The best book, hobby & craft shops in Los Banos

“Owned and run by Bay Area musicians, Vision Guitar is the boutique spot Gilroy players lean on for Suhr, PRS, Benson, Mesa Boogie, Strymon and other heavy-hitter brands. This week, whether you need one small part, quality upgrades for guitar or bass, or a full pedalboard designed, they’ll set you up right.”

From the Gilroy newsletter, August 4, 2026

“Music Village is the Bay Area stalwart to hit this week for rent-to-own school-band instruments, quick in-house repairs, legit teachers for all ages, and shelves of sheet music, plus fun gear like Yamaha’s Venova and the YDS-150 digital sax. They’ve been at it for over 50 years, so your chops are in good hands.”

From the Mountain View newsletter, August 6, 2026

“Spend a couple hours at NK Designs & Gifts making custom wood signs and other projects with your crew, or grab a Take & Make kit for couch crafting. Their gift shop spotlights 20+ local makers with personalized pieces, so you can actually check off birthdays this week.”

From the Merced newsletter, August 3, 2026

“Retailer offering a wide selection of new and used guitars, drums, keyboards and recording equipment.”

“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.”

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

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

“Music store offering guitars, amps, and accessories, plus lessons, rentals, and repairs.”

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

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