Must Visit Craft Stores in New York City
There are certain things that everyone must do when visiting New York City; from having a New York bagel to visiting museums and seeing Broadway shows, the list is endless. But, for the crafters and artists among us, that list expands by a mile. New York City If you’re heading to the city to add to your never-ending craft supply stash, here are the best must visit craft stores in New York City.
Must Visit Craft Stores in New York City
Jewelry making and Beading Stores
One of the benefits of jewelry making is that it allows you to express yourself uniquely. Perusing bead and jewelry supply stores is a great way to spark creativity and inspire new designs.
Jewelry designers will appreciate the number of options available at BeadKraft at 146 W 29th Street. From Swarovski rhinestones to beads, embellishments, jewelry-making supplies, and so much more, this wholesale district stop is a one-stop shop for designers.
Toho Shoji is a Japanese-based bead and jewelry store featuring items from all over the world located adjacent to Bryant Park. It is the only remaining bead shop in the Midtown area and offers an eclectic collection of stones, beads, wiring, and threads as well as Japanese seed beads available in bulk.
From heirloom carved jade, to gemstones, crystals, and jewelry-making supplies, Beads of Paradise is one of the most unique must visit craft stores in New York City. This boutique-style shop is located at 16 E 17th Street and deserves a spot on your crafting adventure itinerary.
Craft Classes and Workshops
If you’re visiting the city, consider taking an art class or workshop. It’s a great way to mix things up from your usual vacation itinerary and you may just discover something a new hobby or interest.
Little Shop of Crafts is ideal for those looking for a fun night out. While many people plan parties here for both adults and children, Little Shop of Crafts does accept walk-ins. Guests can choose from crafting options like pottery, mosaics, woodcraft, stuffed animals, and plaster crafts to create one-of-a-kind designs. Simply choose from over 1000 base products, and use the in-house supplies – paint, stencils, pencils, and more – to create your customized piece.
Located in Ridgewood, Queens, Tiny Arts Supply offers workshops; including arts, crafts, and homemaking/homesteading. Some regular offerings include learning how to ferment veggies, bookbinding workshops, acrylic portrait painting, screenprinting, and more. If you’re adding this one to your must visit craft stores in New York City itinerary, be sure to plan well; hours of operation are Wednesday through Sunday, from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Must Visit Paper Crafts Stores in New York City
The experience of choosing just the right piece of paper, in the perfect shade. So, whether you’re creating origami, cutting elaborate scherenschnitte designs, or making greeting cards, the selection is unparalleled. Visit these paper and stationery shops to spark your imagination.
This Japanese stationery store is located at 263 East 10th Street. Each item in the shop is carefully curated by staff members for a unique experience. It is a planner and paper crafters dream, from pens, planners, washi, stamps, cards, and beautiful art, you won’t be disappointed at Nico Neco.
In the heart of the West Village, Goods for the Study offers exactly that; everything you need for your study/den or writing desk. This well-appointed stationery store is a must visit, you’re sure to find something you absolutely must take home with you.
Other worthwhile papercraft stores include:
- City Papery, Manhattan
- Yoseka Stationery, Brooklyn
- Carriage House Paper, Brooklyn
Fiber arts and Needlework
Whichever type of needlework you do, the benefits apart from your beautiful creations are numerous. From relaxation and stress relief to a sense of accomplishment, crocheting and knitting are excellent options for anyone of any age. Waldorf schools teach knitting in first grade. It helps build hand strength, and coordination and fostering mathematical capabilities; many of these shops in NYC offer classes for children.
This cozy shop offers beginner crochet and knitting classes at reasonable prices and is your one-stop shop for needles, yarn, patterns, and more. Downtown Yarns is open from noon until 7 p.m., on Sundays from noon to 6 p.m., and is located at 45 Avenue A.
Ahhh, Purl. Talk about an institution in needlecraft! Purl Soho is one shop and brand that needs no introduction in the needlecraft community. It has a reputation for having the most stunning fibers, the best customer service, and comprehensive tutorials and beginner classes. Unfortunately, after closing during the pandemic, Purl Soho decided to permanently close their NYC location, however, they continue to maintain an online storefront.
This cozy shop in the Upper West Side is ideal for those who love to knit, crochet, and even read. From in-house workshops to the Knitty City Book Club, it’s the perfect meeting place. Knitty City even offers a men-only group on Wednesday evenings! Located at 208 W 79th, the shop is just a short walk from the Museum of Natural History.
If you find yourself in Brooklyn, the Brooklyn General Store is the place to go for fiber arts. Here you’ll find the supplies and materials needed to create to your heart’s content. Staff members are knowledgeable, helpful, and ready to offer advice and assistance.
Textiles for Days
If you’ve ever watched Project Runway, you’re likely familiar with Mood Fabrics an enormous warehouse in the garment district. If you love to sew, are an aspiring designer, or just want to peruse the 40,000-square-foot offerings, Mood Fabrics is one of the top must visit craft stores in New York City. Additional locations include Miami and Los Angeles.
Arts and Crafts Supply Staples
While many Americans take the next set of stores for granted, if you’re visiting from overseas or a more rural area of the States, these chains are very worth visiting.
Blick New York offers all of the familiar craft and art supplies one would expect from this popular nationwide retailer. They are the largest family-owned art supply business in the United States. Blick provides materials for everyone from preschoolers to the most well-known artists and creators. The flagship store is located at 443 Broadway in Soho.
In addition to Blick, there are several additional chain arts and craft supply stores in New York City.
- Michaels; 675 Avenue of The Americas
- Artist & Craftsman Supply; Brooklyn and Williamsburg
This is just a highlight list of must visit craft stores in New York City–there are so many more. Add craft supply shopping to your itinerary when you’re in town for one of the many craft festivals hosted in the city!