Looking for alternatives to Hobby Lobby for your crafting needs? Whether you're seeking better prices, different selections, or simply want to explore other options, this comprehensive guide will help you discover excellent craft stores that offer similar products and services.
20 Best Stores Like Hobby Lobby for Crafters on a Budget [2024 Guide]
From major retailers to specialty shops, we'll explore the best alternatives that help you save money while pursuing your creative projects.
1. Michaels
As Hobby Lobby's primary competitor, Michaels offers an extensive selection of craft supplies, home decor, and seasonal items. Their frequent 40% off coupons and weekly sales make it an excellent alternative for budget-conscious crafters. You'll find comparable prices on most items, with some categories like painting supplies and custom framing often being cheaper. The rewards program offers 3% back on purchases, and their price match policy includes major competitors.
2. JOANN Fabrics and Crafts
JOANN specializes in fabrics and sewing supplies but also carries a wide range of craft materials. Their mobile app offers exclusive coupons (up to 60% off), and their rewards program provides additional savings. They often have better prices on fabric than Hobby Lobby, especially during their frequent sales events. Sign up for their VIP program ($2.99/month) to get free shipping on all orders and exclusive discounts.
3. Target
Target's craft section has expanded significantly in recent years. Their in-house brands like Hand Made Modern and Spritz offer affordable alternatives to name-brand craft supplies. Save an additional 5% with their RedCard, and watch for seasonal clearance sales where craft supplies can be discounted up to 70%. Most basic crafting supplies are 15-20% cheaper than Hobby Lobby's regular prices.
4. Walmart
Walmart's craft section provides basic supplies at competitive prices. While the selection isn't as extensive as Hobby Lobby, you'll find essential items like yarn, basic art supplies, and seasonal craft kits at lower prices. Their Great Value brand offers particularly good deals on basic supplies, often 25-30% less than brand names.
5. Blick Art Materials
Blick specializes in fine art supplies with a wider selection than Hobby Lobby in categories like paints and canvases. While regular prices may be higher, their frequent sales (up to 70% off) and bulk discounts for students make them competitive. Sign up for their email list to receive a 20% off coupon for your first purchase.
6. Tuesday Morning
This discount retailer offers craft supplies at 20-60% off regular retail prices. Their inventory changes frequently, making it perfect for finding unique items and seasonal craft supplies at significant discounts. While selection varies by store, you can often find high-end crafting materials at budget prices.
7. Dollar Tree
Everything's $1.25, including basic craft supplies like poster board, paint brushes, and seasonal decorations. While quality may vary, it's perfect for basic supplies and kids' crafts. Buy in bulk online (cases of 24-48 items) for additional savings. Great for classroom projects and large-scale crafting needs.
8. Amazon
Amazon offers competitive prices on craft supplies, often 10-15% lower than Hobby Lobby's regular prices. Subscribe & Save can reduce prices by an additional 5-15% on eligible items. Prime members get free shipping and access to Lightning Deals on craft supplies. Watch for seasonal sales like Prime Day for deeper discounts.
9. Oriental Trading
Known for bulk craft supplies and party goods, Oriental Trading offers significant discounts on large orders. Perfect for group projects or recurring crafts. Sign up for their email list to receive a 15% off coupon, and free shipping on orders over $49. Bulk pricing can save 30-50% compared to retail.
10. Craft Warehouse
A regional chain offering competitive prices on craft supplies and home decor. Their rewards program offers $5 back for every $100 spent, and they frequently offer 40-50% off coupons. Sign up for their text alerts to receive exclusive deals and flash sale notifications.
11. Etsy Craft Supplies
While known for handmade items, Etsy's craft supply section offers unique materials often unavailable at major retailers. Many sellers offer bulk discounts and wholesale prices. Look for shops with free shipping offers and bulk buying options to maximize savings.
12. Five Below
Everything's $5 or less, including basic craft supplies and seasonal items. Quality can be decent for basic projects, and they often carry trending craft supplies at significant discounts. Selection rotates frequently, so check back often for new items.
13. Jerry's Artarama
Specializes in art supplies with prices often 20-30% below retail. Their price match policy includes major competitors, and their rewards program offers 5% back. Artist clubs receive additional discounts of 10-20% off already reduced prices.
14. Cheap Joe's Art Stuff
Despite the name, they offer quality art supplies at competitive prices. Their weekly sales offer 20-40% off select items, and their rewards program provides $5 back for every $100 spent. Free shipping on orders over $100.
15. Paper Mart
Wholesale pricing on packaging and paper craft supplies. Bulk purchasing can save 40-60% compared to retail prices. Excellent for card making and scrapbooking supplies. Volume discounts available on larger orders.
16. Save-On-Crafts
Specializes in wedding and event crafts at wholesale prices. Bulk pricing available on most items, with savings of 30-50% compared to retail. Free shipping on orders over $150. Clearance section offers up to 75% off.
17. Scrapbook.com
Offers competitive prices on scrapbooking and paper crafting supplies. Daily deals section features items at 40-60% off. Rewards program offers 5% back on purchases, and free shipping on orders over $25.
18. Craft Outlet
Wholesale prices on craft supplies and home decor items. Minimum order requirements apply, but savings can reach 50-70% off retail. Excellent for bulk purchasing and regular crafters.
19. United Art & Education
Primarily serves educators but open to everyone. Offers institutional pricing on art supplies, often 30-40% below retail. Bulk discounts available, and teachers receive additional discounts with verification.
20. Factory Direct Craft
Wholesale pricing on craft supplies and seasonal items. Bulk discounts can save 40-60% compared to retail. Monthly sales offer additional savings, and their clearance section features items at up to 80% off.
Final Words
While Hobby Lobby remains a popular choice for craft supplies, these alternatives offer competitive prices and unique selections that can help you save money on your creative projects. Remember to sign up for email newsletters, download store apps, and join reward programs to maximize your savings. If you're looking to save even more on your crafting hobby, check out our guide on best cashback apps and how to earn free gift cards that you can use at these stores.
Frequently Asked Questions About Stores Like Hobby Lobby
Is Hobby Lobby more expensive than other craft stores?
Hobby Lobby's regular prices are often higher than competitors, but their permanent 40% off rotating sales and weekly coupons can make them competitive. However, stores like Michaels, JOANN, and Walmart often offer better baseline prices on many items, especially during sales events.
Which store has the best quality craft supplies?
Quality varies by product category. Michaels and JOANN generally offer comparable quality to Hobby Lobby, especially in art supplies and fabrics. Specialty stores like Blick Art Materials often provide higher quality materials but at premium prices.
What's the best day to shop at craft stores for deals?
Sunday is typically the best day to shop at craft stores as new weekly sales begin. Most craft stores, including Hobby Lobby alternatives, release their new coupons and deals on Sundays. Shopping early in the week ensures the best selection of sale items.
Do these stores offer price matching with Hobby Lobby?
Yes, many major craft stores like Michaels and JOANN offer price matching with Hobby Lobby's regular prices and advertised sales. However, they typically won't match Hobby Lobby's 40% off coupon. Always check each store's specific price matching policy and bring proof of the competitor's price.