The best book, hobby & craft shops in Larimer County

If band season snuck up on you, Boomer Music Company is our local independent go-to for rentals across band, orchestra and percussion for kids and adults.

From the Fort Collins newsletter, September 18, 2026

Whether you need a new or used electric or acoustic, a quick string refresh, or a full-on rescue, Willow River Music has you covered with legit luthier work from Front Range pro Don Jensen, rentals, lessons, and even vinyl and turntables for your offstage vibes.

From the Loveland newsletter, October 21, 2026

Fort Collins knitters, The Twisted Stitch is overflowing with squish from sock/fingering to bulky, plus indie finds like Get KnitFacedin Co and classics from Kelbourne Woolens and Juniper Moon.

From the Fort Collins newsletter, September 24, 2026

All Sales Vinyl nails that family-owned, hometown record store vibe with bins spanning classic rock to modern rap, staff recs from owner Mike Fogerty, and even on-the-spot record cleaning, so you can bring those finds home sounding crisp. Grab a fresh LP or a quirky novelty, maybe even a ukulele.

From the Fort Collins newsletter, October 1, 2026

Retailer selling an extensive selection of art supplies, from paints to paper & portfolios.

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

Whether you want a cozy coffee while you crush co-op puzzles or dive into Magic singles, minis, and stacks of staff-picked board games, The Haunted Game Cafe gives you a welcoming space to play, browse, and reserve tables for your crew. Events and RPG nights keep the calendar lively.

From the Fort Collins newsletter, September 5, 2026

Pinspiration Loveland is the pick this week for low-stress, high-fun creativity. Choose from dozens of DIYs like acrylic pouring, chunky wood cutouts, and candle making, then hit the Splatter Room for cathartic chaos while they supply the kits, tutorials, and snacks so you leave with something you actually made.

From the Loveland newsletter, October 5, 2026

If your couch sessions deserve an upgrade, M A Bashkin Guitars showcases OM, JM, SJ, and 00 models with artful rosettes and headstocks. Browse the gallery, sample the podcast, then hit How To Buy to start plotting the instrument you’ll be bragging about at the next jam.

From the Fort Collins newsletter, October 8, 2026

If your living room misses real keys, Piano Dude, LLC curates inspected, cleaned, adjusted, and tuned pianos, with delivery baked in, so you can skip the Craigslist safari and start playing. He also buys, tunes, and moves pianos, and yes, he’ll text you a photo gallery.

From the Fort Collins newsletter, October 15, 2026

Lambspun of Colorado is Fort Collins’ fiber hub with hand-dyed yarns and fibers, looms and weaving gear, and a full slate of beginner-friendly classes and make-n-takes. Pull up a chair for Treat Tuesday or Potluck Friday, swap tips, and leave with materials that actually inspire.

From the Fort Collins newsletter, October 22, 2026

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

Pigstyle is the kind of record store that makes time disappear, with bins that beg for a slow flip and staff who actually love talking pressings and deep cuts. If your turntable craves surprises, this is where Loveland locals quietly score their next favorite spin.

From the Loveland newsletter, October 13, 2026

Vast chain outpost offering guitar lessons, plus a range of instruments and gear, with used options.

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

Whether your horn needs a quick fix, a full spa day, or you’re chasing a sax or mouthpiece that finally clicks, Sax Alley brings serious product knowledge, expert repairs, rentals, and private lessons for all levels. Stop in this week, get tailored guidance, leave sounding suspiciously more confident.

From the Loveland newsletter, October 10, 2026

Chain of music stores buying, selling & trading instruments, sound equipment & accessories.

If your fingers are itching to pick, Banjo Studio is a legit one-stop for banjos and all the bits. 4 or 5 string, resonator or open-back, even beginner packages, plus capos, strings, straps and cases from brands like Deering, Vega, Ome and Pisgah, so you can make some front-porch noise this week.

From the Loveland newsletter, September 30, 2026