Fans of Faribault Woolen Mills’ vintage blankets' vivid colors and patterns should put The Crafty Maven on their shopping radar. They’ll find one-of-a-kind throw pillows, kids’ pullovers and cozy winter coats made from wool blankets. Other unique, eye-catching items include locally made miniature cats, critters, and tabletop fruits and vegetables created with boiled wool.

The inventory takes in new and vintage fabrics, home decor, jewelry and clothing items. Customers never know what they might find—a handmade checkered apron, a funky 1970s dress, a wild calico bag, a new scarf and maybe even an antique dresser in which to stash it all.

Worth a look: The Rescue Me Room offers deeply discounted bargain racks filled with stuff like fancy dress jackets and skirts for less than $5.