This week I had a day trip up to County Londonderry to visit family so while we were up that neck of woods we paid a visit to a brand new independent wool shop in Limavady (approximately 60 miles, north of Belfast), Row by Roe.

We were greeted at the entrance by a fun giant ball of wool and a fabulous hand painted stone a hint of the mood to be found inside the shop.

The shop was opened back in December in a former photographic studio by the lovely Lisa, a local woman with a passion for knitting.

When we arrived Lisa was in the process of knitting this gorgeous Rowan mambo chunky wrap over (she’s photographed wearing the finished wrap). She was very welcoming especially to Miss P and Miss E who were with me, they couldn’t contain their excitement at all the craft kits on display. There were kits for sewing, felting, crocheting and knitting.

The store has a colourful selection of yarns to suit all budgets, fat quarter packs, books and gifts. In the centre of the room is a large table that is frequently used by knit and chat groups that are held on the premises.

Miss P and Miss E insisted on buying some sheep soap, made from … you guessed it…sheep’s milk.  Who would have thought that sheep soap could provide an hour of fun on the long car journey home,

So I’m sure you’re wondering what I bought… well these are the items that begged me to buy them:

I have been looking for a book aimed at children to teach them how to crochet and this one sems to fit the bill. It has clear illustrations and Miss P is quite excited by using the book herself. I’ll do a book review on it soon. The yarn is Stylecraft Carnival, the self-striping yarn is an amazing colour and I thought it’d be perfect for a little doll blanket for Miss E’s birthday, she has requested a dolls bed for her Ducky (her favourite duck doll).

We enjoyed our visit to Row by Roe and next time we’re in Limavady we’ll be back for another visit.

Do you know of any independent yarn/craft/fabric shops in Northern Ireland that would like a review? If so please contact me, I’d love to visit them.

Jean