JOANN Closures: A Blow to Washington’s Crafting community
A recent wave of closures sweeping through the JOANN Fabrics chain has left crafting enthusiasts across the nation, including Washington state, reeling. Known for its wide selection of fabrics and craft supplies, JOANN has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy and announced plans to shutter approximately 500 stores nationwide. This translates to 21 closures in Washington alone, leaving a significant gap in the state’s crafting community.
The Impact on Washington Crafters
The news has sent shockwaves through the local crafting scene, with many longtime customers expressing disappointment and concern about the closures. “JOANN is the place to go and it just makes me sick and sad that it’s leaving us,” lamented Lisa Bias, a dedicated JOANN shopper.
“People do crafts as it’s like therapy, it’s a way of calming yourself, it’s a way to be productive, the way we contribute to people, so that’s just going to be hindered now,” stated Marie Witherell, emphasizing the emotional and social impact these closures may have.
JOANN’s Rationale: A Struggle for Survival
While the closures are undeniably challenging for crafting enthusiasts, JOANN’s decision stems from a series of financial challenges. The company has faced shrinking profit margins and mounting debt over recent years, culminating in the recent bankruptcy filing. This difficult decision, unfortunately, reflects the broader retail landscape where brick-and-mortar stores are facing growing competition from online retailers.
Navigating the Future: A Call for Resilience
The closure of JOANN stores presents a significant challenge for Washington’s crafting community. However, amidst this adversity, lies an possibility for creativity and adaptation. Local crafters will need to explore new avenues for sourcing materials, possibly embracing online platforms, supporting smaller autonomous craft stores, or even collaborating to establish local supply networks.
This period necessitates a spirit of resilience and community support. Crafters can leverage online platforms to connect with each other, share resources, and organize group purchasing initiatives.Local artists and makers can also collaborate to create their own supply networks, fostering a sense of community and self-sufficiency within the crafting world.
While the future may seem uncertain, the spirit of creativity and resourcefulness remains strong within the Washington crafting community.
JOANN Fabrics and Crafts Announces Store Closures Amidst Bankruptcy Filing
Craft retailer JOANN Fabrics and Crafts has announced the closure of several stores across Washington state as part of its restructuring efforts following a bankruptcy filing. The closures, impacting 21 locations statewide, are part of a strategic plan to streamline operations and improve financial performance.
Inventory Management Challenges fuel Bankruptcy Filing
Established in 1943, JOANN filed for bankruptcy for the second time on january 15, 2025, citing inventory management issues as a key contributing factor. This decision comes after a successful restructuring process following a previous bankruptcy filing in March 2024,during which the company avoided store closures while remaining a private company.
Washington Stores Facing Closure
The closures will affect communities throughout Washington, impacting stores in cities such as Arlington, Clarkston, and Wenatchee.
Affected Locations:
- 3704 172Nd St Ne Ste F – Arlington
- 470 Bridge St – Clarkston
- 300 Valley Mall Pkwy – East – Wenatchee
Concerns for Crafters and the Future of Brick-and-Mortar
The loss of these physical stores raises concerns about accessibility to crafting supplies for customers like Lena Ascari. “You will have to drive farther away and have to find different stores. It just won’t be the same if you can’t browse the bulks of fabric,” she remarked.
Despite these challenges, the situation presents opportunities for innovation and adaptation within the crafting community. Crafters may explore alternative sourcing options such as online retailers, local craft stores, and community workshops. This shift could lead to a more diverse and resilient crafting ecosystem. The closures serve as a reminder of the evolving retail landscape and the importance of supporting local businesses that contribute to vibrant communities.
Looking Ahead
While the closure of JOANN stores presents challenges for Washington’s crafting community, it also opens doors for innovation and adaptation. Crafters can explore new sourcing options, diversify their shopping experiences, and potentially foster a stronger sense of community within the crafting world.
The Impact of JOANN Fabric Closures on Crafting Communities
Crafting enthusiasts across the state are feeling the ripple effects of JOANN Fabrics’ recent store closures. With numerous locations shuttered, from Everett to Spokane valley, concerns are mounting regarding the accessibility of
craft supplies and the impact on local creative communities.
