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When the news broke that JOANN Stores would be closing all its locations, the crafting community held its breath, wondering what would happen next. But just when you thought the crafting world was facing a fabric shortage of epic proportions, Michaels swoops in like a superhero with a sewing machine! On June 5, Michaels announced its acquisition of JOANN’s intellectual property and private label brands, signaling a new era for crafty enthusiasts.
The grand takeover
In a move that could only be described as daring, Michaels is setting out to attract all those former JOANN customers who might still be mourning the loss of their favorite fabric haven. According to David Boone, the Chief Executive Officer at Michaels, this acquisition isn’t just about business; it’s about fulfilling a rising demand. “This acquisition allows us to better serve both new and existing customers, respond to rising demand across categories, and build on our momentum as the destination for creating and celebrating in North America,” he remarked in a press release. Talk about a game-changer!
And here’s the kicker: the JOANN website is now redirecting to Michaels! That’s right, fellow crafters—when you type in your old favorite URL, you’ll be greeted with a warm welcome from Michaels, complete with a cheerful banner and easy links to various crafting and sewing products. If you’ve ever tried to find your way through an unfamiliar fabric store, you know how much that helps.
The fabric frenzy
What does this mean for you? Well, brace yourself for a fabric frenzy! Michaels reports that searches for “fabric” and “sewing” have skyrocketed by a whopping 77% among its customers. In response, they’re expanding their fabric offerings in over 680 stores, with plans to add even more to an additional 280 locations this year. That’s like saying “abracadabra” and watching the fabric aisle transform into a magical wonderland! And for those who prefer shopping in their pajamas, there are now 10,000 fabric options available online. Yes, you read that right—10,000!
A treasure trove of crafting supplies
But wait, there’s more! Michaels isn’t just stopping at fabrics. They’ve added over 600 new crafting products to their inventory. Picture this: shiny new Brother and Singer sewing machines, specialty scissors that make you feel like a crafting ninja, and thread packs that will brighten up any project. Not to mention the delightful needle crafting kits from beloved brands like DMC and Loops & Threads. It’s like walking into a candy store—but for crafters!
And if you were fond of JOANN’s popular brands like Big Twist Value Plus and Big Twist Twinkle, you’re in luck! Michaels will soon stock these brands, both online and in-store, allowing you to continue your crafting adventures without missing a beat. It’s almost as if JOANN’s spirit lives on, reincarnated in the aisles of Michaels.
A storied history
Now, let’s take a moment to reflect on JOANN’s journey. This beloved retailer had been a staple in the U.S. since 1943, but as they say, all good things must come to an end. After filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy twice, JOANN announced the closure of its retail stores on February 25, 2025. It was a bittersweet farewell for many, but as the saying goes, when one door closes, another opens. And for crafters, that door is wide open at Michaels!
Crafting a brighter future
So, what does this all mean for you, the avid crafter? A world of possibilities! Michaels is ready to embrace the crafting community with open arms, providing an abundance of materials and supplies that will fuel your creative spirit. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out with a passion for DIY, the future looks bright.
As we venture into this new chapter, remember to keep your crafting tools close and your imagination even closer. Who knows what beautiful creations await? Grab your scissors, unleash your creativity, and let’s get crafting! The world of fabric and craft supplies is at your fingertips, and it’s more vibrant than ever.