Impact of Joann Fabrics Store Closure: A Devastating Loss for Minnesota’s Creative Community

The recent announcement that Joann, a well-known fabric and craft store, will close nationwide hit Minnesota’s creative community hard. Many designers and crafters relied on Joann for their fabric and crafting needs.

Sarah Bahr, a freelance costume designer in the Twin Cities, shared her shock: “It’s devastating. Joann was my go-to for any sewing supplies.” For her and many others, it was not just a store—it was a lifeline for creativity. She starts her design process at fabric stores, and Joann was always a key stop.

Dobbs DeCorsey, a Minneapolis-based drag performer known as Miz Diagnosis, echoed these sentiments. He sourced about 70% of his fabrics from Joann. “Its closure will completely change where I get my materials,” he said. “As a drag artist, Joann was essential for finding fabrics and trims quickly.”

Cathy Blaukat from the Deep Valley Quilt Guild in Mankato expressed concern as well. “It’s going to be missed a lot. People loved running in for that last-minute yard of fabric.” Joann was a convenient option, especially since many quilters prefer touching and seeing fabrics in person rather than ordering online.

Joann, originally started in 1943 as the Cleveland Fabric Shop, has been part of the crafting community for decades. After filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in January and announcing the closure of 800 stores, including 21 in Minnesota, locals are worried about the loss.

For Bahr, finding fabric is now a more challenging task. She usually visits SR Harris Fabric first but relied on Joann when she needed specific items quickly. “Online shopping doesn’t offer the same experience. You can’t feel the fabric or see the colors accurately,” she noted. This disruption will affect not just her but also smaller theaters and upcoming designers who often need last-minute changes.

DeCorsey, who is also the director of the new Pride Cultural Arts Center, mentioned that he too would have to adjust his sourcing methods. “The store was open late, which was helpful for my tight schedule,” he explained. Now, he may have to look out-of-state for materials and fabric, such as trips to Chicago’s Garment District.

Blaukat added that although local quilt shops like River City Quilts may help fill the gap, they might not carry the same variety that Joann offered. Hobby Lobby and Michaels are options, but they lack Joann’s extensive selection, especially for interfacing and batting.

Maggy Schneider runs the Sewing Lounge in St. Paul and is already seeing an uptick in customers seeking alternatives. “Many Joann shoppers are looking for a new place to shop,” she said. She is ready to help fill the void left by Joann, although she, too, is adjusting to this unexpected change in the local fabric landscape.

The closure of Joann will certainly impact the fabric supply chain and the creative community that has depended on it for so long. As designers and crafters navigate this change, they’ll continue to seek connections and materials to keep their artistry alive amidst the loss.

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