The Knitting Room, owned by 72-year-old Pat Henderson, has become a popular meeting place for crafters and readers
In a charming corner of town, a unique business combines creativity, community and a touch of nostalgia. The Knitting Room, owned by 72-year-old Pat Henderson, has become a popular meeting place for crafters and readers, offering a mix of activities and products in a cozy space at 11 Columbia Walk.
Henderson, who bought the company in August 2019, describes her path to retirement as a surprising turn of events. “I had sold my previous companies and decided to retire, which took three whole weeks,” she laughed. Like many retirees, Henderson was restless and longed for meaningful employment. “I like being retired, but I still needed meaningful employment,” she explained.
With her varied background, which includes church musician, seamstress and organizer of the monthly Women’s Alive group, Henderson was well equipped to take on the challenge of running The Knitting Room. “When I bought the existing business, I thought, ‘I know how to sew and knit, so this is a perfect fit,'” she recalls. “At the beginning of my marriage, I didn’t have much, and with children, I had to make clothes for everyone to save money.”
The knitting room is divided into four different areas, each catering to different interests and hobbies. The knitting and crochet area invites enthusiasts to meet and share techniques, while the craft area is a treasure trove for those looking to unleash their creativity. For book lovers, the reading area boasts an impressive collection of over 1,000 titles and is a perfect corner to relax with a good read. Finally, the gift room offers a selection of faith-based items and pre-knitted items, making it a great place for thoughtful gifts.
What sets The Knitting Room apart from other local businesses is its unique offering. Henderson stocks specialty yarns, dyes and even a full men’s underwear collection, giving customers access to a variety of products that are hard to find elsewhere in town. “We try to respond to the needs of our community,” she said.
Henderson’s commitment to her customers is evident in the friendly atmosphere she maintains. “I get various requests for items that I may not have in the store, but if I find them, I’ll get them for you,” she said. This dedication to customer satisfaction has earned her a loyal following, and many locals consider The Knitting Room their second home.
Open Wednesday through Friday, Henderson strategically organizes her schedule to allow time for her other passions. She offers specialty classes at the local Legion, holding two two-hour sessions each day. “The next classes will be on September 24, 2024,” she announced, inviting both novice and experienced crafters to join her. These classes not only provide instruction, but also foster a sense of community among participants.
Henderson’s journey as an entrepreneur has been rewarding, but it’s her connection to the community that brings her the most joy. “I love when people come in and share their projects and ideas with us,” she said. “It’s not just about selling products; it’s about building relationships and creating a space where people can feel comfortable and inspired.”
While The Knitting Room continues to thrive under Henderson’s leadership, it remains a testament to the power of creativity and community in Elliot Lake. With her warm nature, diverse offerings, and commitment to service, Pat Henderson has transformed a small business into a local treasure and proven that retirement can be just the beginning of a new and fulfilling chapter.
