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12 Nifty Craft Shops in Canada to Channel Your Inner-Artesian Self!
Art doesn’t have to be incredibly flamboyant. What I mean by that is, sometimes, a small gesture to express your love for it is enough to create something beautiful and meaningful.
This is where craft artesian-style pieces come into play, and they’re soothing and hits right at home when you do it right. Personally, I love making craft art for myself and wish to show what I have in store in terms of my creative vision.
But where do you start if you’re just beginning your journey into the crafty side of art? Well, here in Canada, there are numerous stores that I can’t recommend enough and we’re here to talk about them!
Gwartzman’s Art Supplies
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Address: 448 Spadina Ave., Toronto
Contact Details: +14169225429
Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday 10 AM–6 PM; Sunday 12–5 PM
Cost: $$
Gwartzman’s Art Supplies is a craft store in Spadina, Toronto, which is also near Chinatown. This art store is renowned for its collection of primed and unprimed slabs and rolls while also providing you with more unique sizes that’s not found within the Toronto area.
This store also happens to be well-known as a go-to supplier for other craft stores across the city which is really telling of their canvas quality.
On top of that, the budget here won’t break the bank and the products allocated to those prices range from your typical pastels, sketchbooks, and paints.
Pro Tip: This place is within close proximity to Toronto University, which means, if you’re an art student there, then this is definitely a craft store (or only store) worth considering.
Ewe Knit
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Address: 832 Bloor St W, Toronto
Contact Details: +14165304438
Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday 11 AM–6 PM; Sunday 12–5 PM
Cost: $
Ewe Knit is as comfy as the interior of the store would look to you the moment you step inside this artistic haven. This craft store specializes in knitting, so expect crochet and sewing materials—and if you’re into that, then this is the place to be.
The shop is packed with endless wools, yarns, and fabrics for all kinds of sewing projects. It’s literally overflowing with materials, making it a place for crochet and sewing enthusiasts.
And we seriously can’t stress the overall homey vibe when stepping inside the shop for the first time. It’s like visiting your grandma’s house and the warmth of all the wooly material just comes together like a nice heartfelt gift.
Pro Tip: Even better, there are also kits for making adult sweaters and baby clothes which are all bundled up in separate packaging. So if you’re new and don’t know which materials to pick for your next art project, these packs are the way to go.
Michaels
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Address: RioCan Hall, 142 John St, Toronto
Contact Details: +16473173706
Opening Hours: Daily 9 AM–10 PM
Cost: $$
If you’re looking for the Walmart or Staples of art supplies, we think Michaels is the one to visit. It has every supply of art materials from crochet, construction, and yes, crafts.
For origami and more paper mache art projects, you can’t really go wrong here since their craft section has almost all of the art supplies needed.
The place also has multiple floors, and it’s easy to get lost if you don’t ask around or check direction signs everywhere. Think of this like the Ikea for art supplies in Toronto, and if you’re looking for that specific item for your art, you should definitely stop by.
Pro Tip: Enroll in the free Michaels Rewards program to earn points on purchases, receive exclusive offers, and access members-only events. Members also benefit from receipt-free returns.
Circle Craft Store
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Address: 1666 Johnston St #1, Vancouver
Contact Details: +16046698021
Opening Hours: Daily 10 AM–6 PM
Cost: $$
You know what’s even better when visiting craft stores like Circle Craft? The fact that they feature works of local and indie artists.
You’re not only stepping inside to buy something and step out because you’re also going to appreciate the artworks from our local talents. This store features over 130 works from craft artists around British Columbia, and it’s very refreshing to see.
The best time to visit this place, however, is during the holiday season. They have rotating exhibitions that span from paintings, sculptures, and unique craft works!
Pro Tip: Enroll in the free Michaels Rewards program to earn points on purchases, receive exclusive offers, and access members-only events. Members also benefit from receipt-free returns.
The Craft Witch
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Address: 9 Russell St E, Smiths Falls
Contact Details: +16136981717
Opening Hours: Wednesday to Friday 10 AM–5 PM; Saturday 10 AM–4 PM; Sunday 10 AM–2 PM
Cost: $
Don’t be fooled by its small facade and the nimbleness of the store because this craft shop is filled with a lot of surprises for art fans across Canada. It’s the type of shop that’s been inspired by movies when characters head inside a nifty art craft store—thus, the witch theme.
It has all you need for your next craft project, and it even has a “Don’t miss” Smiths Falls destination if you need some inspiration for that art you’ve been trying to make.
You can find steals like sketchbooks, reference dolls, paints, and crochet. It’s even a good scene for the gram if you’re willing to add some photos in your artist account—especially at night when the lights inside are turned on!
Pro Tip: There are workshops inside that’ll teach you basic watercolor lessons if you want to add that to your arsenal of art skills!
Above Ground
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Address: 74 McCaul St, Toronto
Contact Details: +14165911601
Opening Hours: Monday to Friday 10 AM–7 PM; Saturday 10 AM–6 PM; Sunday 12–5 PM
Cost: $$
Above Ground is where students or even professionals go for their next set of art supplies. If you’re looking for craftier pieces like mache, crochet, and paper-centric materials, this is also where you get them,
It’s seriously a haven for artists of all ages and levels, and this is what we love most about Above Ground.
This shop puts you in the position to be around other artists as well, and they even have events that make you mingle with said connoisseurs if you’re a modest novice yourself.
Regardless, this is a great store for all your crafts and art endeavors, and their price range for all items is flexible too!
Pro Tip: The store hosts various workshops and demonstrations, offering opportunities to learn new techniques and engage with the art community. These events are often free or available at a nominal fee—so take advantage of them.
