I am disappointed how my framing turned out. My art is very wavy under the glass and I've never experienced this before. I did bring it up to the framing department but they said I could spend more money getting it fixed. I should not have to get it fixed if it turned out properly the first time. I would not recommend getting your art framed here. read more

HouseMart Ben Franklin Crafts - As you can see, the art is beyond wavy under the glass. - Art Supplies Near Me - Kailua, Hawaii

Five stars because they are the single standard craft and art supply in the area, and they try to meet your needs. Staff are consistently cheerful, friendly, and helpful. In a location with no big box stores like Michael's or Hobby Lobby-thank goodness for this small business and its inventory and personnel. Large parking lot -but usually crowded because of multiple stores and restaurants in the strip mall where it is located. read more

I came here to look for specific colored beads and they had it! When I went they were out of some colors of JohnBeads but that just gives me a reason to come back next time! I was actually quite impressed with their selection. Especially the amount of fun things imported from Japan! Whoever's doing their stock ordering is doing a great job! read more

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It's been ages since I made any crafts but I used to love creating things and baking things until I got lazy. I think I bought so many craft supplies from Ben Franklin since I would have their membership discount in the past and used their 40% of coupon from the Mid week insert. Some items I didn't used yet. Ha ha. I'm glad we have a craft store in Kailua that we can get our supplies we need to create costume, favors, or if we need to bake or sew something. I just shopped here recently to use the 40% off coupon. I finally remembered to use it this time, but wasn't prepared what to use it on. I did get some Christmas bags. The place was clean, organized and helpful service. I believe they still have craft classes here. read more

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Second time coming here and I am very puzzled at the way the employees here treat us. Last time we were here (a few months ago), we walk in and the woman t the closest cash register sees us, but say nothing. I thought this to be odd as whenever I go to the other Ben Franklin stores (Honolulu, Pearl City, the one on Paa street) everyone is so friendly and welcoming when they see me/family enter. Not this Ben Franklin. It's as if we are invisible. The odd thing is, a lady and her two teenage kids entered a few minutes after us and the same lady that said nothing to us says "welcome! Alohaaaa. If there is anything you need please let me knowwww!" Same welcoming for others coming in. All happy and excited. Small talk and everything. Then another customer comes in and she's all excited to greet him too. Why the discrimination? Second visit, same thing. So twice in a row. Me and my family entered, and the lady at the cash register right near the entrance says nothing. I think it's the same lady that ignored us during our first visit. I should have asked for her name. If she is like this with everyone that enters then I would think nothing of it but she was welcoming everyone else that walked in. I love Ben Franklin and I'm even a member. This store is the most odd and uncomfortable store. It's really sad, because I'm not understanding why they are like this. My family and I will it not be visiting this Ben Franklin and will stick to the other stores as the other stores are very friendly and helpful. If we ever receive a survey, I will bring up this issue. read more

What can be improved ? Customer service in returning phone calls and keeping tacit promises ------------------------ Two months ago my wife and I purchased a framed poster that needed new glass/plexiglass and new matting from the help of an expert eye. I had joined this Kailua branch of Ben Franklin a few months before because of this branch's framer, Danny, had gone out of his way to help me find bookbinding supplies So when we needed a framer i told my wife I knew of an affable framer who I was sure couod take care of the poster We went to the Kailua branch and talked to Danny Danny was just as helpful as before We sent him photos of the poster and he said he would come back with a quote He took my number and my emails Perfect After a week I realized I hadn't heard from Danny I called the number on jis business card and got a supervisor at Ben Franklin who told me that "we aren't taking any more orders for the framing department " I explained that i had been in two weeks before and Danny was enthusiastic I asked her to give my number to Danny to see if he could work us on since we came in before the "no new orders" policy came in place The woman who answered took my number said she'd pass it on and I never received a call Two weeks later I thought "Hmmm I haven't heard from Danny" and called again The woman who answered this time was apologetic said she didn't know why I hadnt received a call and that she would pass on the message Never heard Two weeks after that I called a third time I had the same interchange ending with a promise that i would receive a call from Danny Nothing So after three failed attempts to communicate Im writing this review - only the second negative review Ive ever left on Yelp Im doing so because i am I left with the feeling that when tj jis branch itself had changed its policy, the branch found it easier to ditch my messages than pass them on to Danny Or perhaps the helpful Danny waa given a talking to and told not to take on more work and not to call back tjis pesky customer hoping that I'd give up The store is well stocked and Danny was helpful so theee stars for that The neglect on following up my phone calls combined with fhe changed policy on framing is what garnere this 1 star review I fear may be the only way this branch will pay attention and (I hope) amend its ways read more

