Crochet

Patterns, projects and techniques

Arkansas Crochet

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cro grey goat 0814

This is a picture of Pearl, the pet rabbit of a very cozy, cute yarn shop in the historic downtown of tiny Van Buren, Arkansas.  While I was in the shop a few weeks ago, I also got to meet Pearl’s human, Margaux, one of the yarn artists that operate the shop named Grey Goat Fibers or Who’s Got The Button.  Still kinda confused about the names.

So, how did I wind up in a yarn shop in Arkansas?  It’s all because of a husband and his love of trains.  There’s a great 8 hour round trip rail excursion that runs between Springdale, Arkansas and Van Buren, Arkansas.  My husband and I took a long weekend to ride the train across the beautiful countryside of northwest Arkansas.  If you’ve never been, you should go.  Eureka Springs is a high light in that area as is the Crystal Bridges (free art museum) in Bentonville.

We had a three hour ‘layover’ in Van Buren during which we ate lunch, walked the old down town streets, and did a bit of shopping.  When I saw the yarn shop, I wasn’t even sure it was open.  My very tolerant husband seated himself on a bench while I tried the door and gained entry to this charming little shop.

You can see more about it on their Facebook page as I didn’t take any pictures myself.  If you’re in those parts, be sure to stop in and say hello.  They support local farms and crafters, including selling fleece from locally sourced Wenslydale, Gotland, and Icelandic sheep.  And, NO!  I’m not going to learn to spin.  No!  I’m sticking to buying the yarn.

Comments

  1. Jd you are bringing back a lot of memories!! My husband has been with the UP for his whole career and his early years were spent all over Arkansas and Missouri! I know every town you spoke of like old friends. This shop sounds like a place I’d love to go but it’s a trip from Omaha ! Glad you shared with us!

  2. Sheila,
    I’m actually from a small town about 60 miles from Springdale. I have cousins in Springdale and the environs. It’s actually growing so rapidly that your husband would not recognize it! Your trivia for the day: Springdale has the largest population of Marshallese (people from the Marshall Islands) in the world, outside of the Marshall Islands themselves. Don’t know if they crochet.
    jd

  3. The kids might like to start with a really simple headband. Girls seem to love cute things to wear in their hair.

Have you read?

Lightweight Lacy Crochet Tee Pattern That’s Perfect for Layering

Some crochet garments look beautiful on the hanger but feel awkward to wear. This Lacy Crochet Tee from Lana Grossa is not one of those pieces. It’s light, breathable, and very much designed to be worn — the kind of handmade top that slips easily into your everyday wardrobe without feeling “too precious.”

What immediately stands out is the openness of the stitch pattern. It has that airy, lacy feel that works so well for warmer weather or for layering over a tank or dress. This isn’t a heavy, structured garment; it’s soft and fluid, with just enough texture to make it interesting while still letting the yarn shine.

From a making point of view, this tee is a really enjoyable project if you like crochet that feels calm and rhythmic. The lace pattern keeps your hands engaged without constant counting or frustration, which makes it perfect for evening crochet or quiet weekend sessions. It’s also very satisfying watching the fabric grow — those lacy stitches really show progress quickly.

Skill-wise, this one is best suited to confident beginners moving into intermediate crochet. You don’t need advanced shaping skills, but being comfortable with stitch patterns and keeping even tension will make the process much more enjoyable. If you’ve been wanting to dip your toe into wearable crochet without tackling a full sweater, this is a great place to start.

What I really appreciate about this pattern is how versatile it is. Change the colour and fibre and it can feel casual and beachy or clean and modern. It’s the kind of tee you’ll reach for again and again, especially when you want something handmade that still feels light and effortless.

If you enjoy crochet garments that are wearable, practical, and quietly stylish, this lacy tee is a lovely pattern to have in your collection.