As a person who’s always abuzz with enthusiasm for the shifting seasons, I just can’t have enough of getting my house decked out to match the mood on the outside. Something enchanting about bringing out the pumpkins and spooky details the moment leaves begin to change, or draping on the twinkling lights when the air begins to chill. This autumn, I thought I’d stop by two of my go-to craft stores Michaels and Hobby Lobby to pick up decorations for Halloween, Thanksgiving, and even a preview of Christmas. I was interested to know how they’d compare, particularly because my aesthetic tends toward the spooky aspect of autumn before transitioning into warm holidays.
I’ve been seasonally decorating since I was a child, setting up Halloween displays way back in September because who needs to wait? Craft stores like this are my haven, where I’m surrounded by inspiration that generates ideas I didn’t know I had. What I discovered during my trips there was an eye-opener: the two chains have very different philosophies on fall and winter decor, ranging from spooky skeletons to harvest wreaths. It got me to consider what sort of mood I actually need within my residence each season.
Join me as I reveal my shopping tales, dissecting the pick of the bunch from wall art to yard stakes. Team gothic chills or team rustic coziness, there’s something here that’ll inform your next decor spend. Let’s get down to specifics and see which store snagged the spotlight for me.
1. Halloween Decor Availability: A Tale of Two Stores
I went to Hobby Lobby first, searching for all the traditional Halloween ornaments such as skeletons and ghost figures to increase the scare quotient in my living room. I trudged through the aisles for what seemed like hours, hoping to discover those scary gems hidden somewhere. But after making the rounds with nothing, I finally stopped an employee and inquired if they had sold out. Her response surprised me: “We don’t celebrate Halloween here just fall decor.” It was a plot twist I did not see coming.
It stopped me in my tracks and made me think about why a large craft chain would entirely avoid Halloween. It turns out Hobby Lobby’s leadership has very strong Christian ties, and they consider the holiday to be rooted in pagan things, so they avoid it. I respect personal choices, but as a fan of the fun, spooky side, it left me a bit disappointed. Still, it shifted my focus to their harvest items, which were plentiful and charming in their own right. This experience highlighted how store values can shape what’s on the shelves.
Over at Michaels, it was a total turnaround the place was a Halloween wonderland from the get-go. I saw grinning jack-o’-lanterns, swinging bats, and life-sized skeletons just inside the door, drawing me in with their mischievous horror. My inner child glowed; it was as if they knew the fun of the season without apologizing. In contrast to Hobby Lobby’s restraint, Michaels had the award hands down for anyone seeking that genuine haunted-house vibe. If spooky is your thing, this is where you’d fill your cart.
2. Harvest & Thanksgiving Decor Theme: Hobby Lobby’s Jocelyn Bloom Abundant Charm
Hobby Lobby truly found its home when I transitioned into Thanksgiving and harvest themes, providing a cozy refuge from the Halloween emptiness. Their fall department teemed with pumpkin themes, burlap signs, and earthy-toned garlands that screamed autumn warmth. I could already envision these pieces on my dinner table, as a prelude to a family dinner filled with thankfulness. It was obvious they invested heart into the harvest celebration without any scary distractions.
The collection extended to basics, from table runners with embroidered acorns to faux cornstalks for mantels. I loved that everything looked cohesive so you could easily match and mix. For hosts such as myself who adore a classic feel, this profusion was like an indoor hug. They even carried coordinating paper plates and napkins for, say, a game night. Hobby Lobby hit the spirit of fall’s softer side on this score.
Michaels did have some harvest choices, but they dwelled in the shallowness of Halloween abundance turkey figurines and leaf wreaths sprinkled about. Nothing whole for a complete Thanksgiving table. If oranges and browns are your thing for that traditional, earthy look, bypass the chaos of Michaels and go directly to Hobby Lobby. Their dedication made holiday table planning effortless, highlighting abundance and tradition rather than flash.
