties, and natural odor resistance.

* 30% Certified Cotton: Sourced through the Better Cotton Initiative (BCI) to guarantee strict global standards for water efficiency, soil health, and fair labor.

* 40% Viscose: Made from regenerated wood cellulose, adding a gorgeous, silky shine, a breathable feel, and a spectacular, fluid drape.

🎋 Círculo Sugar Cane: Sweet, Sustainable Luxury
Want to craft with a clean conscience? This groundbreaking yarn is made from 100% recycled agricultural byproducts.

Instead of letting waste material go to waste or burning it into the atmosphere, Círculo repurposes sugar cane processing remnants into a high-end fiber.

The result is a structurally beautiful yarn with an ultra-luxurious sheen and drape that feels incredible to stitch and wear.

Ready to try them out?
Stop by the studio tonight to see these stunning colorways in person, give them a squish, and pick out the perfect palette for your next sustainable project! Even better, Karla will have sample garments at Fiber Friends tonight.

🛠️ Big News: Our "Almost Finished" Maker’s Studio is Open!

Ever since we opened the doors at The Strand, we have dreamed of creating a dedicated, creative playground for our crafting community. This week, we officially took the first big step by launching our new Maker's Studio. It is a dedicated space designed to support your projects from the very first spark of inspiration to the
final, polished stitch.

Here is a sneak peek at what is waiting for you in the new studio area:

📐 Plan Your Project
Visualize Your Ideas: Get unstuck with our library of pattern books and stitch cards.

Organize Your Palette: Use dedicated color planners to design your next masterpiece.

💎 Embellish Your Work
The Perfect Finish: Personalize your handmade garments, bags, or home decor.

Fun Accents: Explore a curated selection of buttons, beads, cording, and elastics.

💨 Finish Your Work
Elevate Your Fabric: Block and steam. Take your finished items from raw to professional quality.

Professional Tools: Use our specialized garment steamers, irons, and blocking mats.

⚙️ Heavy-Duty Maker Equipment
Expand Your Skills: Try out specialized fiber tools without buying them yourself.

Our Machinery Lineup: Take your pick from knitting machines, i-Cord makers, and sewing machines.

Advanced Crafting: Access spinning wheels, table looms, and Cricut cutting machines.

🏷️ What Will It Cost?
We are still putting the final touches on our official studio pricing, but much of the space will be completely free to use, including our project planning station. We will send out another announcement with full details as soon as the final pricing structure is locked in.
Come on by the shop this week to check out the new layout and see how the studio can help you finish your next big project!

🧺 Saturdays at the Market

Summer is here, and your favorite weekend morning ritual is back! From May through October, you can find The Strand at the Historic Lafayette Farmer's Market every Saturday from 8:00 AM to 12:30 PM.

We are setting up shop downtown along 5th and Main Streets, and we are bringing so much more than just yarn! Alongside our signature, vibrant hand-dyed colorways, our incredibly talented staff and local artisans are selling beautiful, ready-to-wear finished goods.

Here are a few of the crowd favorites you can snap up this weekend:

Summer Tops: Light, breathable, and perfect for the sunny Indiana weather.
Handbags: Sturdy, stylish, and completely unique stitched bags.
Pet Ponchos: The absolute cutest way to dress up your furry companions.
Plushies: Adorable, squishy, handmade amigurumi toys for all ages.

👋 Want to Sell with Us?
Are you a maker looking to showcase your work? We love supporting our fiber community! If you would like to participate as a featured maker at our booth, please email our team at [email protected] to learn about our Artisan program.

Grab an iced coffee, stroll the market stalls, and come stop by our booth to say hi this Saturday!

Thank you!

For the support we've received from each and every one of you. We cherish your friendship!

Don't forget! Fiber Friends starts at 5:00pm tonight.

Until next time,
Karla

NEW! Master Crochet: 3-Month Bundle, $30/Month, 25% Off!

Are you ready to embark on a creative journey into the world of crochet? Our comprehensive Crochet 101 course bundle is designed exclusively for beginners. Over three months, you’ll experience a cohesive learning path that blends the art of crochet with innovative techniques.

You have the flexibility to join group classes or book individual appointments, all while enjoying a 25% discount off the total price. Plus, with our easy payment plan, you can spread the cost over 90 days at just $30/month.

