Posts with tag 'Alliance OH'

Spring is in the air, which means Ohio's wildflower season has just begun. In parks and preserves all over the Buckeye State, the first flowers of the year have already started to bloom.

But the great thing about wildflowers in Ohio is that they don't all appear at once. We get to experience a rainbow of color that changes with the seasons. These wildflower hikes offer opportunities to see a dazzling array of native wildflowers throughout the spring and well into summer.

California Woods Nature Preserve

5400 Kellogg Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45230

Southern Ohio parks tend to see the state's earliest spring wildflower blooms, and California Woods Nature Preserve is a prime spot to see early spring flowers in Cincinnati. This Hamilton County preserve encompasses 113 acres of forests, with steep ravines and shady woods that harbor diverse spring bloomers. Visit in May to see Virginia spiderwort and fire-pink in bloom, along with the yellow blossoms of cinquefoil and trout lilies. California Woods is home to an extensive trail system, and the 1-mile Junction Loop is a great place to start. Stop back in summer to explore the preserve's butterfly and hummingbird garden!

Three Creeks Metropark

3860 Bixby Rd., Groveport, OH 43125

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One of the several picturesque Metroparks in the Columbus area, Three Creeks Metropark has a reputation as one of the most beautiful destinations for wildflower hikes in Central Ohio. This 1,053-acre park takes its name from the spot where Alum, Big Walnut, and Blacklick creeks meet, and the area around the confluence of these three streams offers a diverse bounty of spring blooms. The 1-mile Confluence Trail meanders along the creek banks, and you may spy flowers including yellow and white trout lily, Dutchman's breeches and spring beauty, among others. The nearby Bluebell Trail abounds in its namesake flowers, and the small maroon blossoms of sessile trillium are also a common sight. 

Wilson Nature Preserve

4082 OH-132, Batavia, OH 45103 

Less than 30 minutes from Cincinnati in the small town of Batavia, OH, the James L. and Frances Wilson Nature Preserve spans 145 beautiful acres along the banks of the Little Miami River, including a 25-acre river island. Three miles of trails traverse this picturesque woodland, the ground often carpeted in spring wildflowers. Eagle-eyed hikers can spot several different species of trilliums here. Picnic areas and additional trails, including the aptly named half-mile Wildflower Trail, are available in the neighboring Sycamore Park.

Wildcat Hollow Trail (Wayne National Forest)

Co Rd 58, Glouster, OH 45732

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Few places in Ohio offer a more immersive nature experience than Wayne National Forest, which spans a quarter of a million acres among the Appalachian foothills in the southeastern part of the state. There are endless wild experiences to be had here, but if spying spring and summer wildflowers is your goal, head to the Wildcat Hollow Trail. This 17.5-mile loop meanders through diverse woodland and meadow habitats, including carpets of the endangered running buffalo clover, and dense thickets of native rhododendrons in full bloom. The trail is about a 90-minute drive from Columbus, and worth every second of the journey.

North Kingsville Sand Barrens

Conneaut, OH 44030

A stone's throw from the shores of Lake Erie, the North Kingsville Sand Barrens represents a unique landscape of fossilized dunes that supports many plants and animals seen almost nowhere else in Ohio, including the endangered blue bead lily. The spectacular blooms of native blue lupine, which appear in late May and early June, are especially enchanting. This 174-acre property is managed by the Cleveland Museum of Natural History and offers some of the most spectacular wildflower blooms in Northeast Ohio. 

Holden Arboretum

9550 Sperry Rd., Kirtland, OH 44094

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The Holden Arboretum is a 3,600-acre wonderland for anyone interested in unique plants and flowers. Home to diverse gardens, collections, and ecologically sensitive habitats, it's one of the largest arboreta in the state and home to a vast network of walking paths. Keep an eye out for native beauties like marsh marigolds, trilliums, and Virginia bluebells. Just 30 minutes from Cleveland, the arboretum is one of the best places to see native wildflowers in Northeast Ohio. They even have an annual plant sale in early May, where you can purchase native wildflowers reared at the arboretum to transplant into your own garden. 

