Secret home decor finds: why i’m obsessed with michaels
Let's be honest, I'm not exactly known for my crafting prowess. Threading a needle? A near-impossible feat. Yet, I find myself a regular visitor at my local Michaels. Why? Because beyond the glitter and glue guns, this arts and crafts superstore quietly harbors a treasure trove of incredibly stylish and surprisingly affordable home décor and organization essentials. It’s a secret weapon for anyone seeking to elevate their living space without breaking the bank.
The basket bonanza: storage solutions that actually look good
I’ve amassed a collection of woven baskets that, frankly, might border on excessive – easily 50, and I’m not exaggerating. The vast majority of these baskets? Sourced from Michaels. I gravitate towards rectangular or square shapes with clean, straight sides; they nest beautifully, create a sense of order when grouped, and, crucially, offer ample storage. Natural materials like water hyacinth, seagrass, and willow are my go-to choices—they bring an instant warmth and relaxing texture to any room. Michaels consistently delivers on this front, offering convincing dupes for more expensive baskets you’d find at retailers like Crate & Barrel or Pottery Barn. The best part? They regularly stock the same styles, so replenishing my collection is never a problem. Unlike the one-off finds at HomeGoods or TJ Maxx, where you might never see that perfect basket again.
Glassware galore: display & organization, elevated
Clear glass jars, canisters, and vases are integral to my home's aesthetic. They’re not just functional; they’re display pieces. Michaels’ selection is truly impressive. Whatever your organizational need, there's likely a glass jar ready to step up. I’ve got matching jars filled with sand collected from beaches across the globe, a trio of clear glass cylinders serving as candle hurricanes, and a dedicated jar brimming with ribbons for gift-wrapping. The inherent orderliness of matching glass vessels is undeniable, especially when arranged in multiples. Consider these options: Cylinder vases – versatile for candle holders, flower arrangements, or pen holders; wide-mouth jars with screw-on lids – perfect for decanting pantry staples or storing leftovers; tiny jars with airtight lids – ideal for spices or to-go lunch dressings; and large, lidded canisters – statement pieces for displaying flour and sugar on the countertop. Yes, even the paper towel roll gets its own glass canister!
Framing fundamentals: gallery walls just got easier
Living a significant distance from an IKEA, Michaels has become my reliable source for basic, clean-lined picture frames in classic white or black. They consistently stock a good range of standard sizes—16x20 and 18x24 are always in stock—and smaller frames often include a complimentary white mat. For more color options, the framing desk offers custom mat cutting. My only wish? A broader selection of wood-finish frames; a light wood option would be a welcome addition. However, the unbeatable prices and ease of availability make Michaels a go-to for building that gallery wall you've been dreaming of.
The warmth of unscented light: candles, done right
I’m a firm believer in the power of candlelight, especially in the evenings. However, I resist the temptation of a cacophony of competing scents. Instead, I supplement a single, beautifully scented jar candle with a collection of basic, unscented pillar candles in white or cream, readily available at Michaels. They also offer battery-operated LED candles, but for a truly authentic ambiance, I prefer the real deal. And while you're browsing, don’t overlook their clear glass section – perfect for creating stunning candle hurricanes. Affordable taper candles are also available, ideal for elevating your dining table or mantel. While Michaels primarily stocks white or cream unscented candles, the simplicity and soft glow of these hues are, for me, a deliberate and aesthetically pleasing choice.