The best book, hobby & craft shops in Athens

“This week, give your next project fresh spark with gently used paints, yarn, paper, and delightfully random maker finds at ScrapTucker, Scraplanta’s art supply reuse shop. It’s affordable, creative chaos in the best way, and every haul keeps good stuff out of the landfill which feels pretty great.”

From the Atlanta newsletter, August 3, 2026

“Big House Guitars is where you find the next great axe, get full-service repairs that make your current one sing, and then disappear into Rat Room Records’ massive, curated vinyl stash. Bonus points for those soundproof rehearsal rooms when the band needs to lock in this week.”

From the North ATL newsletter, August 6, 2026

“When your rig needs a glow-up, Musician's Warehouse hooks you up with pro audio, amps, effects, drums, keys, and a wall of guitars from Fender, Gretsch, Martin, Yamaha, and more, plus over 25 years of Athens know-how to match you with the right gear.”

From the Athens newsletter, September 18, 2026

“Need a little creative kick this week? K. A.”

From the Athens newsletter, September 16, 2026

“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.”

“Classic City Vintage Guitars is where Athens players find character-packed electrics and acoustics, cool old amps and pedals, plus pro setups and repairs that make your favorite axe feel new again. Got gear gathering dust? They handle consignments and appraisals so it finds a good home.”

From the Athens newsletter, August 13, 2026

“This week, Binders Art Supplies and Frames is your go-to for serious supplies, from Golden and Prismacolor to their own Creative Surfaces canvas. Get expert advice, framing that elevates your work, and classes plus Limelight Gallery inspiration that keep fresh ideas rolling.”

From the Stonecrest newsletter, August 13, 2026

“Serving Atlanta since 1994, Earthshaking Music is the spot for guitars, drums, and pro audio that actually fit your project. Swing by for hands-on advice, solid repairs, rentals when you just need the rig, and lessons to level up. New and used treasures tend to surface here.”

From the Atlanta newsletter, August 11, 2026

“Whether you hoard notebooks or just need a birthday card that actually lands, Archer Paper Goods nails the mix. Think Field Notes and Stalogy journals, Blackwing pencils in The Pencil Shop, Jellycat cuteness, plus Georgia-flavored postcards when you want to rep home without overdoing the peach theme.”

From the South Fulton newsletter, September 4, 2026

“Criminal Records keeps local crate-diggers happy with fresh new releases, indie-exclusive pressings, and a deep used bin, plus graphic novels and zines for post-listen vibes. Hit them this week for in-store action like Soft Palms on August 18, or bring your stash and let them buy a few.”

From the Stonecrest newsletter, August 20, 2026

“Your stash will feel smarter after a trip to The Craftivist, the intown Atlanta yarn store curating standouts from Malabrigo, Isager, and more, plus all the needles and notions. Pull up a seat for classes that feel like a knit night with new friends, from socks to Tunisian crochet.”

From the Atlanta newsletter, September 17, 2026

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

“Chain music store featuring guitars, drums, keyboards, DJ equipment, and other instruments.”

“Whether your turntable wants something new this week or you’re on a mission for that elusive back-catalog gem, Wuxtry Records-Athens delivers vinyl, CDs, posters, and music memorabilia with friendly know-how.”

From the Athens newsletter, August 18, 2026

“Maple Street Guitars has been Atlanta’s go-to since 1981 for new and used acoustics, electrics, and classicals, plus mandolins, ukes, and banjos, with accessories, lessons, and repairs. Pop in to get matched with the right instrument and leave with fingers that won’t stop noodling.”

From the Atlanta newsletter, August 15, 2026