Edge of Appalachia Preserve

4274 Waggoner Riffle Rd., West Union, OH 45693

A 16,000-acre preserve dedicated to restoring Southern Ohio's Appalachian landscape, the Edge of Appalachia Preserve's dense forests and vibrant meadows are home to many plant species that are found almost nowhere else in the state. It's a truly unique and beautiful place to go looking for native wildflowers. Be sure to explore the Lynx Prairie Trail, which offers a glimpse at rare species like Indian paintbrush, western sunflower, and the endangered scaly blazing star.

Bigelow Cemetery State Nature Preserve

600 Rosedale Rd, Irwin, OH 43029

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Although it spans just half an acre, Bigelow Cemetery Nature Preserve is a unique and special place. This small park 30 minutes outside Columbus has never been grazed or plowed, a fact that becomes all the more striking when one looks out at the cultivated farmlands that surround it. This small plot of land was first used as a cemetery in pioneer times, and the grave markers dating back to the 1800s still stand among the tall prairie grasses and blooming wildflowers, giving it an almost dreamlike appearance. The blossoms are frequented by hummingbirds and butterflies and reach their peak in July and August.

Brecksville Reservation

9000 Chippewa Rd., Brecksville, OH 44141

The largest of Cleveland's 18 Metroparks, the Brecksville Reservation is home to the striking Chippewa Creek Gorge, as well as a section of the 1,400-mile Buckeye Trail, which forms a circular loop through the entire state of Ohio. The Brecksville Reservation is a great place for a spring wildflower hike, with prolific blooms of trout lily, great white trillium, marsh marigold, spring beauty, Jack-in-the-pulpit, and many other species. The 0.75-mile Wildflower Loop Trail packs a lot of great flora into a short, sweet hike. 

Walk on the Wild Side

Ohio has hundreds of amazing parks and trails where you can see blooming wildflowers throughout the spring and summer months. If we forgot to mention your favorite place, be sure to let us know in the comments below!

The earliest water-powered mills date back to the Roman Empire. As farming became an increasingly important part of Ohio's economy, mills were so vital to the industry that communities frequently grew around them.

In the 21st century, several mills remain as monuments to the development of agriculture around Northeast Ohio, Columbus, and Cincinnati. Step back in time for a fascinating look at our state's past with a trip to these picturesque historic mills. 

Historic Clifton Mill

75 Water St., Clifton, OH 45316

With its red-sided building, giant wheel, and cascading water, picture-perfect Historic Clifton Mill could have been pulled from a movie set. In reality, the authentic 19th-century grist mill is the only one of six mills in the immediate area that remains standing. After touring the mill, stroll across the adjacent 90-foot covered wooden bridge for some spectacular views of the grounds and stop in at the 1940s Gas Station Museum next door. Complete your day with a fresh-cooked meal at the onsite restaurant, serving breakfast and lunch seven days a week. During spring and summer, the mill itself is open weekdays from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Admission is $3. Call ahead to confirm.

Wolf Creek Mill

St. Rt. 3 South, Loudonville, OH 44842 

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Just over 20 years ago, Mark Smith and his family were camping in nearby Mohican State Park when they discovered Wolf Creek Mill. Sadly, this once-impressive grist mill had fallen into severe disrepair after years of neglect. As a historic restoration contractor, Mark was inspired to form the non-profit Friends of the Mill Group to restore the site's original glory. The mill itself is now back in operating condition, and the group's ultimate goal is to create a historic village, preserving tradition for future generations. Visit the website for hours as well as the schedule of fundraisers, trade fairs, and other events.