Includes 6 classes from the Crochet 101 series:
* Intro to Crochet
* How to Read Crochet Patterns
* Beginner Crochet Series: #1 Bottle Holder (Chaining)
* Beginner Crochet Series: #2 Placemat, Coaster or Face Scrubbies (Single Crochet )
* Beginner Crochet Series #3: Granny Square Pouch (Double Crochet)
* Beginner Crochet Series: #4 Washcloth (Working in Rows)

Click here for an update from The Strand!

05/10/2026

We’ve got cupcakes and crafting happening ✨ RIGHT NOW ✨ in the cozy room until we close at 4 PM!!

BOGO 50% off all Noro yarns
10 % off all Cascade yarns

Happy Mother’s Day from all of us to all of you

💐 🧶

05/09/2026

Don't you dare sleep in on such a lovely day! Come down to Lafayette Farmer's Market TODAY and see us along Main Street between 4th and 5th, booth 99, just outside the First Source Building. Our booth on the street is open from 8 AM-12 PM, and, as always on Saturdays, the studio is open from 9 AM - 4 PM!

Also - don't forget that Sunday, May 10th is Mother's Day! To celebrate all the mamas out there, enjoy BOGO 50% off ALL Noro Yarns, and 10% off ALL Cascade Yarns! This SATURDAY AND SUNDAY ONLY!

P.s. Didn't make any plans to celebrate your mom yet? Don't worry! We got you. Bring your mama to our cozy room on Sunday for a little crafting time with cupcakes on us while supplies last. We're open 11 AM - 4 PM. See you there!

04/27/2026

CLASSES + EVENTS
April 2026

Hello Crafters,

May is right around the corner, and with it comes a new lineup of crochet and knitting classes at The Strand! Whether you’re looking to refine your skills or start a new project, our classes offer a welcoming space for creativity and connection.

Group classes are scheduled on specific days and times, perfect for those who enjoy crafting in a community setting. If a personalized experience suits you better, you can opt for a one-on-one session by appointment, allowing for a more tailored approach to your learning journey.

Visit our website to explore the full schedule and secure your spot.

Hugs,
Karla, Amie, Dara, Tara

FEATURED CROCHET CLASSES

Scrap Baskets

May 20 @ 5:30pm
Learn how to crochet baskets using scrap yarn in this fun and creative class. This project is an excellent way to turn leftover yarn into something useful and beautiful.

Upscale Your Jeans or Shorts

May 9 @ 1:00pm
This hands-on workshop is perfect for anyone looking to breathe new life into their wardrobe while exploring their creative side. Whether you’re a seasoned maker or new to DIY fashion, you’ll learn how to use crochet techniques to add stylish borders and unique patches that showcase your personal flair.

Make a Bikini!

May 15 @ 5:30pm
Make your own custom bikini. This class will guide you through the process of creating a stylish and functional swimsuit using water-friendly yarns such as Circulo Seaside or Cascade Fixation, designed to hold their shape and resist sagging or stretching, making them ideal for swimwear projects. Learn how to size your bikini for a perfect fit that flatters your unique shape. We’ll cover essential techniques like crocheting in-the-round and seamless joins to create a smooth and professional finish.

Cozy Crochet Socks

May 23 @ 1:00pm
Learn how to create cozy crocheted socks using the waistcoat stitch, a technique that gives the fabric a knitted appearance. This class is ideal for both beginners and experienced crocheters,

FEATURED KNITTING CLASSES

Stephen West's Popportunity Socks

May 29 @ 5:00pm
Discover the art of knitting Stephen West’s innovative Popportunity Socks in this engaging class. These socks feature a unique modular construction, starting with the leg knit sideways for a bold and creative approach. Learn how to craft stunning chevrons, flowing waves, delicate eyelets, and textured welts that add eye-catching detail to the leg. Once completed, the leg is seamed together using a striped I-cord bind off, providing both functionality and style.

Mosaic Shawl

May 12 @ 6:00pm
This intermediate-level class is perfect for confident beginners who want to learn how to create a stunning knitted shawl. You’ll build on your foundational knitting knowledge while mastering techniques like shaping, increasing, and adding texture to your work.

Felted Slippers

May 15@ 5:30pm
Using Annie Germain’s wildly popular Sailor Slippers pattern, you’ll knit oversized slippers with 100% bulky wool yarn and then transform them into snug, stylish footwear through the process of machine felting. This pattern gained massive popularity on Ravelry and went viral on TikTok in 2025, solidifying its place as a favorite for knitters worldwide.

Beginners Socks

May 14@ 5:00pm
Combining the art of knitting with practical skills, this class will help you create original, warm, and beautiful socks that you’ll love to wear or gift to someone special.

