A Creative Destination for Crafters in York
What began as a small sewing class and a few bolts of fabric has grown into one of York’s most welcoming creative destinations. Today, Bugweed’s brings together quilting, garment sewing, yarn, and classes under one spacious roof — while maintaining the friendly community spirit that has been part of the business since the beginning.
Where the Name Bugweed’s Began
The name Bugweed’s actually traces back to Rebecca’s childhood. Her father gave each of his children nicknames, and Rebecca’s was Bugweed. Years later, that nickname would unexpectedly become the name of a thriving craft business.
Bugweed’s began in 2016 when Rebecca, then a primary school teacher, was asked to teach sewing classes to military spouses near the base where she worked. Soon afterward she began selling a small collection of fabrics to her students through Facebook, first from her garage and later from a purpose-built cabin in her back garden. Rebecca’s young children helped pack parcels, deliver orders, and assist with invoices, making it a true family effort.
Growing Into a Craft Community Hub
Bugweed’s first retail shop opened in mid-2021 as COVID restrictions began to ease. Initially open just eight hours per week, the store quickly grew as more crafters discovered it.
Over time, the business expanded into neighboring units to add a classroom studio, a yarn shop, and a sewing machine shop. In January 2025, these businesses came together in a new 4,000-square-foot location at Clifton Moor Retail Park, creating a single destination for crafters of all kinds.
The new space allows Bugweed’s to bring its entire team, product range, and class offerings together in one bright, welcoming environment.
A Light and Welcoming Space to Create
The current Bugweed’s shop is located in a new build unit on a busy retail park on the edge of York’s ring road. The space is light, spacious, and easy to explore, with dedicated areas for quilting fabrics, garment fabrics, yarn, sewing machines, and haberdashery.
The store also features a dedicated classroom studio and comfortable seating areas. Sofas, chairs, magazines, and books make it easy for visitors to relax, while a small play area keeps younger visitors entertained.
It’s not unusual to see someone enjoying a cup of tea while browsing patterns, or families spending time together while one member shops for their next project.
“Bugweeds has an amazing range of supplies. For everything fabric and yarn, this is the place to go. This atmosphere is lovely and supportive, and there is always helpful advice in hand.” — Andrea P.
A Wide Range of Supplies for Makers
Bugweed’s carries thousands of bolts of quilting cotton, extra-wide fabrics, batting, bag-making supplies, and a full range of quilting tools and notions from major brands.
The shop also offers garment fabrics and supplies for knitters, crocheters, embroiderers, cross-stitchers, and spinners. Alongside the product selection, Bugweed’s provides classes across many crafts, ranging from beginner sessions to advanced technical workshops.
While many shops carry similar supplies, Bugweed’s prides itself on the welcoming environment created by its staff and the knowledge they share with customers.
The Team That Makes It Special
Bugweed’s is powered by a knowledgeable and dedicated team who bring both expertise and personality to the shop.
Helen, the General Manager, helps set the lively tone of the store, while Emma, the Assistant Manager, keeps everything running smoothly. Staff members Sophie, Sue, and Kate share deep knowledge across multiple crafts and regularly help customers solve project challenges.
The team also includes university students Eleanor, Keasty, and Gen, who return during holidays, along with younger team members Ellie, Lydia, and Hallie who assist on weekends. Kerry keeps the shop running behind the scenes, and Hélène manages marketing and social media while also teaching quilting classes.
Together, the team creates the welcoming atmosphere customers associate with Bugweed’s.
“The staff at Bugweed’s are like a family. They treat you like a long-lost friend when you walk in, whether it’s your first visit or your tenth. They are very knowledgeable about all the things they sell and can answer any question you have. They are very encouraging if you’re starting a new project, too, advising you on what to make.” — Helen L.
Rebecca and the Bugweed’s Philosophy
Bugweed’s remains a family-owned business led by Rebecca. With decades of experience in dressmaking and a love for patchwork and crochet, she continues to guide the shop’s creative direction.
Rebecca and Helen also host a weekly Friday Live online session where they share new arrivals, discuss trends, and connect with the crafting community over a virtual cup of tea.
At its heart, Bugweed’s aims to be more than just a craft shop. The team works to create a welcoming and inclusive environment where everyone feels respected and valued.
The Impact of the Local Quilt Shop Contest
Participating in the Local Quilt Shop Contest has been a meaningful experience for the Bugweed’s team. Reading the stories and feedback shared by customers has been both humbling and encouraging.
The comments have provided a welcome boost for staff and reinforced how important community spaces like Bugweed’s are for crafters.
The team hopes the contest will continue introducing new visitors to the shop and help more people discover everything Bugweed’s has to offer.
“It’s not just a shop, it’s a community with love and support from the staff and customers as one.”
— Tom M.
Visiting York
Bugweed’s is located near York, one of the UK’s most popular cultural destinations, welcoming millions of visitors each year.
The city is known for its rich 2,000-year history, including the iconic York Minster cathedral, Roman city walls, and the famous Shambles Street, often said to have inspired Diagon Alley in the Harry Potter films. Visitors can also explore the National Railway Museum and enjoy afternoon tea at the historic Betty’s Tea Rooms.
York also has strong ties to the chocolate industry as the home of Rowntree’s and Terry’s, creators of treats like KitKat and the Chocolate Orange. With its historic streets, creative community, and reputation as one of Europe’s most haunted cities, York offers plenty to explore for visitors.
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