How to Crawl

The Chicago Yarn Crawl (aka CYC) is an annual event for yarn and fibre enthusiasts to explore the vibrant community of yarn shops in the Chicagoland area. The event is free to participate. Below are a few tips and tricks to help you plan your crawl!

  • Check out the Shop Map to see where all the participating shops are located relative to you. Here, you can plan your driving route, and check out bus and train routes.

  • To learn more about the shops participating, check our 2026 Shops page for a full list. Click on the image of the shop to see details such as CYC hours and website and social media info! Once it gets closer to the crawl dates, our digital passport will be available to download. The passport is great guide for shop information and to make notes about each shop, like which ones you want to visit, what yarn you purchased from each shop, and your favorite thing about your visit! Check the CYC Homepage to download your passport.

  • Be sure to check out the Special Events page for trunk shows, pop ups, special workshops and more!

  • Every year, the CYC designs a commemorative tote. Totes pre-orders are generally available about a month before the crawl from your local yarn shop.

Everyone who participates can enjoy:

  • Free Buttons - You can collect your free shop buttons by visiting a shop during the CYC dates.

  • Free Patterns - Each shop offers a free original pattern available for crawlers. You can get the free patterns by stopping in the shop, or by visiting each individual shop’s website.

  • Raffle Baskets - Each shop is offering their own special raffle baskets. Be sure to visit each shop to see how you can sign up! These raffle prizes will be announced by individual shops at the end of the crawl.

  • Yarn Crawl Discount - Each Shop will offer 10% off all yarn (excluding sale items).

Tips for consideration:

The Chicago Yarn Crawl is one of the busiest events of the year for most shops. Many shops open with extended hours and host many more people than usual. Here are some tips to navigate the crawl.

  • Many shops open with extended hours for the duration of the crawl. Be sure to check the shop page on the CYC website for extended hours. If no hours are listed, assume their regular store hours.

  • The first weekend of the Chicago Yarn Crawl is the busiest. It’s a great way to meet other crawlers and check out special items shops might have for the crawl. If you are looking to avoid crowds, weekdays tend to be less crowded.

  • If a shop becomes over crowded, some shops may need to temporarily restrict occupancy to adhere to fire safety regulations. You might need to wait outside until there is enough room in the shop.

  • Especially during the first weekend, wait times and check out lines may be longer than usual. Please be considerate of staff members working hard to give everyone the best customer service.

  • Due to time constraints, many shops will not be able to wind yarn or print patterns during the week of the crawl. This allows staff to help and check out as many people as possible.

  • If you need help with a project, consider waiting until after the crawl. Staff members will be doing their very best to help as many people as possible and may not have time to sit down extensively with one person.

  • Shops may rearrange to better accommodate large crowds during the crawl. Tables, chairs, sofas, and other resting spots you're used to may be unavailable during the crawl.

  • We ask that you please respect and follow each shop’s Safety Guidelines. Be sure to check in with the shops you plan on visiting for any regulations they may require, such as, mask requirements, hand sanitization, and/or maximum number of guests allowed in the shop.