Celebrating Fellow Canadian Makers: with The Wool Pirate

One of the things we value most at Back to Nature Apparel is community - especially when that community includes fellow Canadian small businesses who create with intention, heart, and a deep respect for craft. That’s why we’re so excited to share Cindy, the maker behind The Wool Pirate - a beautifully curated yarn shop rooted in passion, quality, and the joy of making things by hand. This collaboration is our way of shining a light on a Canadian maker whose values align so closely with our own: slowing down, choosing quality over quantity, and honoring the stories woven into every handmade piece.

Meet Cindy of The Wool Pirate

Nestled in Norfolk County, along the shores of Lake Erie, Cindy lives with her husband, her son (lovingly referred to as her “Technical Manager”), and a farm full of animals. It’s a life close to the land - one that quietly informs her love of natural fibres and thoughtful craftsmanship.

Cindy’s journey with fibre began early. In high school, her mom taught her how to crochet. She remembers the wonder of watching a simple ball of yarn transform into a warm blanket - something comforting, practical, and made with care. She spent years crocheting blankets, scarves, and hats, creating on and off for more than a decade. But it was a trip to Prince Edward Island that reignited her creative spark in a whole new way.

Falling in Love with Fibre - Again and Again

While visiting PEI, Cindy discovered rug hooking, and it was love at first stitch. Seeing how a few simple tools could produce such stunning rugs pulled her back into the world of fibre arts. Today, she still hooks rugs and has added needle punch to her creative mix.

About seven years ago, Cindy ventured into knitting - trading one crochet hook for two (or four!) needles. She fell in love with the fabric knitting creates and enjoys making socks, sweaters, shawls, and hats.

Why She Started The Wool Pirate

Cindy’s passion for natural fibres - wool, alpaca, cotton, and more - eventually led her to create The Wool Pirate.

While big-box yarn stores were available locally, Cindy longed for more unique, high-quality natural fibre yarns, especially those sourced from European mills. Her goal was to offer yarns that are a joy to work with and made to last. Every yarn, needle, hook, and accessory in her shop is carefully selected by Cindy herself. She understands that the time and love poured into handmade creations deserve the very best materials.

Why This Collaboration Matters to Us

Collaborating with Cindy feels like a natural fit.

At Back to Nature Apparel, we believe in supporting Canadian makers who value craftsmanship, storytelling, and intentional living. This collaboration celebrates creativity, natural materials, and the joy of making something meaningful by hand. So whether you're a seasoned knitter, a curious crocheter, or someone who simply appreciates beautiful materials, Cindy's shop offers inspiration for your next creative journey.