I guess the real question is who hasn't been to Michael's at some point in their crafting career? Being one of the largest nationwide retailers of all things crafty, it's hard to avoid them. Particularly if you need something now, many of it, or are just in an area where those smaller independent stores aren't.
Personally I heart the independent craft store, those places are an absolute treasure trove of the unique, but when you need it, you need it, and chances are Michael's can answer the call.
We'll start with the cons, get those out of the way now:
*Often understaffed- particularly once that holiday season hits
*No bulk/wholesale pricing options
*Lots of unoriginal, non-unique items
*Too many departments, not enough variety
And of course the pros:
*Lots of locations
*Stocked full of the basic crafting supplies
*Higher volume means lower prices
*Seasonal items are in early
*Large selection of inexpensive craft kits
*Expanded and more organized beading section
Wherever you decide to shop, if you shop Michael's go to the physical store. Shopping online is wacky with far less options. If you're buying supplies online go after one of the wholesale or discount retailers, particularly if you need any sort of quantity beyond a couple of items.
Tags: craft stores, supplies, vendors, crafting, crafts, michaels
I guess the real question is who hasn't been to Michael's at some point in their crafting career? Being one of the largest nationwide retailers of all things crafty, it's hard to avoid them. Particularly if you need something now, many of it, or are just in an area where those smaller independent stores aren't.
Personally I heart the independent craft store, those places are an absolute treasure trove of the unique, but when you need it, you need it, and chances are Michael's can answer the call.
We'll start with the cons, get those out of the way now:
*Often understaffed- particularly once that holiday season hits
*No bulk/wholesale pricing options
*Lots of unoriginal, non-unique items
*Too many departments, not enough variety
And of course the pros:
*Lots of locations
*Stocked full of the basic crafting supplies
*Higher volume means lower prices
*Seasonal items are in early
*Large selection of inexpensive craft kits
*Expanded and more organized beading section
Wherever you decide to shop, if you shop Michael's go to the physical store. Shopping online is wacky with far less options. If you're buying supplies online go after one of the wholesale or discount retailers, particularly if you need any sort of quantity beyond a couple of items.
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