Bear's Mill

6450 Arcanum-Bears Mill Rd., Greenville, OH 45331

While the name may sound like a wildlife sanctuary, Bear's Mill is named for Gabriel Baer, the man who constructed the building in 1849. Incredibly, the framework consists of hand-hewn timber beams that are close to 50 feet long without a single splice. But this still-functioning grist mill is about more than commerce. It also houses the Clark Gallery, a space devoted to showcasing a rotating selection of works from local artists, including pottery made by Bear's Mill potters. Admission is free. Hours are 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. Thursday through Saturday and 1 – 5 p.m. Sunday.

Gaston's Mill

12021 Echo Dell Rd., East Liverpool, OH 43920

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Travel back in time with a visit to Pioneer Village at Beaver Creek State Park. In addition to Gaston's Mill, a fully restored grist mill dating back to 1837, the village is home to a blacksmith shop, chapel, schoolhouse, and a canal-era lock, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Beaver Creek State Park and Pioneer Village are open to the public daily at no charge, while Gaston's Mill may be viewed in operation on select weekends during the summer.

Bieber Mill

4919 Chapman Rd., #4801, Delaware, OH 43015 

Tucked away on the banks of the Olentangy River, the ruins of the Bieber Mill might resemble one of the castles from Game of Thrones. In 1848, only a few years after its construction, George Bieber and his son James purchased the original wooden grist mill. James later built a towering stone mill, but lost ownership when he couldn't afford to run the business. Sadly, a fire in the early 1900s destroyed the frame mill and part of the stone mill. The Ohio Department of Natural Resources currently owns the property. They have stabilized the remains and hope to obtain financing for a complete restoration. In the meantime, Bieber Mill's beauty still shines through, making it a popular spot for sightseers and photographers.

Rock Mill

1429 Rockmill Pl. NW, Lancaster, OH 43130

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The current Rock Mill, which is the stunning centerpiece of Stebelton Park, is actually the third structure to bear the name. In the mid-2000s, the building underwent a major restoration, including the creation of a 26-foot all-wood waterwheel, which is the largest one in the state. Across from the waterwheel is a breathtaking 14-foot waterfall, where the Hocking River flows through the gorge. A quaint white covered bridge completes the nostalgic scene. The park is open daily from dawn until dusk, while tours of the mill are offered from noon - 4 p.m. each weekend from May through October.

Sauder Village

22611 State Route 2, Archbold, OH 43502

If a history book came to life, it would be Sauder Village. Back in 1976, Erie Sauder built his namesake village as a living tribute to the pioneering spirit that shaped Ohio. Among the 75 historic structures and 50,000 artifacts is a working grist mill, which is used to grind corn into meal for their cooking demonstrations. Visitors also get a chance to try their hand at grinding corn with stones and replicate the method used by Native Americans. Other points of interest include Erie's Farm Shop and the Cabinet Shop, where you can learn more about Erie's other legacy, Sauder Woodworking. Sauder Village opens for the season on May 6. Visit the website for information about hours and admission prices. 

Garrett's Mill & Brewing Company

8148 Main St., Garrettsville, OH 44231

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"Reuse, repurpose, recycle" is today's mantra of environmental awareness, and it's clearly what owners Shelli and Brian Buchanan had in mind when they founded Garrett's Mill & Brewing Company. When it was constructed in 1804, Garrett's Mill served a radius of 20 miles, leading to the development of the town that bears the same name. Shelli and John kept the essence of the mill in creating their brewery and gastropub. In addition to inventive house brews such as Garrett's Gold and Ma Barker Birch Beer, the restaurant serves elevated pub fare. Signature dishes include the "Brewben," with bratwurst subbing for corned beef, and BBQ chicken gouda mac. Hours are noon - 8 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday, noon - 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and noon - 7 p.m. Sunday.

Down by the Old Mill Stream

Grist mills produce flour, which is the foundation for many of our favorite foods. Donuts, cakes, bread, pie ... what's number one on your list of baked goods? 

Did you know that food and agriculture is the largest industry in Ohio? With more than 77,000 farms comprising nearly 14 million acres, the Buckeye State is a national leader in more than 35 product sectors.

