The closure of Joann is the end of an era according to Tiffany Windsor whose mother was the founder of Aleene’s Tacky Glue and a trailblazer in the crafts industry.
When I heard that Joann, the fabric and craft giant, was closing all 800 of its stores nationwide, a wave of sadness washed over me—not just for the loss of a familiar retailer, but for what it represents. As I sit in my studio, surrounded by the vibrant fabrics, yarns, and crafting supplies that have been a part of my life for over six decades, I can’t help but feel a deep sense of loss. This isn’t just about the closure of a store; it’s about the end of an era that my mother, Aleene, helped create.
I’ve been in the crafting world for over 60 years, a legacy I inherited from my mother, the visionary behind Aleene’s Tacky Glue. Momma Aleene didn’t just create a product; she ignited today’s craft industry back in 1968 with Aleene’s Craftmakers Caravan. I can still remember the excitement as we hit the road, traveling to 38 cities with hundreds of made-up project samples on sandwich board displays at local convention centers. She wasn’t just selling craft books; she was showing people how to bring their own ideas to life.
From that spark, mom-and-pop craft and hobby stores began multiplying nationwide, turning her vision into a grassroots movement. Together, with her boundless creativity and her marketing know-how, she grew that movement into one that brought joy, purpose, and connection to millions. Today, watching it shrivel feels personal—and it’s time to do something about it.
The author’s mother, Aleene Jackson, firmly believed in the importance of teaching consumers what to do with the supplies available to them.
The end of an era
The news of Joann’s closure, announced on February 24, 2025, marks the end of a company that has been a staple in the crafting community for over 80 years. As I reflect on this loss, I can’t help but think of the 19,000 employees, mostly part-time workers, who will be affected by this closure. It’s not just about the loss of jobs; it’s about the loss of another space where creativity flourished and communities came together.
Joann’s closure, following its second Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing in less than a year, truly marks the end of an era in the crafting world. This isn’t an isolated incident, but rather the latest in a series of losses that have reshaped the landscape of craft retail over the past two decades.
In 2016, we saw Hancock Fabrics shutter its 260 stores after years of financial struggles. A.C. Moore followed suit in 2020, closing all 145 of its locations. That same year, smaller chains like Consumer Crafts/Darice, caught in the undertow of larger retail challenges, vanished from the scene. Each closure has steadily eroded the physical spaces where crafters could gather, browse, and dream—spaces that owe their very crafting existence to the foundation my mother, Aleene, laid decades ago.
Among these, Joann stood as a titan, a go-to destination for sewers, quilters, and DIY enthusiasts like myself. I’ve walked those aisles countless times, hunting for the perfect fabric or restocking my craft supplies.
But as someone who’s spent a lifetime in this industry, I’ve seen the cracks forming for years.
The big box craft retailers gradually stopped investing in the heart of this industry: the people. They leaned heavily on endless sales cycles, filled shelves with generic home goods, and allowed the spark of inspiration that once defined these spaces to fade. The emphasis on education dwindled, the excitement waned, and the invitation to create became less and less apparent.
Now, as we face the reality of all 800 Joann stores closing their doors, I can’t help but wonder: Where will the next generation of crafters find their inspiration? Where will they experience the tactile joy of selecting fabrics or the thrill of discovering a new creative technique? The loss of these physical spaces represents more than just the closure of stores; it’s the disappearance of community hubs that have long nurtured creativity and connection.
The legacy of Aleene’s Creative Living
My mother understood that crafting isn’t just about selling supplies—it’s about teaching people what to do with them. When Aleene’s Creative Living television launched in 1985, it became a daily dose of inspiration for millions. The show aired for over 15 years, introducing new products, fresh techniques, and the thrill of making something with your own hands. She didn’t just sell glue; she sold possibility—and built a community of makers in the process. When the show went off the air in 2000 the craft industry lost a teacher, a cheerleader, and some of its soul—and now, with Joann’s doors closing, we continue to see the consequences.