With a closet filled with various craft items I needed inspiration for this Spring and upcoming Easter fun and brightens it brings to us all. I've never been to this location as I'm blessed with several in the town area but that might change as this location is so fantastically organized and filled with so many items that I usually look for. My first love in crafting is beading and they have so much to choose from here that my mind was spinning so I decided to check things out and recollect myself at home to decide what will be needed. What I do love here as well is that they also have a unique way for local crafters to display and sell their items which is a great start to promote themselves and that's called "My Locker Program" which you'll see placed in various location in the store. There you can find finished products and items to use in your products, even some personalized items as well. The inspiration here is overflowing in every direction as they have classes for adults and kids in-store and some are available to download online. With a $10 annual fee you're set for a year round experience with special and coupons that mailed to you, even some exclusive sales. I have taken some classes in the past and hope they return again after the covid situation because it was so much fun and you get discounts on any class supplies to continue the inspiration. The staff here is so friendly and helpful for any questions or suggestions as well, being crafty here is absolutely suggested. Thank you!! read more

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I have come to love this store. If I neeed to run in and pick up something I've run out of...I buy most supplies online. Or if I need custom matts Kaulana is your man at the Enchanted Lakes location. Or if I want to craft there are so many cool neat things to look at and try. Or the glass cubbies of other crafters and jewelers selling their handmade things make it easy to find presents. The staff are always friendly and helpful. I recommend buying some of their kits to have on hand for rainy day projects by yourself or with mo'opuna. A beaded keyring or cupcake decorating kits, etc. read more

HouseMart Ben Franklin Crafts - Art Supplies Near Me - Kailua, Hawaii

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Obtaining sewing supplies in Kailua, Oahu, during this Stay-At-Home time... Because face masks are required in public now, I decided to put to use some of the fabric that I had bought a while ago. When I had more time, I used to dream about sewing my own clothing. I was able to complete several projects and still ended up with more fabric than I needed. Now, I need elastic, ribbon, and/or shoelaces to complete the face masks. While other stores have appointment only visits (which are booked out weeks in advance), I came across Ben Franklin in Enchanted Lakes, Kailua, Oahu, Hawaii. I used to be a member of Ben Franklin Crafts. For $10 a year, members enjoy 10 percent off all purchases, take 20 percent off of class supplies, receive a newsletter, and get coupons for great deals. In the past, I was an avid crafter and would buy yarn, rubber stamps, latch hook rug kits, card stock, knitting needles, crochet hooks, etc. from this location as well as from the stores in the Mapunapuna and Kaimuki areas. Today, I was helped by Caroline. She answered the phone, took my order, and renewed my membership. She updated my phone number and address because it's been a long time since I've been a member. Caroline was so patient, efficient, and knowledgeable! She made my shopping experience better than I expected! I guess now that I joined again, I will be more productive and use the supplies that I have! read more

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Julie B was AMAZING. I needed help rebuilding a necklace and she went above and beyond to help me. 10/10 outstanding. Every question I had she answered with DETAILS! She genuinely cared. Went so above and beyond. We need more people like Julie B!!!! Seriously such a relief, makes me want to come back just because of the great experience! Makes such a difference. Thank you Julie!!! read more

Nice neighborhood crafts store with a pretty diverse selection of materials. Staff is always extremely helpful and friendly. Please note that due to COVID, the frame shop is closed. Parking is plentiful since the lot is shared with Starbucks, McDonalds, Safeway, etc. COVID hours are adjusted to 9-5. Mahalo for reading my review. read more

My daughter loves this place for her paint and embroidery supplies. The canvases can be pretty pricey compared to Ross, but their sales bring the price down considerably - today we got a package of 7 9x12 canvases for $19.99. In a sign of the times, they have a display at the entrance with all kinds of masks (including some labeled as KN95), gloves and gel hand sanitizers. read more

HouseMart Ben Franklin Crafts - Hand sanitizer gels - Art Supplies Near Me - Kailua, Hawaii

