In the world of crafts superstores there seem to be two major contenders for your craft dollars: Michael’s the Arts & Crafts Store and Joann’s Fabric & Craft Stores. However, the frequent shoppers will notice that each of these craft chains have different strengths and weaknesses. Knowing which of these factors is more important will help you choose the craft store that best fits your needs.
First, there are some things that are pretty similar in Joann’s and Michael’s. Both stores have framing, floral, kids’ crafts, and needlework departments. Joann’s and Michael’s also both carry home decorator items. And more often than not, Joann’s and Michael’s will each feature coupons in their weekly circular ads.
So, after reading through these you might ask, what are the differences between Joann’s and Michael’s if they have so much in common? Trust me; there are some major differences in product availability, employee knowledge and internet presence.
In the employee knowledge category, Joann’s clearly outshines Michael’s. Joann’s employees are typically extremely well-versed in knowledge regarding their specific departments. The fabric folks always ask what you’re making and often offer their own helpful tips for your consideration. If you have a question about the best type of adhesive for a project, you’ll find that the average Joann’s employee will also do more than just point you towards the glue section of the store. The management teams at the Joann’s stores have obviously made an effort to hire people who are crafty to staff their stores.
The actual types of product available also differ from Joann’s versus Michael’s. Michael’s doesn’t really delve into the world of sewing. Michael’s carries absolutely no fabric on the bolt. There are a few types of novelty fabric meant to be used for appliqué, but only in limited quantities. They also don’t have a sewing machine center or sewing notions. So, if you’re a budding seamstress, you’d be better off to head for a Joann’s store before you take off to Michael’s.
Although Joann’s comes out ahead in the sewing department (by simply having one) Michael’s is my personal favorite for purchasing frames. Michael’s seems to offer a better quality frame than Joann’s. The corners are mitered more accurately and they are made of wood more often than plastic or resin.
Finally, both stores have a strong web site, but each seems to gear their site towards a different end. Michael’s web site doesn’t offer any type of online shopping. You can look at products that are available in the store, but must actually drive to the store to purchase. But the newly revamped Michael’s web site more than makes up for its lack of a commercial store front. Michael’s web site is much more aesthetically appealing than Joann’s web site. And Michael’s web site includes some new animations in their how tips and techniques so that the user can actually watch how some things are completed (i.e., preparing a bead crimp). Ultimately, the Michael’s web site is better for research or inspiration than Joann’s.
That said, if you want to look at a project idea and then order the supplies, Joann’s web site is where you want to be. They carry a wide range of craft supplies and tools. And they also feature a “free shipping” club so that the frequent user can get rid of those pesky shipping charges when shopping online. Joann’s web site is easy to use; it just doesn’t have the finer edges that Michael’s web site possesses.
In the end, a crafter has to make his own decision about which store best meets his needs. But there are a lot of instances where Joann’s Fabric and Craft Stores just seem to be a better fit. If you need advice or guidance, Joann’s is the place to go. For fabric or sewing notions, Joann’s is still the hands-down winner. But, all in all, Michael’s is a superb second choice.
