10 Best Stores Like Michaels for Budget Arts and Crafts Shopping [2026]

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Nearly 70% of U.S. crafters shop at more than one arts and crafts retailer to stretch their budgets further — and with Michaels operating over 1,200 stores nationally (IBISWorld), the competition for your craft dollar has never been stronger. Whether you're hunting for fabric, fine art supplies, or DIY décor, there are excellent alternatives worth knowing about. If you enjoy browsing similar shopping sites for deals, or you're already scouting affordable home decor stores, this list has you covered. Here are 10 top stores like Michaels to explore right now.

Quick Answer

Top stores like Michaels include Hobby Lobby, Jo-Ann Fabrics, AC Moore, Blick Art Materials, JOANN, Walmart, Amazon, Target, Tuesday Morning, and Dollar Tree. These retailers offer similar craft supplies, art materials, fabric, and DIY décor. Many crafters shop multiple stores to find better prices and wider product selections.

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Summary Table

Item Name Price Range Best For Website
Joann Fabrics & Crafts $1–$60 Fabric, sewing & seasonal crafts See details
Hobby Lobby $2–$80 Wide arts, crafts & home decor selection Visit Site
Walmart $1–$30 Budget basics & everyday craft supplies Visit Site
Blick Art Materials $3–$150 Professional & student fine art supplies Visit Site
Jerry's Artarama $4–$120 Discount fine art supplies & bulk orders Visit Site
Pop Shop America $5–$50 DIY kits, craft tutorials & gifts Visit Site
Factory Direct Craft $2–$45 Wholesale floral & decorative craft supplies Visit Site
MisterArt $3–$100 Discount art supplies for all skill levels Visit Site
Plaid Online $4–$35 Paints, stencils & craft brand products Visit Site
Fiberfolk $8–$60 Yarn, fiber arts & textile crafting Visit Site

10 Best Stores Like Michaels for Budget Arts and Crafts Shopping [2026]

Below you'll find detailed information about each option, including what makes them unique and their key benefits.

1. Joann Fabrics & Crafts

Joann is one of the closest alternatives to Michaels for crafters, offering a similarly broad selection of fabrics, sewing supplies, yarn, floral materials, and general craft supplies. Like Michaels, Joann runs frequent coupons and sales — often 40–50% off single items — making it a budget-friendly option for hobbyists and DIYers. The store also offers classes and custom framing services that mirror Michaels' in-store experience.

Notable perks:

  • Stronger fabric and sewing department than Michaels
  • Regular 40–60% off coupons via app or email
  • Online ordering with in-store pickup available

2. Hobby Lobby

Hobby Lobby is a direct competitor to Michaels, stocking art supplies, framing, seasonal décor, floral arrangements, and fabric — covering nearly the same product categories at comparable price points. Its rotating 40% off coupon (one item per visit) functions similarly to Michaels' discount structure. Hobby Lobby tends to have a stronger home décor and seasonal section, making it a popular swap for shoppers who want craft supplies alongside decorative items.

Key features:

  • Weekly 40% off single-item coupon
  • Extensive seasonal and holiday décor selection
  • Custom framing department in most locations

3. Walmart

Walmart carries a practical selection of basic craft supplies — paint, yarn, canvas, scrapbooking materials, and kids' craft kits — at prices that often undercut specialty retailers like Michaels. While the craft aisle is narrower and less specialized, Walmart is a convenient one-stop option for everyday crafters who don't need a wide brand selection. Its online marketplace also expands the craft inventory significantly beyond what's available in-store.

What you get:

  • Lower everyday prices on craft basics
  • Expanded selection online via Walmart Marketplace
  • Widely accessible locations nationwide

4. Blick Art Materials

Blick Art Materials is one of the strongest alternatives to Michaels for serious artists and hobbyists, offering a deeper selection of professional-grade supplies across painting, drawing, printmaking, and sculpture. While Michaels caters broadly to casual crafters, Blick leans toward fine art, making it ideal if you need higher-quality materials at competitive prices.

Why it stands out as a Michaels alternative:

  • Wider range of professional artist paints, canvases, and brushes
  • Frequent sales and a rewards program for repeat buyers
  • Both in-store locations and a robust online shop at dickblick.com

5. Jerry's Artarama

Jerry's Artarama fills a similar niche to Blick as a craft and art supply retailer comparable to Michaels, but with a reputation for deep discounts and extensive online inventory. It's particularly useful for shoppers who want Michaels-style convenience with more artist-focused inventory and frequent clearance deals.

