In the May 2009 issue there is a Newsy bits about Michaels updating their bead section.  I'm so excited as there is only one bead store in Chattanooga and unfortunately they are usually out of my price range on their beads.  Has any one heard when Michaels will be setting these up?

hello, and howdy from calgary/canada.  don't know what the Michaels stores are like in the U.S.A., but here in Canada they are really getting a range of stuff (even swarovski).  tho, I've noticed that Walmart sometimes carries the exact same stuff at cheaper prices...  right now i'm trying to save $$$ for the 2009 Canadian Oasis bead show thats coming here in April.  now thats a wonderful way to spend a day or two (browsing tables loaded with strands and strands and bins of beads,etc). 

I'm in SoCal and it has already happened at my local store. There's a wide selection and some are fairly reasonably priced.

 I haven't heard when they are doing it to the Chattanooga store. I personally can't wait because I am located in the same area and I agree that the other beadstore is too pricey.

 

 

We awaited the new Michaels store with big plans - however our local one is more into picture framing and scrapbooking than jewelry!!! I find most of my stuff at WalMart and JoAnns Fabrics. Good luck!

I'll occasionally pick something up at Michaels, but their strands are usually smaller so if you do the math, the LBS or online are almost always cheaper.  Even though they seem to be increasing selection, it is still relatively limited, and thus you end up with a lot of the same items as other people all of the country.  I also dislike the fact that they dont disclose what the base metals are in most stuff, or even whether it is plated.  Most findings just say "silver" or "gold."  Obviously a Michaels isn't going to carry gold... at least they are trying.

Janine, I agree completely!  With great anticipation I went to my local Michaels store, but ended up sort of deflated after coming to the same conculsions you did.  I guess if you are a hobby beader, or don't mind not knowing what sort of metals or the quality of glass is in your pieces, this is a great place.

I agree. Michaels is still for hobbyists, even with the expanded selection. Not only do you get less but some of their beads are extremely poor quality. I will pick up some glass beads that have been clearanced for spacer beads or treasure type bracelets.

Dawn