12 Best Stores Like Hobby Lobby for Crafters and Small Business Owners

Over the years, Hobby Lobby has been one of the most popular names in arts and crafts. In recent times, it is no longer the only place many makers rely on. If your local store lacks the materials you need, prices are rising, or you want more choices, there are many alternatives to consider.

Selecting which one is right for you comes down to the work you do. The requirements of a quilt maker are not the same as those of a laser engraving business owner or a hobbyist with a weekend project. You will find some outlets that are superior for fabric and sewing, and others where you can pick up customizable home décor or bulk blanks at a good price to resell.

We have put together this guide to 12 stores like Hobby Lobby, explaining what they do well and who will get the best value from them.

The Best Stores Like Hobby Lobby

From big national chains to more specialised online suppliers, these 12 options have you covered. We think it is worth getting to know what each does before you head out or put in an order. 

1. Michaels

Michaels is the nearest thing you wil get to the old Hobby Lobby experience. You will see a lot of the same fare on the shelves here: art and yarn, framing services, floral and seasonal pieces.

Michaels is also one of those stores where you can usually knock out most of your shopping in a single visit. Whether you're looking for paint, yarn, scrapbook supplies, seasonal décor, or basic materials for a small craft business, there's usually a good selection to choose from. Some locations are better stocked than others, but larger stores tend to have a wide variety of products.

2. JOANN Fabrics and Crafts

For any sewing, quilting, embroidery, or fabric crafts, JOANN is a place that you will always want to check. The store is well known for its wide selection of fabrics, as well as the thread, patterns, and other sewing equipment available in the store.

In addition to fabric crafts, the store also sells craft supplies for a wide variety of crafts. However, as the result of the store bankruptcy that occurred, some of the JOANN stores have been closed down, so if you plan to go to the store it is recommended that you check to ensure that there is a location near you before making the trip to ensure that you will be able to find the store open and ready for customers.

3. Dollar Tree

Dollar Tree has become a favorite store for makers and small businesses that sell crafts due to the prices that are found at the store. At Dollar Tree, you can find a wide variety of wooden signs, glassware, and decorations for the holidays. In addition to these items, Dollar Tree also sells a variety of other craft materials that can be used by those that want to create their own crafts.

The major advantage of Dollar Tree is its prices. Because the items sold at Dollar Tree are so cheap, it is possible for makers and business owners to create crafts that are sold at high prices for the profits that they earn from selling them. In addition, the wood that can be purchased at Dollar Tree for as little as $1.25 can be sold at significantly higher prices to customers once turn into laser-engraved product.

4. Amazon

Amazon has become one of the most important sources of supply for many crafters and small business owners. While it’s not a traditional craft store, the variety of craft blanks, vinyl, transfer tape, sublimation supplies, and specialty materials available is massive. Prime shipping also makes restocking fast and easy.

The biggest advantage is price comparison. With different sellers offering similar items, you can often find the same product for less than what brick-and-mortar stores charge. It’s also simple to buy in larger quantities without needing a warehouse club membership.

5. Walmart

Walmart, although not a dedicated craft store, often carries everyday basics that come in handy when you need something in a hurry. You’ll usually find paint, foam board, glue, yarn, canvases, and some seasonal craft items at prices that are often lower than Michaels or JOANN.

The selection varies significantly by store size. Walmart Supercenters tend to have a much stronger craft section than smaller neighborhood locations. Walmart also expands the options considerably through third-party sellers.

6. Home Depot

You won’t find a better resource for wood and acrylic work than Home Depot, even if it is somewhat underappreciated by crafters. The lumber department has raw wood in all manner of species, sizes and thicknesses that you would never see at a typical craft store. And if you need a sheet cut to your specifications, most will do it for you at no charge or for a nominal fee.

If you are into laser engraving or woodworking, this is where you go to buy materials in bulk without breaking the bank. You can put in an order for a full sheet of birch plywood or acrylic for a fraction of what pre-cut blanks run online, with quality to match for your production runs.

7. Lowe's

Then there is Lowe’s. It is a sensible option if you want to check prices or if the Home Depot is on the other side of town, since they have much the same kind of stock. Their lumber is on par with what you get elsewhere, though you may come across a different assortment of stains and specialty finishes.

8. Tuesday Morning / HomeGoods / TJ Maxx

You will find picture frames, glass vases, wooden trays and the like at these off-price outlets for a fraction of what you would pay at regular retail. They have an abundance of ceramic wares and seasonal stock as well.

Then again, there is a downside: one store’s inventory is not another’s and it is in a state of flux. Don’t expect to come back and put your hands on the same thing twice. Make it a habit to pop in now and then, though, and you are likely to be rewarded with some new discoveries.

9. Oriental Trading

Oriental Trading specializes in bulk party supplies, seasonal décor, and craft items typically sold in packs of 12, 24, or more. For small business owners who customize and resell products at markets, events, or online, the per-unit pricing here is often very competitive.

The selection includes wood blanks, foam shapes, plain tote bags, keychains, and many other ready-to-customize items. While shipping times are usually longer than Amazon's, the bulk discounts make it a smart option for planned purchases and larger orders.

10. Etsy

Etsy fills many of the gaps that big chain stores cannot cover. If you need a very specific size of wood blank, a particular type of acrylic sheet, a unique shape, or any specialty material that major retailers don’t carry, there’s a good chance you’ll find it on Etsy.

Keep in mind that prices on Etsy are generally higher per unit than those from bulk suppliers, and shipping times vary by seller. It works best for occasional specialty needs rather than regular restocking.

