Spinning a traditional yarn catching on

Michelle Morrison’s Redcliffe shop only opened a short time ago, but already it’s proving a hit with those who love knitting and crocheting.

She created Redcliffe’s Cosy Couch Yarn Store as a home away from home, with classes and social groups as well as supplies.

“I had a crochet group and we couldn’t find anywhere we were comfortable, so I thought I would just create my own space,” Michelle says.

Tribute to mum

Cosy Couch also pays homage to Ms Morrison’s mum.

“I lost Mum at Easter and I wanted her to be part of this, so I created a corner where people can some and sit and knit or crochet,” she says.

Complete with a 1950s fireplace rescued from a widow’s home, the nook includes vintage tea sets, a ‘50s -style drinks trolley, cosy lamps, luxurious wallpaper and family photographs.

“There’s a photo of Mum and Dad when they got married n 1968, of Mum and Dad with their family on their wedding day, Mum’s parents on their wedding day and my great-grandparents on theirs.”

Surge in popularity

She says working with wool is enjoying a surge in popularity, driven by new yarns and patterns.

“It’s changed, it’s evolved – it’s not just granny squares, it’s stunning clothing and tops.

“There’s more variety (in the yarns), different textures and techniques, variegated yarns, more blends.

“The cottons, the colour ranges have definitely improved.”

Donna Richardson is running classes at Cosy Couch, with beginner crochet, knitting and Tunisian crocket lessons on offer.

Donna plans to expand lessons with spinning, weaving and drop spindle spinning in the pipeline.

“And every Friday we have our giggle and yarn night, which is proving very popular,” Michelle says.

Cosy Couch Yarn is at 116 Sutton St, Redcliffe, in the Walk Arcade.

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