3. Fall-Themed Characters & Spooky Additions: Scarecrows vs. Creepy Dolls
Browsing the character sections elicited the playful contrasts between stores, beginning with Hobby Lobby’s precious fall collection. They featured lines of scarecrows in every possible rendition, from floppy hat-adorned farmers to whimsical ones clad in patchwork attire. I grinned at the black crows dressed up like teeny scarecrows such a clever reinterpretation of the theme. These items were all about capturing warm farm feeling, perfect for porches or front entrances.
To break it down, here’s what stood out in Hobby Lobby’s character offerings:
- Yard stakes shaped like friendly scarecrows, easy to plant for instant curb appeal.
- Hangable fabric versions for doorways, adding a soft, rustic touch.
- Stand-up figures with harvest baskets, perfect for grouping on tabletops.
Michaels turned the tables with their eerie doll assortment and ghostly pumpkins that emitted nasty chills. No lack of wide-eyed witches or skeletal marionettes to sit atop shelves for a jump-scaring effect. I appreciated how these leaned into Halloween’s lighthearted horror, beckoning me to pick a few for my Halloween bash. It was all about that spine-tingling thrill.
The contrast here demonstrates each store’s appeal to varying moods Hobby Lobby for warm harvest moments, Michaels for dramatic, spine-tingling accents. When decorating for kids’ trick-or-treating adventures, Michaels brings the fun. But for a peaceful autumn vignette, those Hobby Lobby scarecrows sweep it every time. My choice? A combination, but Michaels pulled ahead for the spooky element I adore.
4. Wall Art Vibe: Farmhouse Chic vs. Edgar Allan Poe
Hobby Lobby wall decor drew me in with its farmhouse vibe, complete with signs that exclaimed “Hello, Pumpkin” in chipped wood letters. These decorations exuded effortless happiness, with drawings of hay stacks and leaves cascading down that felt right at home on a comfort-kitchen nook. I pictured placing one over my fireplace to bring the room together for autumnal dinners. Warmth was the theme, prioritizing heritage over current trends.
All the pieces had a handcrafted feel, with subtle texture that gave any room depth. They weren’t mere decor but ignited conversation about the simple things of the season. For those homes that want to achieve that welcoming, lived-in look, this collection is perfection. I left inspired to give my own walls a fresh splash of rustic sophistication.
Michaels pushed back with a gothic touch, such as “Love You to Death” signs bordered by ravens and flowers over skulls. It was that Poe-quality intrigue, where there was beauty mixed with a dash of darkness velvet roses in bony fingers, for example. Great in a Halloween foyer or somber reading nook. I was addicted to the theatrics; it made ordinary walls something eerily beautiful.
5. Outdoor Yard Decor: Pumpkin Patch Paradise vs. Spooky Sayings
Hobby Lobby took yard decor to a pumpkin patch fantasy, where stakes held metal sunflowers that gently swayed in the wind. I saw farm truck silhouettes filled with gourds perfect for edging a walkway to greet visitors. These decorations achieved that perfect fall setting, abundant in color and life without crowding the landscape. It was about embracing nature’s abundance outdoors.
Hobby Lobby’s key yard selections were:
- Pumpkin clusters of different sizes, wired for simple staking.
- Scarecrow toppers that served as bird scarers in style.
- Sunflower arches for gateways, harmonizing utility and celebratory spirit.
The overall atmosphere encouraged a down-home, picture-perfect front yard that elicited admiration from neighbors. I could envision these lasting until Thanksgiving, easily transitioning. For traditionalists, this arrangement feels vintage and celebratory.
Michaels brought the haunt to the yard with “Beware of Monsters” signs topped with ghost cutouts. Witch hats and purple potions decorated wooden posts, daubed in hot Halloween colors. It made my lawn a mini haunted attraction, good fun for nighttime trick-or-treaters. The whimsical menace was contagious I picked up a couple for my porch.
6. DIY Fall Crafts & Floral Supplies: Eerie Creations vs. Harvest Bouquets
Diving into Do-It-Yourself at Hobby Lobby was tantamount to unlimited harvest decor such as fake leaves and round pumpkin shapes for wreaths. Their flower aisle was bursting with pumpkins and gourds in rich colors, waiting to be stacked into centerpieces. I could see it putting together a tablescape with eucalyptus details for Thanksgiving beautiful but easy. It satisfied my passion for hands-on projects based on autumn’s color scheme.
