How to Save Money at Michaels: Insider Secrets Revealed

Calling all Michaels lovers! If the aisles of colorful yarn, sparkling beads, and endless possibilities have ever tempted you (and your wallet), this is for you. I’m sharing all my insider secrets to save big at Michaels without sacrificing your creativity. Get ready to discover hidden discounts, coupon hacks, and smart shopping strategies that will transform your crafting budget. Your dream project awaits – without the financial stress!

Introduction

Hi there, fellow crafters! I’m Emily R, and if you’re anything like me, you can easily lose yourself for hours in the colorful aisles of Michaels. It’s a creative wonderland, isn’t it? But let’s be honest, all those wonderful supplies can put a serious dent in your wallet.

I used to be the queen of impulse buys at Michaels. A sparkly new yarn here, a pack of adorable stickers there – it all added up. I’d leave the store feeling exhilarated but also slightly guilty, knowing I’d probably gone over budget… again.

But one day, while staring at a mountain of receipts (and a dwindling bank account), I had an “aha!” moment. I realized that with a little know-how and a shift in strategy, I could still enjoy my crafting passion without breaking the bank. It was like discovering a hidden treasure map to savings!

And that’s what I’m here to share with you today: my hard-won insider secrets for saving money at Michaels. Get ready to discover tips and tricks that even the most savvy shoppers might not know! From mastering the rewards program to uncovering hidden discounts, I’ll guide you through the strategies I’ve used to transform my crafting budget.

Mastering Michaels Coupons and Discounts

Let’s dive into the world of Michaels discounts, where a little effort can lead to big savings. With the right strategies, you can unlock a treasure trove of coupons and deals that will make your crafting heart sing.

Michaels Rewards Program: Your Passport to Savings

First things first, if you haven’t already, sign up for the Michaels Rewards program. It’s free and easy, and the perks are worth it! You’ll get personalized coupons, a special birthday reward, and the ability to earn points with every purchase. Those points add up to even more discounts down the road. It’s like having a secret weapon in your crafting arsenal!

Weekly Ads: Your Treasure Map to Deals

Every week, Michaels releases a new ad filled with discounts and promotions. It’s like a treasure map for budget-conscious crafters! Take a few minutes to browse through it and highlight the items you need. You’ll often find incredible deals on everything from yarn and fabric to art supplies and home decor.

Pay attention to the dates on the ad. Some deals might only be valid for a limited time, so plan your shopping trips accordingly.

Digital Coupons: Your Smartphone’s Superpower

In the digital age, coupons aren’t just paper scraps anymore. Michaels offers a wide range of digital coupons that you can access right on your smartphone. Download the Michaels app or visit their website to browse and clip the coupons that appeal to you.

But here’s the real secret: You can often stack digital coupons with other discounts and promotions! That means even more savings on your favorite crafting supplies.

Clearance Sections: Where Hidden Gems Await

Don’t forget to explore the clearance sections! You’ll often find discontinued items, seasonal leftovers, and even slightly damaged products at a fraction of their original price. It’s like a treasure hunt for crafty bargains.

Look for clearance items in the back of the store or on endcaps. You might be surprised at what you find!

Competitor Coupons: The Ace Up Your Sleeve

Did you know that Michaels accepts competitor coupons? That’s right! If you find a lower price on an identical item at a competing store, Michaels will usually match it. Just bring in the competitor’s ad or show them the price on your phone.

By strategically using competitor coupons, you can score even deeper discounts on your Michaels purchases.

Smart Shopping Strategies at Michaels

Now that you’ve mastered the art of coupons and discounts, let’s talk about some savvy shopping strategies that will help you stretch your crafting budget even further.

Shop with a List: Your Budget’s Best Friend

Before you step foot in Michaels, make a list of the items you need. This simple step can save you from impulse buys and help you stick to your budget.

Organize your list by category (e.g., yarn, fabric, paint) to make your shopping trip more efficient.

Price Matching: Your Secret Weapon

Michaels offers a price-matching policy, which means they’ll match the price of an identical item if you find it cheaper at a competitor’s store. Before you head to Michaels, do a quick online search or check the ads of competing craft stores. If you find a lower price, bring proof with you to Michaels and ask them to match it.

