Introduction

Michaels, a leading arts and crafts retailer in North America, is well-known for its extensive range of crafting supplies. With the closure of competitor Joann Fabrics in 2025, many crafters have turned to Michaels to meet their fabric needs. This article addresses the question, “Does Michaels have fabric?” by exploring the types of fabrics available, their applications, and the shopping experience, providing a clear picture for sewing and crafting enthusiasts.

Does Michaels Sell Fabric?

Yes, Michaels sells a wide variety of fabrics, both in-store and online, catering to diverse crafting needs. Following the acquisition of Joann Fabrics’ intellectual property and private-label brands like Big Twist in 2025, Michaels has significantly expanded its fabric offerings. The retailer now stocks over 10,000 fabric styles, making it a robust destination for sewers, quilters, and DIY crafters. Fabrics are available by the yard, as pre-cut pieces, or in bundles, with prices starting as low as $0.89 per yard for select options.

Types of Fabrics Available at Michaels

Michaels offers a diverse selection of fabrics suitable for various projects, from apparel to home décor. Below are some of the key fabric types available:

1. Cotton

  • Description: A versatile, easy-to-sew natural fiber available in solids, prints, and licensed designs (e.g., Dr. Seuss, Star Wars).

  • Uses: Ideal for quilting, apparel (e.g., dresses, tote bags), and home décor like curtains.

  • Availability: Found in bolts, pre-cut fat quarters, charm packs, and jelly rolls.

2. Polyester

  • Description: A durable, wrinkle-resistant synthetic fabric.

  • Uses: Suitable for apparel, home décor, and crafting projects requiring longevity.

  • Availability: Available in various colors and patterns, including solids and prints.

3. Fleece

  • Description: Soft and warm, often used for no-sew projects.

  • Uses: Perfect for blankets, throws, and cozy apparel like pajamas.

  • Availability: Includes solids, prints, and licensed character designs.

4. Flannel

  • Description: A soft, warm fabric with a slightly fuzzy texture.

  • Uses: Great for baby blankets, pajamas, and quilts.

  • Availability: Available in a range of colors and patterns.

5. Tulle

  • Description: A lightweight, net-like fabric.

  • Uses: Used for tutus, wedding décor, and costume design.

  • Availability: Offered in various colors, ideal for decorative projects.

6. Velvet

  • Description: A luxurious, soft fabric with a rich texture.

  • Uses: Suitable for formalwear, accessories, and upholstery.

  • Availability: Available in select colors for premium projects.

7. Muslin

  • Description: A lightweight, breathable cotton fabric.

  • Uses: Used for quilting, lining, and home décor like curtains.

  • Availability: Includes wide-width options (e.g., 108″ muslin at $14.99/yard).

8. Upholstery Fabrics

  • Description: Durable fabrics designed for furniture.

  • Uses: Ideal for reupholstering sofas, chairs, and other furniture.

  • Availability: Includes bouclé, chenille, and linen in various textures.

9. Specialty Fabrics

  • Description: Includes organza, vinyl, leather, faux fur, and outdoor fabrics.

  • Uses: Suitable for costumes, cosplay, and specialty décor projects.

  • Availability: Expanded selection for unique crafting needs, including the Yaya Han Cosplay Fabrics collection launching in Fall 2025.

Benefits of Buying Fabric at Michaels

Michaels’ fabric offerings come with several advantages for crafters:

1. Extensive Selection

With over 10,000 fabric styles, Michaels caters to a wide range of projects, from beginner-friendly to advanced. The acquisition of Joann’s Big Twist brand enhances its appeal for former Joann customers.

2. Affordable Pricing

Michaels offers competitive prices, with fabrics starting at $0.89 per yard. Licensed quilt prints are available for as low as $6.99/yard, and discounts like a 10% senior discount for customers aged 55+ further enhance affordability.

3. Accessibility

Fabrics are available in over 680 stores, with plans to expand to 280 additional locations by the end of 2025. Online shopping and same-day delivery via Instacart make purchasing convenient.

4. Comprehensive Crafting Support

Michaels stocks sewing supplies like needles, rotary cutters, and sewing machines from brands like Brother and Singer, as well as patterns and inspiration guides, making it a one-stop shop for crafters.

Challenges of Buying Fabric at Michaels

While Michaels is a strong contender in the fabric market, there are some limitations:

1. Inconsistent Store Selection

Not all Michaels stores have a full fabric section. Some locations offer only pre-cut pieces or a limited range of bolts, primarily quilting cottons, which may disappoint customers seeking variety.

2. Quality Variability

Some customers report that lower-priced fabrics may not match the quality of specialty fabric stores like equilter.com. For high-end projects, local or online alternatives may be preferred.

3. Service Issues

In some stores, fabric cutting services are limited, with reports of long wait times or non-functional call buttons. This can impact the shopping experience, especially during busy periods.

Applications of Michaels’ Fabrics

Michaels’ fabrics support a wide range of creative projects:

  • Apparel: Cotton, polyester, and denim for casual clothing; velvet and tulle for costumes and formalwear.

  • Home Décor: Upholstery fabrics for furniture, muslin and linen for curtains, and fleece for blankets.

  • Crafts: Felt and tulle for DIY decorations, and licensed fabrics for themed projects like cosplay or holiday décor.

Care and Maintenance Tips

To ensure the longevity of Michaels’ fabrics:

  • Cotton and Flannel: Machine wash in cold or warm water; tumble dry low.

  • Polyester and Fleece: Wash in cold water; avoid high heat to preserve texture.

  • Velvet and Tulle: Hand wash or dry clean; avoid direct ironing.

  • Muslin and Upholstery Fabrics: Follow specific care instructions, typically spot cleaning for upholstery.

Michaels’ Strategic Expansion

Michaels has leveraged the collapse of Joann Fabrics to expand its fabric offerings, adding over 600 products, including Joann’s Big Twist brand. The retailer reports a 77% increase in fabric-related searches and a 39% increase in sewing-related searches on its website, reflecting growing demand. By expanding to 280 additional stores and creating a dedicated landing page for former Joann customers, Michaels is positioning itself as the leading fabric and sewing destination.

Conclusion

Michaels does indeed sell fabric, offering a vast and growing selection of over 10,000 styles, from cotton and fleece to specialty fabrics like tulle and velvet. With competitive pricing, expanded store availability, and a comprehensive range of sewing supplies, Michaels is a reliable choice for crafters. While challenges like inconsistent store selections and variable quality exist, the retailer’s strategic expansion and commitment to serving former Joann customers make it a top destination for fabric enthusiasts. Whether you’re quilting, sewing apparel, or crafting home décor, Michaels has the materials to bring your projects to life.