Super friendly and helpful when went in for some framing basics. They have lots of inexpensive pre-made frames as well as mats. A custom frame would be about $150 for my project and with premed frame was more like $45. The staff happy to help find best solution for some photos I wanted to frame ... even helped match with some of the off-cut mats that she cut - so $4 for an acid free mat for 8x10. Super friendly and with tons of quality craft and decoration supplies, I will definitely recommend and be back. read more

This is specifically for Jenny Floro who works for Ben Franklin. She is 5 stars all the way. Her passion and talent are incredible. Best class ever. read more

I found today that this particular location is the smallest of the FOUR stores on O'ahu! I was actually blown away that there are four as I only knew of this one in Kailua and the other in Mapunapuna. This store is pretty crammed with great supplies for any crafting or artsy needs. Staff is helpful and lots of parking. read more

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I have shopped at Ben Franklin several times. The people who work there will greet you as you arrive, and are very friendly and helpful. I have been especially impressed by the framing department. Kaulana has been there several times when I have been in the store. He has been extremely helpful to me in selecting frames, cutting glass, offering creative feedback on my choices, and has consistently gone over and above to be helpful and knowledgeable. The shopping experience at this store is very positive and enjoyable. read more

I needed a Vaccination Card holder/protector. I called to ask and they indicated they did have some in stock from a vendor in their consignment area. Upon arrival I looked at the clear plastic sheath which would fit my card. I was told all sales are FINAL. That was fine. The price... $4.99 USD. Yikes, but, I needed it. When I returned home, I checked on Amazon and found I could buy 10 for $5.99 and free shipping. You win some you lose some. Price gouging at its best during a pandemic. FYI, none at Target or Long's/CVS. read more

I'm not sure, but the Enchanted Lakes location of Ben Franklin might be their smallest store. It's always packed to the gills with products, and I wonder if it's very accessible for wheelchairs, but I still like going to this store. It's great to stop by on my lunch break, but even better when I have more time to explore, as I always find some special treasures. I'm not sure, but it seems like they have more food products like dip mixes at this location, too. Parking at the shopping center is really easy--I've never had to park too far away, and today when I was in the store, I heard the cashier call for assistance when there were more than 3 people in line. That's a nice touch, especially when I'm used to standing in long lines at another location, where there are never fewer than 3 people in line whenever I'm there. While it's not on my usual beaten path, I appreciate the Enchanted Lakes store--it's perfect when I need to run out on my lunch break to grab some crafting supplies in a pinch! read more

I can find what I need, and usually more. They have a great selection. Their staff is helpful and knowledgeable. Judith checks me out each time I go (I always try to stand in her line), as she is cheeedul and efficient. I love my Ben Franklin - Enchanted Lake store! read more

HouseMart Ben Franklin Crafts - Art Supplies Near Me - Kailua, Hawaii

Being in the midst of a pandemic and having been pregnant in my third trimester, about 2 months ago, I absolutely NEEDED to learn how to crochet! Normally, one would be going through a phase of "nesting ", but besides cleaning the house constantly, there wasn't much I could do. I already had everything I'd need for the baby and then some! Do, crochet it was! Anyway, the Kailua Ben Franklin is where I ended up for all my crochet needs. I piled up on yarns and a bunch of needles. I only had one problem. I didn't know how to crochet. So, I looked for books and instructions there. That is the only thing I could not find. That was a little frustrating. I had to rely on other people in my life, trying to show me what to do. Let me tell you, it is not easy being right handed with a left handed mother trying to teach you what she could remember! Well, I just wanted to tell you about my most recent experience here, I've had many! Over the years, I've used this store for a lot of my crafting needs. They've always had everything I needed which I love... well except instructions for absolute beginners crochet.... By the way, if you don't know about it, get the craft club membership, it's totally worth it if you're a regular shopper at any of the Ben Franklin stores. read more

They have a great selection of paint and crafting supplies. I wanted to leave a review specifically for their classes. I had a resin pouring class with Julie yesterday and picked my pieces up today. She did such a great job teaching me and this was my first time. I'm really happy with how the pieces came out. I highly recommend taking any art/ craft class here! read more

I rate Ben Franklin 5 stars for the peace of mind that they gave me when they handled my graduation order. Natasha walked me thru the ordering process and assured that it would get to me in time, and did it in such a pleasant way that it was not stressful. Preparing for graduation has been stressful for me as I am a procrastinator...Ben Franklin has awesome graduation products and their staff (Natasha) are amazing !!! read more

