Fred Aldous is a craft shop with deep roots in Manchester. We’re impressed to learn that they’ve been consistently a reliable choice for creative individuals in the area since 1886!

When it comes to accessibility, we think they stand out as one of the easiest to reach craft shops. Their doors are open every day which creates a welcoming environment for weekend project enthusiasts and those seeking inspiration midweek.

Navigating their online shopping experience is straightforward, and we like that. They have a well-organised website that ensures a hassle-free search for materials needed for your next project.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Fred Aldous (@fredaldous)

Their same-day delivery option is another plus point. Just remember to place your orders early to secure this convenient service.

While some might consider them slightly pricier, we give them plus points for their fair return policies. The shop willingly accepts any unused item with intact packaging.

For us, this flexibility provides customers with confidence in their purchases.

Beyond the shelves, we appreciate the friendly and helpful nature of the staff here. Regulars shared that the staff’s genuine enthusiasm for crafting is infectious. 

Overall, we think that this is the place to be for those who are willing to spend extra for a convenient craft shop.

For over 40 years, Manchester Craft & Design Centre has been a nurturing shop for some of the region’s most talented independent designers and makers. We believe this establishment is an ideal spot for individuals engaged in high-level creative projects.

When it comes to customer service, this place also deserves commendation. We learned that the staff’s friendly approach creates a welcoming atmosphere, and we like that newcomers to the art scene need not feel intimidated.

Regulars also added that this positive engagement ensures that everyone feels comfortable in pursuing artistic creations within the centre.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Mcr Craft & Design Centre (@manchestercraft)

While the online shopping experience boasts a decent catalogue, we think a visit to the store enhances the overall appreciation of the extensive collection.

Additionally, we’re a bit iffy that the shop doesn’t offer same-day delivery. 

Luckily, this team compensates when it comes to the accessibility of their physical store. For starters, we appreciate that they are open every day.

Furthermore, their location on Oak St. is easily accessible and can cater to those with private transportation as well as those relying on public transportation. 

Despite being one of the more expensive craft stores, we find their pricing structure reasonable. This is because of their emphasis on quality which is reflected in the high-calibre and hard-to-find pieces that they offer.

T.La Art & Craft Gallery stands out with their specialisation in Asian art supplies and equipment. We appreciate them for offering a unique niche in the market.

In terms of pricing structure, they cater to a wide range of customers. While they have a selection of premium items, some items even start below £1 — providing accessibility for customers with different budget considerations.

Unfortunately, it’s worth noting that there have been a couple of complaints about the staff’s perceived rudeness. Despite this, other regular customers have defended the team and shared positive experiences. 

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by megan ☻ (@puiyaaan)

On a more positive note, everyone agrees that their store is easily accessible within Chinatown. We also commend that they are open every day which ensures convenience for customers. 

It’s essential to keep in mind, though, that they open later than other shops in the area. For us, this may be a consideration for those looking for an early start to their crafting endeavours.Meanwhile, their online shopping experience is noteworthy. We’re pleased with their online catalogue that showcases their products very well.Their affordable delivery services start at only £4.00, adding another layer of convenience for customers who prefer the ease of shopping from the comfort of their homes.

Cass Art distinguishes itself by offering an Art Space that is exclusively designed for workshops and exhibitions. We think that this is the place to be for those who want to connect with other people who love arts and crafts as well.

When it comes to their online shopping experience, they also excel with one of the best catalogues in the area. 

For us, it’s comprehensive and encompasses all their items — making it a great resource for those who require a plethora of craft supplies but cannot leave their home.

We also discovered that they have a reliable delivery service that can cater to anywhere in the world!

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Cass Art (@cassart1984)

Delving into their pricing structure, we appreciate that they provide affordable selections. In fact, they even have a  dedicated sale section for those on a tight budget. 

However, we’re a bit iffy that there seems to be some inconsistency with regards to their customer service. We learned that some patrons have experienced staff members who are less than helpful, bordering on rudeness.

But we’re relieved that there are still those who appreciate the efforts of the staff. 

Finally, in terms of accessibility, they score plus points by being open every day. We appreciate that they extend their hours that close later than other craft shops in the area. 

The Works has become a prominent presence with over 526 locations across the UK and Ireland. On top of this, we’re also impressed to learn that they’ve been in the industry since 1981.

One thing we like most about them is their convenient location in the Arndale Shopping Centre. We also commend that they are open every day, offering flexibility to customers. 

Notably, they also open earlier than some other shops — allowing early birds to kickstart their day well by buying the craft materials they need!

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by The Works (@theworksstores)

The Works also stands out as an affordable option for craft enthusiasts. We’re delighted with their wide selection of discounted items that cater to those on a strict budget.

However, customer service seems to be an area of concern. Sadly, we received a lot of dismal feedback regarding prolonged waiting times and staff members seemingly more engaged in personal conversations than attending to customers. 

On a brighter note, for those hesitant to risk a poor in-store experience, they offer commendable online shopping offerings. Their online catalogue provides a wide selection of items.

On top of this, regulars shared that the store also has a reliable delivery service that caters locally and internationally.