KnittyGrittyYarnGirl Yarn Shop — Local services in East Lyme

I’ve been putting off this review for a few months because I genuinely do not want to tear down a small, woman owned arts business. After talking to others in the community, I’ve decided to document my experience at KnittyGritty.

I have been knitting basic hats/scarves for a while but decided to level up and attempt my first ever sweater. During the short rows, I made a mistake and did not know how to fix it, so I decided to look for a local yarn store where I may be able to get some help. I had just moved to the area, so I did not purchase my yarn from this store, but I was excited to see it was so close! I called beforehand and asked if someone would be able to help fix my mistake, and was told to come on in.

On the phone, there was no mention of any charges or asking if I had purchased the yarn at the store. When I arrived, the owner Paulette began to help me, but eventually asked if I’d purchased the yarn from her, which I honestly answered no. She continued to help me but later stated there would be a charge (but did not mention the cost) since I had not purchased the yarn from her. I absolutely agree that she should be compensated for her time and expertise, but I wished she had been more transparent beforehand about the charges. She continued to help me, but only after her assistance did she mention it was $40. I was in her store for 20 minutes max, so I was completely thrown off by a $40 charge. Again, I am not looking to de-value her time or skill, I did learn from her while I was there. $40 felt very excessive for the short span of time I was there. I was appreciative for her time and assistance though, so I paid the charge. When I got home, I still had the wrong stitch count, and had to pull out the work anyways.

The store had a beautiful yarn selection, I just wish Paulette had been more up front about her policies either when I had initially called, or before she had helped me with my project. Do not come here for knitting assistance if you did not purchase your yarn...

I was so excited to learn that Niantic had a yarn shop again I couldn't wait to visit! Poked my head in after visiting the pet shop and was immediately ready to purchase some goodies. Oh, what a delightful time! We were greeted with an impromptu education on reading comprehension from the hospitable owner. Not only was I ignored for my male counterpart, but we were told there are no dogs allowed. No problem, I apologized and handed my service dog over to my partner so I could continue to browse. They left the store immediately and remained outside. While I was perusing I overheard the owner reiterating to her friends how there was a clear sign on the door, and boy I didn't think I deserved the nasty face that accompanied this statement. I called out another apology and stated that I did not see the sign. I looked for any indication whether my animal would be an issue but saw nothing on my way in. This further apology was met with another look of disgust. On the way out I noticed, at the base of the door, a minuscule, camouflage-like statement that only certified service animals are allowed in. Interesting, I was never asked whether my animal was in fact a service dog -- I was, no, my partner was told that there are no dogs allowed. I had never even been acknowledged during my brief visit, despite my willingness to support this...

Update: Thank you Paulette for going above and beyond to address my complaint.

Beware that mystery bags are final sale and the seven day exchange policy doesn’t apply to them. I don’t see mention of this on the website. Maybe it would be more appropriate to call these discount/clearance bags so expectations are lower. The contents of the $75 bag are: a spring/summer 2022 NORO magazine (my purchase was in December 2024), six branded stitch markers, and two 200 gram balls of one color of wool yarn. Based on the website description which uses words like “packed” and “books” I was hoping for something more, with some variety and gift-friendly (not wool). When I called to request an exchange I was told I could come by the shop only when the owner is there as the other employee won’t be able to help me and they would “do their best to help me” exchange the yarn if there’s a wool allergy but it’s a final sale item otherwise. But after speaking to them on the phone I’m not inclined to enter...