Len’s Mill Stores
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Address: 41 Brockley Dr, Hamilton
Contact Details: +19055605367
Opening Hours: Monday to Friday 9 AM–7 PM; Saturday 9 AM–6 PM; Sunday 10 AM–5 PM
Cost: $
For anything yarn or wool related, Len’s Mill Stores is the de facto shop. While you can definitely opt for this craft store for your craftier projects, this is a huge retailer that provides materials for costume makers and serious dress tailors.
Therefore, for smaller projects, you can certainly buy in smaller portions as well which makes your shopping experience much more budget-friendly.
They also provide many holiday sales and promos, so do keep out for those. We also urge you to grab their kits for crochet and sewing projects—there are even artificial artisan items like flowers and googly eyes for more options.
Pro Tip: One of the best things about Len’s is the option to either pick up the items bought online from the store once you’ve paid for them or simply order online and wait for the items to be delivered to your doorstep.
Craft Ontario Shop & Gallery
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Address: 1106 Queen St W, Toronto
Contact Details: +14169211721
Opening Hours: Tuesday to Saturday 11 AM–6:30 PM; Sunday 12–5 PM; Monday, closed
Cost: $$
Craft Ontario is a not-for-profit organization that aims to service those who dedicate their lives and career into craftsmanship—regardless of the art niche. They celebrate professional craft and education which is why this shop exists in the first place.
Their shop is full of whacky, creative, and downright intriguing pieces that’s perfect for your home. On top of that, they also feature prints, sculptures, and drawings made from indigenous people in Canada.
You also have wide options of materials like jewelry, ceramic, glass, and textile to choose from. This is probably one of the more interesting places we’ve gone to in terms of finding the best craft materials, and we certainly found more in terms of historical and art pieces!
Pro Tip: Become a member so you can enjoy discounts and benefits. By doing so, you also help the community who built this establishment—especially those from indigenous tribes and dedicated people who ventured into the world of craftsmanship.
Canadian Crafts
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Address: 1023 Robson St, Vancouver
Contact Details: +16046846629
Opening Hours: Saturday to Sunday 10 AM–7:30 PM; Monday to Friday 11 AM–7:30 PM
Cost: $
If you have a friend who’s just been to Canada for the first time and they’re thinking of bringing a souvenir to remember, you can bring them here at the Canadian Crafts.
This place is more than your average craft shop with art supplies and craft junk—it’s also a store with multiple Canadian quirks like hockey jerseys, tourist shirts, and gift baskets.
There are also playing cards and home accessories that you can get here, which is a nifty shop in and of itself. Quite useful if you’re travelling and looking for that one item you need immediately!
However, we were genuinely surprised that they have an area inside the store fully dedicated to products that the indigenous people in Canada have made themselves. This stem from woodworks, art pieces, and souvenirs that you can buy to make your trip here more special!
Pro Tip: Some items may be manufactured outside of Canada. If you’re seeking locally made products, don’t hesitate to ask the staff for guidance.
Arton Beads
Address: 523 Queen St W, Toronto
Contact Details: +14165041168
Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday 11 AM–6 PM; Sunday, closed
Cost: $$
Arton Beads is a haven for jewelry-making enthusiasts and crafters alike, and it’s located just in Toronto.
This store undoubtedly specializes in all things bead-related, from Swarovski crystals and glass beads to chains, clasps, and wires.
If you’re thinking of crafts as more than just beads and jewelry, the store actually also offers a variety of tools and accessories for crafting, ensuring you have the right equipment to bring your creative visions to life.
What’s great if you’re visiting them onsite is the layout of the shop makes it easy to browse through their extensive collection, sparking ideas for your next project.
Pro Tip: Arton Beads offers a loyalty program that provides discounts when you purchase certain amounts. Be sure to inquire about this program during your visit to maximize your savings.
Valley Crafts
Address: 44 Trans-Canada Hwy #3, Deer Lake
Contact Details: +17096354440
Opening Hours: Monday to Friday 10 AM–5 PM; Saturday to Sunday 9:30 AM–8 PM
Cost: $$
Valley Crafts is a must-visit for unique gifts and souvenirs that showcase the spirit of Newfoundland and Labrador.
From handcrafted jewelry to distinctive home decor, the shop offers plenty of locally made treasures that any artisanal and craft art fans would enjoy.
It’s probably one of the more shabby shops in Canada, but it really doesn’t bother us if you’re there for the supplies, and it shouldn’t bother you either if that’s the case. But the simplicity of it all does give it its charm!
Pro Tip: Valley Crafts is housed within the Roy Whalen Regional Heritage Centre and Archives, which features exhibits on logging, agriculture, transportation, and community life in the Humber Valley. This makes it an ideal stop for both shopping and learning about the region’s rich history.
Country Lane Crafts
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Address: 17720 65A Ave Suite 101, Surrey
Contact Details: +16045749088
Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday 10 AM–4 PM; Sunday, closed
Cost: $
Country Lane Crafts has been the go-to spot for craft enthusiasts in Vancouver and nearby areas since 1997.
What’s in store when visiting here are numerous scrapbooking, stamping, and a variety of creative supplies. Seriously, this craft shop is brimming with high-quality items to help you bring your artistic visions to life.
They also have premium paper products to specialty stamps and inks, and their collection caters to both beginners and experienced crafters too.
Pro Tip: Don’t miss their seasonal sales, where you can snag discounts on top-quality supplies. Also, keep an eye out for their workshops, where you can learn new techniques and meet like-minded crafters!
