Charlotte Fabric Enthusiasts Mourn Joann and Other Store Closures
The recent closure of the Joann fabric and craft store on South Boulevard in Charlotte has really shaken up the local crafting community. Shelves emptied fast—yarn, thread, zippers, buttons—gone in a flash. Crafters are now scrambling to find new resources for their projects.
This isn’t the first big loss. Hancock Fabrics and Mary Jo’s Cloth Store in Gastonia are gone too, and that leaves a pretty big hole in the market. As someone who’s spent years sewing, I can tell you: it stings.
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The Impact of Joann’s Closure on Charlotte’s Crafting Community
When Joann announced its closure in late winter, Charlotte’s sewers and crafters went into a frenzy. The place was known for its huge selection of fabrics, yarns, and all sorts of crafting supplies.
Emily Randall, the assistant manager, described the scene as “like a zoo.” Lines stretched all the way to the restroom. Staff at the fabric cutting counter barely got a break. It felt a lot like the panic buying during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Joann’s wasn’t just a store—it was a hub. People came for fabric, sure, but also for classes, workshops, and a bit of community. Now crafters have to hunt for supplies elsewhere, which is honestly exhausting and can get expensive fast.
Without Joann’s, it’s harder to find that same sense of connection. It’s not just about buying stuff; it’s about being around folks who get why you love this hobby. The loss also points to a bigger shift—brick-and-mortar stores are struggling as more of us shop online.
Alternative Resources for Local Crafters
So where do we go from here? With Joann’s gone, local crafters have to get creative about finding supplies. Luckily, Charlotte still has a few options, even if none feel quite the same.
Local Fabric Shops
Some local shops are still hanging on, offering a more personal experience and sometimes carrying unique items you won’t find at the big chains. Here are a few to check out:
- Fabric Hut: They’ve got a wide selection of high-quality fabrics and the staff is friendly.
- Sew Much Fun: You’ll find all kinds of fabric, sewing machines, and classes for every skill level.
- Quilt Patch Fabrics: Focuses on quilting fabrics and supplies, with a real emphasis on quality and good service.
Online Retailers
If you’re okay with shopping online, there are plenty of places to look for fabric and craft supplies. Some personal favorites:
- Fabric.com: Tons of materials and accessories, all in one place.
- Etsy: Great for unique fabrics and supplies from independent sellers—sometimes you’ll find things you didn’t even know you needed.
- Amazon: Pretty much everything, and shipping is usually fast.
Community Resources
Don’t overlook local crafting groups, sewing circles, or online communities. These groups can be goldmines for tips, project ideas, and moral support.
Public libraries and community centers sometimes have sewing machines, tools, and even workshops. It’s worth checking out if you want to pick up new skills or just meet other crafters nearby.
The Future of Fabric Stores in Charlotte
With Joann’s and other big stores closing, it’s hard not to wonder what’s next for fabric retail in Charlotte. Brick-and-mortar shops have to adapt if they want to stick around.
Adapting to Changing Consumer Habits
One approach? Jump into e-commerce. Having an online store helps reach more people and gives customers the convenience they expect these days.
Social media and digital marketing also let stores engage with customers and show off new products. And honestly, offering unique or high-quality stuff—specialty fabrics, handmade items, local materials—makes a shop stand out from the big online retailers.
Creating a Community Hub
Fabric stores can really thrive when they create a sense of community and offer a personalized shopping experience. Hosting classes and workshops helps people connect and learn together.
Staff who provide one-on-one assistance make a big difference. A welcoming, supportive environment keeps customers coming back—and let’s be honest, everyone likes to feel at home when they’re shopping for creative projects.
The closure of Joann’s fabric and craft store on South Boulevard hits Charlotte’s crafting community pretty hard. Still, there are alternative resources out there, and with a bit of flexibility, local crafters will find the materials and support they need.
Want more details about the closure and its impact? Check out the full article on The Charlotte Ledger.