“Everyone who works here has an in-depth knowledge of knitting and crocheting,” said Nancy McRay, owner of Woven Art and creator of her own line of yarn.

The 1,500-square-foot yarn shop and art gallery carries a unique variety of materials, ranging from McRay’s line to commercial products to local artists’ displays. But what really separates Woven Art from similar art stores is its user-friendly format.

“I think it’s the atmosphere and the personal attention (that keeps people coming back). It’s nice when you become a regular customer and get to know the other regulars,” said staff member Kelly McRay, a studio art senior who also is Nancy’s daughter.

Anywhere from two to six times a week, Nancy and other Lansing-area artists provide classes open to anybody interested in knitting, weaving, crocheting and other methods of design. She also offers personal appointments for beginners.

“The atmosphere, the friendliness of everybody and the great fibers and yarns (keeps me coming back). You can find things here that you can’t find at a regular store,” said Angie Tzoumakas, an East Lansing resident and regular customer.

Woven Art advertises high-quality fibers that outlast the materials of its competitors. Included in the merchandise are hand-dyed yarns, which Nancy said have more character than the other yarns, as well as environmentally friendly fibers.

The shop came to East Lansing in 2002, but moved to its current location two and a half years ago.

“I really just want to share what we’ve got here because we have a lot of fun, and if anyone is the least bit interested, I want to help them out,” Nancy McRay said.