The highest concentration of farms is in Northeast Ohio, so it's no surprise that the region is rich in farm-to-table dining. Enjoy food the way it was meant to be eaten at these innovative restaurants around Cleveland, Akron, and Canton.

Wolf Creek Tavern

3044 Wadsworth Rd., Norton, OH 44203

While farm-to-table may be a modern concept, Wolf Creek Tavern keeps one foot in the past. The bar, housed in a historic 1830s building, honors their speakeasy legacy with Prohibition-era cocktails made from the original recipes. Wolf Creek's food menu features upscale tavern favorites such as burgers, pasta, and fish and chips made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Follow them on Facebook for news on the weekly burger-and-beer pairings. The kitchen is open 4 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday and 4 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday.

Forage Public House

14600 Detroit Ave., Lakewood, OH 44107

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Farm-to-table meets gastropub at Forage Public House, a hip neighborhood restaurant focused on sustainable ingredients. Taco filling options include grilled Amish chicken, crispy walleye, and vegan cauliflower. Breakfast dishes, such as the popular Hash N Cure with beef brisket, are served all day long. And what would a gastropub be without creative cocktails like Blood Sangria and Black Walnut Manhattan? Forage Public House is open daily from 11 a.m. - 10 p.m. with extended hours until 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday.

Hide-A-Way Buffalo Grill

4021 Mahoning Rd., NE, Canton, OH 44705

Hide-A-Way Buffalo Grill was actually ahead of the farm-to-table curve. Back in 1983, the family-owned restaurant used buffalo burgers as a novelty to build interest in their newly opened business. The high-protein, low-fat meat proved so popular that it's now the restaurant's signature item. Today, buffalo has found its way into menu items such as stew, meatloaf, and even chef's salad. With these dishes accounting for 40 percent of sales, the restaurant goes through one entire buffalo per month. Carryout is easy with the dedicated to-go window. Hours are 11 a.m. - 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday.

The Blue Door Cafe & Bakery

1970 State Rd., Cuyahoga Falls, OH 44223

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When you're recognized by the New York Times, you must be doing something right. In 2020, The Blue Door Cafe & Bakery made the Times' list of "Best Brunch in Every State." This charming, European-style cafe features a half-ton Alsatian bread oven and an antique pine pastry case. Fans drive from all around Northeast Ohio to enjoy dishes such as chicken and waffles as well as their croissants, Danishes, sticky buns, and other delectable baked goods. Order ahead for pickup at their convenient drive-thru window. The Blue Door is open until 2 p.m. daily, with baked goods and coffee available starting at 6 a.m. while brunch begins at 8 a.m.

Nosh Curbside

5929 Darrow Rd., Hudson, OH 44236

What's better than a hot, home-cooked meal? How about a hot, home-cooked meal prepared by a professional? Whether you want to try something new or you just need a break, Nosh Curbside offers fresh, made-to-order meals delivered right to your car. Mix and match entrées and sides such as vegan meatballs, gouda mac & cheese, cast iron beets, and their signature chicken parmesan. Feeding the family? Check out the dinners for four. Dishes are available Thursday through Saturday, with ordering from 4:30 p.m. - 8 p.m. for pickup from 5 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.

Flying Fig

2523 Market Ave., Cleveland, OH 44113

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Karen Small, owner and executive chef of Flying Fig, is truly committed to supporting Northeast Ohio. In 1999, Karen opened the eatery and its companion market next door as a way of contributing to downtown's rebirth. Build your own cheese and charcuterie board or enjoy some variety with several of the sharable small plates. Their signature sandwiches, including the popular grilled eggplant, make a perfect grab-and-go lunch for carryout. Lunch and dinner hours are 11 a.m. - 9 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, with brunch served on weekends from 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. 