A lifeline to wellness
Crafting is more than a hobby; it’s a lifeline to wellness, something Momma Aleene knew instinctively. There’s a magic in the tactile: the feel of fabric under your fingers, the rhythm of a needle threading through, the layering of papers and embellishments, the knitting needles clicking, painting with your favorite colors, and the quiet focus of gluing pieces together. Studies back this up—crafting reduces stress, boosts mood, and even sharpens cognitive skills. Momma Aleene’s Craftmakers Caravan didn’t just show off samples; it invited people to touch, to try, to make.
That hands-on connection is critical, and it’s slipping away as physical craft spaces vanish.
A call for crafting renaissance
I’m not here to just mourn, though. I’m here to sound a rallying cry. The craft industry Momma Aleene and I helped build isn’t dead—it’s dormant, waiting for a revival. Today, we have tools she could only dream of: social media, online tutorials, and digital platforms that can reach far more people than her TV show or the Caravan ever did. Picture this: a crafting renaissance where local maker spaces pop up in every town, echoing the mom-and-pop stores she inspired in the ’50s and ’60s.
The future of crafting
Imagine a future where beginners and pros alike can find local supplies and clear guidance—whether through workshops, digital classes, or a new platform that picks up where Aleene’s Creative Living left off. Community maker spaces can offer valuable enrichment classes, provide affordable space and equipment, and offer hands-on educational experiences. These spaces can foster collaboration, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
Joann’s closure is a wake-up call, but it’s also an opportunity. Let’s not let this be the end of crafting as we know it. Let’s make it the beginning of something better—a hands-on revival that heals as much as it creates. I’m stepping up to lead this crafting revival movement—who’s with me?
Tiffany Windsor, Daughter of Aleene of Aleene’s Tacky Glue
Contributor
Tiffany Windsor, founder of Cool2Craft, was born into an artistic family as the daughter of Aleene Jackson, America’s “Mother of Crafting.” She began her crafting journey early, appearing on her mother’s shows in the 1960s and later producing and hosting over 1,500 episodes of Aleene’s Creative Living, which became TNN’s top-rated daytime show.
Tiffany has authored numerous craft books and launched Cool2Craft on YouTube in 2010, featuring over 900 videos with millions of views. After a brief hiatus, she is now revitalizing the Cool2Craft community and leading the #craftingrevival movement.
G-d Bless you and thank you!!
Bless you Allison! So delighed to connect with you!
Thank you Tiffany for writing this article. I was one of the Hancock Fabrics people who felt saddened and frustrated when we closed our doors. I also worked for So-Fro Fabrics and the Singer sewing machine company when they had independent stores. When the corporate mindset losesbits connections to the peoples they serve they lose. I agree that this is an amazing and unique community. The passsion and collaboration of its members drives it. It will not fail it will be a Phoenix raising from the flames. I join you in my faith that the amazing independent retailers will be the cornerstone to drive its rebirth. Count me in!!
Im 70 and have been sewing (and crafting) since i was 11 and i felt the same loss when small mom and pop fabric stores closed. So sad now for Joanns. Im on board for a revival of handcrafts of any kind! Thanks Tiffany for this article
Joann closing is really more a commentary on capitalism than the craft industry.
you nailed it on the head.Lack of classes to grow the younger generations and WAY TO MANY pre-made home decor items. Joann lost their focus and we will all feel the affect for generations to come. It is a sad day for Joann and all their dedicated employees. It is truly a shame the executives didn’t listen to their dedicated employees
Love this article.
Who can I contact to ask permission to share this story on our Facebook Page and e-newsletter?
It’s a wonderful article that I would love to share with our customers and followers.
As a quilt shop owner, I’m looking for ways to expand our business to help fill, in part, the hole being left due to Joann’s closing.
Hi Maryanne, I just checked in with Abby and she says that you are welcome to share, no permission needed. I SO appreciate you sharing and let’s all join in this new #craftingrevival. I look forward to sharing more insights as I work to get more recognition for independent stores such as yours!
Feel free to share it, Maryanne. Thank you.
I agree. This is a wonderful article that put it into words how I have been feeling. I am a Joann employee and a crafter/quilter/sewer. It is very sad to see what I love come to this end.
