The Story Behind "The Stashery"

How a $2 cake of wool yarn — and a whole lot of community spirit — inspired a year-round resource for makers.

My first exposure to Textile Center was through the Garage Sale. A friend enticed me to go with her on the last day — “Everything is 50% off!” I found a huge cake of black wool yarn for $2, and my friend and I decided we’d go to one of these every time it was offered. We had both just had babies, and expenses were tight — as was time for knitting (or sewing, in her case). Getting to buy something affordable that we could use during the few minutes we found each day to craft felt like such a gift.

The idea for The Stashery at Textile Center is rooted in that feeling. Our community shines on Garage Sale weekends — bringing excitement, energy, and creative ideas to our space as they hunt for secondhand textile supplies and treasures. I wanted to find a way to capture that spirit and provide a source for unused supplies all year long. From the generous donors looking to find a good home for the excess from their stashes to the people just starting out in fiber art who need accessible materials — my hope is that everyone will find something they need at this store.

I’m so excited to bring this idea to life alongside my colleagues, our volunteers, and the members here at Textile Center. The Grand Opening is set for Friday, May 30, at 10 am, and The Stashery will follow Textile Center’s regular hours: Tuesday – Saturday, 10 am – 4 pm, with extended hours until 7 pm on Thursdays.

Don’t hesitate to share your ideas with me or anyone on the shop team. This community is what will help The Stashery thrive — we hope you’ll join us!

-Erin Husted, Director of Operations