Michaels will even price match online retailers like Amazon, as long as the item is sold and shipped directly by Amazon.

Generic vs. Name Brand: The Quality Question

When it comes to craft supplies, the age-old question arises: generic or name brand? While name-brand products often have a reputation for quality, generic options can be just as good – and much more affordable. Experiment with different brands to find the ones that offer the best value for your needs.

For items like paintbrushes, canvases, or basic tools, generic options can be a great way to save money without sacrificing quality.

Bulk Buying: When More is Less

If you use certain supplies frequently or you’re working on a large project, buying in bulk can be a smart move. Michaels often offers discounts on bulk purchases, so you can save money in the long run. However, be careful not to overbuy items that you might not use or that have a limited shelf life.

Seasonal Sales: The Time to Stock Up

Throughout the year, Michaels holds major sales events that are perfect for stocking up on supplies. Here are a few of the biggest sales to watch for:

• Back-to-School: Look for discounts on kids’ crafts, school supplies, and organization tools.
• Halloween: Stock up on costumes, decorations, and party supplies.
• Christmas: Find incredible deals on holiday decor, wrapping paper, and gifts.

By timing your purchases right, you can take advantage of these sales and save a bundle on your crafting supplies.

Hidden Gems and Pro Tips

Now that you’ve mastered the basics, let’s dive deeper into the world of Michaels savings with some lesser-known tips and tricks. These insider secrets can help you unlock even more discounts and make the most of your crafting budget.

The Custom Framing Secret: A Hidden Gem

Did you know that Michaels has a secret weapon for custom framing? They’ll honor competitor coupons for custom framing services! This can lead to significant savings, especially for larger projects. So, before you get your artwork framed, check the competitors’ ads and see if you can find a better deal.

The Teacher/Military Hack: Double the Discounts

If you’re a teacher or military member, Michaels offers special discounts to show their appreciation. But here’s the hack: You can often combine these discounts with other coupons and promotions for even bigger savings.

Don’t be shy about asking a Michaels employee how to maximize your discounts. They’re usually happy to help!

The “Buy Online, Pick Up In-Store” Advantage

Michaels’ “Buy Online, Pick Up In-Store” (BOPIS) option is more than just a convenient way to shop. It can also lead to exclusive online-only deals that you might not find in the store. Plus, shopping online can help you avoid impulse buys since you can carefully select the items you need before you head to the store.

The Power of Community: Sharing is Caring

Joining online groups or forums dedicated to Michaels can be a goldmine of information. Fellow crafters often share coupon codes, clearance finds, and other money-saving tips. It’s a great way to stay in the loop and learn from the experiences of others.

Search for Facebook groups or subreddits dedicated to Michaels or crafting in general. You’ll be amazed at the wealth of knowledge and support you’ll find!

Beyond Michaels: Alternative Sources and DIY Solutions

While Michaels is a treasure trove of crafting supplies, it’s not the only game in town. By exploring alternative sources and embracing your DIY spirit, you can uncover even more ways to save money and create unique projects.

Dollar Stores: Your Budget-Friendly BFF

Don’t underestimate the power of the dollar store! You can find surprisingly good deals on certain craft supplies, such as floral foam, basic paintbrushes, yarn, and even some seasonal decorations. It’s a great way to stock up on essentials without breaking the bank.

Thrift Stores: A Treasure Hunt for Crafty Finds

Thrift stores are a haven for unique and vintage craft supplies. You can often find old buttons, fabric scraps, frames, and other treasures at a fraction of the price of new items. It’s a fun and eco-friendly way to add personality to your projects.

DIY Alternatives: Unleash Your Inner MacGyver

Why buy it when you can make it? Many craft supplies can be easily made at home using common household items. For example, you can make your own mod podge using white glue and water, or create fabric scraps for projects by upcycling old clothes. Get creative and see what you can come up with!

Online Marketplaces: A World of Possibilities

Online marketplaces like Etsy and Facebook Marketplace offer a vast selection of craft supplies, often at competitive prices. You can find unique handmade items, vintage treasures, and even bulk supplies. However, be sure to factor in shipping costs and carefully read seller reviews before making a purchase.

By thinking outside the box and exploring these alternative sources, you can expand your crafting horizons and save money at the same time. It’s a win-win!

