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Whether you’re decorating a scrapbook, building a scale model, or experimenting with oil paints for the first time, finding the right store can make the project feel effortless instead of frustrating. In the US there’s a mix of national chains, specialty shops, and online marketplaces that cater to every level of maker. This guide walks you through top stores like Michaels, Hobby Lobby, Joann, Blick Art Materials, and HobbyTown, plus tips on picking the best retailer for your needs, where to save money, and how to find rare supplies.
Ever show up to a project with the wrong glue or brushes that shed? A good store saves time, money, and headaches. The right retailer not only stocks quality supplies but also inspires ideas, provides knowledgeable staff, and sometimes offers classes that push your skills forward. Think of a craft store as a well-stocked kitchen: the better the ingredients and tools, the happier your final dish will be.
National chains are convenient, often have consistent pricing, and run regular sales. Here are five big names you’ll see across the US that cover a wide range of hobbies and creative arts.
Michaels is one of the largest craft chains in the US and a go-to for painters, scrapbookers, florists, and DIY decorators. They offer a broad selection of paints, canvases, yarns, and seasonal décor. If you like frequent promotions, Michaels runs weekly coupons and major holiday sales that can cut craft supplies by a noticeable amount. The stores usually host classes and maker nights—perfect if you want hands-on help.
Hobby Lobby is known for its extensive home décor and craft sections, and it’s a popular spot for wedding decorations, fabric by the yard, and specialty scrapbooking gear. The aisles are heavy on decorative materials and seasonal displays, making it ideal for large décor projects. Hobby Lobby often stocks brand-name art supplies alongside its house-brand alternatives, so you can choose premium items or budget-savvy picks.
Joann is especially strong for fabric, sewing, and quilting supplies, but it also carries paints, paper crafts, and kids’ craft kits. If you sew or quilt, Joann’s selection of patterns, interfacing, and specialty threads is worth a stop. Like other chains, Joann runs coupons and loyalty programs that reward frequent shoppers, so it pays to sign up if you have ongoing projects.
Blick is the arts community’s workhorse. With a large selection of fine art supplies—think professional-grade oil paints, sable brushes, and archival papers—Blick caters to artists who want quality over discount bulk. They also carry classroom and hobbyist products, so whether you teach an art class or create gallery work at home, Blick has your back. Their online catalog often lists items that smaller stores don’t carry.
HobbyTown specializes in model kits, radio-controlled vehicles, train sets, and hobby tools. If your creative outlet is model railroading, scale modeling, or RC cars, this is the place to hunt. Staff are typically hobbyists themselves, so expect practical advice on paints, adhesives, and electronics. For precision tools and specialized glues measured in tiny ounces, HobbyTown beats general craft stores hands-down.
Big chains are convenient, but local and specialty shops bring depth in specific categories and often carry unique products you won’t find in national retailers. Supporting independents keeps niche supply lines alive and connects you with a community of makers.
Local art shops often stock regional brands, hand-mixed paints, or papers made with traditional methods. Art co-ops and supply stores frequently host workshops and open studios where you can try a medium before committing. These shops are like neighborhood cafés: cozy, personal, and full of charm you can't replicate online.
Smaller hobby shops focus on specialized interests—miniatures, model trains, stained glass, or beadwork. They tend to offer specialized tools measured in inches, tiny drill bits, and adhesives in 1/2 ounce tubes that big-box stores overlook. For serious hobbyists, a good independent store is a treasure chest.
For handmade or rare supplies—like custom leather, hand-dyed threads, or specialty molds—online marketplaces like Etsy connect you directly to artisans. Expect longer lead times, but the reward can be a one-of-a-kind supply that elevates your project. Think of Etsy as a farmer’s market for craft supplies—unique, direct, and sometimes seasonal.
Choosing a store comes down to three things: what you’re making, your budget, and the skill level you’re aiming for. Asking a few focused questions makes store selection a breeze.
