Get Crafty With Our Top Independent Craft Shops In San Francisco

San Francisco is a mecca for the creative, so it comes as no surprise that the city of color has a variety of craft stores for a community of all ages. Whether you want supplies for your hobby, tools for your latest project or want to learn within a class environment, take a look at the range of stores available in the San Francisco area.

Hours: Mon to Sat – 9:30 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Often referred to as a "candy store for the creative," Flax Art & Design is one of San Francisco's oldest and well-stocked art supply stores. For over 72 years, Flax has been selling brushes, paints, canvases, stationary, albums, gift-making kits as well as much more in the form of craft kits. Come into the store to find a clean organized space with helpful staff who have a genuine knowledge of all the products in-store.

Hours: Mon to Sat– 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Sun - 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.

For over 30 years, the Hobby Company of San Francisco has stocked an extensive range of craft supplies including paints, brushes, needlework kits, beads, activity kits, and fabric. As well as products, in-store customers can find ongoing store events which will get creative juices flowing whatever your age.

Hours: Mon to Fri 12 p.m. to 7 p.m., Sat to Sun 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. and by appointment

Certified by the SF Green Business program, Urban Fauna sells ecologically and socially friendly supplies for crafts, whether you want to knit, weave, create scrap books or paint a picture. Customers can also join in-store classes to learn more about a favorite craft, and for those still deciding on a hobby, tools are available to rent during store hours.

Related: Best Casual Art Classes In The Bay Area

Hours: Mon to Sat - 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.; Sun - 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

A family owned and run craft store for over 50 years, Mendel's is a store for the creative. Find all the tools and supplies needed at an affordable price point. Mendel's sells fabrics, dyes, and paints, and customers can browse its products online or visit the Haight Street store for help from friendly staff members. You can even send your crafty friends a gift certificate, which can can be purchased online or in-store.

Hours: Mon to Fri - 10:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Sat - 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Sun - 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Bubble is a fantastic space for young children as it runs regular in-store craft classes for kids ages three and over. What started as a children's clothing boutique, Bubble has become a resource for parents and guardians wanting to teach their kids in a safe and fun environment. In addition to a weekly drop-in decorating class, there is also a "Moms Bring Coffee" drop-in during the week.

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Parmeeta Ghoman is a freelance writer living in San Francisco. She specializes in shopping and style. Find some of her work on Examiner.com.