Summer is the perfect time to explore a new hobby or give that craft that has been calling your name a try. The options are so vast it is head spinning, but instead of getting overwhelmed focus on one thing at a time, and preferably something that doesn’t require a huge investment to get started, and even better, something that you can take along or do in the car or on the plane! That said, so maybe pick two things, one that you can take along and one that requires some set up at home? Rather than going into a store and making impulse purchases, do your research and then shop with a particular hobby or craft in mind, whether online or in-store.
Since no one wants to throw money into the garbage with supplies that aren’t quality or simply don’t do the job, it is wise to not only do your research regarding brands for art supplies, but also from whom you make these purchase,s in the case where customer service is necessary due to falty supplies or damages. As an avid crafter and artist I am always on the lookout for new products and reviews from other crafters, though most stores have employees that can help you make good choices as well. This article features information on some of the largest craft and hobby supply stores in the US to give you a head start and help you save time so that you can get to the crafting! In addition to this list, check out honest reviews on hobbies and craft companies from a reliable source of unbiased opinions, realreviews.io.
Okay, keep on reading to hear about some of the most popular sources for art supplies in the US, whether in store or online, take your pick!
Above: Rather than running out and buying supplies with no specific project in mind, take a class online, or research a particular project, and buy the recommended supplies, which likely includes a fairly limited list. Once you love a certain supply or project you can always invest in more!
Michaels
Michaels is an industry staple in crafts and hobbies, offering everything from supplies for arts and crafts projects to home decor products.
Michaels has many stores throughout the US and an online store widely acclaimed for its extensive assortment and accessibility. Consumers appreciate Michaels’ regular discounts and promo codes, which help lower premium material costs, while its seminars and workshops allow crafters of all skill levels to discover new techniques.
Customer reviews attest to Michaels staff members’ expertise and willingness to offer ideas and assistance, providing a one-stop shopping experience that meets all crafting requirements, regardless of one’s skill level.
Above: Stenciling your own designs on tote bags is a great starter project, just make stencils with freezer paper (unlike here) which you then iron on to the fabric item of your choice, and apply fabric paint. A very satisfying method to create a huge range of things with no need for laser cutters or store bought stencils!
Joann
Joann provides essential resources for people interested in sewing, quilting, and fabric arts projects while also offering goods related to knitting, crocheting, and papercraft hobbies.
Joann is known for offering an impressive variety of fabrics, from standard cotton to specialty textures. Fabric enthusiasts frequent the store, providing sewing and quilting equipment and accessories.
Customers frequently praise Joann’s excellent loyalty program, which rewards regular customers with discounts, vouchers, and other benefits. Customers have given high reviews to its mobile app due to its ease of use and special offers. Crafters may gain new skills or discover innovative techniques through taking courses or participating in online tutorials offered by Joann, showing the company’s dedication to education.
Above: Practice first with inexpensive or student grade art supplies, and when your skills improve consider investing in the higher priced supplies, like this set of Japanese Kuretake pan watercolors, on my list but first using up the budget ones honestly!
Blick Art Materials
Blick Art Materials is an outstanding choice for artists of all skill levels. It provides everything an artist might require, from paints, brushes, canvasses, and easels to paint palettes and canvases.
Blick is known for their extensive product selection and top-tier quality, catering to many artistic mediums such as printing, sculpting, painting and drawing. Their team offers solutions tailored to all budgets and tastes from both renowned brand name art materials as well as their own line.
Reviews from clients attest to Blick’s employees’ competency and friendliness; many are artists and provide insightful guidance and suggestions. Customers also praise Blick for delivering comprehensive product descriptions and user evaluations, which assist their decision-making. Lastly, Blick’s support for arts events and activities shows its dedication to supporting this community.
The Craftsy Community
Craftsy (formerly Bluprint) is an esteemed online store which sells materials and workshops for a wide variety of craft projects such as baking, knitting, quilting and more. Craftsy also serves as a gathering spot for hobbyists looking for other new hobbyists with whom to share experiences and gain new abilities.
Craftsy is well known for offering great video courses taught by knowledgeable instructors. Crafters at all skill levels may benefit from attending these workshops, which cover diverse themes and skill levels and provide ample educational opportunities. In addition, Craftsy includes project kits, downloadable designs, and an assortment of crafting supplies on its website.
Customers appreciate Craftsy’s convenient access to classes at any time or location, which makes fitting crafts into a busy schedule straightforward. Furthermore, its community feature encourages users to share projects, questions, and feedback between themselves, creating an encouraging and motivating atmosphere among its users.
Above: Some specialized forms of art or craft require tools that are not found in big box art supply stores, but rather directly from artists who even make the supplies themselves, like in the case of handmade watercolors, wooden pen nib holders and much more. Many of these specialized items can be found on Etsy.
Etsy
Etsy provides independent artists and crafters an ideal marketplace to sell their unique goods, vintage objects, and crafting supplies – providing access to an abundance of one-of-a-kind craft supplies as well as completed items.
Etsy stands out as an unparalleled marketplace with an extensive and eclectic range of items spanning handmade jewelry supplies and fabric patterns to unique fabric designs not available elsewhere. Customers can buy supplies not available in conventional craft stores directly from the creators themselves – making customization and special orders possible through this direct connection.
Client testimonials regularly highlight the high caliber and uniqueness of products offered on Etsy. Their review system aids customers in making well-informed judgments, and direct communication between buyers and sellers ensures an exceptional buying experience. Etsy’s support of independent producers and small companies makes the platform alluring for many artisans and makers.
Conclusion
When looking for a business from whom to purchase your art supplies, many factors must be taken into consideration, such as product quality, variety, customer service, and instructional resources. Michaels, Hobby Lobby, Joann, Blick Art Materials, Craftsy, and Etsy offers various products and benefits that each address different aspects of making. You can quickly locate the business that suits your creative needs through honest reviews from other crafters, and don’t ever be afraid to ask an artist or crafter where they prefer to purchase their supplies. Welcome to the wonderful world of creativity, choose your purchases wisely, use them and then go buy more…..great advice from an art supply hoarder like myself!
Enjoy discovering top-rated craft supply companies based on real user reviews, finding the perfect supplies, tools, and inspiration to fuel your creativity and exploring new hobbies!
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