MANAYUNK

Posted by: Jen Diehl, Summer 2013 Intern

Hidden River Yarns of Manayunk has hidden secrets; American made products, classes for knitters of all levels, a personable atmosphere, and so much more.

Owner, Lisa Johnson, has been knitting since she was six years old! Lisa opened Hidden River Yarns on Main Street in September 2012 and had visited Manayunk several times before throughout her life with her mother. A Pittsburgh native, Lisa graduated from the University of Pittsburgh and originally did marketing work for an international chemical company. After working in a fiber distribution company in Conshohocken for a year, Lisa was recommended to open a yarn store in Manayunk by the Manayunk Development Corporation!

Lisa reflected on her first year at Hidden River Yarns; “It’s a fun business. The hardest part is getting all the ‘work’ stuff done.” She is constantly knitting or crocheting something and enjoys getting her hands on a new project. Lisa even had several knitting projects on her desk during our visit to HRY.

Not an experienced knitter or crocheter? No Problem! Hidden River Yarns has intro to knitting classes! Classes are kept at 6 individuals max to ensure a personable experience and individual attention. Introduction classes typically run for three, week-day evenings for about an hour and a half each session. Advanced classes operate for extended hours (three to four hours) and are held on weekends. Within the store, Lisa carries two lines that are domestically spun and dyed right here in Philadelphia! She carries products from mostly smaller companies. One of the most popular lines she carries, a rarity in the knitting and crocheting world, is Quince and Company Yarns.

Manayunk, at the turn of the century, was a giant hub for cotton mills and yarn distribution! Lisa loved the idea of bringing yarn back to Manayunk and was always encouraged to open a yarn store. She never thought seriously about opening a store before, and it was definitely not on her mind in her early career!

“Main Street is what Main Street in a small town is supposed to be. There is such a supportive group of merchants,” said Lisa.

Whether you are a beginner or an experienced knitter, be sure to check out Hidden River Yarn and join the Manayunk knitting community at 4358 Main Street in Manayunk! Also, visit hiddenriveryarns.com  or their Facebook page for more information!