The sign on the front of the Mooroolbark Wool & Haberdashery indicates they sell wool, haberdashery, puzzles and gifts.
It's nearly as busy outside as inside.
I knew what wool, puzzles and gifts were, but not haberdashery. My Collins English Dictionary soon educated me. They are small items used in sewing, such as buttons, zips, and thread.
Among the huge range of products for the DIY addicts apart from wool, are supplies for crochet, spinning, felting, embroidery and much much more.
Plenty of cotton.
If you are a knitter, don't forget the two essential items, knitting needles and patterns.
Lots to see.
If you wish to make your own knitting yarn from raw wool, you can purchase a pedal-powered spinner. I have seen these in action at the Lilydale Show and it is fascinating to watch.
All you need to spin your own yarn.
While wool is the mainstay of the business, it only occupies a minor part of floor and wall space of the two joined shops.
For the embroidery enthusiasts.
Mooroolbark Wool has been in the McDonald family for twenty five years. Husband and wife team of Tony and Brenda are about to hand over the running of the business to their daughters, Jodie and Aleisha.
The McDonalds, Tony, Brenda, Jodie & Aleisha.
Having a friendly chat with the McDonalds, with a question and answer session, I learnt a lot about knitting.
It is still a popular pastime with all ages, even children and teenagers are becoming knitters, even some males.
Very colourful.
About 50% of their wool stocks are imported, but made from Australian wool.
More wool.
On display around the shop are ready made knitted garments for those who want to cut out the middle person.
Ready made items.
Passing into the second shop is like entering Aladdin's cave. Gifts galore would be one way of describing the merchandise.
A range of soft toys.
Some of the many gifts.
Knitting classes are held throughout the year for those who wish learn the art of turning a strand of wool into something you can wear.
You can buy a jumper at K-Mart for less than the cost of wool to knit it, but I can personally vouch that a hand-knitted jumper is far superior in all aspects to a store-bought one.
These will keep you warm.
Wool shops are a rarity these days, but if you are a serious knitter, seek this one out.
A big advantage of a family business, it that they really know their product.
