›› Laura Benoit
Stephanie Papik and Ryan Davis are no strangers to Fernwood—in fact, the crafting couple met here. “We love Fernwood,” Davis says. “We love the community, the people, the businesses, and we are so grateful to be located on the land of the Lekwungen speaking people.”
Since 2008, Papik and Davis have owned and run the fibre arts shop Knotty by Nature, now located at 1919 Fernwood Rd, former home of Freedom Kilts. “We are so happy to be part of the crafting community in Victoria,” says Davis. Why do fibre artists love to visit Knotty by Nature? “We offer a different style—maybe a little more chaos,” Davis laughs. “We offer products for many fibre crafts; knitting and crocheting of course, but also weaving, spinning, and felting. Many of our products are local.” In addition to selling materials, Knotty by Nature also offers crafting classes for knitting, felting, and more.
Since the outbreak of COVID-19, the shop has been offering products for sale online, as well as gift cards. “Every day, we are putting new products on the website,” Davis says. “We really are a microbusiness. We wear all the hats. So lately, we have packing and shipping orders, and even offering interactive online classes.” During COVID-19, Knotty by Nature has continued to support our community, offering free needle felting kits in March for anyone in need of a fun project.
When asked if he has any tips for those trying their hand at crafting while staying home, Davis has two recommendations: turn to YouTube for handy tutorials, and buy local. “It is a great time to support local fibre stores,” he says. “We are still open. We are still here for you.”
Knotty by Nature continues to offer online sales, pickup and shipping, and classes. You can shop their website at kbnfibres.ca.