Notable perks:

  • Regular sales up to 70% off name-brand art supplies
  • Large selection of instructional videos and free resources for artists
  • Ships nationally with physical stores in select states

6. Pop Shop America

Pop Shop America operates as a craft supply and DIY lifestyle retailer that appeals to the same audience as Michaels — crafters, makers, and creative hobbyists — with a focus on curated, trend-forward supplies. It's a smaller, boutique-style option worth exploring if you want unique craft kits and materials beyond what big-box stores typically carry.

What you get:

  • Specialty craft kits, candle-making, and resin supplies
  • Strong online presence with tutorials supporting purchases

7. Factory Direct Craft

Factory Direct Craft serves as a budget-friendly alternative to Michaels, specializing in wholesale and bulk craft supplies sold directly to consumers. It's particularly useful for crafters who need large quantities of decorative items, floral supplies, seasonal décor, and DIY materials at prices well below retail. The site regularly stocks items comparable to what you'd find in Michaels' home décor and seasonal aisles.

Worth knowing:

  • Bulk pricing makes it ideal for event planners and classroom teachers
  • Strong selection of artificial florals, ribbon, and wood craft pieces
  • Free shipping available on qualifying orders

8. MisterArt

MisterArt positions itself as a discount fine art and craft supply retailer, making it a solid destination for artists who find Michaels' prices steep on professional-grade materials. The site carries drawing, painting, printmaking, and mixed-media supplies, often discounted 20–40% below standard retail. It's especially strong for students, educators, and working artists seeking quality supplies without the markup.

Key features:

  • Deep discounts on name-brand art supplies like Winsor & Newton and Liquitex
  • Education pricing available for schools and institutions
  • Wide range of canvas, brushes, and professional paints

9. Plaid Online

Plaid is the brand behind popular craft product lines sold at Michaels — including Mod Podge, FolkArt, and Apple Barrel paints — and their direct website lets you shop these lines without a middleman. Buying from Plaid's own store gives access to their full product catalog, including specialty items not always stocked at physical craft retailers. It's a natural stop for crafters already loyal to these staple brands.

Notable perks:

  • Full catalog access beyond what Michaels carries in-store
  • Project tutorials and pattern downloads included
  • Frequent promotions and bundle deals on paints and adhesives

10. Fiberfolk

Fiberfolk is a specialty retailer catering to knitters, weavers, and fiber artists — making it a strong alternative for crafters who shop at Michaels specifically for yarn, textile supplies, and fiber-based materials. Unlike big-box craft stores, Fiberfolk focuses exclusively on high-quality yarns, natural fibers, and artisan spinning supplies that Michaels typically doesn't stock in depth.

Why fiber crafters prefer it:

  • Curated selection of premium and indie-dyed yarns
  • Spinning, weaving, and dyeing supplies in one place
  • Community-focused with workshops and fiber events

Final Words

Your best bet depends on whether you prioritize budget, variety, or specialty craft supplies — so browse a few before committing. For broader creative project needs, explore party supply options that pair well with your haul.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Stores Like Michaels

What is the best alternative to Michaels for arts and crafts supplies?

Joann Fabrics & Crafts is considered a top alternative, offering craft innovation, in-store Maker Hubs, and plant-based dyes at budget-friendly prices. Hobby Lobby is another major competitor with a wide selection of arts, crafts, and home decor across US locations.

Can I find affordable craft supplies at general retailers like Walmart?

Yes, Walmart carries affordable crafting basics including fabrics, seasonal decor, and dedicated crafting aisles, making it a convenient one-stop option for budget shoppers. It is widely available nationwide and works well for everyday crafting needs.

How does Hobby Lobby compare to Michaels?

Hobby Lobby is a major Michaels alternative with a similarly wide range of arts, crafts, and decor products at competitive prices across the United States. Both stores target similar customers, but Hobby Lobby is often noted for its broad decor selection alongside traditional craft supplies.

Are there stores like Michaels that specialize in fabric and sewing supplies?

Joann Fabrics & Crafts is the strongest option for fabric and sewing-focused shoppers, offering an extensive fabric selection along with general crafting supplies. It also features in-store Maker Hubs, which provide a more hands-on crafting environment compared to most competitors.

How many stores like Michaels are available in the US?

Based on the research, there are at least 19 notable stores similar to Michaels available to US shoppers, ranging from dedicated craft retailers like Joann and Hobby Lobby to general mass-market retailers like Walmart. These options cover a wide range of budgets and crafting needs.

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