I am a frequent shopper to this particular location; Enchanted Lake is the closest to my home. I normally have good experiences at this location. The male manager is often very nice, welcoming and very helpful. This morning though, I had a not so nice-run in with the female manager, Caroline. I walked in with a cup of iced tea from Starbucks next door, as I always have done in the past, not once in the previous visits have I spilled or dropped my cup. Upon walking in a few feet and stopped to glanced at a bunch of stamps, the manager walks by and says in a very snarky tone, "Please be careful of your drink." Me: "Ok." Caroline walks by and says under her breath very annoyed and loud, "That's what they all say." Me: "That was kind of rude?" Caroline either didn't hear me or didn't care to acknowledge the fact that she was rather rude. Instead the cashier intervenes... As if she's brown nosing. Cashier very rudely also: "Well, everyone says that, and kids drop their drinks on our floors, etc." For one I am NOT a kid. Two. If this how you treat your customers, you aren't going to have repeat customers. Livid as I was, I walked out of the door, and now this YELP post. read more

One of the best (and only?) craft stores in Kailua! Located in the Enchanted Lakes Shopping Center next to Starbucks it's one of the larger stores in that small strip mall. Besides being a life saver for those last minute school projects that somehow spring up the night before it's due they also have classes and demos. They carry art supplies, seasonal decorations, silk flowers, ribbons, yarn, beads, stamping and scrap booking supplies, wrapping paper, gift cards....I could go on and on. And they are constantly bringing in new items. They have a small frame shop at the back of the store that has different hours from the rest of the store so call ahead to make sure they are open. If you want to DIY they sell frames and pre-cut mat boards, but will also cut mats to order. Ways to save at BF: 40% discount coupon in their flyers. 10% everyday discount when you join their Craft Club for $10.00. 20% off "Bag Sales" (BYOB = Bring Your Own Bag). The best thing about this Ben Franklin store is the friendly and helpful people that work there. read more

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Best service I've ever had at a Ben Franklin. Right when I walked in I was asked if I was looking for anything in particular. As I was walking around two others asked as well. And when I was ready to find something, a staff member showed me three different options. She even asked other staff members to grab specific items for me. Unfortunately they didn't carry what I was looking for, but you can definitely get lost in the store with the various crafts and tools they have. Good thing there was always someone around to help and to give great advice! read more

Best craft store on the island and certainly the best location. Employees here are always friendly and courteous. They have a nice selection of crafts and misc goods to help bring your creativity to life and even lockers with homemade crafts to purchase. Prices are reasonable and they are always running sales (right now, 75%off seasonal items). We came in for something simple, but can't wait to see what we make of it. read more

Five stars for an awesome framing area! Watch or call for deep discounts. Farmers have a good eye for complimenting matte colors,& end products are beautiful! Have had Hokus, photos, silk screens, and hand painted pieces framed & have always been impressed & just keep coming back. read more

Faye is the best!! I called today and shared with her what I was trying to do and she took the time to help me and even gave me a better idea. Because I can't go and look around the store it's a little harder to decide what you want sight unseen. Faye took the time to tell me the dimensions, described what it looked like and what options I had. I appreciate that she took her time with me and was extremely helpful. Now I am set with exactly what I need. I appreciate good customer service and that I for sure got today from Ben Franklin. Thank you for all your assistance today! read more

This has been the go to store for craft and picture framing help for over 50 years. Their staff is extremely knowledgeable and friendly. They go out of their way to help you. During the Covid19 pandemic, they have been even more helpful. read more

A lot of great stuff! I went there to grab polymer clay and was pleasantly surprised at how much items they had - from glaze to the array of colors of polymer clay. More variety than the other locations too. Well organized and helpful staff - I even opted for the $10 annual membership - you save 10% off every purchase. read more

Pleasant and helpful sales associates. They always answer my questions as well as provide suggestions.

