The best book, hobby & craft shops in Alabaster

Alabama Booksmith is the unicorn of local bookstores, where every single book is signed and sold at regular publisher's price, except for a few in the Collector's Corner. Expect fresh signed first editions and preorders from names like Malcolm Gladwell and Richard Russo, which makes gift shopping dangerously easy.

From the Hoover newsletter, October 4, 2026

Ritual + Shelter is the kind of Homewood spot you wander into for a new read and leave with a tarot deck, a crystal that feels weirdly right, and a mood that’s two notches calmer. Thoughtfully curated shelves, kind guidance, and just enough mystique to make errand day feel a little magical.

From the Vestavia Hills newsletter, October 1, 2026

If you like cheering on local voices, Book Nook by Rocky Heights helps self-published authors bring their printing dreams to life and sell their books. Browse the Author Directory, preorders, and grab bookish merch like canvas totes, notebooks, and socks... perfect for padding that TBR.

From the Hoover newsletter, October 9, 2026

Little Professor Bookshop nails the cozy-local vibe with sharp staff picks, lively author events and book clubs, plus shelves spanning hot new releases, kids’ favorites and clever gifts and puzzles. Swing by for real recommendations, sip a coffee while you browse, then pretend you meant to buy only one book.

From the Vestavia Hills newsletter, September 26, 2026

Jim Reed Books/The Museum of Fond Memories is a cozy rare-book loft where the stacks go deep, with 50,000 items online and about 250,000 more waiting in the wings. Tell Jim what you’re hunting for, and odds are the perfect forgotten gem surfaces with a good story attached.

From the Birmingham newsletter, September 18, 2026

Family owned and not tied to any denomination, Sanctuary Christian Books and Gifts keeps Alabaster supplied with Bibles, devotionals, children's books, music, DVDs, cards, church supplies, and thoughtfully chosen gifts. Bonus, they personalize Bibles in-store while you browse...

From the Alabaster newsletter, October 14, 2026

Bookseller chain stocking housebrand eReader, plus a broad selection of titles for adults & kids.

Curated by folks who actually read, Briarwood Christian Bookstore stocks solid theology and biography, practical counseling and Christian living, page-turning fiction, plus a children’s corner, a deep bench of Bibles, and giftable goodies, including pieces by Birmingham artisans.

From the Birmingham newsletter, October 15, 2026

Retailer buying, selling & trading CDs, books & video games, plus DVDs & vinyl records.

From new-study kickstarts to well-loved translations, Spirit Filled Christian Bookstore keeps Hoover folks covered with Bibles across KJV, NIV, NLT, MEV, CSB, NKJV, and Amplified, plus commentaries, concordances, and mini-books. Need church supplies too?

From the Hoover newsletter, August 20, 2026

Locally owned and rooted in Bessemer, The Christian Bookstore & More is the spot for Bibles in many translations and print sizes, Bible dictionaries and concordances, Sunday School commentaries, plus communion supplies, anointing oils, Bible covers, bookmarks, offering envelopes, certificates, badges, and gifts.

From the Bessemer newsletter, September 11, 2026

Whether your TBR is overflowing or you just need a nudge, Thank You Books nails the staff-curated magic that sends you home with something you'll actually read. Woman-owned, community-minded, with lively author events, book clubs, a charming kids section and plenty of bookish gifts when you need a quick win.

From the Birmingham newsletter, October 8, 2026

Knit B'ham is the cozy, inclusive hub for knitters and crocheters, with classes, knit-alongs, and a welcoming vibe that makes casting on way less intimidating. Browse ethically sourced natural fibers for your next project and lean into slow fashion that actually feels doable this week.

From the Birmingham newsletter, September 25, 2026

True Vintage Guitar is the local treasure chest for real-deal Fender, Gibson, and Martin pieces plus classic amps.

From the Birmingham newsletter, October 1, 2026

Whether you're restocking acrylics, stretching new canvas, or finally trying gouache, Alabama Art Supply has the massive selection and friendly, knowledgeable folks to steer you right. Bonus for locals, their Birmingham workshops and Alabama Art Academy classes help you level up without blowing your weekend.

From the Birmingham newsletter, October 23, 2026

Chain retailer carrying art & hobby supplies plus home decor (most offer classes & custom framing).

Do It Yourself Crafts is the kind of homey studio where you pick a piece, pick your colors, then let them glaze and fire it while you pretend you’re patient. Pottery painting, glass fusing, canvas, even wheel-throwing classes and birthday-ready parties, all with friendly guidance and zero experience required.

From the Hoover newsletter, September 3, 2026

Family-run and locally owned, Forstall Art Center and Custom Framing is the spot for a broad selection of art supplies, custom framing, and art classes.

From the Birmingham newsletter, September 10, 2026

Retail chain offering musical instruments, audio gear & accessories, plus rental & repair services.

Chain retailer carrying art & hobby supplies plus home decor (most offer classes & custom framing).

Chain carrying a variety of arts & crafts materials, plus party supplies, fabric & home-decor items.