Aurelia 

16 N. Main St, Chagrin Falls, OH 44022

James Balchak, the classically-trained chef at Aurelia, explains the restaurant's culinary attitude in five words: "I believe in Northeast Ohio." Aurelia's menu changes daily to make use of the freshest meat, seafood, and produce available from local suppliers. A typical dish might include fried brown basmati rice with organic carrots and broccolini along with Lake Erie perch or walleye. Chef Balchak sums up Aurelia's offerings as, "honest food and drink." Order online for curbside pickup or local delivery. Dinner is served 4 p.m. - 8 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday and 5 p.m. - 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday, with brunch served 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. on weekends. 

Butcher & Sprout

1846 Front St., Cuyahoga Falls, OH 44221

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In case the name doesn't give it away, signs both inside and outside Butcher & Sprout proclaim their farm-to-table philosophy. The family-friendly bar and restaurant is known for its gourmet burgers, made with all-Ohio, grass-fed, non-GMO beef. If you prefer, substitute a chicken, turkey, or plant-based patty. Start with an order of pickle fries, which many customers find irresistible. Efficient diners go for the Colossal Bloody Mary, topped with bacon, pickle fries, celery, and a four-ounce cheeseburger. Butcher & Sprout is open 11 a.m. - 10 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 11 a.m. - 11 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m. - 11 p.m. Saturday, and 10 a.m. - 10 p.m. Sunday.

Osso Farm Restaurant

9145 Old State Rd., Hambden, OH 44024 

At Osso Farm Restaurant, owners Scott and Tara Webster take the concept of farm-to-table one step further. Their pasture-to-plate menu includes scratch-made dishes using ingredients from the family's own Flying W Farm, where the restaurant is located. As one satisfied diner recently put it, the food is so fresh "you'll be daydreaming about your meal weeks after you've eaten it." With Angus and Wagyu steaks, gourmet burgers, and authentic BBQ, there's something on the menu for all tastes. Reservations are highly recommended. Hours are 5 p.m. - 10 p.m. Thursday through Saturday.

Old McDonald Had a Farm

Chicken, beef, or pork: What's for dinner on your farm-to-table meal? 

Every day, dedicated volunteers at housing non-profits throughout Northeast Ohio invest their time and energy in helping people find safe, affordable housing where they can thrive. Non-profit organizations in Cleveland and beyond work hard to provide housing support for the people who need it most, without asking for anything in return. Volunteer Recognition Day, which takes place every year on April 20, presents the perfect opportunity to show some love to the housing volunteers in your community. Check out our list of 10 housing non-profits around Northeast Ohio where you can thank a volunteer this April.

Maximum Accessible Housing of Ohio

1725 E. 115th St., Cleveland, OH 44106

Maximum Accessible Housing of Ohio is a Cleveland area non-profit that focuses on providing housing and support for people with physical mobility disabilities. They provide fully accessible, affordable housing where people with disabilities can live full, independent lives and work with other local non-profits that share the same mission. The organization also provides a variety of educational programs for senior citizens, people with disabilities, and anyone who's interested in learning about the importance about accessibility in housing.

YWCA Canton 

231 6th St. NE, Canton, OH 44702 

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YWCA Canton is a community organization focused on empowering women, eliminating racism, and providing assistance to families throughout the Canton area. The organization offers a variety of housing services, including emergency shelters, permanent supportive housing, and a unique rapid re-housing program. They also operate an early childhood learning center where local children can have safe daycare and education from certified teachers. Their THRIVE program is dedicated to helping the youngest residents and their families by advocating for better prenatal care and providing educational resources for new parents.

Enterprise Community Partners 

1360 E. 9th St., Cleveland, OH 44114 

The team at Enterprise Community Partners is dedicated to addressing housing inequality from a wide variety of angles in cities across the country, including in Cleveland. Their work includes financing and development of homes, development of new solutions to address housing inequality, and advocacy for policies to address housing inequality at every level of government. They also provide resources and conduct research to help shed light on the challenges of housing inequality throughout the country.

