Now that fall has officially arrived, it’s time to start thinking about scarves and mittens. And this charming shop is the perfect destination when you want to get your knit on.

Yarns are organized by heft — so you can go straight to the lightweight skeins or the bulky ones, depending on your preference. On a recent afternoon, I was in search of a thick, non-wool yarn (I’m allergic to wool), and the helpful staff immediately steered me in the right direction. By pointing out which yarns would work for me, they saved me a lot of time.

Like many yarn stores these days, Noe Knit does offer classes — from the basics to advanced techniques. And they have a blog! (Click on the “updates” link on their web site.) You can easily stay up-to-date on their latest inventory and calendar. The blog is also chock-full of great projects, in case you need a little inspiration and already have plenty of knitted socks in your drawer.

Noe Knit
3957 24th Street
San Francisco, CA 94114
(415) 970-9750

Relaxin' Girl | Email | Print | //

Don’t be fooled by the tiny size of this place. Church Street Apothecary is packed with so many wonderful skin, haircare, bath and beauty products (for adults and babies!). Brands that are carried here include Bigelow, Marvis, Little Flower, California Baby, Phyto, Elizabeth W., Dr. Hauschka … The list goes on and on.

In addition to all the pretty bath and body goodness, the store stocks the essentials — like diapers, band-aids, tampons, OTC meds, laundry detergent, etc. And if you’re not in the market for any of the usual drugstore offerings, there’s still reason to come here. Lots of reasons actually. The apothecary has little Japanese trinkets, kids’ accessories, magazines, beautiful cards, and even the adorable Jill Bliss compact mirrors.

I don’t know how they fit so much cuteness in that storefront, while still making it a clean and inviting space. But, considering that the folks behind Church Street Apothecary also own Doe — another one of my favorite SF shops — I’m not surprised. Once you pay a visit here, you may never step foot in another Walgreen’s ever again.

Church Street Apothecary
1767 Church Street
San Francisco, CA 94131
(415) 970-9828

Pretty Girl, Shop Girl | Email | Print | //

Cliff’s truly does live up to its name: This store is full of a variety of products. You’ve got your typical hardware stuff (paint, plumbing, electrical, shelving, garden tools). Plus an art department, which also covers stationery. And there’s lovely dishware (I love the Beehouse teapots). And a year-round costuming section. And toys. And party goods. You get the picture, right?

Cliff’s inventory is so impressive, they had to open up an Annex right next door. This is where you’ll find more interior-design-ish goods — including pillows, rugs, lamps, window treatments, vases, and bathroom fixtures.

In addition to the great merchandise, the staff is super-friendly. When you’ve got a checklist of mundane things to buy (like grout or lightbulbs), coming to Cliff’s makes household chores actually seem like fun.

Cliff’s Variety
479 Castro Street
San Francisco, CA 94114
(415) 431-5365

Shop Girl, Thrifty Girl | Email | Print | //