I’m back from my 6-week escape from Manila. I spent time with my family in good ol’ Anchorage, Alaska. I was half-expecting myself to burn my money shopping for clothes and accessories, but instead found myself headed home with two checked-in baggage of craft supplies and three additional boxes being sent via cargo.
Anchorage is one of those small quaint towns where crafting isn’t left for lolas alone. Handmade wasn’t a movement, it was an everyday life staple. Here’s a list of my favorite places to crafts spots!
BLACK ELK – LEATHER, BEADS & STONES
They had an abundance of leather, cord, thread, beads, books, game antlers and even porcupine spikes!
BLAINE’S ART – A PLACE FOR ARTISTS
My brother is an Art major at the University, and this is where he gets all his art supplies. This was the mecca of everything art! They had brushes of all sizes, paint and ink in all colors, and markers and pens in every brand.
ALASKA BEAD COMPANY – THE BEADER’S BEAD STORE
I used to get my stock of glass beads, wire and tools from this small shop. It was a definite must-visit for me this trip. I even got myself some copper sheets this time to try making some bangles.
STAMP ATTIC – INDEPENDENT STAMP AND SCRAPBOOK STORE
I just happened upon their website as I was looking for other craft places to visit. Their shop was filled with stamps, stamp pads, and scrapbook paper. They even hold classes in their shop every so often. The ladies of the shop were some of the nicest people I’ve ever met.
And of course, there are these All-American crafts supply chains!
MICHAELS – WHERE CREATIVITY HAPPENS
Why do I go to Michaels? 1. They have all the Martha Stewart stuff 2. They have weekly coupons, and give you an additional coupon with each visit. Need I say more?
JOANN – FABRIC AND CRAFT STORES
Definitely my go-to source for fabric. The best things they had in-store? These adorable bags for crafty crafters!
I’ll talk more about my craft loot as they start to come in! 🙂