Living by Vanja

A creative haven on the edge of Frederikshavn

Living by Vanja sits along Hjørringvej, a short hop from Frederikshavn’s centre, yet it feels like stepping into a self-contained world of colour, texture and thoughtful design. From the outside, it resembles a contemporary Scandinavian boutique rather than a traditional craft store, with large windows that hint at the rich mix of yarn, fabrics and interior pieces inside. Crossing the threshold, you are met by soft light, neat displays and the quiet rustle of textiles being handled and folded. The space is compact but carefully organised, turning every corner into a small discovery: a rack of patterned fabrics here, a table of ceramics there, baskets of yarn adding splashes of colour to neutral tones.

Yarn, textiles and the joy of making

At its heart, Living by Vanja is a destination for people who enjoy making things with their hands. Walls and tables are lined with knitting yarns in natural fibres, from muted earthy shades to bold, modern palettes. Nearby, bolts of fabric and smaller cuts of meter goods invite you to imagine clothing, cushions or quilts in the making. Embroidery and needlework enthusiasts find tools, patterns and threads curated with the same eye for quality. Even if you did not arrive with a specific project in mind, it is easy to leave with the beginnings of one, tucked into a bag along with a few carefully chosen accessories.

Nordic home décor with a personal touch

Beyond craft materials, the shop doubles as a small interior and lifestyle boutique. Shelves hold vases, candles, textiles for the home and small decorative objects that lean into a Nordic, handcrafted expression. There is a preference for natural materials and pieces that feel both practical and aesthetically pleasing, the sort of things that quietly transform a corner of your home. This blend of craft supplies and interior items makes Living by Vanja a good place to pick up gifts. A set of hand towels, a distinctive cushion cover, or a bundle of yarn in perfect colours can all serve as meaningful reminders of time spent in northern Denmark.

Atmosphere, inspiration and conversation

The atmosphere in the shop is calm and unhurried, encouraging you to take your time. Rather than rows of identical products, you find small, shifting selections that reflect a curated, personal approach. This gives the impression that each piece has been chosen with care, and that new finds may appear from visit to visit. Conversations here often revolve around projects, ideas and techniques. Even if you are only browsing, it is easy to pick up tips or discover a new pattern or material. For travellers, it offers a glimpse into everyday creativity in Frederikshavn, away from the harbour and main shopping streets.

Planning your visit

Living by Vanja keeps focused opening hours during the week, typically from late morning to late afternoon, with a shorter window on Saturdays. The shop is closed on Sundays and most Mondays, so midweek or Saturday visits work best. The location along a main road makes it convenient to combine with other errands or as a stop before heading further into Vendsyssel. The space is on street level and generally easy to access, with enough room to move between displays at a relaxed pace. A typical visit lasts around an hour, though craft enthusiasts might easily spend longer comparing colours, textures and combinations. Whether you leave with a full bag of supplies or a single carefully chosen object, the shop’s mix of creativity and Nordic design tends to linger in the memory.