11. Target

Although Target is not primarily a "craft store", it has a lot of options to pick from when yoh need basic art supplies. The store is well loaded with popular everyday items like brushes, paints, glue, and other seasonal decor.

The real strength of Target is convenience. If you are already shopping there for groceries or household items, you can grab craft supplies on the same trip without making an extra stop. For serious projects or larger restocks, a dedicated craft retailer will usually offer better selection and value.

12. Five Below

Five Below is a budget-friendly option aimed primarily at beginners, kids’ projects, and very low-cost crafting. Most items range from $1 to $5, with a selection that includes paint-by-number kits, foam stickers, basic craft sets, markers, paper, and simple seasonal projects.

While it is not a reliable source of supplies for experienced crafters or small business owners, it works well for teaching kids’ workshops, running birthday party activities, or testing very inexpensive project ideas. The low price point makes it easy to experiment without worrying about wasting money on mistakes.

Store Comparison Table

Which Store Like Hobby Lobby Is Right for You?

The right store depends entirely on what you make, how much you spend, and how you shop.

Best Craft Stores Like Hobby Lobby

For DIY supplies, art materials, yarn, fabric, and framing, these stores come closest to replacing Hobby Lobby for a practicing crafter.

• Michael's is one of the top contenders. It covers the widest range of general craft categories and runs consistent coupons and a rewards program.
• JOANN has a lot of fabric, sewing notions, quilting supplies, and patterns.
• Home Depot and Lowe's serve crafters who work with raw wood, plywood, or acrylic.
• Etsy is different from traditional craft stores because it connects buyers directly with makers. You can find almost everything from handmade items, to custom components, to vintage supplies

Best Home Decor Stores Like Hobby Lobby

For wall decor, seasonal decorations, accent pieces, and ready-to-customize home goods, these stores deliver the most overlap with what Hobby Lobby used to carry in its home section.

• HomeGoods and TJ Maxx are the closest matches for discounted decorative pieces.
• Target works for seasonal and everyday home decor at a mid-range price point, especially for items you need quickly.
• Walmart covers basic seasonal decor and everyday home goods at the lowest price point.
• Oriental Trading is the best choice for party decor, event supplies, and seasonal items bought in bulk.
• Five Below suits very low-budget seasonal decorating, kids' room accents, and holiday impulse buys in the $1-$5 range.

Best Online Stores Like Hobby Lobby

If you prefer to shop from home or need something your local stores do not carry, these are the strongest online alternatives.

• Amazon offers the widest selection of craft supplies, blanks, and materials with the fastest shipping.
• Etsy is the go-to for unique, handmade, or niche supplies that Amazon and big-box stores do not carry.
• Oriental Trading is worth bookmarking for planned bulk purchases.
• Walmart has expanded its third-party marketplace considerably, making it a solid option for craft basics at low prices.

Best Stores Like Hobby Lobby but Cheaper

If price is the primary concern, these options consistently cost less than what Hobby Lobby does. 

• Dollar Tree is the lowest-cost source for craft blanks, seasonal decor, and basic supplies.
• Five Below keeps most items at $5 or under and is a good place for beginner supplies and kids' craft materials.
• Walmart undercuts most dedicated craft retailers on everyday basics, like paint, glue, foam board, and canvas.
• Home Depot and Lowe's beat craft store prices significantly on raw wood, plywood, and finishing materials when bought in sheet or bulk form.
• Oriental Trading offers the best per-unit pricing on blanks and party supplies when ordered in packs of 12 or more.

The stores on this list are useful, and most crafters will end up using a mix of them depending on the project. But if you are running a small business and looking for a way to grow beyond what any store shelf can offer, the real move is bringing customization in-house. With a laser engraving tool like the xTool M2, you can take everyday blanks from places like Dollar Tree or Home Depot and turn them into finished, customized, and personalized products. A $1 wooden sign can become a personalized piece that sells for a much higher price. A plain tumbler turns into a custom gift. The same idea applies to acrylic blanks that look simple at first but change completely after engraving.

FAQs

What is the best store like Hobby Lobby overall?

Michaels is the closest match. It covers the same general territory, runs regular coupons, and has locations in most cities.

What craft stores are similar to Hobby Lobby?

Michaels and JOANN are the two most similar. Michaels covers general crafts, art supplies, and seasonal decor. JOANN is stronger on fabric and sewing. Between the two, you can replace most of what Hobby Lobby offers.

What are the best stores for buying cheap blanks to customize and resell?

Dollar Tree, Oriental Trading, and Amazon are the strongest options for affordable blanks. Dollar Tree is best for single-unit testing and has a very low cost per piece.

Can I use Home Depot as a source for craft supplies?

Yes, and more crafters should be doing it. Home Depot is an excellent source for raw wood, plywood sheets, acrylic, stains, and finishes, often at significantly lower prices than craft stores. If you are cutting or engraving larger pieces, buying material there and sizing it yourself is one of the most cost-effective approaches available.

What are the best online stores like Hobby Lobby?

Amazon has the widest selection and fastest shipping. Etsy is better for specialty items, niche blanks, and SVG files. Oriental Trading is worth using when you are buying party supplies or blanks in bulk and can wait a few extra days for delivery.

Which Hobby Lobby alternatives are best for fabric and sewing supplies?

JOANN, without question. The fabric selection is deeper than anything Hobby Lobby carries, and the store also stocks patterns, quilting supplies, and sewing notions.

Where can I buy home decor like Hobby Lobby?

HomeGoods and TJ Maxx are the most consistent sources for discounted frames, vases, wooden accents, and seasonal pieces. Target works for everyday and holiday decor at a reliable price point.