Allie Kloster is thrilled to show newbies how to operate the spinning wheel.

Even before opening, a crowd gathered at Seaside Yarn and Fiber on North Holladay, drawn by giveaways, prize baskets, wine, snacks — and of course, knitting.

“I’m a knitter and a spinner,” Kloster said. “I worked for awhile at a yarn and fiber store in Hood River where we worked with alpaca. That’s where I learned to spin and dye.”

Three years ago Kloster and her husband moved to Seaside; they live walking distance from downtown. “I saw this space open up so I decided to go for it.”

Offering yarn, knitting and craft supplies, Seaside Yarn and Fiber hopes to offer experienced knitters and craft people a friendly space. There is a spinning wheel Kloster is thrilled to show newbies how to operate.

“I’ll be offering knitting instruction, felting, and crocheting,” Kloster said.

Handwork is an excellent way, she said, to reduce stress and relax.

“Whether you’re looking for a weekend project for your next road trip, or planning out your next epic knit creation, stop by and share your excitement,” she said.

Don’t knit? There are handmade items for sale in the shop created by local knitters.

Kloster anticipates her shop will bolster community building by holding a weekly Thursday “Knit Night” from 4 to 6 p.m., as well as instruction in basic knitting, needle felt miniatures, and parties. There’s also a cozy seating area if you just want to come in and knit.

Men are definitely welcome.

“I’ve had inquiries about embroidery,” Kloster said. “I can respond to that because for embroidery, you can use a skinnier yarn.” She said part of the joy of coming inside her store is to squish yarn.

“Yarn squishing is a thing!” Kloster declared. She’s right. It feels good.

Seaside Yarn and Fiber is located at 10 N. Holladay Drive, Seaside. Hours of operation are Wednesday through Sunday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day.

For more information call 503-717-5579 or log on to www.SeasideYarnandFiber.com.