If you’re painting gallery-quality canvases, Blick or a fine art supplier should be your first stop. For holiday décor or general crafting, Michaels or Hobby Lobby will usually have what you need. For model kits and RC hobby electronics, HobbyTown or a dedicated hobby desk is better. Match the store’s strengths to the project’s demands.
Are you experimenting or investing? For beginners testing a medium, buy mid-grade supplies or starter kits from the big chains. If you’re committed, spend more on archival papers and professional paints—these save money long-term by performing better and lasting longer. Don’t forget to compare unit prices: a bulk pack might look expensive but can be cheaper per inch, ounce, or yard.
Do you need something today or can you wait a few days? Chains with many locations offer instant gratification, while smaller shops or online sellers might require a few days to ship. For workshops or classes, buying local ensures you have supplies on hand during the session.
Inspecting items in person is great, but online offers breadth. Here are practical tips for both experiences.
Look at color swatches, thumb through paper samples measured in inches, and feel the weight of yarn in your hand. For paints, test how smoothly they spread; for brushes, check bristle flexibility. A quick hands-on check prevents disappointing results.
Read reviews and product Q&A sections. Search terms like “lightfastness,” “acid-free,” or “burnishing” will reveal if a product suits archival art, scrapbooking, or jewelry making. Many stores display ingredient lists and technical sheets—use them like a recipe when planning complex projects.
Creating can get expensive, but with a little strategy you can cut costs while still getting quality materials.
Sign up for email lists—major chains release weekly coupons and seasonal promos. Loyalty programs often reward frequent shoppers with percent-off discounts that stack over time. Planning purchases around store-wide sales is like shopping with a permanent coupon clipped to your cart.
Buying canvases, paints, or basic tools in larger quantities reduces price per unit. If you don’t have the storage space, partner with a fellow crafter to split boxes of clay or yards of fabric. Sharing transforms a bulky purchase into a smart investment.
Leftover wood scraps, jars, and fabric swatches can become key parts of future projects. Use what you already have for prototypes so you don’t waste premium materials on trial runs. Creative reuse is eco-friendly and budget-friendly—a double win.
Sometimes your project calls for a very specific pigment or a tiny scale accessory that the big chains don’t carry. Here’s how to track those down.
Staff at specialty shops often know where to source obscure supplies, or they can recommend substitutes that work just as well. Online forums and social media groups dedicated to specific hobbies are goldmines for vendor recommendations and custom solutions.
If you know the brand you want, go straight to the manufacturer’s website. Many brands list authorized dealers or sell directly. Specialty distributors and trade suppliers often ship nationwide for items like encaustic wax or professional gesso that you won’t find in a typical craft aisle.
Stores that offer classes give you hands-on learning, and that’s sometimes worth more than the materials themselves. Whether it’s a Saturday painting workshop or a model-building clinic, live instruction can sharpen your skills in a few hours.
Learning in a class accelerates progress because you get instant feedback and practical tips—like how much water to add to acrylics or how to prime tiny plastic parts for painting. Classes also connect you with people who share your interests, which can lead to local maker meetups and supply swaps.
Look for small class sizes, a clear materials list, and a teacher whose work you admire. If possible, review student work from past sessions or ask for sample projects. The best classes leave you with a finished piece and confidence to try more.
Both ways of buying have clear advantages—here’s how to use them strategically.
Immediate access, the ability to test products, and personal advice from staff are the biggest pluses. If you’re visual or tactile when choosing materials, nothing beats an in-person visit.
Online shopping offers the widest selection and often better stock of specialty items. You can compare prices across retailers in minutes and read long-form reviews. For rare pigments or global specialty brands, online sellers are often the only option.
Equipping your creative space is a balance between quality, budget, and convenience. Mix and match: buy core, long-lasting items from specialty stores and grab consumables like glue sticks or foam board from big chains during sales. Over time you’ll develop a personal list of go-to shops—both national and local—that suit the kinds of projects you love. Think of building your supply cabinet like curating a playlist: a few staples you always return to, and a rotating set of experimental tracks that keep things fresh.
Happy crafting—and remember, the best projects often start with a single good supply and the confidence to try something new.
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