The products promoted beautiful, nature-based designs, from dried berry wreaths to sunflower vases. All the products were of high quality, so even novice crafts seemed professional. For autumnal post-Halloween moods, this place excels at creating cozy, welcoming pieces. I departed with ideas spilling over.
Michaels trended toward Halloween DIY with ghost garlands and fake eyeball jars for witchy jars. Children’s kits featured skeleton puppets, and dark florals gave edge to bouquets. It inspired me to tap my creative side for scary personalization, such as brain-filled lanterns. If spooky handmade elements are your domain, this is the go-to.
7. Early Christmas Transition: Full-Tilt Santa vs. Slower Seasonal Shift
My late-September Hobby Lobby trip slammed me with Christmas overload at the doorstep trees glittering and Santa statues waving in greeting. Aisles overflow with ornaments and wrapping, yanking me into winter far too early. I enjoy holidays, but this seemed premature when fall was only beginning. Nevertheless, the immersion was impressive for early planners.
Standout early Christmas features at Hobby Lobby:
- Pre-lit trees in all sizes, available for instant installation.
- Ornament bins brimming with themed sets such as nutcrackers.
- Santa displays with quilts, reminiscent of warm firesides.
It worked for people who mix seasons, but I liked enjoying fall first. The excitement was infectious, though wonderful to stock piecemeal.
Michaels did it low-key with boxed trees that spoke of holidays interspersed within fall domination. Garlands showed just the tip of their noses, but no full domination yet. This slow buildup allowed me to enjoy each step without stress. I liked the pace; it complemented my decorating pattern precisely.
As autumn gives way to winter’s radiance, the serious holiday battle royale is underway. Both retailers pull out all stops for Christmas joy, from majestic entrances to small wonders. We’ll dissect how they manage the magic, diversity, and all in between.
8. Merry First Impressions: Hobby Lobby’s Grand Christmas Welcome
Stepping into Hobby Lobby was like walking into a Christmas movie backdrop, with the front entrance dressed in full winter wonderland. Quilts over benches, beside cheery Santa figures that smiled kindly down upon me. Cheer hummed in the air, immediately putting a spring in my step despite the early hour. It created a sense of bounty, forgetting about the chill outside.
This arrangement wasn’t understated it was a showy declaration of happiness, with garland arches across the top. I stopped to absorb it, making notes for my own entryway overhaul. For immersion junkies, it can’t be beat; you exit with sparks firing ideas. The attention to detail reflected genuine consideration for conjuring festive home celebrations.
Hobby Lobby’s approach proves they’re all-in on holidays, creating an atmosphere that sparks creativity from the start. Even if it’s premature, it builds excitement for what’s ahead. I found myself lingering, drawn into the season’s warmth like a cozy blanket.
9. Michaels’ Muted Entryway: A Slower Unveiling of Holiday Cheer
Michaels’ entrance gave a soft holiday nod with some wreaths on the doors but no grand display. It whispered holiday clues through remaining fall accents, which was just right for my speed. I appreciated the restraint created anticipation without overdoing. For steady decorators, this is just fine.
Highlight subtle details were:
- Easy evergreen swags for door trim.
- Lanterned stars appearing from corners, warm and welcoming.
- A wee garland vignette, easy to recreate at home.
The understated atmosphere allowed fall to linger a little longer, rolling into winter organically. I strolled in unencumbered, prepared to discover without urgency. It served those who like individual calendars rather than store-fueled frenzy.
It speaks to Michaels’ equilibrium, respecting the change of each season. Though not flashy, it encourages discovery in your time. I departed feeling unrushed, looking forward to the holiday seasons.
10. Tableware Treasures: Hobby Lobby’s Dining Room Delights
Hobby Lobby’s tableware aisles were a host’s paradise, lined with poinsettia linens and cardinal-etched glassware. Everything was grouped smartly, from napkins to runners, simplifying my hunt for feast-ready pieces. I pictured my table glowing with these classics, perfect for toasting the season. The variety thrilled me no skimping here.