YES, with every knock there is a boost. There are those in the field of textiles hanging in. Not many but talented
textile suppliers like fabricfinders1@gmail.com can help with volume orders from his resources. Just ask
I’m with you, Tiffany. You expressed the concern and dreams of so many fellow makers, sewers, knitters, etc. I have such special and happy memories of coming out to film episodes for Aleene’s Creative Living with you and your mom. You both were an inspiration to so many, and I’ll be excited to see a revival of the industry I love. Thank you for carrying forward the insight and enthusiasm of your mom.
Hi Elaine! So nice to reconnect with you! I have SO many wonderful memories with you on Aleene’s Creative Living TV! It’s time for a #craftingrevival! Let’s keep in touch!
Thanks Tiffany, Please let us know if we can help in any manner to promote Inspiration and Craft Project ideas to the makers and potential crafters. Jesse James Dress it Up Embellishments / Jesse James Beads
So nice to reconnect with you! I’ll definitely be in touch with you as we start the #craftingrevival movement!
Although we all mourn the loss of Joann, we have hundreds of locally-owned sewing, quilting, knitting and craft shops throughout the country. Why are you not lifting them up, Tiffany? These shops, my own included, are committed to the kind of customer service, serious educational classes and quality products that Joann has not offered in many years. My sister shop owners and I understand that not everyone can afford fabric at $15yd or yarn at $25 a skein, but we all try to accommodate a range of budgets with specials and sales without sacrificing quality. Currently we are facing stiff competition from online craft retailers, many of whom can undersell local shops. But they, Joann, Michaels, AC. Moore and Walmart were not and will not be there, in person, to guide, encourage and teach customers who want to grow their skills. So while we are mourning, let’s take heart that hundreds of locally-owned shopkeepers care enough about their fellow makers to put their time, talent and treasure on the line. Small shops are acts of love. Love them in return.
Hi Denise, so nice to meet you! Thank you for posting your reply. You are exactly the kind of business I am talking about! This is what the crafting revival is all about—shops like yours that foster creativity, community, and deep expertise. Your dedication to customer service, education, and quality is invaluable, and I couldn’t agree more that small shops are acts of love. Love them in return! This is the call to action and the journey I am embarking on—to shine a light on and help save independent small retailers like yours, ensuring they continue to thrive in this new era of crafting. #craftingrevival
Yes Denise…. Yes!!!! JoAnn’s might be gone, but I will barely feel a thing since I no longer went there for **quality** crafting supplies. I (Owner of Felt On The Fly) sell 100% wool felt imported from Europe, the quality of which doesn’t exist in the USA. I love to hand-stitch, but quality threads and flosses were never available at JoAnn’s. I think the big box craft stores sold their souls to the devil and the makers of cheap, mass-produced supplies. I hope the small mom-and-pop quilt shops will expand their knowledge and seek to source quality supplies. Meanwhile, Etsy Supplies Sellers are waiting for you to come visit them… endless fabulous resources although, online, you can’t see and feel them before purchasing….
Well said Denise! I own a needlepoint only shop with lots of threads for all kinds of crafting. More people are purchasing on the internet, watching YouTube videos and losing out on the socialization that comes with frequenting a shop. I have rolled with the punches and of course have a website but continue to offer classes and help to all who come in to my brick and mortar. I’m sorry to see Joann’s close but I hope the creatives find their way to their local shops and support us as we support them.
where are you located? probably nowhere near Cheyenne, Wyoming! I tried to get a few tens together to make basic garments, but there’s no interest.
We’re with you, Tiffany. Here in Berkeley at Stonemountain & Daughter Fabrics, a fourth-generation store, we deeply feel this shift. The closure of Joann is heartbreaking—and yet, like you, we believe it’s also a turning point.
We’ve always been about more than just fabric—we’re here for the magic that happens when people gather, dream, and create together. Your call for a crafting renaissance resonates so deeply. Yes to more local maker spaces, yes to teaching and sharing, and yes to building community through creativity.
Thank you for your powerful words and vision. We’re proud to be part of this movement and look forward to helping shape what comes next.
With gratitude and fabric love,
Stonemountain & Daughter Fabrics
Hi Suzan! So nice to meet you! YES, YES, YES! Your store is exactly what I am talking about “the magic that happens when people gather, dream, and create together!” It’s time for a #craftingrevival and I am so grateful for the independent store owners who are going to lead this charge! And, as you say, it’s all about building community through creativity! I am starting a new interview series and would love to set up an interview with you! Let’s connect!
