For decades, Joann Fabrics was a staple for crafters, quilters, and DIY lovers across the United States. Known for its extensive range of fabrics, sewing supplies, and home decor, the retailer earned a loyal following among hobbyists and professionals alike. Many families and crafting communities relied on Joann as their go-to destination for creative projects, workshops, and inspiration. However, despite its strong brand presence, Joann Fabrics has recently faced a harsh reality: the company is closing all of its stores following its second bankruptcy filing.

What Caused Joann Fabrics’ Downfall?

Joann’s financial struggles stem from a combination of internal and external challenges. One of the biggest blows was the rise of e-commerce, which drastically changed how consumers shop. With online marketplaces offering vast selections at competitive prices, fewer people visited brick-and-mortar stores. This shift hurt Joann’s foot traffic and sales.

In addition to changing shopping habits, Joann dealt with supply chain disruptions that made it difficult to keep popular products in stock. Inflation and rising material costs also squeezed profit margins, making it harder for the company to stay afloat financially. Industry experts note that the competition from big-box retailers like Walmart and Amazon further complicated Joann’s position, as these stores provided customers with more convenience and often better deals.

Attempts to Stay Afloat

Recognizing the challenges, Joann Fabrics tried to reinvent itself. The company expanded its online presence, investing in e-commerce platforms to reach customers digitally. Inside the stores, Joann revamped layouts and introduced new experiences to attract visitors back. These changes gave a glimmer of hope, but unfortunately, they weren’t enough to reverse the downward trend.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, crafting saw a resurgence as people sought at-home hobbies. Joann briefly benefited from this surge in demand. However, once pandemic restrictions eased and life returned to normal, the spike in crafting interest began to fade, and so did Joann’s sales momentum.

Store Closures and Liquidation Sales

Joann Fabrics has already begun closing its stores, with liquidation sales underway nationwide. Customers can expect significant discounts on fabrics, sewing machines, and crafting tools as the company works to clear out its inventory. Although the exact timeline varies by location, all of Joann’s roughly 800 stores are scheduled to shut down within the next few months.

This closure marks the end of an era for many communities that relied on Joann as a local crafting hub. Longtime customers will now need to explore other options, such as smaller independent stores or online suppliers, to find the materials and tools they once easily accessed at Joann.

The Broader Impact on Craft Retail

Joann’s shutdown highlights a broader trend affecting legacy retailers across the country. Many well-established brands are struggling to adapt to rapidly changing consumer behaviors and the digital economy. For the craft retail industry, Joann’s exit leaves a significant gap. The company was more than a store—it was a community space where people connected over shared passions.

As Joann closes its doors, the craft retail landscape will undergo a major shift. Whether new players will fill the void or online platforms will dominate remains to be seen. What is clear is that the era of traditional crafting superstores like Joann Fabrics is coming to an end.