High street craft stores

One of my go-to spots is Hobbycraft. Whether I visit in person or browse their easy-to-navigate website, I always leave buzzing with new ideas. They have a huge range of craft supplies for every hobby imaginable – from papercraft, knitting and crochet, to painting, home décor and seasonal crafts. It’s a great place to pick up beginner kits, storage solutions, and materials for bigger projects.

Tip: Sign up for their newsletter or join their club to get discounts and early access to sales.

Scrap stores

If you’ve never visited a scrap store, you’re in for a treat. These treasure troves are packed with unusual and unexpected materials — from fabric offcuts and foam to cardboard tubes and industrial surplus. Most of it is saved from landfill, making it a sustainable and eco-friendly way to shop for craft supplies.

You’ll find scrap stores in many cities across the UK, such as:

• Scrapstore Leeds
• Children’s Scrapstore Bristol
• ReCreate in Cardiff

Local independent craft stores

Independent craft shops are the heart and soul of the crafting community. Often run by passionate makers themselves, these shops offer curated collections of high-quality supplies, personalised advice, and friendly service. Many also host workshops, craft classes, and community events.

Shopping locally not only supports small businesses — it keeps the creative economy thriving in your area. Keep an eye out for haberdasheries, fabric shops, wool shops and bead boutiques next time you’re in town.

Budget-Friendly Crafting on the High Street

Don’t underestimate bargain stores like Poundland, The Range, or B&M. You can pick up crafting essentials on a budget – including:

• PVA glue and glitter
• Cardstock and embellishments
• Yarn, ribbons and gift wrap
• Storage boxes and display materials for craft fairs

These stores are a brilliant option if you’re starting out or restocking staples.

💖 Charity Shops – For Vintage Finds and Surprise Gems

Charity shops are one of my favourite secret weapons when it comes to finding unique craft supplies. You can often discover:

• Vintage fabric and haberdashery items
• Yarn and embroidery thread
• Buttons, lace, and trim
• Old books and magazines for collage or découpage
• Picture frames, baskets and containers for upcycling

Plus, you’re supporting a good cause while getting creative – win-win!

🛍️ Markets and Car Boot Sales – The Thrill of the Hunt

There’s something joyful about rummaging through a good old car boot sale or artisan market. It’s a chance to find one-of-a-kind materials, second-hand tools, or vintage pieces that inspire a whole new project.

Look out for:

• Retro jewellery to dismantle for beads
• Vintage fabric and trims
• Wooden items to paint or decoupage
• Old sewing patterns and notions

Markets are also great places to connect with other creatives and pick up locally made supplies.

🌐 Online Craft Shops and Marketplaces

While I love supporting local and second-hand stores, sometimes online shopping is the most practical option — especially when I need something specific or in bulk. I often buy my jewellery-making supplies online, including:

• Keyring hoops and jump rings
• Necklace chains by the metre
• Clasps, charms and fastenings

Shopping online offers convenience, variety, and access to niche materials you might not find on the high street.