The Fall of Joann Stores: A Catalyst for Crafting’s Revival
The closure of Joann is the end of an era according to Tiffany Windsor, the daughter of the founder of Aleene’s Tacky Glue.
As Joann Shutters, Independent Shops Get Ready for New Customers
The closure of all Joann stores marks a huge shift for the American craft community, leaving many without a go-to fabric and craft supply store. While this change is challenging, it also presents opportunities for local craft shops and creative reuse stores to welcome new customers. From independent fabric stores to secondhand craft supply options, there are still plenty of ways for crafters to find materials, support small businesses, and stay connected with their creative communities.
Joann to Begin Liquidation Sale at 533 Stores Tomorrow
JOANN, an 80-year-old retailer, is seeing a second bankruptcy limp towards liquidation, with bids due next week.
Knitting.com: Disrupter or Disappointment?
Knitting.com’s ambitious plans by e-commerce entrepreneurs sparked controversy in 2022. Learn how their bold claims and industry backlash shaped the website’s fate.
The Unraveling of Joann Fabrics
How JOANN Fabrics, entering its second bankruptcy in a year, simultaneously destroyed shareholder value along with the joys of crafting.
Missouri Star Takes Controlling Interest in Robert Kaufman Fabrics
Corporate records show that Missouri Star Quilt Company now makes up the majority of the board of Robert Kaufman Fabrics.
Handloomed Indian Fabrics at Loom & Stars Are a Delight to the Senses
Walking into Kristine Gupta’s Loom & Stars showroom in New York is a sensory experience. From the textured softness of shot cotton to the vibrant hues of rainbow checks, Gupta curates handloomed Indian fabrics that invite touch and admiration. Inspired by her trips to India, Gupta’s passion for textiles blossomed into Loom & Stars, where she offers fine natural fibers like jamdani—an intricate handwoven fabric steeped in heritage. Her mission goes beyond retail: she aims to support traditional weavers and provide sustainable, quality fabrics for sewists worldwide.
LoveCrafts and WEBS Acquired by Missouri Star
Missouri Star Quilt Company has acquired UK-based knitting and crochet pattern marketplace and ecommerce retailer, LoveCrafts.
Etsy India’s Business Falters as Sellers Encounter Numerous Challenges
Etsy India’s operations have struggled since expanding into the market, facing numerous challenges such as management turnover, suspended seller onboarding, and issues with customer and seller support. Sellers have reported difficulties with tax and shipping procedures, poor customer service, and competition from established local e-commerce platforms like Amazon and Flipkart, leading many to question Etsy’s commitment to the Indian market.
Changes at Kemper Tools Ripple Through Ceramics Industry
The potential closure of Kemper Tools, a longstanding ceramic industry supplier, sent shockwaves through the ceramics community, but a recent announcement about a potential buyer has offered a glimmer of hope for its continuation.
Remembering Art Joinnides
We remember Art Joinnides, founder of SOHO Publishing, Mixed Media Resources, and West Broadway Distribution Services.
Wreath Makers Create Unique Decor That’s Like a Smile for Your Door
Wreaths encompass any holiday or event, popular not just on doors, but also to add warmth to inside spaces, and are more than just greenery.
What It’s Like Doing an In-Store Popups at Michaels as Part of MakerPlace
We talk with several artists about their experience doing an in-store popup at their local Michaels store as part of MakerPlace.
Anna Maria Parry (formerly Horner) to Launch a New Division with Northcott
In quilt industry news today, Northcott announced the launch of its newest division, Anna Maria Textiles, a new brand for the designer.
The Size of the Quilting Market: Quilting Trends Survey Results 2024
We give the results of the 2024 Quilting Trends Survey presented at h+h americas by Mark Hyland, CEO of HandiQuilter.
The Size of the Yarn Market: Yarn Consumer Survey Results 2024
We give you the yarn market data that was presented by Jan Hurwitz, General Manager of Berroco, at h+h americas 2024.
The Etsy Strike, Two Years Later
Learn how the marketplace landscape has changed for indie sellers since the Etsy strike in protest of fee hikes two years ago.
How Sanctions Against Russia Affect the Craft Industry
Two years after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, sanctions are affecting the creative industry beyond Russia’s borders.
Rebecca Page Rebrands, Then Quietly Shuts Down
Popular sewing pattern and virtual events company, Rebecca Page, suddenly shut down this month. Customers, affiliates, instructors, and brand ambassadors were not notified.
10 Places to Donate Your Handmade Goods
Before you pull out the big black trash bags, consider donating your handmade goods. Here are 10 places that accept donations.