Reuse Centers Are Shaping the Future of Craft Supply Shopping

By Nick Byrnes, March 17, 2025

Did you hear the news about Joann’s closing? Online sentiment indicates people don’t really care, and there’s a headline popping up on the news and social media that might indicate why – The Rise of Craft Reuse Centers. Now, while this might signal part of Joann’s decline, pointing to where younger crafters are shopping and the shift in their mindset, it’s more likely a part of the solution to the challenge of shrinking craft retail options.

What Are Craft Reuse Centers?

Creative or craft reuse centers are like thrift stores that sell a variety of donated craft supplies for very low prices. These gems are gaining popularity, especially on TikTok, where younger crafters share their finds and advocate for more sustainable crafting practices.

Here are a few reasons they’re gaining popularity:

• Sustainability & Affordability: These centers sell donated, secondhand art materials at significantly lower prices, helping reduce waste while making crafting more accessible.
• Serving Communities: Teachers, artists, and small businesses benefit from affordable supplies, and some centers even have programs that provide free materials to educators.
• A Hub for Creativity & Connection: Many centers host workshops, community events, and even “trash fashion” shows, making them more than just stores—they are cultural and creative hubs.
• Mission-Driven Movement: Most are nonprofits run by passionate individuals, fostering sustainability, creativity, and a sense of community.
• Trending on Social Media: The movement has been around for decades but has gained momentum recently, especially with younger generations discovering them through TikTok.

Find A Craft Reuse Center Near You

Are you sold on them yet? We have one here in Cincinnati, a non-profit called Scrap It Up, that my kids and I have been going to for years. It’s sort of a garage sale – a thing of the past but something a lot of us loved to do as kids. Sift through craft supplies and odds and ends that sparked your imagination and cost practically nothing. My kids loved the random treasures they would find. It’s the thrill of the hunt combined with little to no impact on your budget or the environment.

I’ve found hooks, pattern books, and yarn at Scrap It Up, either in the original packaging or wound into balls. You pay for yarn by the pound 🤯 As a crochet instructor, I teach classes at local rec centers during the summer and often provide yarn and hooks to students who want to practice at home but may not have access to stores like Michael’s. If you teach, I highly recommend stocking up at reuse centers to give to eager students.

Another great option downtown Cincinnati is Indigo Hippo, which I would say serves the DAAP/college-age Clifton crowd. Prices are a little higher than Scrap It Up, but it also has more of a traditional retail vibe. Scrap It Up feels like you’re shopping grandma’s basement. In the best way!

To find your closest store, search “craft reuse center near me” or try this directory on Indigo Hippo’s website.

The Future of Crafting: Sustainable, Affordable, and Creative

While Joann’s closure may mark the end of an era, I’m excited about the future of crafting. Craft reuse centers offer a glimpse into a more sustainable, community-driven world of crafting where creativity and affordability come together. Plus, it’s refreshing to see younger generations lead the charge, sharing their love of thrifting and sustainability on platforms like TikTok. And I’m thrilled a publication like Fast Company would publish an article about the topic – you can read their full article here.

What are your thoughts on craft reuse centers? Have you visited one near you? Share your experiences in the comments!

If you’d like to read my past blog post about Joann closing, you can do so here:

Have You Heard? Joann Is Closing! 😱