TUNISIAN CROCHET CLASSES

Tunisian Swim Cover Up

Learn to create the stylish and versatile Aruba Tunic, a lightweight swim cover-up. This pattern uses two basic Tunisian crochet stitches—the Tunisian knit stitch (Tks) and the Tunisian simple stitch (Tss). We’ll guide you step-by-step through the process.

Recommended Summer Yarn

Cascade Noble Cotton is ideal for summer projects because it is a 100% mercerized, long-staple cotton. Its breathable, lightweight DK weight, and soft texture offer a comfortable, cool drape with a luxurious, polished sheen. The yarn is durable, machine washable, and available in over 75 vibrant colorways.

NEW! Master Crochet: 3-Month Bundle, $30/Month, 25% Off!

Are you ready to embark on a creative journey into the world of crochet? Our comprehensive Crochet 101 course bundle is designed exclusively for beginners. Over three months, you’ll experience a cohesive learning path that blends the art of crochet with innovative techniques.

You have the flexibility to join group classes or book individual appointments, all while enjoying a 25% discount off the total price. Plus, with our easy payment plan, you can spread the cost over 90 days at just $30/month.

Includes 6 classes from the Crochet 101 series:
* Intro to Crochet
* How to Read Crochet Patterns
* Beginner Crochet Series: #1 Bottle Holder (Chaining)
* Beginner Crochet Series: #2 Placemat, Coaster or Face Scrubbies (Single Crochet )
* Beginner Crochet Series #3: Granny Square Pouch (Double Crochet)
* Beginner Crochet Series: #4 Washcloth (Working in Rows)

Click here for an update from The Strand!

04/20/2026

APRIL 2026

YARN NEWSLETTER

Greetings Yarn Enthusiasts,

Welcome to the vibrant world of our first-ever email newsletter! Prepare to dive headfirst into a weekly burst of creativity and connection. Each edition is packed with everything you need to fuel your passion for fiber arts.

Week #1: Stay ahead with our Yarn News section, where you’ll be the first to know about new arrivals and those hard-to-find discontinued items.

Week #2: Looking to enhance your skills? Our Class News will introduce you to exciting new classes each month, along with options for personalized sessions and group gatherings.

Week #3: Don’t miss out on Events + News, your gateway to The Strand’s community involvement. From fiber festivals to philanthropic projects, there’s always something to get involved with. Plus, get to know our team and services better with general store updates.

Week #4: Lastly, we shine the spotlight on you in Customer Connection. Share your projects, tips, and advice with us; your creativity is what keeps this community cohesive and magical.

Here’s to an inspiring journey together!
Karla, Amie, Dara, Tara, Sam and Milissa

NEW YARN
Introducing Cascade Yarns

We’re beyond excited to share some incredible news with you! The Strand is embarking on a colorful and creative new chapter with the arrival of Cascade Yarns. So, why are we so thrilled? These yarns combine beauty, quality, and accessibility in a way that few others can. With their stunning colorways, premium fibers, and impressive durability, Cascade Yarns make it easier than ever to create gorgeous, lasting projects—without breaking the bank. Affordable and versatile, they’re perfect for everyone from beginners to seasoned crafters.

What makes this launch extra special?
It’s not just a one-time drop—it’s a rolling introduction designed to bring you the best of Cascade Yarns over the next several months. Starting this Friday, you’ll be able to get your hands on some of their most sought-after offerings. Let’s take a closer look at the first wave of yarns you’ll find in-store:

Cherub Aran and Cherub Aran Prints: 100% acrylic yarn, loved for its softness and versatility. These yarns are perfect for cozy, washable projects for the whole family.

Noble Cotton and Noble Cotton Hand Dyed: Known for its durability and vibrant colorways, these cotton yarns are a favorite for everything from summer tops to market bags.

Fixation and Fixation Splash: With just the right amount of stretch, these yarns containing Spendex are a go-to for breathable socks, swimwear, and baby items.

But wait—there’s more to come!
This is just the beginning of our Cascade Yarns journey. In the months ahead, we’ll be adding even more amazing options to our shelves. Keep an eye out for:

Cascade 220: A must-have for knitters and crocheters, this classic yarn is a versatile staple for countless projects.

Anchor Bay: Soft and strong, with a hint of sheen, it’s ideal for garments and accessories alike.

Cantata: A textured wool/cotton blend yarn that offers something truly unique for adventurous crafters.

Eco Alpaca: A luxuriously soft, eco-conscious choice that feels as good as it looks.

And many more exciting additions!

