Shop Spotlight: Knitting Off Broadway
K
nit, Relax, Unwind
Mother-and-daughter team Jan Bell and Natalie Bell-Kearny opened Knitting Off Broadway in Fort Wayne, Indiana in late 2007. Natalie was soon to graduate from college and the local yarn store of 30 years just closed. Having worked at yarn shops since high school, Natalie was ready for the adventure. Soon Jan was convinced to open the shop with her daughter. The two acted quickly so that they could continue to serve the community of knitters from the previous shop.
The current shop is in a brick storefront built in 1890, and is now officially registered as the Bell Building. Concrete sheep "flank" either side of the entrance. The interior of the shop is a beautiful mixture of color and texture: soft and colorful yarn against the deep hues of the brick walls and wooden floor.
Their small staff consists of part-timers and sample knitters, although many of the sample garments you will see in the shop are knit by Natalie herself. The customers range from busy young professionals who are looking for a bit of relaxation, to empty-nesters who finally have some free time to hone their craft.
Knitting Off Broad way is a destination store for serious knitters. The shop is fashion oriented with a revolving curated selection. Customers know that if they like something, they should buy it then, as it may be gone the next week. There are a few staple yarns, but in general, they like to keep the selection fresh with new products. “We focus on only the best, natural fibers that are manufactured in the best ways. We know the people behind the yarn, or at least how the yarns are manufactured.”
Come Visit
The shop offers classes and occasional trunk shows as well. Check out their website for more information on what’s coming up. Or better yet, come stop by!
Knitting Off Broadway
1309 Broadway
Fort Wayne, IN 46802
(260) 422-YARN (9276)
knittingoffbroadway.com
