Retrosaria, Lisbon

Learn how-to sew a t-shirt bib with Retrosaria in Lisbon, Portugal.

How did you get started?

We've started as an online shop only. Back then, in 2008, there were no shops in Lisbon carrying good quality yarns and fabric, so our main goal was to make those products available for the portuguese craft community.

Where are you located?

In the heart of Lisbon, between Chiado and Bica. We're on the second floor and the best way to find us is to look for these colourful mailboxes.

Which products do you specialise in?

We specialise in producing and selling yarn made from 100% portuguese wool. Portugal has 14 different native sheep breeds and many of them are on the brink of extinction. Rosa, the founder of Retrosaria, does a lot of research on everything wool-related. She goes up and down the country talking to shepherds, spinners and weavers (see this video) and she wrote a book about the history of knitting in Portugal.

Do you have a particular favorite product that you sell?

Our yarns, of course. Some of them are spun by small mills and some are handspun by talented women who have learnt this craft from their mothers and grandmothers. We're very proud of them.

What's on the stereo?

Today's playlist, chosen by Filipe:
The Ghost of a Saber Tooth Tiger - Poor Paul Getty
Cass McCombs - Don't vote
Intuthuko Brothers - Mahalabathini Special No 6
William Onyeabor - Fantastic Man
T.V. Sisters - Lindi
Soweto Stokvel Septette - Ice Cream&Suckers
Bob Dylan - Rainy Day Women #12 & 35

Where else should we visit in your area?

You should have a palmier pastry at Bijou do Calhariz right next to Retrosaria and then head on to A Vida Portuguesa - to see all the beautiful portuguese products they carry.

Do you host any workshops, classes or special events?

We have knitting, sewing and embroidery workshops. Write in advance for a portuguese knitting class with Rosa.