LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Joann Fabrics recently announced that they have filed for bankruptcy. While people may think this indicates a decline in crafting, some say that this could mean there’s more support going to small businesses.

What You Need To Know

  •  Joann Fabrics recently filed for bankruptcy

  •  Despite the chain filing for bankruptcy, some say that crafting is not on the decline and that people are frequenting smaller craft stores

  •  Louisville-based craft store, CT Hobby, has been doing well

  • Factors like owners interacting with customers and selling products online have been attributed to small crafting stores' success

CT Hobby is a craft store in Louisville and its owner, Carr Taliaferro, says business is going well even after the pandemic.

“We’re seeing an uptick in business now because we were able to survive and grow and strengthen our foundation,” said Taliaferro.

The success of small crafting stores could be attributed to owners being able to interact with customers.

“With that small store you really get to have that customer come in and have that personal one-on-one experience with someone that’s super knowledgeable about the craft or the art that they’re trying to build,” said Corey Pearson, who teaches people sewing and quilting techniques.

Pearson is also the co-owner of a Texas-based store, Linda’s Electric Quilters.

Shops, like CT Hobby, that tap into selling products online have also seen success with that.

“The online presence has expanded our customer base,” said Taliaferro. “We reach more people that need help, and it has given us more sales.”

Joann Fabrics initiated a voluntary pre-packaged Chapter 11 process in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the District of Delaware. They expect to complete the process by April.

Joann’s stores will remain open and people can still shop online.

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