The best book, hobby & craft shops in New Hanover County

Otto's Drum Shop is Wilmington's community spot for drummers, with new and used kits, cymbals, and parts, plus lessons that actually move you past that practice rut. They're a Pearl dealer, handle repairs and tuning, and can spec custom SJC or locally built Tidal Drumworks stave drums...

From the Leland newsletter, August 6, 2026

Familiar and helpful staff offer guitars and other instruments, plus amps and gear, via online sales.

Yarns of Wilmington stocks beautiful yarns, hand-painted needlepoint canvases and threads, plus three work tables where you can park with a project.

From the Wilmington newsletter, September 16, 2026

Dust off that practice habit and let Varnam Strings set you up right, from violins and cellos to cases, bows, and sheet music, plus school rentals, repairs and maintenance, and even financing. Perfect for Wilmington players getting ready for concerts or first-day orchestra auditions this week.

From the Leland newsletter, August 20, 2026

, The Performing Arts Academy has band and orchestra rentals, music lessons, and repairs. Think quality instruments and expert advice for Wilmington folks getting set for school band or plotting a musical comeback.

From the Wilmington newsletter, September 24, 2026

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

Whether you're chasing a punchy P vibe, a smooth J glide, or a cab that won't flub your E string, Bass Pluckers is a Wilmington go-to for quality pre-owned basses, amps, and accessories. Inventory changes daily, so swing by to find the sleeper gem your rig deserves.

From the Leland newsletter, August 14, 2026

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

Need a zero-pressure creative reset that ends with a win for your walls? Craft Cabana, a quick hop from Leland, is a do-it-yourself craft studio where you grab a wooden shape and paint a custom door sign or try junk journaling, with guidance and good vibes so you leave with something you’ll want to hang.

From the Leland newsletter, October 10, 2026

The Crafty Krab keeps donated art supplies out of the landfill and into local hands, stocking affordable, gently used finds plus classes and studio or Krab Lab time. Start a crafting group, teach a class, or tap their Non-Profit Rewards Program if you’re with a local org.

From the Wilmington newsletter, October 29, 2026

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

River's Edge Art Supplies is Wilmington’s premier destination for creators, with expert guidance, in-store demos, and a welcoming space that makes you want to try stuff. When the project bug bites in Leland, stock up on quality gear from sketch staples to Speedball linocut essentials, then browse local art shows.

From the Leland newsletter, October 16, 2026

Pinspiration Wilmington lets you pick from dozens of DIY projects, then actually finish them without covering your living room in glitter. Book the Splatter Room for cathartic paint flinging, or settle in with candle making and acrylic pouring while you sip wine and snack.

From the Wilmington newsletter, October 22, 2026

Guitar Pickers keeps Wilmington's used gear scene alive with fresh finds and fair vibes, whether you want a new axe, a sleeper amp, or that one pedal you swore you didn't need. Stop in this week for legit pro repairs too, so your favorite six string actually behaves.

From the Leland newsletter, August 12, 2026