Here are all my best tips and ideas for how to find cheap (or free) craft supplies! Meet your money goals and crafting goals all at the same time without scrimping on your art!
As a lifelong DIY junkie, I know firsthand that craft supplies can get EXPENSIVE. But don’t let that stop you from living your creative dreams! There are SO MANY ways to score fabulous supplies without breaking the bank. Here are nine creative, budget-friendly ways to stock up, including some of my favorite tried-and-true methods and a few clever ideas you might not have thought of!
1. Host a Craft Supplies Swap Party
Got a stash of yarn you haven’t touched since 2018? Your crafty BFF probably has some scrapbooking supplies she’s tired of. Swap them! Host a craft night and have everyone bring their unloved supplies. You’ll declutter, get new materials, and have fun in the process.
2. Try a Facebook Group Round Robin Swap
This is such a fun way to shake up your stash! Find a crafting Facebook group that does round-robin swaps. The concept is simple: you fill a large flat-rate box with supplies you don’t need, send it to the next person on the list, and wait for YOUR box of goodies to arrive. It’s like Christmas morning for crafters!
3. Hit Up Estate Sales
Estate sales are a treasure trove for craft supplies, especially for vintage or one-of-a-kind finds. The best deals happen on the last day when prices are slashed—don’t be shy about haggling either. I’ve snagged bundles of fabric, embroidery hoops, and jars of buttons for literal pocket change.
4. Make Facebook Marketplace Your New Best Friend
Checking Facebook Marketplace for craft supplies takes about two seconds, and you’d be surprised at the bargains. People sell or even give away stashes of craft materials they don’t want anymore. Add it to your morning scroll—coffee, memes, and cheap craft finds!
5. Thrift Stores (Especially Hidden Gems)
Goodwill and Salvation Army are obvious picks, but smaller, independent thrift stores often have the best craft sections. Look for fabric remnants, jars of beads, or even old picture frames you can upcycle.
6. Craigslist Free Section
Yes, Craigslist still exists—and its "free" section is a goldmine. People clearing out their garages or downsizing often post craft supplies they don’t want to bother selling. Be quick, though—those deals get snatched up FAST.
7. Buy in Bulk and Share the Love
If you need something like glitter, pom-poms, or beads, check out wholesalers or dollar stores and split the cost with a friend. It’s cheaper per piece, and you won’t end up with 1,000 googly eyes (unless that’s your thing).
8. Local Buy Nothing Groups
Buy Nothing groups are all about giving and receiving within your local community. Post that you’re looking for craft supplies or browse what others are offering—you might be surprised at what people are willing to give away for free!
9. Upcycle Everyday Items
This one’s my secret weapon. Old magazines? Perfect for collages. Tin cans? Make great pencil holders. Wine corks? DIY stamps! Keep an eye out for “trash” that could become treasure with a little creativity.
Crafting doesn’t have to cost a fortune. With these ideas, you can stretch your budget and keep those creative juices flowing. Which of these tips will you try first? Or do you have your own money-saving craft hack to share? Drop it in the comments—I’m ALWAYS looking for new ideas!
