Renovation for New Michael's Craft Store Moving Ahead in Alexandria

ALEXANDRIA, VA — Signs point to the popular crafts retailer, Michaels, opening soon at Bradlee Shopping Center.

The new store will take over the Dress Barn space, which closed earlier this year, as well as the space formerly occupied by Washington Sports Club, which closed last fall. It will also take up the downstairs/basement space formerly occupied by the health club; an elevator and escalator are planned for the store, according to building permits.

Boards have come down that were up outside during construction and hiring is underway for a manager of operations for the store, according to an ad posted online.

Michaels is the largest arts and crafts specialty retailer in North America, featuring art supplies, general crafts and seasonal/home décor. Michaels is a public company with more than 1,000 stores that employs more than 40,000 nationwide and is headquartered in Dallas. It was launched in 1976 by businessman Michael J. Dupey; it currently has several other locations in Northern Virginia.

Michaels sells a variety of arts and crafts products, including scrapbooking, beading, knitting, rubber stamping, home decor items, floral items, kids’ crafts, paints, framing, greenery, baking and more.

Michaels produces 10 exclusive private brands sold throughout its stores including Recollections, Studio Decor, Bead Landing, Creatology, Ashland, Celebrate It, Art Minds, Artist’s Loft, Craft Smart and Loops & Threads.
In April 2007, Martha Stewart teamed up with Michaels to launch a line initially available exclusively at Michaels called “Martha Stewart Crafts.” The line features over 650 different products for the craft enthusiast.
Michaels’ slogan is “Where Creativity Happens.”