Fair Housing Center for Rights and Research 

2728 Euclid Ave. Ste. 200, Cleveland, OH 44115 

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The Fair Housing Center for Rights and Research has been supporting fair housing rights in Northeast Ohio for nearly 40 years, which started with a small group of local fair housing and civil rights advocates. It has since grown into a large organization that advocates for fair housing policy, the elimination of housing discrimination, and promotion of community involvement in housing issues. They conduct research, offer educational programs, advocate for improved public policy, and work to enforce existing fair housing regulations.

ICAN Housing 

1214 Market Ave. N, Canton, OH 44714 

The team at ICAN Housing believes that a stable home is one of the keys to a stable life, and has more than 30 years of experience supporting people struggling with homelessness in Stark County. They take a holistic approach to fighting homelessness, which includes housing support services, affordable housing programs, and permanent supportive housing. They provide community outreach, help homeless people reenter the workforce, and provide extensive peer support. ICAN Housing also works with other non-profit organizations throughout the Stark County area that focus on addressing homelessness and providing affordable housing for those in need.

CHN Housing Partners 

2999 Payne Ave., Cleveland, OH 44114 

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CHN Housing Partners is a non-profit that aims to improve lives and create more equitable communities by creating affordable housing. They approach the challenge from multiple angles, by building affordable homes, providing housing services for people in need, and increasing the supply of affordable housing available throughout the Cleveland area. They have developed more than 6,500 affordable homes, provided housing services for more than 40,000 people annually, and helped thousands of people find new, affordable homes around Cleveland.

Front Steps Housing and Services 

1545 W. 25th St., Cleveland, OH 44113 

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With more than 35 years of experience working to eliminate homelessness and housing inequality throughout Cuyahoga County, Front Steps Housing and Services has a long tradition of helping local families find affordable permanent housing. They created a transitional housing facility to help families in need find a temporary residence, and work hard to make sure that those same families eventually find a permanent home to call their own. Front Steps also helps people get back on their feet with a diverse selection of educational programs to provide advice on independent living, help with behavioral health challenges, and prepare people to enter the workforce.

United Way of Greater Cleveland 

1331 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, OH 44115 

The United Way of Greater Cleveland is part of a nationwide organization dedicated to addressing the challenges of poverty at their source and providing vital assistance for community members in need. The Community Hub for Basic Needs, a new program from the United Way, is designed to be a resource for providing housing assistance, and educational support to help people deal with the many challenges posed by poverty.

Nueva Luz Urban Resource Center 

2226 W. 89th St., Cleveland, OH 44102 

The Nueva Luz Urban Resource Center offers a comprehensive set of community services and resources in the Cleveland area. Housing resources are a big part of the mission at Nueva Luz URC, with programs that include assistance for finding affordable housing, help with finding grants for new homeowners, and assistance with covering the cost of key utilities. The organization also provides services to help people with nutritional, medical, and legal needs.

Where Will You Thank a Volunteers This Year?

Whether you choose to volunteer your own time or recognize the work of the selfless volunteers in your community, Volunteer Recognition Day is a great chance to show your support.

While crafts have long been popular recreational activities in the United States, 2020 saw a surge in people picking up these relaxing pastimes. CNN reports that crafting provides valuable stress relief and improves cognitive abilities that keep your brain young.

Unleash your inner creativity with projects and supplies from these great craft stores around Northeast Ohio, Columbus, and Cincinnati.

Northeast Ohio

Hollo's Papercraft

1878 Pearl Rd., Brunswick, OH 44212

When it comes to paper, if you can't find it at Hollo's Papercraft, it doesn't exist. The warehouse-like store has shelf after shelf full of card stock, envelopes, stationery, and blank greeting cards in every color and style imaginable. Design to your heart's content with their amazing variety of pens, markers, stamps, stickers, and other artistic tools. Hours are 9 a.m. - 7 p.m. weekdays and 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Saturday.

