The best book, hobby & craft shops in Champaign

“Getting a kid started in band or finally fixing that trumpet you swore you'd deal with, The Music Shoppe Inc. has commitment-free rentals, a legit repair crew with loaners while yours is in the shop, and shelves of reeds, strings, sticks and sheet music. Set yourself up this week.”

From the Champaign newsletter, September 9, 2026

“Bright spot offering art supplies, gifts and stationery, along with classes and kits.”

“Champaign-Urbana's oldest independently owned music store since 1996, Corson Music keeps the local scene humming with guitars, basses, folk instruments, amps, PA and DJ accessories. They also handle repairs, violin and PA rentals, guitar lessons, and A/V system design and installation, so you can sound good this week.”

From the Champaign newsletter, September 21, 2026

“Whether you’re chasing that perfect electric, a road ready acoustic, or a vintage gem, The Upper Bout stacks the good stuff guitars, amps, pedals, pickups, plus the cables, cases, stands, and straps you always forget. Visit their luthier for pro setups or repairs, then grab a lesson and level up this week.”

From the Champaign newsletter, September 16, 2026

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

“Craft outlet offering vintage items and discounted art supplies and more, along with friendly service.”

“Musical-instrument chain offering a wide range of amps, mixers, guitars and drums.”

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

“Blackline Supply is the student-centered art store locals lean on for model materials, paint supplies, and everyday sketch gear, with course-approved picks that match UIUC studio lists. Think HDF, chipboard, and those giant 30x40 C flute sheets... clutch when crits sneak up.”

From the Champaign newsletter, September 1, 2026

“Exile on Main Street keeps Champaign's music nerds spoiled with new and used vinyl, CDs, and cassettes, plus occasional in-store performances that make shopping feel like a mini show. Dig for bucket-list pressings, trade in a dusty collection, maybe snag a vintage video game or old print media find while you're at it.”

From the Champaign newsletter, August 26, 2026