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As someone who’s deeply immersed in the world of crochet and knitting, my travels inevitably lead me to the doorsteps of some of the most charming and unique yarn stores across the country. This year, I’m excited to share more about these treasure troves with you, alongside snippets from my daily life on the road. My latest adventure? A trip to the sunny shores of Tampa, Florida, where I discovered the delightful Suncoast Yarns.

Sunshine, Sea Breeze, and Stitches: My Tampa Adventure

Work often takes me to Atlanta, which means that a quick hop down to Florida is always on the cards. This time, I found myself in Tampa, where the beaches are as beautiful as you’d expect, and the Cuban food is to die for. I was lucky enough to spend a week with my friend H, who introduced me to the local Floridian way of life—sun, sea, and a surprising amount of yarn!

Amidst the sandy shores and balmy breezes, there’s a hidden gem tucked away in the colorful streets of Tampa: Suncoast Yarns.

Exploring Suncoast Yarns

Located at 3347 S West Shore Blvd #3, Suncoast Yarns is a must-visit for any fiber enthusiast passing through Tampa. The moment H and I walked in, we were greeted by a treasure trove of yarns—everything from luxurious hand-dyed skeins to sturdy, mill-spun Berocco. The atmosphere was inviting, with the store’s layout guiding us through a carefully curated selection that practically begged to be touched and taken home.

What truly sets Suncoast Yarns apart is the cozy crafting area nestled towards the back of the store. This space, complete with comfy chairs and shelves lined with knitting books, is a haven for crafters. It’s more than just a place to buy supplies; it’s a community hub where people come together to share ideas, learn new skills, and make lasting connections. I only wish I could have stayed longer to soak in the creative energy.

Unique Finds and Unforgettable Memories

One of the most intriguing aspects of Suncoast Yarns is their Estate Sale yarn section. It’s the first time I’ve encountered such a concept, and I immediately fell in love with it. This section gives pre-loved skeins a second chance to find a home, ensuring that no yarn goes to waste. I can’t recommend this enough—it’s both eco-friendly and heartwarming.

Of course, I couldn’t leave without adding to my stash. I picked up some stunning Beach Bunny Yarn in a colorway aptly named “This is my Happy Place,” inspired by the tropical hues of Tampa. Later, this yarn became part of a Sheer-V Sweater by Jessie Maed, paired with a pink fluff from Republica Unicornia. The sweater turned out beautifully, a tangible memory of my time under the Florida sun.

Beyond the Yarn: My Tampa Experience

After our visit to Suncoast Yarns, H and I wandered over to the grocer next door. Let me tell you, Florida produce is something else—the tomatoes were the size of grapefruits! This trip was all about recharging, and Tampa offered the perfect blend of relaxation and inspiration. There’s nothing like a little sunshine and some fresh yarn to lift the spirits.

The following week, I stayed on in Florida for a work meeting in Clearwater Bay. I couldn’t have asked for better timing—my colleague’s beachfront condo provided the perfect backdrop for our gathering. Evenings were spent unwinding at the beach, and I indulged in seafood at Frenchy’s Rockaway Grill, a spot I now recommend to everyone. Their Grouper is legendary—I’m surprised I didn’t turn into one by the end of the week!

Final Thoughts

While I did make the obligatory stops at Joann’s and Michael’s (because, of course!), Suncoast Yarns was the highlight of my yarn store tour through Florida. It’s a place that blends community, creativity, and quality, making it a true standout. If you’re ever in Tampa, make sure to pop in—you won’t regret it.

And don’t worry, there’s another yarn shop in Florida I can’t wait to tell you about in my next post. Stay tuned for more yarn shop discoveries and travel tales!