Joann Fabric and Crafts: Your Complete Shopping Guide

Joann Fabric and Crafts has become a go-to destination for crafters, sewing enthusiasts, and DIY hobbyists across the United States. With more than 800 stores nationwide, Joann offers an extensive range of fabrics, craft supplies, and home décor products. Beyond shopping, the brand has built a reputation for inspiring creativity through classes, seasonal projects, and community engagement.

This article explores Joann’s history, product offerings, store locations, industry changes, alternatives, and practical shopping tips to help you make the most of your visits.

Overview of Joann Fabric and Crafts

Founded in 1943, Joann Fabric and Crafts is a leading specialty retailer focused on fabric, sewing, and craft supplies. Over time, the company has expanded its offerings to include home décor, floral arrangements, and DIY kits. Its mission is simple: to spark creativity and provide customers with the tools they need to bring their projects to life.

History and Growth of Joann Stores

Joann started as a small fabric store in Cleveland, Ohio. From humble beginnings, it has grown into one of the largest craft retailers in the country. Key milestones in its journey include:

• 1960s: Expanded into new markets and added craft supplies.
• 1990s: Rebranded and introduced the Joann Superstore format.
• 2000s: Transitioned into a publicly traded company, boosting its national footprint.
• 2010s: Embraced e-commerce and mobile shopping to serve digital-first customers.

Today, Joann balances in-store shopping with online convenience, catering to both traditional and modern crafters.

Products and Services

Joann stores carry thousands of items for every type of creative project. Popular product categories include:

• Fabric: Cotton, fleece, flannel, quilting materials, and décor fabrics.
• Sewing Supplies: Patterns, thread, zippers, cutting tools, and notions.
• Craft Supplies: Yarn, knitting and crochet tools, scrapbooking essentials, and jewelry-making kits.
• Home Décor: Seasonal decorations, artificial florals, and DIY home projects.

In addition to products, Joann provides helpful services such as:

• Classes & Workshops: Hands-on lessons in sewing, quilting, and crafts.
• Curbside Pickup: Easy online ordering with same-day pickup options.
• Custom Framing: Professional framing for photos, art, and keepsakes.

Store Locations and Accessibility

Joann operates more than 800 stores in nearly every state, making it accessible to millions of shoppers. Stores are typically located in shopping centers with ample parking and are designed to be ADA-compliant.

Examples of notable locations include:

• Los Angeles, CA: A flagship location with extensive fabric collections.
• Chicago, IL: Known for its specialized craft classes.
• Miami, FL: Popular for seasonal home décor and bright fabric selections.

Recent Industry Changes

Like many retailers, Joann has faced challenges in recent years. The company has closed underperforming stores while shifting focus toward digital sales. Notable changes include:

• 2020: Closure of around 20 stores as part of restructuring.
• 2021: Continued investment in e-commerce and app-based shopping.
• 2022–Present: Streamlined operations to adapt to evolving consumer habits and online-first trends.

Alternatives to Joann Fabric and Crafts

While Joann is a leader in the space, other retailers also serve crafters and DIY fans:

• Michaels: Wide variety of craft and seasonal supplies, plus frequent discounts.
• Hobby Lobby: Strong selection of craft and home décor, with rotating weekly sales.
• Fabric.com: Online-only retailer with a vast collection of fabrics and fast delivery.

Tips for Shopping at Joann

To save money and maximize your shopping experience:

• Use Coupons: Joann regularly offers printable and digital coupons.
• Join the Rewards Program: Earn points on every purchase for future discounts.
• Plan Ahead: Make a list of needed supplies to avoid overspending.
• Attend Classes: Learn new skills and gain inspiration from in-store workshops.

Joann Fabric and Crafts has grown from a small Ohio shop into one of the largest fabric and craft retailers in the U.S. With its wide product selection, educational resources, and convenient shopping options, Joann continues to serve as a hub for creativity. Whether you’re a seasoned quilter, a DIY home decorator, or a beginner crafter, Joann provides the tools, inspiration, and support to bring your projects to life.