A major drawback to The Wool Shop is its rather random location. On the Whingate Juction, just…read moresouth east of Armley, I only happened to stumble accross it when I was driving home, and was admittedly, lost! In the early evening light, it looks like a cozy little haven in the midst of its ominous industrial surroundings. The warm lighting shines out of the windows, enticing whoever it is that walks around there, to have a gander inside. Steps lead down into the shop once you are inside, which I have to say, doesn't make it particularly disability-friendly. Once down the few steps there are, the walls are covered in shelves that are housing a fairly large collection of colour and brand co-ordinated wools, and knitting ideas sweetly pinned to examples hanging around the shop. The lady in the shop is very helpful to anyone that enters her shop, giving customers tips and advice. I happened to find the exact brand and colour wool I had purchased from another shop in town, that I had recently run out of, and as there was only one or two balls left, I received a discount. Another hesitation I have with The Wool Shop, is that the majority of the wool in there are acryllic blends, rather than the real deal. Though there is an excellent selection of colour, it would have been nicer to see more local wool being sold as well, or instead of the cheaper, more synthetic, widely sold brands.

I'm afraid I can't admit to knowing much about wool. I've recently learned the basics of knitting…read moreand have a couple of nice homemade scarves to my name, but that's it. However, what I can tell you is that not only does The Wool Shop have an impressive amount of yarn adorning shelves, and examples of knit-work dotted around the shop floor, but they are cheaper than Samuel Taylor in the City Centre (at least in the yarns that I have purchased in both venues) and the staff are so incredibly helpful! I've been in a few times now, and each visit I have left the shop with both wool and a new knowledge to help my with my knitting endeavours. Last time, I got shown how to make tassels for the end of my scarves - they look ace! It may be slightly out of the way in it's location, but it's right on the Number 4 bus route, and well worth it if you're serious about your knitting, or learning the skill. Worth noting it's not open on a Monday though - that's caught me out before!

'Yarns, Needles and Know-how', what more could you ask for? Knit Wise is very well stocked with all…read moremanner of knitting supplies and the contemporary shop brings a somewhat old-fahsioned hobby into the 21st century. So, while it's in-keeping with the area the store attracts all manner of customers.

This is a pretty decent little wool shop for knitters. The quality of the wool (or yarn, as I call…read moreit) is high, and there is a very good selection of weights, colours, and materials available. But I do get a little annoyed when shops tailor everything toward knitters and don't mention crocheting at all. I don't mind that the shop is called Knit-Wise--but maybe they could sell some crochet patterns as well as knit ones? I'd be a lot more tempted to return if they did.

This is a great little traditional shop stocking all the wool and cotton you could ever want…read more A dying breed, this is a gem of a shop which should become protected! They stock a number of different brands of wools in every colour you can imagine. They also sell some knitted products including baby products and shawls. The owner will also knit to order!

This is just a quick update, as it was a quick visit, but as you can tell from the rating my love…read morehasn't decreased over the years! It's a fabulous wee shop, with stacks of tempting wools and knits, and all the advice you could wish for. Beginners or experts are welcome as the staff are keen knitters themselves and are more than happy to pass on their wisdom to a budding young wool-artist like myself. Within minutes we'd sussed out an idea for my first garment, which needles and which wool to use, and she happily mentioned that they also hold classes should I wish to check them out. I adore the pre-mades in here too, and will have to come back to grab something special soon. Once I've mastered the art somewhat I'll also be back to pick up a decent pattern book, rather than buy one for my Mum in the hopes that she'll make all my clothes, as was my previous cunning plan... Basically, it's friendly, warm, full of all the things you need, and the staff are excellent. Truly, what more could you want?

If Leeds' shiny bars, international population and global cuisine have left you lacking a sense of…read moreplace, and you're seeking a reminder of where you really are, look no further than Baa Ram Ewe. Set in a Yorkshire stone building, this shop/workshop space is pure Dales-gone-cool, stocking a huge range of locally made wools and yarns, artisan knitted goods and crafty accessories. Bravely leading a one-man knitting revolution, Baa Ram Ewe also hosts a programme of workshops teaching everything from Beginners' Knitting to traditional skills like felting and spinning. And if you're in any doubt that knitting is the new drinking, head on down to the Thursday knit night, which can get nearly as busy as Arcadia across the road.

Constant changing stock makes this shop a ddelight to enter.Especially if you are a crafter,…read morejewelry supplies, cardmaking and scrapbooking. There is another part to the shop directly across which sells fabrics, knitting wools, cross stitch and every haberdashery need you may have.There are special offers in both these stores on a weekly basis and the staff will often order anything you might want. Good old fashioned service

From the owner: We are a specialist retailer, supplying card and paper crafts, scrapbooking, needlecraft, fashion…read morefabrics, dress patterns, wool and haberdashery. With our vast range of merchandise, we are known for excellent value. We are spreading the word that crafting is fun, enjoyable and tremendously satisfying.

This is a large stall in the covered market. Great for haberdashery (not many places left which…read moresell this kind of stuff). Lots of buttons, ribbons, bells and other stuff which is very handy if you're making fancy dress costumes for your kids. Also sells knitting wool, feather boas, beads and card making stuff. Much cheaper than going to chains too. Helpful staff.

From the owner: Haberdashery and yarn in the heart of Carlisle. Situated in the historic Carlisle market hall we…read moreguarantee to cater to all your haberdashery, card making and knitting needs at affordable prices. With stores across Britain its no wonder we are Britain's leading haberdashers and yarn merchants