I would be honored! Let’s chat and connect soon! Yay for daughters carrying the torch in our industry!
I sure do remember Aleene’s. I used her glue all the time and watched the show. I now sell fabrics on line and am doing
fairly well.
Your article hits the nail on the head but JoAnn’s management, I feel, caused their downfall. I hate to see them go but
on the other hand, it gives people such as myself a chance to build things up. I am 75 years old and I still would like my own
fabric shop and be able to help people. At this point, though, I do not see that happening. Been wanting a fabric store for
60 years and never got there.
Hi Sharon, so nice to connect with you! Yes, this is your time!! How wonderful that you have turned your passion for wanting a fabric store into on-line selling. That ‘s awesome! Have you heard of WhatNot? You should check it out and see if live selling would work for you. My niece sells collectibles in her store (NorthStarrHome) and I am launching a new craft-selling channel in May. It’s a great way to connect with new customers and share your passion for your business.
Loved your article, and it is all so true. I manage Dharma Trading Co., and we’ve been selling fiber art supplies for 55 years. There was renewed interest the year after covid when a lot of young people were home bored and started tie-dyeing and ice dyeing and posting on Tik Tok, Instagram and YouTube and we had our best year ever, but sales have been plummeting ever since. We have a retail store where our business started out, and a large website. But it is scary because folks just don’t seem to be spending money on crafting, or the art that the crafters create, right now. Also there is so much competition with Amazon and so many others carrying super discounted supplies. It doesn’t surprise us that so many large crafting businesses are shutting down. We hope crafting will see a resurgence, as indeed, it is therapeutic and wonderful, and the art that crafters create is so much more special than store bought imitations.
Hi Sharon! So nice to connect with you! I am a big fan of Dharma Trading! I agree with everything you have noted and we need to unite to keep building this #craftingrevival movement. I truly believe that a boots-on-the-ground community will be at the base of this revival. Let’s keep in touch!
I am with you 100%. I can see future gatherings to create and learn, as well as socialize. BTW: I have been using Aleene’s Tacky glue for many years. It is a staple among my crafting supplies.
Hi Patricia! So nice to meet you and happy to know you are an Aleene’s Tacky Glue fan!
Really nice article, Tiffany. Your mother is a legend and so are you. The industry can’t thank your family enough.
Hi Georganne, so nice to reconnect! I’ll be at NAMTA and look forward to connecting with you there!
This is a great article. So much has changed since I met Tiffany at the annual HIA ( Hobby Industry of America) trade show in 1999. Where there is a void, it will get filled by new businesses that will reinvent the craft industry. It will not look anything like what we had in the past, but it will evolve to fill the needs of current and future crafters.
Hi Andrew, so nice to reconnect with you! I agree that where there is a void, something new will fill it. I don’t want to see the “industry” sit back and wait for it, that’s why I’m calling for the #craftingrevival. Let’s join together and step up to create the movement! Let’s keep in touch!
I’m in, Tiffany! xx
Hi Vicki! So nice to reconnect with you. I’m looking forward to the #craftingrevival. Let’s keep in touch!t
I’m not mourning the loss of Joann’s. Years of bad management led to a business that sold overpriced, poor quality merchandise in badly-lit, under-staffed stores. I’m simply purchasing necessary supplies elsewhere. It’s not that difficult to find alternate suppliers.
Hi Maryann, it’s so nice to meet you. I initially mourned the loss and immediately saw the call to action that we must start a new movement. You are correct that it is not difficult to find alternate suppliers but let’s rebuild with a sense of community and gathering that is missing at these big box craft retailers. It’s about going back to the roots of this industry.
I know this article is what many of us have been thinking about since hearing of Joann’s closing which I think will be end of spring. I know I felt a major loss! I even walked the aisles when I lost my mojo only to find something before I left the store to stir it up again. Thank you for saying what we’ve all been thinking. I hope this sad event inspires change quickly. I will miss Joann stores greatly!!