NEW YARN
Wrap Your Loved Ones in Luxury: Meet Pascuali Yarn

Sometimes, a regular yarn just doesn’t cut it. When it comes to those extra-special projects—like a cozy scarf for someone you adore or a sweater that feels like a hug—you want something that truly stands out. Enter Pascuali yarn: a luxury yarn that’s all about quality, softness, and a little bit of magic.

Pascuali yarn isn’t your everyday option; it’s for those moments when you want your craft to feel like art. Whether it’s cashmere, alpaca, or silk blends, each fiber is chosen to make your project feel—and look—like something truly special.

The colors are rich and timeless, the textures are buttery smooth, and the fibers work together in a way that feels almost transformative. Knitting or crocheting with Pascuali isn’t just creating something—it’s an experience. It connects you to the process in a whole new way, making every stitch feel purposeful and meaningful.

And here’s the best part: Pascuali yarn is all about intention. You’re not just crafting; you’re creating something unique for someone who deserves that little extra. It’s the kind of yarn that turns simple projects into keepsakes, perfect for gifts or treating yourself to a bit of luxury.

So, next time you’re ready to start something special, consider Pascuali. It’s not just yarn—it’s the power to transform your creativity into something unforgettable. Because let’s be real, the people you love (including yourself) deserve nothing but the best.

THE STRAND HAND-DYED
Introducing the Masterpieces!

Get ready to immerse yourself in art and color with our newest addition to our Masterpiece collection: the Gustav Klimt colorways! These hand-dyed yarns are a celebration of Klimt’s iconic works, bringing the beauty and energy of his paintings into every stitch you create.

This collection draws inspiration from three of Klimt’s most beloved pieces—The Virgin, Lady With a Fan, and Mäda Primavesi. Each yarn captures the essence of these masterpieces, from the soft, flowing hues of The Virgin, to the vibrant and lively tones of Lady With a Fan, and the elegant, youthful palette of Mäda Primavesi. These colors are designed to evoke the emotion and detail of Klimt’s brushstrokes, turning your creations into works of art.

Don’t miss your chance to bring a touch of Klimt’s brilliance to your next project. Explore the Gustav Klimt colorways and fuel your creativity with the magic of art.

BACKORDER CORNER
A Word About Premier and Bernat

🧶 We’ve been experiencing some yarn shortages at The Strand, and we want to keep you in the loop. 🌟

Red Alert! 🚨 The popularity of those awesome Melt the Ice hats has sent the demand for red yarn through the roof! We’ve been inspired by your creative projects and are dyeing our own yarn, including superwashed merino, to keep up with your artistic needs.

Premier and Bernat brands have been caught up in a bit of a disagreement with our distributor, leading to some backorder headaches. 😔 While we hope for a resolution, we’re here for you! If you have items on backorder, reach out, and we’ll do our best to help. Whether it’s finding a new supplier like Cascade, dyeing yarn in-house, or processing a refund, we’ve got options.

We appreciate your patience and understanding as we navigate these challenges. Let’s keep the creativity flowing! 🎨✨

Click here for an update from The Strand!

04/09/2026

We love having you as our customers, and we are working hard to give you the best experiences we can! Please consider taking a few moments out of your day to fill out our survey! Link in comments ⬇

04/05/2026

We hope you enjoy the holiday! We'll see you again on Tuesday, April 7!

03/14/2026

🧶 Calling all crafters! 🧶 Down Syndrome Indiana needs your help!

They’re in need of handmade baby blankets for their New Parent Packets. The Strand yarn store is hosting a blanket drive and offering free yarn to get you started! 🌟

Join us every Thursday evening in March from 5-8pm for a fun crafting session at the store. Whether you love crocheting, knitting, or quilting, your skills can make a big difference. We recommend a blanket size of about 30 x 30 inches, but feel free to get creative with it!

Let’s come together and create something special for new parents and their little ones.

Share this post and spread the word! 💙

03/12/2026

🎉 Happy Birthday, Amie Mullikin 🎂

Today, we’re celebrating a very special member of The Strand family. Amie, your creativity and dedication have brought so much life and warmth to our yarn community. From branding magic to building connections, you do it all with a smile and a generous heart. We’re beyond grateful for everything you do!

🎉🎈 Fiber Friends, swing by tonight from 5-9pm as we celebrate. 🎂🎁 Let’s fill the evening with joy, love, and lots of yarn fun! 🧶❤ We’ve got cupcakes and drinks waiting for you. Can’t wait to see you there! 🍰🥳