The crafts community mourns the loss of a beloved institution amid Joann’s store closures

The crafting world was shaken on Wednesday as news broke that Joann, a titan in the arts-and-crafts retail industry, is set to close over half of its stores nationwide. This announcement comes on the heels of the company’s second bankruptcy filing in less than a year. For crafters, quilters, knitters, and makers across the country, the impending closure of 500 out of 800 stores, potentially as soon as this weekend, represents more than just the downsizing of a retail chain. It marks the loss of a sanctuary—a place where creativity flowed freely, and communities connected over shared passions.

A sanctuary for creators: The emotional toll on the crafting community

For many, Joann was far more than a store. It was a haven where one could lose themselves in aisles of fabrics, yarns, and art supplies. It was a space where the therapeutic act of creation came to life. Jen Clapp, a quilter from Northern Kentucky, expressed the profound impact of the closure. She recalled her first visit to Joann, then known as Jo-Ann Fabrics, with her grandmother—a moment that opened her eyes to the world of quilting. Decades later, the store remained her go-to destination, offering a selection unmatched by smaller, boutique stores. “I’m not OK,” she admitted. “I’m heartbroken. My grandmother took me to that Joann, and I still go to it.” The closure of these stores threatens not just a retail space but a cultural hub where generations of crafters found inspiration.

The loss of a tactile experience: Why online shopping can’t replace the real thing

For Sally Shore, a fiber artist and member of the Long Island Craft Guild, the closure of her local Joann store in Westbury, New York, is a personal blow. She cherishes the sensory experience of browsing through the aisles, feeling the yarns, and discovering unexpected materials that spark new ideas. “When I need something, I don’t just buy what I need—I’ll end up going up and down the aisles and get inspired to grab materials off the shelves to make things I’m not shopping for,” she explained. This hands-on connection to her craft is something she fears will be lost as online shopping becomes the only option. While there are alternatives, such as Michaels, Shore worries about the accessibility and variety smaller stores can offer.

A legacy born of innovation: The rise and struggles of Joann

Joann’s story began in 1943 when German immigrants founded the company in Cleveland. Over the decades, it grew into a leader in the craft retail sector, alongside competitors like Michaels and Hobby Lobby. The company thrived during the pandemic, as millions of Americans turned to crafting as a comforting hobby during lockdowns. However, the post-pandemic decline in demand, coupled with financial challenges, led to its first bankruptcy filing in March 2023. Now, with its second bankruptcy, Joann is forced to downsize drastically. “This was a very difficult decision,” the company said in a statement, acknowledging the significant impact on employees, customers, and communities.

A sentimental goodbye: Crafters reflect on memories and uncertainty

For Laura Christobek, a knitter and crocheter from Cincinnati, Joann has been a constant in her life. She remembers the countless baby quilts she made with materials from the store and the Halloween costumes she crafted for her children. “From a sentimental point of view, I know the aisles of Joann well,” she said wistfully. The closure leaves her wondering where she will turn next. Christobek is not alone in her uncertainty. Many crafters are grappling with the loss of a trusted resource and the connections it provided. As they say goodbye to a store that has been a part of their lives for so long, they’re left to navigate a future where the crafting community may be forever changed.

Looking ahead: The uncertain future of the crafting community

As Joann prepares to close hundreds of stores, crafters are left to mourn the loss of a beloved institution while searching for new ways to sustain their passions. For some, smaller boutique stores and larger competitors like Michaels may fill the gap, but these alternatives often lack the selection and accessibility that made Joann a cornerstone of the crafting community. Others have turned to online forums and social media to share their grief and brainstorm ways to support smaller craft businesses. While the road ahead is uncertain, one thing is clear: the closure of Joann’s stores is a loss that will be deeply felt by crafters across the nation.