STOCKIST PROFILE - Ribbon Circus

Every so often we like to bring you an interview from one of our lovely stockists, as we firmly believe that the first step in keeping our local yarn shops alive and thriving is making sure you all know about them!

Ribbon Circus in Hebden Bridge is a crafters paradise that has recently expanded into bigger premises and is now filled with even more delightful fabric, delectable yarns and a dazzling array of ribbons and buttons. As dedicated (some might say obsessive!) crafters themselves, Helen and Caroline can almost always offer advice, pick up dropped stitches and help winkle out the meaning behind even the most difficult to read pattern!

1) Thanks so much for agreeing to feature on the stockist profile. Please introduce yourselves and your lovely shop!
Helen and Caroline bought Ribbon Circus in 2011 it was a really lovely small shop specialising in gift wrapping, ribbons and haberdashery. Amy, the previous owner, had just started to sell yarn. Helen had a ‘proper’ job in Bradford and was still earning from her DJ job too. She was trying to give up both when this opportunity came along. Running a small retail business proved to be immensely hard work but increasing the yarn and fabrics side of things increased the shop’s popularity. The move to bigger, more lovely and more central premises was a bit of a make or break move really. Happily it seems to be going well and the increased space means that Helen and Caroline can run more workshops and events in their amazing workshop/lounge.


2) How do you go about choosing brands and products for your shop? There is a vast array of beautiful yarn available now, so what is it about a particular yarn that persuades you to carry it?
Helen chooses most of the stock and is responsible for the day to day running of the business. “I choose yarn brands and products if I like them, I really only buy good quality yarns, things I would like to use, colours that I like, patterns that I would knit, I know that sounds a bit selfish but if a product is gorgeous or local or natural or beautiful or a combination of these things I know people will like it. Caroline often says the worst that can happen is that we have to use it up ourselves! Bummer!”


The new shop front is filled with fun bunting and some very tempting looking yarn!

3) What is your favourite MillaMia product and yarn colour?
The Aran in Cherry Red or Emerald Green - no red! . . . er or green. Too hard to decide!

Helens beautiful cable cardigan in Cherry Red Naturally Soft Aran - perhaps red really is her favourite!

4) Do you run any workshops or a knitnight?
Crafternoon Tea on the first and third Sunday of each month. 2-4pm. An elaborate afternoon tea and all the knitting, crochet and crafting you can fit in between feeding your face with delish locally made cakes and cheeses.


5) What is the strangest/funniest request you’ve ever had?
“I’m making these boots for my neigbours’ dog that’s allergic to grass…”
“Can we borrow your workshop table for our contortionist to perform on at the weekend, please?”


6) Tell us something unusual about yourself.
Every year my brother and I dj to 10,000 people in a large marquee on the opening night of the V Festival at Weston Park, Staffordshire. I once cleaned Princess Anne’s bathroom. I am a keen Lindy Hopper.

 

The annual lamb day ensures plenty of cuddles - although Popsy the cat doesn't look too impressed

7) Lastly, if one of our readers has never been to your shop, what is the one thing that you offer that means they should?
If you have never been to Ribbon Circus then you really should! There is a riot of colour going on, it is bright, light and we are cheerful, experienced knitters with an opinion on everything and usually the answer to anything. We love wool, we love creating beautiful things and we think you should too. We believe that the only thing that can improve an hour or two knitting something lovely from the finest quality yarns is a nice cup of tea and a slice of cake (gluten free).

You can find the shop at 18 Market Street, Hebden Bridge, West Yorkshire, HX7 6AA and the phone number is - 01422 847803. You send the girls an email at info@ribboncircus.com or find them on Facebook and Twitter.

(posted by Max)