Key takeaways
- Hobby Lobby offers a 90-day return window for most items, both in-store and online.
- tems must be new, unused, and in original packaging to qualify for return.
- Proof of purchase is required for a full refund; without it, store credit is issued at the lowest price in 60 days.
- Online orders under $250 can be returned in-store; higher-value items must be mailed back.
- Certain items—custom orders, opened machines, opened software, clearance—are final sale.
- Refunds are processed to the original payment method or as store credit.
- In-store refunds are immediate; online refunds take 1–2 weeks.
- Seasonal items and bulk purchases may have shorter windows or restocking fees.
Shopping at Hobby Lobby should be a creative and enjoyable experience. But what if your purchase isn’t quite right? Whether you’re an avid crafter, a home décor enthusiast, or simply shopping for gifts, understanding the Hobby Lobby return policy can save you time, money, and frustration.
This comprehensive guide explores every detail of the Hobby Lobby return policy for 2025, including return windows, item conditions, proof of purchase requirements, online vs. in-store returns, non-returnable items, refund timelines, and more. By the end, you’ll know exactly how to handle any return with confidence.
What is the Hobby Lobby Return Policy?
Hobby Lobby offers a customer-friendly return policy designed to provide flexibility and peace of mind. Here’s a quick summary of the essentials:
90-Day Return Window
- Most Hobby Lobby purchases—both online and in-store—can be returned within 90 days of the purchase date.
- The 90-day window applies to most product categories, including arts and crafts supplies, home décor, and seasonal merchandise.
- Returns accepted with or without a receipt, though the process and refund amount may differ.
- Items must be in new, unused, and unopened condition, with original packaging.
- Certain items, such as custom orders and clearance merchandise, are final sale.
- Online and in-store purchases have slightly different procedures and requirements.
Exceptions to the 90-Day Rule
- Seasonal items: Some sources note a shorter 15-day return window for seasonal merchandise.
- Bulk/High-Value Purchases: Single-line items over $250 (excluding furniture, Christmas trees, and wall décor) purchased online must be returned via mail, not in-store.
- Holiday Returns: During the holiday season, the return window may be extended for purchases made from October 1 through December 24, allowing returns until mid-January.
Condition Requirements for Returns
To qualify for a return or exchange, items must meet these criteria:
- New and Unused: Items should be in their original, unopened, and unused condition.
- Original Packaging: All original packaging, tags, and accessories must be included.
- No Opened or Used Items: Opened, used, or damaged items are not eligible for return.
- Manager Discretion: Store managers may refuse returns if items do not meet these standards.
Exceptions for Damaged or Defective Items
- If you receive a damaged or defective product, contact Hobby Lobby customer service before returning it. Do not discard the item or its packaging.
- Damaged or defective online orders cannot be returned in-store; you must arrange the return through customer service.
Hobby Lobby is a privately-owned chain of arts and crafts stores founded in 1972 by David Green. It has over 900 stores across the United States. The company is well known for its religious values, and its stores are closed on Sundays to allow its employees to attend church services and spend time with their families.
Proof of Purchase: What You Need
Accepted Proofs of Purchase
- Original Receipt: Required for a full refund to the original payment method.
- Order Confirmation Email or Invoice: For online purchases, a printed or digital invoice is necessary.
- Gift Receipt: Allows for an exchange or store credit at the gift’s value.
- Loyalty Program Account: Purchases linked to your account can often be located by associates.
No Receipt? No Problem—With Limitations
- Returns without a receipt are accepted, but you’ll receive store credit for the item’s lowest price in the last 60 days.
- A valid photo ID is required for non-receipted returns.
- Hobby Lobby tracks non-receipted returns in a customer database and may limit or refuse excessive returns.
In-Store vs Hobby Lobby Online
In-Store Returns
- Bring the item and proof of purchase to any Hobby Lobby location.
- Immediate refund, exchange, or store credit is provided.
- Purchases made by check require a 10-day waiting period for a cash refund; store credit is available immediately.