Conclusion

Congratulations, savvy crafter! You’ve now unlocked a treasure trove of insider secrets for saving money at Michaels. From mastering the rewards program and stacking coupons to uncovering hidden discounts and exploring alternative sources, you’re well on your way to crafting on a budget without sacrificing your creative vision.

Remember, the key is to be strategic, patient, and resourceful. Plan your purchases, compare prices, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different brands and techniques. And most importantly, have fun with it! Crafting should be a joyful experience, not a financial burden.

I’d love to hear about your own Michaels hacks and money-saving adventures. Share your tips in the comments below and let’s build a community of savvy crafters who support and inspire each other.

As your fellow crafting enthusiast, I’m always here to help you navigate the world of Michaels and find creative ways to save money. Stay tuned for future blog posts where I’ll dive deeper into specific crafting categories and share even more tips and tricks.

Until then, happy crafting!

FAQs

What are the best days of the week to shop at Michaels for clearance deals?

While Michaels doesn’t have a set schedule for marking down clearance items, many seasoned shoppers (including myself!) have noticed a pattern. Mondays and Tuesdays tend to be the sweet spot for finding fresh markdowns. It’s like a little surprise treasure hunt at the beginning of the week!

Can I use multiple coupons on a single item at Michaels?

Yes, you absolutely can! Michaels is known for its generous coupon stacking policy. You can typically use one manufacturer’s coupon (like a 40% off coupon from Cricut) and one Michaels coupon (like a 20% off your entire purchase coupon) on the same item. Just be sure to read the fine print on each coupon, as some exclusions may apply.

Does Michaels offer a student discount?

While Michaels doesn’t have a specific student discount program, there are still ways for students to save! You can take advantage of their regular coupons, sales, and clearance items. Also, if you’re a teacher, you can get a 15% discount on most items with a valid teacher ID. So, if you’re a crafty student, consider befriending a teacher (or becoming one yourself!).

What are some creative ways to use Michaels’ coupons beyond in-store purchases?

Think outside the box! Michaels coupons can often be used for online purchases, custom framing orders, and even select classes and events. So, before you discard that 40% off coupon, check if it can be applied to your next online order or that beautiful frame you’ve been eyeing.

How can I find out about upcoming sales and promotions at Michaels before they’re advertised?

The early bird gets the worm, right? To stay ahead of the game, sign up for Michaels’ email list and follow them on social media. They often send out sneak peeks and exclusive offers to their subscribers. You can also check online coupon websites and communities where fellow crafters often share upcoming deals.

Are there any items I should avoid buying at Michaels due to higher prices?

While Michaels offers a wide range of products, some items might be more budget-friendly elsewhere. For example, basic art supplies like canvases and paintbrushes can often be found at a lower price at dollar stores or online retailers. It’s always wise to compare prices before making a purchase, especially for larger or more expensive items.

Can I return items purchased with coupons at Michaels?

Yes, you can! Michaels has a hassle-free return policy, even for items purchased with coupons. Just make sure you have your original receipt and the item is in its original condition. However, keep in mind that the refund amount will be adjusted to reflect the discounted price you paid.

Are there any online communities or resources where I can find the latest Michaels deals and coupons?

Absolutely! There are many online communities where Michaels enthusiasts share deals, coupon codes, and clearance finds. Some popular options include Facebook groups, subreddits, and coupon websites like Freecouponsaz.com. These communities are a treasure trove of information and can help you stay on top of the latest savings opportunities.

What are some tips for negotiating prices on custom framing orders at Michaels?

While custom framing prices are generally set, there’s always room for a little negotiation! If you’re ordering multiple frames or a large piece, don’t hesitate to ask if there’s any flexibility on the price. You can also inquire about any current promotions or discounts that might apply to your order. Remember, the worst they can say is no!

How can I create a Michaels shopping budget that aligns with my crafting goals?

Creating a budget is a crucial step in saving money at Michaels. Start by setting a realistic monthly or yearly amount you can comfortably spend on crafting supplies. Then, track your expenses and compare them to your budget. This will help you identify areas where you can cut back and ensure that your crafting hobby remains enjoyable without breaking the bank. You can also use budgeting apps or spreadsheets to keep track of your spending and stay on track.