Compare and contrast arts and crafts stores

pennywatcher · #1 (**permalink**) 03-08-2008, 07:58:33 AM

I used to think of Michael's first for my local craft needs. Then I went looking in JoAnn for something Michael's didn't have.

It felt like JoAnn had a wider variety of yarn selections. I don't know if they really do or if it's just the way they lay them out. I priced a few specific yarns. JoAnn was the same or cheaper than Michael's.

I priced some cake decorating supplies. Michael's was the same or cheaper than JoAnn.

Anybody else have impressions they want to share?

CocoB · #2 (**permalink**) 03-19-2008, 11:26:41 AM

I always thought AC Moore was cheaper than Michael's but priced a certain ribbon at both. It has dog paws on it- was getting it for my son's 1st birthday party. Michael's had a spool of 15 ft for 3.99. I saw the exact same ribbon at AC Moore today and at first glance was annoyed because it was only 2.99. When I looked at it though it was only 9 feet which makes it much more expensive.

I prefer Michael's over AC Moore and Jo-Ann Fabrics.

srichart · #3 (**permalink**) 03-19-2008, 08:06:47 PM

i really like the selection on scrapbooking stuff at joanns. i went to michaels alot in the past but now i usually go to joanns. i like their prices but their customer serv. at my store is not so great.

rrpate · #4 (**permalink**) 04-17-2008, 04:27:15 PM

joanns for fabrics and such... yarn and others are similar in both stores.. one may have a better sale than other... mine are in the same strip mall so if i am looking for something specific ill check both quickly...if not ill wander in each for hours... i find joann online for yarn is good they have free shipping now and then.. and sales too.. but much more choices of colors and brands... but having both stores close in same mall keeps them pretty competitive...

aimeebee · #5 (**permalink**) 05-06-2008, 08:30:41 PM

We have Hobby Lobby, Jo Ann's and Michael's here. I like them in that order. Hobby Lobby frequently has 40% off coupons and even better 50% off sales. I believe their regular prices and sale prices to be better than both of the other stores. Jo Ann's mails me their ad and coupons which I like...they have reasonable sales and clearance on occasion. Michael's seems to be the highest priced around here. They used to mail me their ad and coupons and won't do that anymore. Also, they are almost never in the Sunday paper here anymore.