Lately, I have been trying to buy more locally sourced and natural fibers. It helps to support local artists and is more sustainable than mass-produced yarn.

But buying high-quality, natural yarns comes with a high price tag. While I truly believe that art can bring communities together, trying to find high-quality, affordable materials serves as a reminder of the divide between those who can afford to access different forms of art and those who cannot.

That’s why I found Wild Hand’s Little Free Fiber Library such a unique and inspiring idea. The Little Free Library movement started with the idea of a shared community library where borrowers and lenders could take and leave books for others. There are more than 90,000 Little Free Libraries in 91 countries around the world.

This creative spin on the concept stocks a wooden bookshelf with free fiber arts supplies instead of free books. Lenders and borrowers can share materials for the community to use. Inside the box is everything from yarn to patterns and books for all skill levels. It is open to anyone who is looking for supplies. If you need a little help getting started, inside the shop you will find the warmest group of people happy to give you some tips.

It’s a brilliant concept. I visited the shop for the first time today, and couldn’t believe I had never known this hidden gem was only a few minutes down the street. Wild Hand has a thoughtfully curated collection of supplies for all types of fiber arts. Stop by to check it out if you are in the Philadelphia area! Or, consider paying it forward with a donation of yarn or fiber arts supplies.

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