Only at String Theory
We partner with independent dyers whose work lifts communities — and whose colors you won't find anywhere else. Every skein has a story worth knowing.
Make something beautiful.
Make the world better.
String Theory is a yarn shop for people who believe that slowing down to make something is its own form of activism — and that the yarn you choose is a vote for the world you want to live in.
New to knitting or crochet? You are in the right place. We have helped hundreds of people cast on for the first time — and we know exactly what makes the beginning easier: forgiving yarn, the right tools, and a teacher who remembers what it felt like to be brand new. Start with a worsted-weight wool in a light color and a pair of bamboo needles. If you want company on the way, we teach beginner classes in Glen Ellyn and on Zoom year-round.
Have other questions? We have answers.
We've helped hundreds of people learn to knit and crochet, and we know what makes the beginning easier: the right tools and yarn that's forgiving, beautiful, and worth finishing. Everything here is chosen with the brand-new maker in mind — by people who remember exactly what it felt like to cast on for the first time.
Whether you're in Glen Ellyn, another Chicago suburb, or anywhere in the country — we'd love to have you join our community.
The key to happines is always having something to look forward to.
Our popular Wool&... series continues.
This time with a National Park theme featuring hand dyed yarn from Explorer Knits and other trail-ready surprises. Order yours today.
If you walked into the shop and asked us what we are most excited about, this is what we'd pull from the shelves. Same answer, whether you're here in person or shopping from your couch in Omaha.
These are the things we've bought for ourselves.
"I just finished a fingerless mitten class and it was phenomenal! Liz was patient and funny and full of helpful hints. I normally cast on by 'knitting' on.. she showed me how to cast on by thumb and today I did it on my own for the first time!!!"
"Super cute yarn shop! Nice selection of yarn, lots of visible samples, and helpful staff! You can find neat crafted accessories from cool vendors, like project bags and various supplies, too. Great shop!"
"String Theory is THE BEST yarn store in the western suburbs. I drive about 45 minutes to shop here because it is worth the drive."
"I love getting your emails and seeing the beautiful yarn that you carry from small businesses."
"There are many fine shops in the Chicagoland area, but your shop particularly stands out as my favorite. I love and admire your commitment to supporting the smaller artisanal companies."
"An amazing yarn shop with a conscience. Not only will you find yarns that make a difference in the world, owner Janet and her staff are just the best."
Our Story
After the worst day of her life, Janet picked up her knitting.
Not to escape — to think.
To sit still long enough to ask: What kind of world do we live in?
What can I do to make it better?
The answer became String Theory.
For over twenty years, we’ve curated yarn, tools, and makers that make a difference — to the women who produce them, to the land they come from, and to you sitting quietly with needles in your hands, gathering yourself for the work of changing the world.
Everyone, Everywhere, Connected to Everything.
Empowerment
Every skein is someone’s livelihood. We carry yarn from women-led cooperatives, Black-owned studios, and artisan producers
whose work lifts communities — locally and globally.
Sustainability
The land matters. The fiber matters. We carry organic and fair trade products because what’s good for the earth is good for us.
SHOP ORGANIC AND SUSTAINABLE
Community
Knitting and Crochet are better together. Whether you join us in Glen Ellyn - in the Chicago suburbs - or from your living room anywhere in the country, this is a place where curious, creative people find each other.
