HouseMart Ben Franklin Crafts — Attraction in Honolulu

These are the kind of places the Internet/Amazon have unfortunately killed-off. So I'm real glad these guys are an exception and have escaped that harsh fate. This is not to say that I don't also utilize the web and Amazon, but there ate definitely times where being able to walk-in, browse, hold things in your hands and examine them closely from all angles really works better and allows you to see exactly what you're buying instead of trying to visualize it from a couple of pictures - even doing take-off measurements to ensure things will fit correctly (ever shopped online and where surprised to find when you received your order that the dimensions shown on the website was for the box the item came in - NOT the actual item?). In my last visit to this well stocked crafts shop I was improvising a solution and from their ample inventory on hand I was able to devise a creative solution to my challenging project and then go home and construct and implement it the same day rather than having to wait for one or more shipments. Nice range of craft materials covering many areas. Controbuting to their still being here it would appear that they have been at this location for a long time (maybe even bought/built it back in a day when things were much more affordable) and then avoided expanding into a larger facilty (the path many take when they see early success only to put themselves out of business when business slips a bit and suddenly they can't keep up). I'm glad Franklins' is still here serving...

Love ben franklin. Granted its really our only option ok the island so their prices can be rough, but with the membership discount its great when you dont have the time or patience to wait for something in the mail. And especially the 40% off coupons they occasionally have. If they had more often I would spend alot more there than online. Selections pretty good for most areas depending on which store location. Market city great paper craft section. And halfway decent art section (they need to up their watercolor paper selection HUGE though. Don't buy any watercolor products from there unless you don't care about price or need it asap, and don't buy any of the watercolor paper there EVER. All terrible options.) But other basic art supply selection is pretty good in all areas. Except the jewelry making supplies. Must go to their pa'a st. Location for those. Thats where the magic is! And the lovely lady who runs that section and has been there for many many years, is so amazing, seriously amazing! So that location shines in that department. Again though, wait for those 40% off coupons or a decent sale if you're not in a hurry otherwise its a money pit. But...

I recently had the pleasure of taking a beginner's crochet class led by Marissa, and I can confidently say it was an outstanding experience. I felt a wave of warmth and encouragement that made me excited to learn, thanks largely to Marissa's incredible teaching style.

Marissa’s patience truly set her apart as an instructor. As someone with no prior crocheting experience, I was nervous about grasping the foundational skills needed. However, Marissa took the time to explain each stitch and technique in a manner that was easy to follow. She never rushed through the lessons and was always willing to repeat instructions or demonstrate a stitch multiple times until everyone felt comfortable.

Her kindness was evident in every interaction, creating a supportive and inclusive environment. Marissa made sure to celebrate our small achievements, no matter how minor, which really boosted our confidence. She encouraged questions, fostering a space where we felt comfortable expressing our uncertainties. It was clear that she genuinely cared about our progress and happiness...