The best book, hobby & craft shops in Southern Illinois

5 book, hobby & craft shops we’ve checked and stand behind — with the story on each one. Not a ranking; a record.

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Hobbies, Books, & Crafts · 5 places · showing the latest additions first

Mike's Music

Hobbies, Books, & Crafts

If your tone could use a glow up... Mike's Music is Southern Illinois’ go-to guitar shop since 1993, with new and used guitars, amps, and a…

124 S Illinois Ave (Carbondale)

“If your tone could use a glow up... Mike's Music is Southern Illinois’ go-to guitar shop since 1993, with new and used guitars, amps, and a wall of effects. Expect trusted brands like G&L, Guild, JHS, NUX, and Ernie Ball, plus guidance for beginners and pros alike...”

From the Southern Illinois newsletter, September 4, 2026

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TC3 Music Supply

Hobbies, Books, & Crafts

TC3 Music Supply in Metropolis is the local hub for players chasing better sound, with a curated spread of guitars, drums, amps, effects,…

727 E 12th St #100 (Metropolis)

“TC3 Music Supply in Metropolis is the local hub for players chasing better sound, with a curated spread of guitars, drums, amps, effects, and all the strings and picks you lose weekly, plus honest advice and legit repairs... maybe test that Marshall JCM800 Overdrive this week.”

From the Paducah newsletter, September 12, 2026

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SIU Craft Shop

Hobbies, Books, & Crafts

SIU Craft Shop is the low-pressure place to actually make the thing, with walk-in activities, workshops, and private lessons across…

SIU Student Center, 1255 Lincoln Dr #233 (Carbondale)

“SIU Craft Shop is the low-pressure place to actually make the thing, with walk-in activities, workshops, and private lessons across ceramics, woodworking, sewing, painting, and jewelry. Stock up from their art supply shop, then finish strong with custom framing. Bring a friend, leave with something you made.”

From the Southern Illinois newsletter, September 10, 2026

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Calico Country Sew & Vac

Hobbies, Books, & Crafts

Long-standing retailer with sewing machines, vacuums, and quilting supplies, plus classes.

2525 Fairview Dr (Carbondale)

“Long-standing retailer with sewing machines, vacuums, and quilting supplies, plus classes.”

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Run a Southern Illinois business? Two pinned spots a day — $10 here, $25 adds the newsletter. Advertise →

Hobby Lobby

Hobbies, Books, & Crafts

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

1150 E Main St (Carbondale)

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

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