Knit Away in the Catskills: Discovering Woodstock, Saugerties, and the Rhine Sheep and Wool Festival

Knitting enthusiasts in the Woodstock and Saugerties area enjoy a rich local culture that blends traditional craft with vibrant community events. From charming yarn shops to the annual Rhinebeck Sheep and Wool Festival, this region offers unique opportunities for knitters to connect with fiber arts, local producers, and fellow crafters. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced knitter, the Woodstock-Saugerties area provides inspiring places to explore yarn, tools, and techniques, along with a chance to celebrate the roots of knitting through sheep raising and fiber processing.

The Rhinebeck Sheep and Wool Festival: A Must-Visit Event

Every October, the Rhinebeck Sheep and Wool Festival https://sheepandwool.com draws thousands of fiber lovers from across the country. Located just a 25 minute drive from Lilac House, this festival celebrates the entire fiber journey—from sheep to finished product. Visitors can see a wide variety of sheep breeds, watch demonstrations of spinning and weaving, and shop from hundreds of vendors offering hand-dyed yarns, tools, and finished goods. The food vendors specialize in cider donuts-- Hudson Valley's iconic autumn treat, and some years you might strike it lucky and find maple sugar cotton candy (yes, it's a thing!) There is a huge hall devoted to the foodies (quite the overlap between crafters and foodies, it seems...) that showcases local treats, including the products of the distilleries, wineries and breweries that the Vally offers.

For the kids, there are special kids' activities, and sheepherding trials, showcasing the agility of the very specialized breeds that manage to get a flock of unruly sheep to go exactly where they want them to go. The 4-H kids from farms all over the state show off their pride and joys, which include not only sheep bur llamas, alpacas, and more.

Beginning and experienced knitters, spinners and weavers can sign up for workshops taught by experts you have actually heard of (on Facebook, if you are like me and your feed is full of stranded knitting patterns and yarns from the Shetland Islands, that is...) You might even decide to be among the knitters who whip up the sweater design chosen to be "the one"-- and join dozens of others in wearing it to the fair to be admired.

The festival is more than a marketplace; it’s a gathering place for knitters, spinners, and weavers to share knowledge and inspiration. Workshops and competitions add to the excitement, making it a perfect event for anyone passionate about fiber arts. Attending Rhinebeck offers a chance to meet local sheep raisers and dyers who supply many of the yarns found in nearby shops.

Note that the fair is open on Saturday and Sunday, but book Lilac House early-- Frday features an Indie spinoff (Indie Untangled) right down the road in Saugerties, with talented dyers and spinners displaying their wares. https://indieuntangled.com/rhinebeck/

Yarn Stores in Woodstock, Saugerties, and Kingston

The Woodstock-Saugerties area boasts three standout yarn stores, each with its own character and offerings.

Hedgehog and Moss in Woodstock

The newest addition to the local knitting scene, Hedgehog and Moss, has quickly become a favorite for its carefully curated selection of yarns. This shop focuses on high-quality, hand-dyed yarns that appeal to knitters looking for unique colors and textures. The staff are knowledgeable and eager to help customers find the perfect yarn for their projects. Hedgehog and Moss also hosts knitting groups and occasional workshops, making it a community hub for fiber enthusiasts. https://www.hedgehogandmoss.com

Perfect Blend in Saugerties

Perfect Blend is a well-established yarn store known for its welcoming atmosphere and broad selection. It carries a mix of classic and trendy yarns, including local and sustainable options. The shop supports local artisans by featuring hand-dyed yarns from nearby dyers. Perfect Blend also offers classes for all skill levels, from beginner knitting basics to advanced techniques, helping knitters grow their skills in a friendly environment. https://www.yarnandteashop.com

Yarnfarm in Kingston

Yarnfarm stands out by combining two pleasures: yarn and wine. This unique shop offers a cozy space where knitters can browse a diverse range of yarns while enjoying a glass of local wine. Yarnfarm emphasizes community and relaxation, hosting regular knit nights and special events that bring people together. Their selection includes yarns from local spinners and dyers, supporting the regional fiber economy. https://www.yarnfarmkingston.com

Local Sheep Raisers and Fiber Producers

The Hudson Valley region, including areas around Woodstock and Saugerties, is home to several small-scale sheep farms. These farms raise sheep breeds prized for their wool quality, such as Merino and Romney. Many local farmers practice sustainable and humane animal husbandry, producing wool that is both eco-friendly and soft.

Some farms offer wool directly to the public or through local yarn shops. Visiting these farms can provide knitters with a deeper appreciation of the fiber’s origins. It also supports the local economy and encourages sustainable craft practices.

Local Dyers and Spinners

The area’s vibrant fiber community includes talented dyers and spinners who transform raw wool into beautiful yarns. These artisans often use natural dyes sourced from plants and minerals, creating colors inspired by the local landscape. Their hand-dyed yarns are prized for their uniqueness and quality. One indie dyer is literally down the road-- well, around a corner and down the road. Check out Pinewoods Farm Farm while you are here, or take in one of their knitting, crocheting or weaving get-togethers. https://pinewoodsfarmwoolshop.com

Many local dyers sell their yarns at the Rhinebeck festival and through the yarn stores mentioned above. Some also offer workshops where knitters can learn about dyeing techniques or spinning fiber into yarn. Engaging with these artisans enriches the knitting experience and connects crafters to the full fiber process.

Why Woodstock and Saugerties Are Great for Knitters

The combination of excellent yarn stores, local fiber producers, and the proximity to the Rhinebeck Sheep and Wool Festival makes Woodstock and Saugerties a special place for knitters. The community here values craftsmanship and sustainability, offering resources that support both beginners and experienced knitters. And if you are exploring the region anyway, you'll find many other fascinating fiber arts stores within an hours drive... just search "yarn stores near me" when you get here and plan a day's outing!

Whether you want to shop for unique yarns, learn new skills, or simply enjoy knitting in a welcoming environment, this area has something to offer. The connection to local sheep farms and dyers adds depth to the craft, reminding knitters of the natural origins of their materials.