Introduction
For decades, Joann Fabrics has been a go-to destination for crafters, sewers, and DIY enthusiasts. From yarns and fabrics to home décor supplies, it served millions of shoppers nationwide. However, in 2025, the craft retail giant announced the closure of all its stores. This news shocked loyal customers and reshaped the craft retail landscape. In this article, we explore why Joann Fabrics stores are closing, the timeline, what shoppers can expect from liquidation sales, and how the craft community is responding. If you’ve ever loved browsing Joann’s aisles, this guide is essential reading.
The History of Joann Fabrics
Joann Fabrics, founded over 80 years ago, built its reputation as a family-friendly craft store. Known for quality fabrics, sewing supplies, and DIY kits, the chain expanded to nearly 800 stores across the U.S. By the early 2000s, Joann became a household name for crafters. However, as online shopping grew and consumer behavior shifted, Joann faced increased competition from e-commerce giants and other craft stores. These challenges eventually contributed to the chain’s financial struggles, leading to its closure announcement in 2025.
Why Joann Fabrics Is Closing
Several factors led to Joann Fabrics stores closing. First, declining in-store traffic hurt sales. Many customers prefer shopping online, which reduced revenue for physical locations. Second, the company carried heavy debt, making financial recovery difficult. Third, competition from other craft retailers, discount stores, and e-commerce marketplaces eroded Joann’s market share. Lastly, attempts to restructure or sell parts of the business failed, forcing the company to liquidate assets and close all stores.
Timeline of Joann Fabrics Store Closures
The closure process began in early 2025. In February, Joann announced it would close around 500 stores, followed by liquidation sales. By April, 255 stores had already shuttered. By the end of May, all remaining locations had permanently closed. Throughout this period, stores offered steep discounts, often up to 70% off, giving shoppers a final chance to purchase supplies.
What Liquidation Sales Mean for Shoppers
While it’s sad to see the stores close, the liquidation sales offered great deals. Fabrics, sewing machines, craft kits, and home décor items were heavily discounted. Many crafters took advantage of this final opportunity to stock up. For collectors, this was also a chance to grab limited-edition craft supplies that may not return to the market.
Impact on the Crafting Community
The closure of Joann Fabrics has a notable impact on the crafting community. Local crafters who relied on nearby stores must now shop online or travel further to alternative stores. Community sewing and crafting events hosted by Joann will no longer take place. Many hobbyists feel a sense of nostalgia and loss, as Joann was more than a store—it was a gathering place for creative minds.
Competition Filling the Gap
Other retailers, such as Michaels and Hobby Lobby, have stepped in to fill the void. Michaels acquired Joann’s intellectual property and some of its popular brands, launching new “Knit & Sew Shop” sections inside Michaels stores. This strategy helps retain loyal Joann customers and keeps certain products available in-store. Online platforms like Etsy and Amazon also provide alternative avenues for crafters to find unique fabrics and supplies.
The Future of Craft Retail
Joann Fabrics stores closing signals a broader trend in retail: the decline of large brick-and-mortar specialty stores in favor of online shopping. The crafting community may continue to evolve with virtual craft tutorials, online workshops, and subscription boxes for craft supplies. Retailers are adapting by integrating in-store experiences with online options, ensuring that crafting remains accessible even without traditional storefronts.
Tips for Shoppers After Joann Stores Closing
- Shop Online – Explore Michaels, Hobby Lobby, and Amazon for supplies.
- Use Liquidation Sales – Grab last-minute deals on remaining Joann inventory.
- Join Craft Communities – Social media groups and forums provide tips and supplier recommendations.
- Explore DIY Alternatives – Many crafters now create projects using repurposed or thrifted materials.
- Support Local Stores – Small independent craft shops may offer personalized service and unique products.
Personal Insights
Having shopped at Joann Fabrics for years, the closure is bittersweet. The aisles filled with fabrics and yarn were a place of inspiration. Yet, this change also highlights the resilience of crafters. Many have embraced online resources and local craft communities, proving creativity isn’t limited by the closure of one store chain.
FAQs
Financial struggles, declining foot traffic, competition, and failed restructuring led to the store closures.
Closures began in February 2025, with all stores closing by May 2025.
Yes, some products are available online, at Michaels stores, and via third-party retailers.
Michaels purchased Joann’s intellectual property and certain private-label products for select in-store sections.
Crafters can shop online, visit Michaels or Hobby Lobby, and join local craft communities for supplies.
Yes, liquidation sales offered steep discounts, up to 70% off, before stores closed permanently.
Conclusion
The closure of Joann Fabrics stores marks the end of an era for American crafters. While it’s sad to see beloved stores disappear, it also creates opportunities to explore alternative craft suppliers, online communities, and DIY innovations. Shoppers can still find Joann products through Michaels and online retailers, ensuring the craft spirit continues. The crafting community is resilient, and creativity always finds a way. Whether online or offline, your next project awaits—keep crafting!
