Michaels vs Hobby Lobby Prices: Which Craft Store Is Cheaper?
Are you a crafting enthusiast looking to save money on your next project? You’re not alone! Deciding where to buy your supplies can significantly impact your budget. Two of the biggest players in the craft world, Michaels and Hobby Lobby, often top the list for crafters.
But which store offers the best deals? This comparison dives deep into the pricing strategies of Michaels and Hobby Lobby, helping you make informed decisions. We’ll explore discounts, sales, and overall value to determine which store is truly the champion of affordability.
Whether you’re into scrapbooking, painting, or any other craft, understanding the pricing differences between Michaels and Hobby Lobby is essential. Get ready to uncover the secrets to saving money and maximizing your crafting budget. Let’s find out which store comes out on top for your crafting needs!
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | Michaels | Hobby Lobby |
|---|---|---|
| Product Variety | Extensive | Large |
| Crafting Supplies | Yes | Yes |
| Home Decor | Yes | Yes |
| Art Supplies | Yes | Yes |
| Seasonal Items | Yes | Yes |
| Classes & Workshops | Yes | Limited |
| Online Shopping | Yes | Yes |
| Store Layout | Organized | Organized |
| Return Policy | Standard | Standard |
| Customer Service | Available | Available |
| Loyalty Program | Yes | No |
| Clearance Section | Yes | Yes |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Product Selection
- Michaels: Michaels offers a vast and diverse selection of arts and crafts supplies, including a wide range of materials for various hobbies and projects. They have a strong online presence and often carry exclusive brands. However, the sheer volume can sometimes make it overwhelming to find specific items.
- Hobby Lobby Prices: Hobby Lobby is known for its extensive selection, particularly in home decor, seasonal items, and craft supplies. They offer a good variety of products, but their online selection may be more limited than Michaels. They also emphasize unique and trendy items.
- Winner: Tie
Pricing Strategy
- Michaels: Michaels often has sales, coupons, and rewards programs (like Michaels Rewards) to offer discounts. Their prices can vary, and it’s essential to compare before purchasing. They frequently have promotions on specific items.
- Hobby Lobby Prices: Hobby Lobby frequently offers a 40% off one regular-priced item coupon, which is a significant advantage. However, their regular prices may be higher than Michaels, and they don’t offer as many individual item sales, making the coupon essential.
- Winner: Hobby Lobby
Sales & Promotions
- Michaels: Michaels has frequent sales, promotions, and a rewards program that offers discounts and exclusive offers. They often have seasonal sales and clearance events.
- Hobby Lobby Prices: Hobby Lobby is known for its consistent 40% off coupon on one regular-priced item. They have seasonal sales and clearance events, but they don’t have as many individual item sales as Michaels.
- Winner: Michaels
Store Experience
- Michaels: Michaels stores are generally well-organized, with dedicated sections for different crafts and supplies. They often have workshops and classes, providing an interactive experience. However, store layouts may vary.
- Hobby Lobby Prices: Hobby Lobby stores are known for their attractive displays, especially in home decor. They provide a pleasant shopping environment but may feel less focused on specific crafting needs compared to Michaels.
- Winner: Tie
Online Shopping
- Michaels: Michaels has a robust online store with a vast selection and online ordering. They offer convenient options like in-store pickup and delivery. However, shipping costs can sometimes be a factor.
- Hobby Lobby Prices: Hobby Lobby’s online store offers a selection of products, but it may not be as extensive as Michaels. They also offer in-store pickup. Online sales might not be as frequent as in-store sales.
- Winner: Michaels
Customer Service
- Michaels: Michaels offers customer service both in-store and online. They have a return policy and provide assistance with crafting projects. Customer service experiences can vary depending on the store location.
- Hobby Lobby Prices: Hobby Lobby offers customer service, but their return policy is more restrictive than Michaels. Customer service experiences can also vary based on location.
- Winner: Michaels
Home Decor & Seasonal Items
- Michaels: Michaels carries a selection of home decor and seasonal items, but the focus is more on craft supplies. Their decor offerings are present but are not their primary focus.
- Hobby Lobby Prices: Hobby Lobby is well-known for its extensive home decor and seasonal items, often with unique and trendy styles. This is a significant strength of their offerings.
- Winner: Hobby Lobby
Return Policy
- Michaels: Michaels has a more flexible return policy, allowing returns within a certain timeframe with or without a receipt.
- Hobby Lobby Prices: Hobby Lobby’s return policy is more restrictive, often requiring a receipt and having a shorter return window.
- Winner: Michaels
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Product Variety | Michaels |
| Best Prices | Hobby Lobby |
| Crafting Classes | Michaels |
| Home Decor Selection | Hobby Lobby |
| Loyalty Program | Michaels |
| Online Shopping Experience | Tie |
What They Have in Common
- Craft Supplies: Both stores offer a wide array of crafting supplies, including paper, paints, brushes, and more, catering to various artistic endeavors.
- Home Decor: Both stores provide a selection of home decor items, such as wall art, decorative accents, and seasonal decorations, to enhance living spaces.
- Seasonal Items: Both stores regularly stock seasonal items, including holiday decorations, to help customers celebrate special occasions throughout the year.
- Online Shopping: Both Michaels and Hobby Lobby offer online shopping options, allowing customers to browse and purchase items from the comfort of their homes.
- Return Policy: Both stores have standard return policies, allowing customers to return items within a specified timeframe if they are not satisfied with their purchase.
- Store Layout: Both stores are organized in a way that makes it easy for customers to find the products they are looking for.