The Quilting Bee

15709 Detroit Ave., Lakewood, OH 44107

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In name and practice, The Quilting Bee honors the craft as a means of both individual expression and social connection. You'll be inspired by the impressive array of fabrics, organized by theme, designer, and color. Be sure to check out "Our Favorite Things," an assortment of supplies and accessories chosen by the shop's staff. Shop online for curbside pickup or delivery. The Quilting Bee is open 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Tuesday, 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Saturday, and 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. Sunday.

Around the Table Yarns

20085 Chagrin Blvd., Shaker Heights, OH 44122

After numerous conversations about what they wanted to see in a yarn shop, Pam Berkson and Beth Billings decided the solution was DIY and Around the Table Yarns was born. Customers are encouraged to post photos of their "Fabulous Finished Objects" for a chance to win gift cards. Hours for curbside assistance and pickup only are 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. Friday through Sunday. The online shop is open 24/7 and there are two daily Zoom sessions for shopping, help, and socializing. 

Columbus

On Paper

743 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43215

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With so much interaction occurring online, eye-catching letters, invitations, and greeting cards are a fun way to make your communication stand out. On Paper has an extensive range of products, including gifts such as picture frames, ornaments, and guest towels, that can be personalized for added appeal. Brighten up your private writing with one of their stylish journals and notebooks. Embellish them with stickers and stamps to create your own individual design. Visit their new location Tuesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Crafters Pantry

3607 Interchange Rd., Columbus, OH 43204

True to its name, Crafters Pantry serves as a convenient "storage" for your materials and supplies. Whether crafting is your hobby or business, Crafters Pantry can quickly provide whatever you need, when you need it. The shop buys in bulk from manufacturers and uses their own equipment to create smaller, more affordable pieces than you would be able to get directly.  Order online for quick shipping.

614 Knit Studio

4436 Indianola Ave., Columbus, OH 43214

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614 Knit Studio proclaims they are "fluent in fiber," and their goal is to help the local community become equally articulate. Owner Andrea Panzica has a strong background in fashion design and uses her experience to curate a yarn boutique with products from top independent dyers and artisans. The studio also offers a robust schedule of in-person and virtual classes focused on specific projects as well as general topics, such as knitting for beginners and spinning your own yarn. Hours are noon - 6 p.m. Monday through Wednesday, 10 a.m. - 8 p.m. Thursday, 1 - 8 p.m. Friday and 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Saturday. 

Cincinnati

Knit On!

735 Monmouth St., Newport, KY 41071

Frequently named as the best yarn shop in the Cincinnati area, Knit On! lets you shop for yarns from around the world without leaving home. In addition to purchasing from the shop's own inventory, you can place a drop-ship order from one of their suppliers. Knit On! is currently open from 2 - 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday for curbside pickup and limited in-store shopping. Call ahead to inquire about individual appointments outside regular store hours.

Indigo Hippo

1334 Main St., Cincinnati, OH 45202

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The quirky name isn't the only unique feature of Indigo Hippo. Founded as the brainchild of a group of Cincinnati art students, Indigo Hippo is a nonprofit "creative reuse" shop. Donated materials are sold under a price range, allowing customers to pay what they can so arts and crafts are accessible to everyone, regardless of budget. Shopping is currently by appointment Thursday through Friday from noon - 5 p.m., although walk-ins are admitted as space permits.  

Paper Wings

1207 Vine St., Cincinnati, OH 45202

Carolyn Deininger has always loved the promise held by a blank sheet of paper. When Carolyn and husband Mike began receiving requests for more paper goods at their gallery MiCA 12/v, she saw it as the perfect excuse to open Paper Wings. The shop carries a lovingly curated selection of cards, notebooks, and accessories along with works from local artists.  Hours are 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. daily except Sunday when doors close at 5 p.m. Their online shop is open 24/7, with free delivery within the Cincinnati 275 area.

Feeling Crafty?

Do you have a handmade item in your Ohio home that holds a special memory?