Local Yarn Store Inspires Creativity at the Old Orcutt Yarnery

The Old Orcutt Yarnery, located in Orcutt, California, has become a vibrant hub for knitting and crocheting enthusiasts since its opening four years ago. Owned by Lisa Long, the shop offers a wide selection of yarn, needles, pattern books, and accessories, catering to individuals of all ages and skill levels.

Long’s journey into the world of yarn began 15 years ago at a local fast-food restaurant, where a friend taught her to knit. Seeking a creative outlet amidst her busy life of work and study, she quickly embraced the craft and has since developed a passion for both knitting and crocheting. Today, she describes herself as a lifelong learner, constantly exploring new techniques and ideas to share with her customers.

Community Engagement Through Crafting

With a keen awareness of the lack of yarn shops in Santa Barbara County, Long decided to open her own shop. She found the perfect retail space on Clark Avenue and established the Old Orcutt Yarnery. Since then, the store has not only provided a space for purchasing crafting supplies but has also fostered a strong sense of community among local crafters.

The yarnery hosts a variety of classes and workshops designed for all skill levels. One of the biggest events on their calendar is the upcoming Central Coast Yarn Crawl, scheduled for March 6-8, 2026. This annual event attracts knitters from across the region, leading them through a trail of local yarn shops in search of unique products and experiences. “We’ll have hundreds of people in here that weekend. It’ll be crazy,” Long said, reflecting on the excitement surrounding the event.

A Unique Shopping Experience

At the Old Orcutt Yarnery, the shopping experience is designed to be tactile and immersive. Long emphasizes the importance of allowing customers to feel and see the yarn in person. The shop features sample garments displayed throughout, inspiring customers to envision their own creations.

The store’s atmosphere is intentionally cozy, reminiscent of a home rather than a typical retail environment. The shop is adorned with vintage furniture and stained glass windows, creating a warm and inviting space for visitors. Additionally, the yarnery boasts a wraparound porch where customers can sit and work on their projects during pleasant weather.

Long’s dedication to quality is evident in her selection of yarn. She collaborates with a Canadian-based dyer to create a unique line of custom yarn colors. These include names like Lompoc Flower Festival and Santa Barbara County Fair, each reflecting the local landscape and culture.

Regular events at the shop include drop-in woolgathering sessions on Fridays and Sundays, as well as “stitch and sip” evenings that encourage social interaction among crafters. Long notes, “I’ve met so many great people from every background. This is a place where we can all come together over our love for yarn.”

Long’s commitment to fostering a supportive community is evident in her relationship with her employees, including Tracy Syslo. Syslo, a long-time customer who began working at the yarnery, shares the sentiment that the space is welcoming and uplifting. “It feels good to spend time with people who like the same things,” she said, highlighting the positive atmosphere that permeates the shop.

As the Old Orcutt Yarnery continues to grow and expand its offerings, it remains a cherished destination for both seasoned crafters and newcomers alike. Long’s vision of creating a space that champions creativity and community is resonating well, proving that the art of knitting and crocheting can bring people together in meaningful ways.

For more information on classes and events, customers can visit the Old Orcutt Yarnery at 350 E. Clark Ave. from Tuesday to Saturday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Sundays from noon to 4 p.m. Interested individuals can also explore their website at oldorcuttyarnery.com or call (805) 862-2171 for further details.