Ben Franklin Crafts: What to Find and How to Shop
What Ben Franklin Crafts carries and where to find locations
Ben Franklin Crafts is a chain of independent fabric and craft stores across the United States, with multiple locations in South Carolina. Each store stocks fabric by the yard, thread, patterns, notions (buttons, zippers, elastic, and trim), yarn, and supplies for sewing, quilting, embroidery, and general crafting. The product mix varies slightly by location, so calling ahead or checking the store's website before a trip saves time if you're hunting for something specific.
South Carolina has Ben Franklin Crafts locations in several towns and cities. The stores operate as independently owned franchises, which means hours, inventory, and services can differ between locations. A store in one town may carry a wider selection of quilting cotton than another, or may offer in-store classes that a neighboring location does not. Your nearest store's phone number and hours are the fastest way to confirm what's in stock and whether they carry the particular fabric weight, yarn fiber, or specialty notions you need.
Key Takeaways
- Ben Franklin Crafts stocks fabric by the yard, thread, patterns, buttons, zippers, yarn, and supplies for sewing, quilting, and embroidery.
- Each South Carolina location is independently owned, so inventory, hours, and services vary between stores.
- Calling ahead before you visit confirms whether a specific item is in stock and saves a trip.
- Many locations offer classes in sewing, quilting, or other crafts, though offerings differ by store.
- Sales and promotions run regularly, and some stores honor coupons from the Ben Franklin Crafts website or mailers.
Fabric selection and yardage pricing
Ben Franklin Crafts carries a range of fabric weights and fiber content: quilting cotton, apparel fabric, fleece, knits, home décor weight, and specialty materials like minky or faux fur. Prices per yard vary depending on the fabric type and current promotions. Quilting cotton is typically less expensive than designer apparel fabric or specialty materials. Many stores offer sales on specific fabric categories throughout the year, and some honor manufacturer coupons or store-issued discount codes.
You can purchase fabric by the quarter-yard, half-yard, or full yard at most locations. If you're unsure how much yardage a project requires, bring your pattern or sketch to the store, and staff can help you estimate. Some locations also carry pre-cut fabric bundles (charm packs, layer cakes, jelly rolls) for quilters, which are priced as sets rather than by the yard.
Thread, notions, and sewing supplies
Thread comes in many weights and fiber types—all-purpose polyester, cotton, specialty threads for embroidery or serger work, and variegated or metallic options. Ben Franklin Crafts typically stocks thread in a wide range of colors. Notions include buttons in plastic, metal, and wood; zippers in various lengths and colors; elastic; bias tape; and trim. Sewing machine needles, bobbins, and presser feet are usually available, though specialty presser feet may need to be ordered.
The store also carries stabilizers for embroidery, fusible interfacing, seam rippers, measuring tools, and cutting supplies like rotary cutters and self-healing mats. Prices for these items are generally competitive with online retailers, and buying in person means you can see the product before purchase and take it home the same day.
Yarn and fiber arts supplies
Ben Franklin Crafts stocks yarn for knitting and crochet in various weights, fiber content, and price points. You'll find acrylic, wool, cotton, and blended yarns from different manufacturers. The selection of colors and specialty yarns (like variegated or novelty textures) varies by location. Knitting needles, crochet hooks, and notions like stitch markers and yarn needles are stocked alongside the yarn.
If you're new to knitting or crochet, staff at many locations can recommend yarn and needle sizes for beginner projects, and some stores offer classes or can point you toward local groups. Yarn prices range widely depending on fiber content and brand; acrylic yarn is generally the most affordable option, while specialty fibers cost more.
Classes and in-store services
Many Ben Franklin Crafts locations offer classes in sewing, quilting, embroidery, knitting, crochet, and other fiber arts. Class topics, schedules, and instructors vary by store. Some locations offer one-time workshops; others run multi-week courses. Pricing and registration methods differ, so contact your local store directly to learn what classes are available and how to register.
Some stores also offer services like pattern printing, thread color matching, or help with fabric selection for a specific project. Not every location provides every service, so ask when you visit or call. A few stores may offer custom cutting or bundling services for large orders, though this varies.
Sales, coupons, and loyalty programs
Ben Franklin Crafts runs sales throughout the year on specific categories—fabric, yarn, notions, or seasonal items. Coupons appear in store mailers, on the Ben Franklin Crafts website, and sometimes through email newsletters. Discount percentages and terms vary; some coupons exclude sale items or certain brands, so read the fine print. Individual stores may also run local promotions or loyalty programs, so ask at checkout whether your location offers a rewards card or email list.
Signing up for a store's email list or following their social media page is often the fastest way to learn about upcoming sales and new inventory. Some locations announce class schedules and special events through these channels as well.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to call ahead to check if a specific fabric or yarn is in stock?
Yes. Because each location is independently owned, inventory varies. Calling ahead saves you a trip if you're looking for a particular color, weight, or type of fabric or yarn. Staff can also tell you whether they can special-order an item if it's not currently in stock.
Can I return or exchange fabric if I change my mind?
Return and exchange policies vary by location. Most Ben Franklin Crafts stores accept returns of unused, uncut fabric with a receipt within a set timeframe (often 30 days), but policies differ. Ask about the return policy when you purchase, or call the store before you visit if you're unsure.
Do Ben Franklin Crafts stores offer custom sewing or alterations?
Some locations may offer alterations or custom sewing services, but this is not standard across all stores. Call your local store to ask whether they provide these services and what the pricing and turnaround time would be.
Are there online ordering or shipping options?
Individual Ben Franklin Crafts locations operate independently, so online ordering and shipping availability depend on the specific store. Some locations may offer online ordering for in-store pickup or mail delivery, while others operate by walk-in only. Contact your nearest store to learn what options they offer.
What should I bring if I need help choosing fabric for a project?
Bring your pattern, a sketch of your project, or a photo of something similar. If you have a finished garment or item you like, bring that too. Staff can help you estimate yardage, suggest appropriate fabric weights, and match colors or prints to your vision.