So, second time I get disappointed by this store. And while they are well stocked, with many choices and generally polite staff, their discount from membership and from email promptings are very unpredictable! Today Black Friday , following a promised 40% discount, went after a long day at work to stock up for the holidays, but alas....they were not honoring it unless you had a physical coupon, ....seriously? You need to let the customer know , not make rules as you go..... Next time I'm getting the stuff in Amazon! Thanks for the response. I appreciate the customer service you are displaying by answering to my complaint and will upgrade to a 4 star review for the effort. read more

I have been going here since I was a kid and now that I have kids, we often need craft supplies for school projects and Girl Scouts. The customer service is excellent, both in person and on the phone. When you call, you reach a real live person! And the person knows the answer to your question! They have great hours, lots of free parking, and it's easy to get to in Kailua. Ben Franklin is so much better than any of the big box stores where you have to search and search. Plus, if you're looking for a unique gift, there are local crafts for sale in the front of the store, including jewelry. read more

Visited store to buy ribbons and ended buying more than expected. Sales associate Brandon was so helpful and knowledgeable with their merchandise and inventory. Thank you Brandon for being so pleasant and patient with us read more

A good craft store is the kind that you get lost in and forget what time it is. You step inside and the next thing you know you've been inspired to decorate every area of your house. You've also become an artist and plan to send everyone paintings for Christmas. This is a good craft store! The selections could be broader but the variety is good. We went in to buy a special sketchbook for my husband that wouldn't bleed through. He, being picky, did not find the brand he wanted and so we were not able to purchase one. He also was not able to find the specific pens he needed. We did however leave with new crochet needles, how to guide books, and all the makings for a family Christmas wreath. Although we did not find what we were looking for, we did have a great time and were inspired to start a thousand new crafts. This store also has many art classes available at low cost. There was also no in store bathroom for my toddler. If that's an issue for you as well, the nearest bathrooms are Starbucks and McDonalds. read more

This place is a solid 3 stars. It's not great, it's not horrible, it has stuff to get your craft on, they offer classes, but it's not amazing. I guess I'm spoiled with places like Hobby Lobby, Garden Ridge and Michael's because Ben Franklin cannot hold a candle to those craft stores. The fake floral section is small, the paper section is expensive, the beads are not gonna blow you away, but over all the place doesn't suck. I guess the highlight is the classes they offer. Every time I've been in there are woman learning to sew, mod podge or hot glue. Not sure why you'd need a class for those last two, but what do I know, shit might be hard for some people to grasp. I wouldn't run here to buy everything you'd need after seeing some magical DIY project on Pinterest. Not sure where to direct you, but this place wouldn't be it. read more

Ben franklin Yard stick = $10 Vs. Home depot yard stick = $0.78 Any place with 1,170% mark up deserves a review like this. Its not worth going to Ben Franklin unless you are willing to part from a Ben Franklin. read more

wonderful selection. I needed some special size of frames and the staff was helpful and held them for me. I would recommend this store.

Ben Franklin Crafts is a fun place to visit, offering a wide variety of merchandise for all things crafty. Although it's a bit on the spendy side, it's the only place in Kailua to pick up many of the items they carry. Now in its 60th year, Ben Franklin is today known as a craft specialty shop--a change from its roots as a "five and dime" general merchandise store. While it is a national chain, the Ben Franklin stores in Hawaii are locally owned by a Maui-based company. I especially like coming here to buy pre-fabricated picture/photo/document frames, which they carry in abundance for a fairly reasonable price. They also carry seasonal decorations, children's stickers, art supplies, scrapbook supplies, silk flowers, needlework supplies, sewing notions, beads, rubber stamps, stationery, and much more. If you watch their "Joy of Crafting" TV show, you'll get a good idea of the broad variety of craft merchandise carried by the stores. There is a Ben Franklin Craft Club that allows you to receive discounts on merchandise, sale notifications, discounts on craft classes, etc. for an annual $10 fee. If you do much shopping here at all, you'll quickly recoup the membership cost. Ben Franklin is located in the Enchanted Lakes Shopping Center next to Starbucks, across from McDonalds. Hours are M-Sa: 10am - 9pm / Su: 10am - 5pm. Yelp 365 Challenge #072/365 read more

"Meh. I've experienced better." really sums up my visit her last weekend with some girlfriends. We were on a mission to buy supplies for wedding DIY activities...sadly we left with none. The selection of items here seemed limited and the customer service was not that helpful or efficient. Some positive things about this location: -there was a local woman promoting art classes in the community -they have die-cut machines that customers can use ($5/15 min?); perfect if you are looking to cut mass amounts of items (e.g., for favors, teacher's bulletin boards, etc) Overall, I would not come to this location if I had a choice between locations but it is convenient for Kaneohe-Kailua residents. read more