🧵 Joann Fabrics Closing 500 Stores – What It Means for Shoppers & the Future of Crafting

Joann Fabrics, a beloved retailer for crafters, has announced plans to close 500 of its 800 locations as part of a bankruptcy process. The news has left many loyal customers disappointed, especially in Michigan, where 33 stores are set to shut their doors for good.

📍 Michigan Feels the Impact

Among the locations on the chopping block is a Joann Fabrics store in Novi at the West Oaks Shopping Center. For regular shoppers like one local crocheter, who runs a small business, the closure feels personal.

🧶 “I’m a big crocheter, and I have a crochet business. This is my go-to place!” she said while loading up her car with supplies.

She’s not alone—many shoppers expressed sadness about losing a store that has been part of their crafting routine for years.

Joann Fabrics Closing 500 Stores – What It Means for Shoppers & the Future of Crafting

📉 Why Is Joann Fabrics Closing So Many Stores?

The closure is part of a larger retail trend, as many big-box stores shut down underperforming locations to focus on higher-traffic areas.

📦 E-commerce is a major factor.

Online shopping has changed how people buy crafting supplies.
Many shoppers now prefer ordering online and picking up in-store, which affects foot traffic.
The rise of competitors like Amazon and Michaels has made it harder for Joann to sustain all its locations.

💬 Retail experts weigh in:
“Many large retailers are making similar decisions—closing weaker locations to focus on stronger-performing stores.”

🎨 The Loss of a Crafting Haven

Despite the shift toward online shopping, many crafters argue that in-store shopping is irreplaceable.

🎭 Why does in-person shopping matter to artists?

Seeing and feeling fabrics for color matching and texture is crucial.
Some materials, like yarn, fabric, and paint, look different in person than on a screen.
The shopping experience itself is part of the creative process.

✨ “Crafters and artists need to feel the items, match colors, and experience the textures. You just can’t do that online.”

Beyond shopping, Joann Fabrics has also been a place of memories and tradition for many families.

📖 “My mom and I used to come here for hours, picking out patterns and materials for our projects. It’s sad to see it go.”

🔮 What’s Next for Crafters?

With Joann closing so many locations, where will customers go for their supplies?

🛒 Alternatives for crafting enthusiasts:
✔ Michaels & Hobby Lobby – Still offer in-person crafting supplies.
✔ Small local craft shops – A great way to support small businesses.
✔ Online retailers – Amazon, Etsy, and Joann’s own website remain options.

For those who love the hands-on shopping experience, these closures might mean driving farther or adapting to online alternatives.

💬 How Do You Feel About the Closures?

Did you grow up shopping at Joann Fabrics? Will this impact your craft supply shopping?

Share your thoughts below! ⬇️

“Joann Closing 500 Stores – See the Michigan Locations”