Displays inspired full setups, with stacked plates showing how it’d all come together. I snagged towels embroidered with holly for everyday holiday use. For entertainers, this section is gold; it elevates meals effortlessly. The organization made shopping a joy, not a chore.
Hobby Lobby excels at giving holiday dining a special and effortless feel. They focus on quality and style so your gatherings shine. I left with a cart full, imagining laughter around the table.
11. Michaels’ Tableware: A Thematic, Though Scattered, Selection
At Michaels, tableware was concealed within themed areas such as reindeer plates alongside matching ornaments producing a scavenger hunt atmosphere. Nutcracker areas packaged dishes with ballet-themed decor, uniform but frustrating to shop. I liked the imagination, but comparing products required an effort. It served for themed affairs, less for staples.
Themed standouts were:
- Reindeer serveware sets featuring antler handles.
- Ballet nutcracker napkins in the shape of swans.
- Elf-motif dish towels for playful kitchens.
This configuration encouraged creative tablescapes, mixing function with play. I improvised, taking pieces for a cohesive look. For creative hosts, it’s inspiring; practical shoppers may like consolidation.
Michaels’ style injects adventure into shopping, with payoffs for discovery in unusual treasures. Although disorganized, it inspires ideas for customized holidays. I walked out with eclectic finds that suit my taste.
12. Stockings and Advent: Unique Finds for Holiday Countdown
Hobby Lobby’s stockings were the showstoppers, from snowman fluffies to high-glamour ballet styles for each family member. The selection was mind-boggling unicorns for children, traditional for those who want tradition. I wrestled with replacing ours, tempted by the possibilities for personalization. It made hanging stockings new yet nostalgic.
These weren’t merely cloth; they included hooks and kits for personalization. The variety guaranteed inclusivity in patterns, accommodating any home. For tradition-makers, this aisle is a must stock up and build memories.
Michaels dominated advent calendars, with Marvel superheroes and Nintendo worlds making countdowns adventures. Outside chocolates, interactive ones challenged children every day. I watched families geeking out, making the wait enchanting. It brought excitement beyond the tree.
13. Faith and Fantasy: Nativity Scenes and Elf on the Shelf
Hobby Lobby’s nativity emphasis was as profound as its origins, with rows of angel toppers and beautifully detailed stable sets softly lit. From plain wood carvings to intricately decorated porcelain, choices were endless for faith-based homes. I appreciated the respect, choosing a tiny set for my shelf. It anchored the season in purpose.
Faith-based treasures included:
- Multi-figure nativity kits for building over time.
- Angel choruses in metallic gold finishes.
- Solid backgrounds with LED lights for atmosphere.
This focus respects Christmas’s roots, appealing to religious decorators. Michaels had a few, but none compared to depth. For sincere displays, Hobby Lobby excels.
Michaels was excellent at Elf on the Shelf, with elf types and accessory sets for nighttime mayhem. Books and costumes finished the fun, entertaining playful families. I giggled envisioning the shenanigans it captured holiday whimsy exactly.
14. Inclusive Celebrations: Multicultural Santas and Hanukkah Spotlights
Michaels went the extra mile with a Hanukkah corner, filling shelves with gelt coins and blue-starred party supplies for the Festival of Lights. The sensitive move celebrated more than Christmas without making a big deal about it. I liked the diversity nod, snagging products for multicultural-tradition friends. Hobby Lobby omitted this altogether.
Both chains expanded on Santa reps Hobby Lobby’s Black Santa mugs and angels last year felt like an improvement. Michaels had pillows and signs with diverse figures, echoing my own collection aspirations. Witnessing diverse joy pleased me; holidays need to include everybody.
It adds richness to the season, making decorations inviting for everyone. From Hanukkah sparks to multiculturals Santas, they expand the cheer. It is a move toward traditions that bring together, not drive apart.
Finishing up my tours of Michaels and Hobby Lobby, it’s clear that each has something unique to offer when it comes to seasonal decorating Hobby Lobby’s classic boldness in contrast to Michaels’ design-inclusive creativity. Spooky Halloween or shining Christmas, both create joy in their own ways. Choose by your vibe, and have your home reflect the story of the season. Happy decorating may your places shine with personal magic!
