NYC’s best: Craft stores

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Upper East Side

Annie & Company
After a recent expansion to include a spanking-new ground floor just for yarn, Annie Goodman’s 3,000-square-foot, light-filled megastore is a must for anyone obsessed with crafts. Head to the upper level, where hand-painted needlepoint canvases of butterflies and quaint cottages lend a homey feel to the white walls, before fondling skeins of Claudia Hand Painted Yarns (beginning at $12) and Artyarns five-ply cashmere (from $46). 1325 Madison Ave between 93rd and 94th Sts (212-289-2944)

Knitting 321
For four years, owner Valeria Kardos has been doling out helpful advice, and private knitting and crocheting lessons (from $30 an hour) at this UES boutique. Her sharp eye for gorgeous European yarns—which are all within easy access via the boutique’s hivelike shelves—should also aid you in your quest to whip up your first cable-knit scarf with pom-poms. 321 E 75th St between First and Second Aves (212-772-2020)

String
Get a dose of chromotherapy via the rainbowlike array of luxe yarns including private-label cashmere (from $47) and chunky wool (from $17) from indie knitwear brand Twinkle, not to mention the stunning, saturated cardigans, scarves and capes on display. In-store designer Lidia Karabinech, who has worked for Donna Karan and Ellen Tracy, can also help customize a pattern for the Koigu multicolored merino-wool yarn ($20) that you’ve been jonesing for. 130 E 82nd St between Park and Lexington Aves (212-288-9276)