Hi Peg, it’s so nice to meet you! We all need to join together and continue to share what it means to us to be creative! This is a call to action for the small independent stores to build a new community of creators and makers. We need to keep this a “hands on” movement and get customers excited about what it means to, as you said, stir up the creative fire!
Thank you for a great article! And inspiration.
I’ve been teaching our next generation of sewist/crafters since 2014 when I set up 4 sewing machines in my converted garage and started teaching kids how to sew.
In 2023, After my husband died from a 3-month illness with cancer I opened a quilt shop and expanded my classroom to teaching kids and adults quilting and sewing.
I too am sad about the closure of Joann, but look forward to helping crafters, sewists, and quilters find a community of “how to use those tools” here at my shop and classroom in Palm Desert, CA! Teaching others to tap into their creativity is incredibly fun and rewarding. So much opportunity out there!
Trish.
~TrishTacSew
Hi Trish, it’s so nice to meet you! I’m so sorry to hear about your husband’s death. How wonderful that you have opened a quilt shop and expanded your classroom. This is exactly the grassroots movement that I envision with close-knit communities of creatives led by entrepreneurs such as yourself. Bravo! PS. Momma Aleene and I lived in Rancho Mirage for several years, and I absolutely loved the desert living.
Hi,
Everything you said definitely struck a chord with me. As a professional artist and crafter, I enjoy the ability to choose my materials in person. the closure of Joann is a great loss to all of us who, in one capacity or another, enjoy the therapeutic satisfaction of crafting. I, for one, am up for the challenge of bringing crafting back and would love to collaborate with whoever is interested. We can’t let these things disappear, and we need to work on bringing them back.
Hi Melanie! I’ll be sharing more ideas in my social media so let’s be sure keep in touch through social media!
I think I am hopeful that something terrific rises from the dust and ashes that were left when JoAnn closed. It’s certainly fair to say that everything that was built by all the crafters who came before us can’t just end…. there has to be ‘more’ in our future because the desire for crafting will always be with us. So what will our choices be? What will sourcing craft supplies look like? Maybe it’s now in the hands of real crafters and not mass manufacturers of cheap, disposable, soul-less supplies. I’m kind of excited, and kind of scared at the same time!
Hi Janet, I agree! Crafters are the heart and soul of this industry and can start the #craftingrevival movement in their local communities. There’s definitely more in our future!
Hi Tiffany, your mom Aleene was such an inspiration to me and my children at the time. My son was very young and my daughter was an infant when we toured your studio and shop in Buellton California. We were on a family vacation and I asked the children’s father let’s go take a look. We had a blue ribbon tour of the studio and the whole area. That was very nice. Unfortunately, we did not get to meet Aleene but I believe we saw you. It was back in 94 I believe. It’s so tough to watch an industry slowly go down. I just hope the new generation will continue it and make it strong again. My daughter does do a lot of crafts and does still buy Aleene products. She loves them as well as I did and still do. Best wishes.
Hi Kathleen, it’s so nice to connect with you! It was always a pleasure to greet the visitors to Aleene’s Creative Living TV studios. I’m so happy that you and your family had a memorable experience. I hosted the show from 1992 – 1999 so I was probably on set. How wonderful that your daughter is following in your crafting footsteps. As we build this #craftingrevival movement, a keystone to rebuilding the industry is to get the kids and grandkids involved. Thank you SO much for sharing.
The responses are great. We came from mainly being a supplier to Garment Manufacturers to a supplier to the Craft Industry in 1992. We built the business by going to the HIA Show , The ACCI Show and any Fabric Show that we could find. We had hundreds of Independent Store Customers who were are friends. I loved watching them hugging their salesperson while meeting at the annual trade show. This was big fun. It was more like dealing with family than the “corporate” World. We are looking forward to moving towards this again. There have been millions of Dress it Up Buttons sold in the past years in Joann.
That customer is looking for new places to buy. If you would be interested, please call me and we will suggest a good assortment and we will give you a 20% off starter order. We will use the coupon code JOANN20 Thanks, if we can be involved in the industry in any way. Please let us know. We are in. Thanks, Jesse
What is the name of your company? We can’t use your coupon if we don’t know where to go.
