Hobby Lobby Return Policy: Everything You Need to Know
Written by
Andrea Norris
Edited by
Melanie Grafil
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Whether you’re returning a craft supply that didn’t work out or a decor piece that looked different at home, Hobby Lobby’s return policy is fairly straightforward. Understanding the deadlines, item eligibility, and refund options can help you avoid surprises and make the process quick and stress-free.
How long do you have to return items to Hobby Lobby?
Hobby Lobby offers a generous 90-day return window, giving shoppers plenty of time to reassess their purchases. You can return most items bought in-store or online within 90 days, as long as they’re in good condition and meet the brand’s return criteria.
Are holiday or seasonal Hobby Lobby returns handled differently?
Hobby Lobby does not extend return deadlines during the holidays. Seasonal items still fall under the standard 90-day policy, but there’s a catch: once a season ends — or an item is heavily discounted — those products may become non-returnable. If you’re shopping for holiday decor, it’s best to check your receipt or ask a store associate before buying.
Which Hobby Lobby items have special restrictions?
While most items qualify for a return, several categories follow stricter rules you’ll want to know upfront:
- Seasonal merchandise: Returnable within 90 days, unless the season has ended or the item was discounted significantly.
- Clearance products: Often final sale; always confirm on your receipt.
- Fabric sold by the yard: Non-returnable, even if unused.
- Custom framing orders: Because they’re personalized, return options are limited.
These exceptions exist because Hobby Lobby cannot resell certain types of merchandise after they’ve been customized or marked down.
What items are eligible for return at Hobby Lobby?
To qualify for a return, items must be:
- Unused
- In original packaging
- In resalable condition
You’ll also need your receipt if you want a refund to your original payment method.
Items you can’t return
Hobby Lobby does not allow returns on:
- Gift cards
- Fabric cut to length
- Custom framing orders
- Food items or candy
- Final sale or clearance items
- Personalized or custom-made products
These categories are excluded because the items cannot be restocked or resold.
How will Hobby Lobby refund you?
Hobby Lobby offers several refund options depending on how and when you return your items.
Refund types
- Original payment method: Available for returns with a receipt
- Exchange: Swap your item for something else within 90 days
- Store credit: Issued when no receipt is provided and based on the lowest selling price of the item
When to expect your refund
- In-store returns: Refunds are typically processed on the spot
- Online returns: Refunds may take 5-10 business days after the warehouse inspects the returned item
Possible deductions
Online returns may include:
- Shipping fees (unless Hobby Lobby made a mistake)
- Price adjustments if you don’t have a receipt and the item was previously discounted
Should you return your Hobby Lobby purchase in-store or online?
You can return Hobby Lobby purchases either way, but the experience differs depending on what’s most convenient for you.
In-store returns
- Bring the item and your receipt or order confirmation
- Refunds and exchanges happen immediately
- Great option if you want help from a store associate or need a quick solution
Online returns
- Use Hobby Lobby’s online return portal
- Print the return label (shipping fees may apply)
- Refund is issued after inspection at the warehouse
Side-by-side comparison
| Feature | In-Store Return | Online Return |
|---|---|---|
| Speed | Same day | 5-10 business days |
| Cost | Free | May include shipping costs |
| Convenience | In-person assistance | Return from home |
Running into return problems? Here’s how to fix them
Even with a straightforward policy, issues can pop up. Here’s how to handle common situations:
Lost your receipt?
You can still return the item, but you’ll receive store credit at its lowest recent price.
Item arrived damaged or defective?
Bring it to a store or contact customer service right away. Hobby Lobby typically replaces or refunds damaged goods.
Missed the 90-day deadline?
While official policy says no returns, store managers may allow an exchange depending on the item’s condition.
Partial refund surprises
Partial refunds usually happen when:
- You return an item without a receipt
- The item was discounted
- Shipping fees are deducted for online returns
How to start a Hobby Lobby return step-by-step
For online orders
- Go to the Hobby Lobby return portal
- Locate your order (log in or use guest lookup)
- Select the items you want to return
- Choose the return reason
- Print your return label
- Package the item securely and ship it back
For in-store purchases
- Bring the item, packaging, and your receipt to any Hobby Lobby location
- Visit the customer service counter
- Request an exchange or refund
- Receive your refund immediately (or store credit without a receipt)
FAQ
- Can I return an item to Hobby Lobby without a receipt?
- Yes, you can return an in-store purchase to a Hobby Lobby store without a receipt, but you can only receive store credit or make an exchange based on the item's lowest price over the prior 60 days.
- Can Hobby Lobby look up my receipt?
- Hobby Lobby cannot look up a receipt for an in-store purchase. However, you can contact customer service by email or phone to get a copy of an invoice for an online purchase.
- What is the Hobby Lobby return policy for opened items?
- You cannot return an opened item to HobbyLobby.com unless the item is damaged or defective or you received the wrong item. Additionally, Hobby Lobby does not accept returns of Cricut machines, HeatPressNation machines and Sewing machines other than the Singer Stitch Quick if the packaging has been opened.
Rudri Patel contributed to the reporting for this article.