Michaels vs Hobby Lobby Prices Buying Guide
Understanding Price Fluctuations
Both Michaels and Hobby Lobby employ dynamic pricing strategies, meaning prices can change frequently. These fluctuations are influenced by factors like sales events, seasonal promotions, and clearance items. To get the best deals, it’s crucial to be aware of these trends. Sign up for email newsletters from both stores to receive early notifications of sales. Also, check their websites and apps regularly, as online prices can sometimes differ from in-store prices. Comparing prices across different times of the week or month can also reveal potential savings opportunities.
Coupon Strategies: Michaels vs. Hobby Lobby
Coupons are a major factor in determining the final price at both stores. Michaels frequently offers coupons, both online and in-store, often for a percentage off your entire purchase or a single item. Hobby Lobby also provides coupons, usually a 40% off one regular-priced item coupon, which is consistently available. However, Hobby Lobby’s coupons generally cannot be combined with other sales. Michaels often allows coupon stacking. Consider the coupon’s terms and conditions, as some may exclude certain products or brands.
Comparing Product Categories: Where to Save
Certain product categories tend to be cheaper at one store compared to the other. Hobby Lobby is often a strong contender for home décor, seasonal items, and craft supplies like artificial flowers, due to their frequent sales and promotions. Michaels often excels in art supplies, framing services, and specialized craft materials. Comparing prices across specific items you need is always a good idea. Consider the quality and variety of products in each category, as price isn’t the only factor.
The Impact of Sales and Promotions
Both Michaels and Hobby Lobby run frequent sales and promotional events. Michaels often has weekly sales and clearance events. Hobby Lobby is known for its seasonal sales, particularly around holidays, and the 40% off one item coupon. Plan your purchases around these events. Check their websites for flyers and signs in the store to identify the products that are on sale. Remember that sales at both stores are subject to change, so it’s a good idea to check prices frequently.
Shipping and Delivery Considerations
If you’re shopping online, consider the shipping and delivery options. Both Michaels and Hobby Lobby offer online shopping with options for in-store pickup. Check the shipping costs and delivery times. Sometimes, online prices are different from in-store prices, so it is beneficial to check both options. Free shipping thresholds and policies can differ, so make sure to check the shipping policy before making your purchase. This can impact the overall cost, especially for larger orders.
Loyalty Programs and Rewards
Michaels offers a rewards program that allows you to earn points on purchases, which can be redeemed for discounts. Hobby Lobby does not have a formal loyalty program. However, their consistent 40% off coupon acts as a de facto discount for many shoppers. Consider the benefits of each store’s approach. While Michaels offers rewards, Hobby Lobby’s consistent coupon can be a reliable way to save. Evaluate which approach best suits your shopping habits and frequency.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy Michaels If…
- You want a wide selection of crafting supplies.
- You want to participate in crafting classes and workshops.
- You prefer a store with a loyalty program.
- You’re looking for specific brands or specialized art supplies.
Buy Hobby Lobby If…
- You are looking for the best prices.
- You enjoy the experience of browsing a large store with many home decor options.
- You prefer a store with frequent sales and discounts.
- You are looking for specific seasonal decor or a wider selection of home decor items.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to shop at Michaels or Hobby Lobby?
The best time to shop at either store depends on your needs. For Hobby Lobby, look for seasonal sales and take advantage of their consistent 40% off coupon. Michaels often has sales throughout the week and special promotions. It is best to check their weekly ads online or in-store to find the best deals, which vary week by week. It is helpful to shop during holiday sales.
How do coupons work at Michaels and Hobby Lobby?
Michaels offers a variety of coupons, often for a percentage off your entire purchase or a single item, and frequently allows coupon stacking. Hobby Lobby’s coupons are typically 40% off one regular-priced item. However, Hobby Lobby coupons generally cannot be combined with other sales. Always check the coupon’s terms and conditions, as some items might be excluded.
Are prices consistent online and in-store?
No, prices can vary between online and in-store at both Michaels and Hobby Lobby. It is a good idea to compare prices online and in-store before making a purchase. Both stores update their websites and physical stores at different times, which may influence the price. Online deals might not always be available in-store, and vice versa. Check both places before buying.
Which store offers better deals on home décor?
Hobby Lobby is often favored for home décor due to its frequent sales, seasonal promotions, and wide selection of items. The 40% off coupon can provide a significant discount on regular-priced items. Michaels also carries home décor, but Hobby Lobby often has the edge in terms of price and promotional events. Both stores offer a wide variety of items for home decor.
Does Michaels or Hobby Lobby offer a rewards program?
Michaels offers a rewards program where you can earn points on purchases, which can be redeemed for discounts. Hobby Lobby does not have a formal rewards program. Hobby Lobby offers consistent 40% off coupon on one item. Evaluate which approach best suits your shopping habits and frequency. The Michaels rewards program is beneficial for consistent shoppers.
How can I find the best deals at Michaels and Hobby Lobby?
To find the best deals, sign up for email newsletters from both stores to receive early notifications of sales. Check their websites and apps regularly. Plan your purchases around sales events and seasonal promotions. Compare prices across specific items, and always have your coupons ready. It pays to be informed and compare before you buy.
What should I consider when comparing prices?
When comparing prices, consider the quality, variety, and the overall cost, including any shipping fees. Factor in the value of coupons and promotions. Check for sales events and seasonal promotions. Compare the prices of similar items across different categories at both stores. Consider the quality and variety of products in each category, as price isn’t the only factor.
Final Verdict
Both Michaels and Hobby Lobby offer competitive pricing, but the best choice depends on your specific needs and shopping habits. Hobby Lobby’s consistent 40% off coupon and focus on home décor make it a strong contender for those categories. Michaels’ frequent coupons and rewards program can provide savings. The overall winner depends on the specific product and current promotions.
Winner: Hobby Lobby