A review of recently closed stores reveals a widespread geographical impact. JOANN Fabrics locations have closed in cities such as Everett, Federal Way, kent, Longview, Lynnwood, Moses Lake, Mount Vernon, Port Angeles, Puyallup, Renton, Seattle, Shoreline, Silverdale, Spokane, Spokane Valley, Tacoma, Tukwila, and Walla Walla.
These closures come amidst a broader challenge facing brick-and-mortar retailers in an era dominated by online shopping. Consumers increasingly gravitate towards the convenience and competitive pricing offered by e-commerce platforms. Additionally, the rise of big-box retailers with expansive product offerings and lower prices puts pressure on smaller specialty stores like JOANN.
Navigating the future of Crafting
“The closures are definitely concerning,” shared Sarah, a long-time crafter and member of the Seattle Sewing Circle.”JOANN was always our go-to for a wide variety of fabrics, notions, and crafting supplies. Now we have to travel further or rely on online retailers, which isn’t always ideal.”
The impact on local crafting communities is palpable. Workshops, classes, and in-person gatherings often relied on the accessibility of local JOANN Fabrics stores. The loss of these resources can hinder creative endeavors and limit opportunities for learning and collaboration.
“We used to hold our monthly sewing workshops at JOANN,” said Maria, a quilting enthusiast from Spokane. “The store’s spacious layout and well-stocked aisles made it a perfect environment for our group. Now, finding an alternative space that can accommodate our needs is a challenge.”
Adapting to Change: A Call for Action
Despite the challenges, the creative community is resilient. Online communities are thriving, offering virtual workshops, sharing patterns, and connecting crafters across geographical boundaries.Local crafters are also exploring alternative solutions:
- Supporting Indie Craft Stores: embracing smaller, locally owned craft stores can help preserve the unique character and personalized service offered by these businesses.
- Online Marketplaces: Utilizing online platforms like Etsy and Amazon Handmade to source supplies and connect with other crafters expands access to a wider range of materials and creative ideas.
- Community Collaboration: Sharing resources, tools, and knowledge within local crafting circles fosters a sense of community and helps overcome logistical hurdles.
“While the loss of JOANN Fabrics is undeniably a setback,” said Sarah, “it has also prompted us to think creatively and explore new avenues for our craft. We are persistent to keep the creative spirit alive in our communities.”
The Impact of JOANN Closures on Craft Communities
The recent bankruptcy filing and store closures of JOANN Fabrics and Crafts, a staple for crafters across the nation, have sent ripples of concern through creative communities. In Washington state,where several stores are set to close,the impact on local crafters is being keenly felt.
Lost Connections and Creative Flow
For many, JOANN is more than just a store; it’s a hub for inspiration, connection, and creative expression. Marie Witherell, a long-time crafter and loyal JOANN customer, emphasizes the emotional and social importance of these closures. “People do crafts because it’s like therapy,” she states, “it’s a way of calming yourself, it’s a way to be productive, the way we contribute to people, so that’s just going to be hindered now.”
Convenience and Choice Diminished
Beyond the emotional impact, the practical realities of having fewer JOANN locations present challenges for crafters. Lena Askari, a passionate crafter who frequents JOANN, notes the inconvenience of traveling further distances and the limitations of online shopping. “You will have to drive farther away and have to find different stores,” she remarks. “It just won’t be the same if you can’t browse the bulk of fabric.”
Navigating the New Landscape
While the closures present a significant obstacle,the craft community is renowned for its resilience and adaptability. aspiring crafters may explore local craft stores, online retailers, or community workshops to continue pursuing their passions. Larger craft chains, like Michaels, may see increased demand as crafters seek alternatives.
The closure of JOANN stores is a stark reminder of the importance of supporting local businesses and the vital role they play in fostering creativity and community. As crafters navigate this new landscape, it’s an opportunity to explore alternative options, connect with fellow enthusiasts, and reaffirm the enduring power of crafting.
