About

Artisan Knitworks was founded by Sandra VanBurkleo, whose love of design, fiber arts, and community shaped the shop from its early days in the Detroit suburbs to its welcoming home in downtown Chelsea, Michigan. After years of nurturing the business – alongside her career as a history professor at Wayne State University – Sandra retired, passing the torch to Michelle Balhorn.

Artisan Knitworks continues to grow under Michelle’s leadership, honoring the shop’s original charm while embracing what newer generations want in a modern yarn store. Her sons, Aaron and Trent, bring fresh energy to the space, and her partner, Mike, often stops by when he’s not volunteering with the local mountain biking community.

We’re excited to welcome both longtime makers and those discovering fiber arts for the first time. Whether you’re a regular or a new visitor, we can’t wait to meet you and help you feel at home in our creative community.