Online Returns
- Items under $250 can be returned in-store with the invoice.
- Items $250 or more (except certain categories) must be returned by mail.
- Complete a return form from the Hobby Lobby website, package the item securely, and ship it to the provided address.
- Customers pay return shipping unless the item is defective or the error is on Hobby Lobby’s part.
- Refunds for mailed returns are processed within 1–2 weeks of receipt.
Non-Returnable and Final Sale Items
Certain items are not eligible for return or exchange under any circumstances:
- Custom Orders: Personalized or custom-made products.
- Opened Machines: Cricut, Silhouette, Brother, Singer, and similar machines once opened.
- Opened Software: Any software that has been opened.
- Clearance Items: Marked as final sale.
- Seasonal/Bulk Purchases: May incur a 20% restocking fee.
- Used, Damaged, or Incomplete Merchandise: Not accepted.
If a final sale item is defective, contact customer service for possible resolution.
How to Start a Hobby Lobby Return
In-Store Returns
- Bring the item(s) and proof of purchase (receipt, invoice, or gift receipt) to any Hobby Lobby store.
- Present the item(s) at the customer service desk.
- The associate will process your return for a refund, exchange, or store credit.
Online Returns
- Visit the Hobby Lobby website and print the return form.
- Complete the form and include it with your item(s).
- Package the item(s) securely in original packaging.
- Ship to:
Hobby Lobby
Attention: Returns
7600A SW 44th St.
Oklahoma City, OK 73179
You are responsible for return shipping costs unless the item is defective or incorrect.
Damaged or Defective Items
- Contact Hobby Lobby customer service at 1-800-888-0321 or email before returning.
- Keep all packaging and the damaged item until instructed otherwise.
Refund Methods and Timelines
- Original Payment Method: Refunds are issued to the original payment method with a receipt/invoice.
- Store Credit: Without a receipt, refunds are issued as store credit on a gift card.
- Check Purchases: Require a 10-day waiting period for a cash refund; immediate store credit is available.
- Gift Card Purchases: Refunds are issued as a gift card.
- Online Returns: Allow 1–2 weeks for processing after Hobby Lobby receives the return.
- Shipping Fees: Not refundable unless the return is due to Hobby Lobby’s error.
“Hobby Lobby is a great example of a business that puts its values first. It’s a company that truly lives its faith and makes a positive impact on its employees, customers, and communities.” – Rick Warren, American pastor and author.
Understanding Hobby Lobby’s return policy empowers you to shop with confidence, knowing you have options if your purchase isn’t perfect. Remember to keep your receipts, retain original packaging, and review item conditions before returning. For online orders, factor in shipping costs and timelines. Whether you’re making a return, exchange, or seeking a refund, Hobby Lobby’s clear guidelines ensure a smooth experience. Don’t forget to subscribe for more shopping insights!
Hobby Lobby Return policy FAQs
How long do I have to return an item to Hobby Lobby?
You have 90 days from the purchase date for most items.
Can I return an item without a receipt?
Yes, but you’ll receive store credit for the lowest price in the last 60 days and must present a valid photo ID.
Are online and in-store return policies the same?
The 90-day window applies to both, but online returns may require you to pay shipping, and high-value items must be returned by mail.
What items cannot be returned?
Custom orders, opened machines, opened software, clearance items, and used or damaged products are non-returnable.
How do I return a damaged or defective item?
Contact Hobby Lobby customer service before returning. Do not discard the item or packaging.
How are refunds processed?
Refunds are issued to the original payment method with proof of purchase or as store credit without it.
How long do online refunds take?
Allow 1–2 weeks after Hobby Lobby receives the returned item.
Who pays for return shipping on online orders?
The customer pays unless the item is defective or the error is Hobby Lobby’s.
Can I return a gift?
Yes, with a gift receipt you’ll receive store credit or an exchange.
What if I lost my receipt?
Check your email for an order confirmation, call customer service, or present a valid ID for store credit.