Introduction
When it comes to arts and crafts in the UK, one name dominates the market — Hobbycraft. Since launching in 1995, Hobbycraft has grown into the country’s largest craft retailer, with over 100 stores and a strong online shopping platform.
From fabric and sewing machines to paint, baking, jewellery-making, knitting kits, and kids’ crafts, Hobbycraft has become the go-to creative hub for beginners, professionals, teachers, parents, and hobbyists alike.
In this article, we’ll explore everything about Hobbycraft — its history, what it sells, the store experience, online shopping, seasonal trends, workshops, and why it’s the UK’s favourite arts & crafts brand.
What is Hobbycraft?
• Founded: 1995
• Headquarters: Christchurch, Dorset, UK
• Stores: 100+ across the UK
• Business Model: Multi-channel (in-store + online)
• Industry: Arts, crafts, and hobbies
Hobbycraft describes itself as a “one-stop creative retailer”, offering inspiration and supplies for all things crafty. It’s a place where families shop for school projects, professionals stock up on fabric and paints, and bakers find icing and moulds.
Company History
• 1995: Hobbycraft was founded with the goal of providing a dedicated destination for crafters.
• 2000s: Expanded rapidly across the UK with large-format stores.
• 2010s: Launched Hobbycraft.co.uk, growing into a powerful online shop.
• 2020s: Became a household name, especially during the pandemic when home crafts boomed.
Today, Hobbycraft stands as the largest specialist craft retailer in the UK.
Hobbycraft Stores
Locations
• Over 100 branches across the UK, including London, Birmingham, Manchester, Glasgow, Cardiff, Bristol, Leeds, and Edinburgh.
Store Experience
• Wide aisles showcasing craft sections — sewing, fabrics, baking, art, kids, seasonal.
• Staff trained to assist with projects and recommend tools.
• Many branches host live workshops and demos.
Opening Hours
• Typically 9am – 8pm weekdays.
• Reduced hours on weekends and bank holidays.
Hobbycraft Online Shopping
Hobbycraft’s website (Hobbycraft.co.uk) offers the full product range, plus extras:
• Click & Collect: Order online and pick up in-store.
• Home Delivery: Standard and next-day options.
• Discounts: Student discounts, email offers, loyalty rewards.
• Craft Ideas Hub: Tutorials, DIY guides, and seasonal inspiration.
Shopping online makes it easy for crafters across the UK to access materials, even if they’re far from a physical store.
What Does Hobbycraft Sell?
Hobbycraft stocks tens of thousands of craft products across categories:
- Art Supplies
• Paints (acrylic, oil, watercolour)
• Canvases & easels
• Sketchbooks & pencils
• Brushes & palettes - Crafts & DIY
• Papercraft, scrapbooking, card-making
• Jewellery kits, resin sets
• Candle-making & soap craft kits - Fabric & Sewing
• Fabrics by the metre
• Sewing machines
• Dressmaking supplies
• Threads, needles, embroidery hoops - Knitting & Crochet
• Yarn in every colour
• Crochet hooks, knitting needles
• Pattern books and kits - Baking & Cake Decorating
• Icing, edible glitter, sprinkles
• Moulds, cutters, cake toppers
• Cupcake kits & seasonal baking supplies - Kids’ Crafts
• Paint sets, stickers, colouring
• DIY slime kits
• School project supplies - Stationery & Home
• Journals, diaries, planners
• Gift wrap, ribbons, and packaging - Seasonal Crafts
• Christmas: Tree decorations, bauble kits, advent calendars
• Easter: Egg-painting kits, bunny decorations
• Halloween: Pumpkin crafts, spooky masks
• Valentine’s Day & Mother’s Day: Handmade gift kits
Hobbycraft Seasonal Trends
One of Hobbycraft’s biggest strengths is its seasonal appeal. Sales spike during:
• Christmas: Homemade decorations & gifts
• Easter: Family craft kits
• Halloween: DIY costumes & masks
• Back to School: Stationery and kids’ projects
This constant rotation keeps Hobbycraft relevant all year round.
Workshops and Tutorials
Hobbycraft isn’t just a retailer — it’s an educational hub for creativity.
• In-store workshops: Knitting, baking, sewing, kids’ art classes.
• Online tutorials: Free guides on Hobbycraft’s website and YouTube.
• Events: Seasonal events like Christmas wreath-making.
These add value by teaching customers how to use the products creatively.
Customer Services
• Loyalty Club: Points and rewards for frequent shoppers.
• Student Discount: Extra savings with a valid ID.
• Returns Policy: Hassle-free returns online or in-store.
• Gift Cards: Popular for birthdays, Christmas, and craft lovers.
Competitors in the UK Market
• The Range: Cheaper but less specialist.
• WHSmith: Strong in stationery but weaker in craft supplies.
• Amazon: Convenience and variety, but lacks hands-on workshops.
Hobbycraft stands out for specialism, community, and inspiration.
Hobbycraft’s Future
• Expanding eco-friendly products (recycled paper, sustainable fabrics).
• Growing online presence.
• Developing exclusive partnerships with craft brands.
• Continuing to position itself as the go-to UK craft retailer.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What is Hobbycraft?
The UK’s largest arts and crafts retailer with 100+ stores and a big online shop. - Does Hobbycraft sell fabrics?
Yes, they sell fabrics, haberdashery, and sewing machines. - Can I shop Hobbycraft online?
Yes, at Hobbycraft.co.uk, with delivery and click & collect options. - Does Hobbycraft offer discounts?
Yes — student discounts, loyalty rewards, and seasonal sales. - Where are Hobbycraft stores located?
Nationwide, including London, Manchester, Birmingham, and Glasgow. - Does Hobbycraft run workshops?
Yes, both in-store classes and online tutorials. - Who are Hobbycraft’s competitors?
The Range, WHSmith, Amazon (craft sections).
Conclusion
Hobbycraft has become the UK’s number-one craft retailer, combining inspiration, variety, and accessibility. With over 100 stores and a booming online shop, it caters to everyone — from beginners making their first scrapbook to experts sewing dresses or decorating wedding cakes.
As crafting continues to grow in popularity, Hobbycraft is positioned to remain the creative heartbeat of the UK, inspiring millions to pick up a brush, needle, or rolling pin and let their imagination run free.
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