I love your viewpoint and wonderful stance on a crafty renaissance. The timing of this article couldn’t be more perfect for me right now. I’ve recently been given the opportunity to purchase a local yarn store as the owner is retiring, and I’ve been feeling a mix of excitement and nerves. I’m a crocheter and beginner knitter, so this is all a bit outside my comfort zone, but I’ve always dreamed of creating an inclusive space for crafters of all kinds.
I plan to find a new location and breathe new energy into the shop. Although I’ve never had a business before, I agree with you and truly believe more than ever that a place like this is needed in every community. There will be plenty of challenges, but I’m so ready to embrace them.
I would love to stay in touch and chat with you about this process. I’m sure I’ll be leaning on others for advice along the way! Wish me luck, and thank you again for your inspiration.
Hi S&R, so nice to connect with you! I would love to stay in touch! Please feel free to reach out to me through my gmail which is tiffanywindsor@ I truly believe the time is now! Would be happy to offer any help I can. What city will your business be located in?
Your piece is inspiring, Tiffany! Your television show was my favorite — because of your show, my sister and I opened a Scrapbook Store and loved teaching people how to craft their memories into keepsakes. Ultimately, your inspiration guided my career move to work with craft manufacturers and teach product education. Currently, here at Prym/Dritz we are envisioning our part in the revitalization you articulated in your article. I love that you continue to inspire the craft community and me! Let’s bring on the craft education!!!!
Hi Joy, so nice to reconnect with you! I’m so happy to know that the Aleene’s Creative Living TV show inspired you to open a scrapbook store. So great to know that back story. I remember interviewing you when I first started my live Cool2Craft shows at HIA. Delighted to hear that you are at Prym/Dritz and lets keep in touch! The #craftingrevival is going to flourish through education!
I will miss Joanns not for fabric, just supplies… I like to support independent fabric sellers like EOS (Emma One Sock), Marcy Tilton, Mood fabarics, etc. People need to realize that cheap fabrics that dont wear well and are not sustainable do no one any good. We need to be more selective about the fabrics we wear. I also print my own at Spoonflower,but their fabric range is not amazing. Could there be something like NOTIONS that would sell thread, interfacing, zippers, supplies? probably would nto make enough money to stay afloat though, sadly.
Hi Philippa, so nice to connect with you. I really appreciate your insights! I encourage everyone to share the independent stores they frequent and the on-line sources like you have done. Thank you!
Here’s to the many Creative Living shows we did together! While I may be officially “retired,” one never actually retires from the creative world. So many of the people you meet in this world become lifetime friends. There are far too many fabulous women in this business – and very happy to consider you among the best.
Re: JA, while they provided needed notions, quality was just not there – so I’m still using some of the fabrics I stashed away from my own fabric store in Amherst MA in the 70’s as good quality lasts a lifetime. Will check out your YouTube channel – and all the best to you and your family!
Hi Cari, it’s SO wonderful to reconnect with you! LOL, I was officially retired too but there is a huge void that needs to be filled right now! When I left Aleene’s TV, I started my Cool2Craft YouTube channel so you will find a mix of everything starting in 2010 when the home video resources were not near what we have today! I’m looking forward to recreating many of those projects with today’s resources. My best to you and let’s keep in touch! XOXO
Thanks to your Mom who created some of the best products around. I have been using for most f the almost 60 years of its existence. I will miss JoAnns as I di shop there for specifics, Not always sales, but they were helpful. I regret the loss of local quilting shops where I made many friends, due to Big box stores underpricing fabrics, patterns and notions.
Hopefully some enterprising business will step in and again supply us with the materials that are necessary to our craft and well-being.
For now, I must be content to use my massive collection. Saved up for my retirement. Yes I do still quilt, make clothing, et all.
Where will the next generation get theirs?
Hi Peg, it’s so nice to connect with you! Let’s all stay connected through this wonderful organization and the #craftingrevival and share what’s happening in our local communities. I know that there are many independents that will thrive in filling this gap!
Wow! Excellent article. Being creative and crafting has been a major part of my life for 60 years. Once I found my love of sewing it changed my life. I majored in Textiles and Clothing. I worked in a couple fabric stores . I started my online store The Fabric Palette on eBay 20 years ago. I am now on Etsy too.
