Hot Knots has been a staple on the Arcata Plaza since 1984. Founded by sisters Gayle and Andrea Shackleton, the business has become a cornerstone of the local shopping scene—carrying beloved brands like Free People and Levi’s alongside a carefully curated selection of local apparel and knitwear. In addition to retail operations, Hot Knots has developed a wholesale knitwear business built around handmade products produced by a Fair Trade women’s cooperative in Nepal.

But the turning point for Crestmark Millworks came when they sought the support of the North Edge. "North Edge was able to come through...