who we are

Nina, the yarn shop, opened in 2004 in Chicago’s Wicker Park neighborhood. Nina, the original owner, had a vision of an inviting and contemporary space and she filled it with beautiful textures, colors and lots of inspiration. After nearly 13 years, the shop transitioned into the hands of Hilary, a long-time employee and lover of all things crafty. In July of 2019, Hilary relocated the shop to a new space in Noble Square. She now continues Nina’s mission of inspiring creativity in others beyond knitting, with the help of an amazing staff!

who are we?

Most of us were loyal customers of the original Nina! We are co-workers and friends, all very fortunate that we have gotten to take a place we have always loved and make it our own.

Hilary

owner

Hilary learned how to knit almost accidentally. Immediately obsessed, she learned crocheting as well and tried every new yarn she could get her hands on, before starting to work at Nina in 2009. Hilary realized she was in her element helping other knitters/crocheters with their yarn choices and teaching them new skills. This year, she finally committed to learning how to sew. She makes as much time for all the crafting as possible while also running the shop, and despite her busy schedule, she wouldn’t have it any other way.

Jennifer

manager

After years of teaching for a living and crafting for fun, Jennifer decided to join us and turn her hobbies into something more. She has years of knitting and sewing experience, and is very skilled with embroidery, cross stitch, and other forms of needlework. You'll see here here mostly during the week, always with a smile on her face!  

Chel

assistant manager

Chel joined our team fresh out of college, but she is no novice at stitching. This seasoned knitter also has amazing crochet skills, including experience in Tunisian Crochet. This self-proclaimed “nerd” may seem quiet at first, but don’t let her fool you! 

Omoleye

assistant manager

Omoleye might possibly have the most hobbies of all of us! In addition to knitting, sewing, and quilting, she spins, generally loves fiber and textile art, and is also very into nature/gardening/animals/birding. You'll find her in the shop sharing her expertise and helping customers for now, but we fully expect that someday she will probably own a sheep or alpaca farm somewhere!

Our management has help from the rest of our wonderful team, who aren't here as often but are still such an important part of our community. These key team members are Rebecca, Jess, Sarah, Shari, Barbara & Christine. They bring a variety of talents and fun, and we couldn't do it without them!