But now I plan to start a community crafting business. I want to make a difference in peoples lives in the local community. So reading your article came at the perfect time as I look forward .
Thank you!
Hi Debbie, it’s so nice to connect with you! Thank you for your feedback! I truly believe that it is those of us who have been in this industry for generations who need to lead the charge to do exactly what you are planning – a community crafting business to make a difference! Please let me know how I can help!
This was a great article; I really agree with the part the big box retailers. I have worked for Joann’s for 25 years in corp. Mainly to support my habits. It really helps having a store right next door. I feel we lost sight of the real reason Joann’s was around to inspire people to be creative. The classrooms were for learning new projects, getting together with other crafters, and having fun. I did not go shopping to buy ready-made item or household goods. I wanted to be creative.
Hi Kathy, nice to meet you! So interesting to hear your insights from the inside. Unfortunately, these big box retailers who have to answer to private equity often lose sight of their role in keeping the customers engaged and their lack of emphasis on those classrooms and the creative community!
I stumbled upon this article and it made me happy! As well as the comments. I was a young mom in the 70’s and crafting /sewing such a part of my life. I am now 71. I have enjoyed sharing my love of creating with my children, older granddaughters and now I have “nana’s sewing camp” with the younger ones. I love seeing a resurgence of the creative spirit in the new generations. I warms my heart!
Hi Pam, it’s so nice to connect with you! I LOVE that you have nana’s sewing camp set up for the younger ones! Those of us who grew up with crafting in the 70s have such wonderful memories of our creative times and it’s so important for us to share that love with the next generations. It’s time for a #craftingrevival
How good it is to connect with everyone and read all of the great comments!
Just two weeks ago, Factory Direct Craft celebrated 40 years in business—what a milestone!
Back in 1997, we saw that the craft industry was changing, and we became one of the first in our industry to go online. This allowed us to bring unique items and genuine customer support to a whole new audience. It was a bold move, but it helped us grow while staying true to what we believe in—real people, real service, and a passion for crafting.
Wasn’t it something during the pandemic when people rediscovered crafting? That time brought so much creativity and joy into homes. But let’s be honest—the craft world has changed since then. Like Jesse James mentioned above, we miss the energy of the shows—the hands-on excitement, the community, and yes, who could forget when Aleene rolled her semi into town? Crafts were fun.
Today, with so many makers on Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok, creativity is thriving in new ways. People are still looking for ways to express themselves, and we love being a part of that journey.
If you’re ready to support a family-owned business that’s been around for decades, check us out at Factory Direct Craft.
And let’s not forget—family-owned businesses need our support now more than ever. Whether it’s a local restaurant, mechanic, or hardware store, these businesses are the backbone of our communities. Without your support, they’ll disappear—and with them, all the unique items and personal service that make them special.
Let’s keep small businesses and crafting thriving!
Thank you for writing this article!! Please keep us informed of the revival! I would like to help. I love crafts! I am so sad to see Joann close. I want to see crafts stay in our lives! I shop at Michael’s and Hobby Lobby. I want to connect to mom and pop startups. I have crafting for many years, since I was 8 or 9 years old (I am 66 now). I started out with learning how to crochet but I dabble in other crafts too. I watched your mom’s show. I remember her glue. Thanks, again for the article.
Hi Karen, it’s so nice to connect with you here! It’s always so nice to reconnect with our Aleene’s friends! We’re gearing up for the next steps and I look forward to connecting with other members at h+h in May!
I got to this article via Craft Industry Alliance. I was with Michaels for years until a brain tumor and M.S. made it impossible to continue. I run a small shop on Etsy (WhichKraft.etsy.com) with finished hand crafted goods, and I take my inspiration from everywhere. What amazed me about working for a “big b” store is how few of the employees knew how to use the products and which product to recommend for which project. I am 100% behind you on the #craftingrevival .
when I lived in Alameda, I LIVED at your store. I am now in Cheyenne, Wyoming, a fabric and craft desert. Two indifferent quilt shops , Walmart. that’s it. I miss being able to touch fabric before I buy it. Buying on line is not reliable, you really cannot tell until you FEEL the fabric. Of course, I dont go out a lot anymore, work in my studio, but I still visit your site and remember the good times I had there.