Arts and crafts retailer Michaels Co. debuted MakerPlace by Michaels, an online marketplace offering handmade goods, artist-led classes, how-to guides and access to Michaels’ assortment of supplies and componentry all through one platform. The launch follows a three-month beta test to optimize the experience for shoppers and sellers alike. 

When visiting MakerPlace, U.S.-based shoppers can browse dozens of categories of handmade goods – including jewelry, home décor, art, accessories, crafting arts, bath and beauty, and clothing – and learn or refine skills to bring their own creative ideas to life through maker-led classes and how-to’s. At launch, MakerPlace sellers have listed hundreds of thousands of SKUs alongside classes and how-to’s for beginners, hobbyists and aspiring professionals.

“The launch of MakerPlace by Michaels deepens our ability to support customers in all of their creative pursuits, whether that be learning new skills, discovering handmade goods or growing their own handmade business,” said Ashley Buchanan, Michaels’ CEO. “MakerPlace provides a new way to buy and sell unique handmade art, gifts, goods and classes while empowering our customers to directly support or become handmade sellers themselves.”

With free product listings and low referral fees, MakerPlace aims to lower the barrier to entry and help artists and makers earn more on every sale, the retailer said. Sellers also have extra ways to earn on MakerPlace by hosting virtual classes and posting how-to guides with supplies lists that earn commission when materials are purchased on Michaels.com. MakerPlace offers sellers the option of Basic and Professional membership tiers, as well as multiple shipping options, to provide flexibility and choice. MakerPlace sellers also will benefit from discounts on Michaels products and support from Michaels marketing to reach the company’s highly engaged customer base.