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Who are we?
A River of Yarn is both a physical studio and an e‑commerce hub, devoted to offering luxurious yet accessible hand‑knitting and crochet yarns, along with patterns and accessories. In 2025, we are celebrating ten wonderful years of creativity, community, and craft.
A core part of our mission is education: we regularly teach workshops and classes to knitters and crocheters of all levels. Tracy also travels across Ontario to participate in fibre festivals, guild gatherings, and trade shows. You’ll often find her presenting seminars and hands‑on sessions to eager participants.
Lately, we’ve also expanded further into textile innovation: designing original patterns and working directly with fibres and materials to bring fresh, inspired offerings to our customers.
Owner, Tracy Minnema
Tracy Minnema began dabbling in the fibre arts at five years old. Crocheting and knitting were her first foray into this world. Sewing, dressmaking, needlework and quilting, soon followed. Having obtained a Fashion Merchandising Diploma, Tracy worked for a few years in the fashion industry in Toronto.
Following this, she was accepted into Queen’s University Faculty of Education, and earned an Education Certification in Technological Studies – Clothing and Fashion Specialization. In 2021, Tracy retired from teaching at the secondary level in Family Studies, after 29 years.
Working with fibres and textiles has always been a part of both her personal and professional life. Some of the most important aspects of knitting and crocheting for Tracy is the ability to bond with others, and to help them share the peace and relaxation that comes about in being creative with fibres.
Tracy looks forward to the “River Relaxing” get-togethers with the community, where fellow knitters and crocheters are welcome to enjoy sitting by the river and stitching. She also enjoys traveling around Ontario for various fibre festivals, guilds, shows, and workshops.
Our studio
A River of Yarn is located on one of Canada's National Historic Sites, the Trent Severn Waterway.
Accessible by both land and water. You will find us just 5 minutes north of Rice Lake by boat, and 15 minutes south of Peterborough, Ontario, by car.
353 Kent's Bay Road, KEENE, Ontario K9J 6X8, CA
705-740-3881
Open:
Wednesday 10 am - 1pm
Thursday 3 pm - 7 pm
Friday 10 am - 3 pm
Saturday 10 am - 1 pm
Testimonials
"I am very happy with this product and very easy to work with in my crocheting and will return soon for more and we have been spreading the word about your unique and quaint shop with a great knowledge of fibers etc." Dennis & Tom (Website Review)
"Three of us visited your shop two weeks ago and we just wanted to say how much we enjoyed your location. The yarn crawl was so much fun and we, hands down, felt your shop was the best we attended in two days and seven stops. Wonderful selection, awesome staff and perfect location - what more could we ask for. Thank you for making our trip from London, Ontario, worthwhile."
-Sharon O, Karen P, Sue L.; London, Ontario (Card in Mail)
"A beautiful drive to Tracy's store on the river with a gorgeous display of yarns and helpful advice." S. Newton (Google)
"I ordered online from Alberta and had free delivery to my grandmother who lives locally and surprised her with a care package and she was so happy with all the beautiful colours! Thanks so much for your quick service and great products!" Kaitlin S. (Facebook)
"Tracy has a beautiful shop! There were so many different kits, yarn, needles etc. Plus great customer service." Jennifer F. (Facebook)
"Tracy has a large selection and variety of excellent quality yarns and accessories in stock at very reasonable prices. She's very helpful and knowledgeable. A very pleasant place to visit." Alyce L. (Facebook)
WE ARE A VERIFIED Knitted Knockers of Canada drop off LOCATION.
Knitted Knockers are special handmade breast prosthesis for women who have undergone mastectomies or other procedures to the breast. These soft comfortable lightweight prosthesis are available for FREE. They are knit with love by our wonderful volunteers. If you wish to donate a pair of knitted knockers to us, please find the link to patterns below.
Toronto Knitter's Guild
Proud member and Yarn Store sponsor of the Toronto Knitter's Guild.
We foster a supportive and welcoming fibre community, encouraging learning, inspiration, and sharing the joy of yarn.
peterborough & Kawarthas
chamber of commerce
Business beyond limits
WBN
The Women’s Business Network of Peterborough (WBN) is a networking channel for women who wish to enhance and expand their business contacts and grow their businesses.
Land Acknowledgement
A River of Yarn is located on the Treaty 20 Michi Saagiig territory and in the traditional territory of the Michi Saagiig and Chippewa Nations, collectively known as the Williams Treaties First Nations. We respectfully acknowledge that the Williams Treaties First Nations are the stewards and caretakers of these lands and waters in perpetuity, and that they continue to maintain this responsibility to ensure their health and integrity for generations to come.