Before we had a storefront, we could be found at local festivals and Farmer's Markets. Yes, that's a one month old baby in that sling!

The Family Behind the Label

Northwoods Dyeworks is truly a family business, and we try to incorporate those values into everything that we do. Located in a small town in Northern Wisconsin, we deeply understand the importance of knowing your community and acting responsibly. Of course, being from the rural Midwest, we also know a little about friendly customer service, and we make it a priority!

Dyeing both fabrics and yarns professionally for almost ten years now, we have become known for our vibrant colors and bold combinations. Years of specializing in children's tie dye has spilled over into everything we do, and although subtle tones do surface from time to time (Winter Waves and Ice are some of our best sellers) our more whimsical colorways continue to define our style year after year.

Also a family of knitters, crocheters, and felters, it only made sense that we bring these crafts into the shop! Alongside the professional Jacquard line of paints and dyes, we carry a nice selection of top-quality, natural fiber yarns, accompanied by a complete selection of needles and accessories. From roving to needles & washboards, new and experieced felters of all kinds will revel in our extensive felting section. The best in our region, it is not to be missed!

How We View the Environment

Living and working on Lake Superior (one block to the water) reminds us daily of how important both green and sustainable business practices are. Having young children at work with you every day is an additional reminder that we are merely stewards of all that surrounds us. At Northwoods Dyeworks we try to make every choice both environmental and sustainable. From compact fluorescent lighting to reused packing materials we are trying to lower our impact on the environment. It's simple, dyeing uses water… but we try to minimize our consumption through timed batches and successive dyebaths (our gorgeous silk remnants are often the result of discharging acid dyebaths between colors. Over 10 gallons saved per batch!)

We also seek out low impact and eco-friendly dyes & fibers, carrying a selection of organic cotton, hemp, bamboo, and tencel products, something we wish more people would consider doing.

At Northwoods Dyeworks, we see supporting the environment as more than just recycling and limiting our water use. We choose many of our vendors from small, family-owned businesses and deal locally whenever possible. We strongly feel that a healthier family business economy tends to be a much more accountable one!