I purchased some crosses to put on chain and wear. I didn't have any chain to put the crosses on so I went to Schaefer's. They had everything I needed. And to top it off, the women who worked in the jewelry part of the store found the appropriate chain, jump rings and strung all the crosses. I had assumed that I would get the supplies and spend the afternoon making necklaces. I was wrong, now I can admire the handiwork of others. All of the chains were gift quality and I will give some as gifts. If one needs a bead store with excellent service, go to Schaefers. read more

Great place to go and look but not buy. Prices are way to high. You can go online and find stuff cheaper.

Schaefer's shows a lot of care and effort in their selection and service in the hobby space. I do appreciate it when I see it. Unfortunately when I went in there I had to see a t*ump train prominently on display. I am sick and tired of having to accept fascist imagery being shoved in my face. I don't want to pretend this is okay. It saddens me I have to point this out. I would have recommended this place if they threw that terrible model train in the garbage where it belongs. read more

We love Schaefe'rs for the beads but they have so much more! This year we bought arts and crafts project for the kids, paint by number sets, puzzles, knit and embroidery, models and so much more. it's a small family business, just where we like to spend our money these days. the staff is super helpful, kind, efficient. read more

This place was awesome! My daughter really wanted to start making jewelry like she can purchase in the store. We headed over and because of traffic arrived 20minutes before closing. A woman behind the counter was awesome and pulled everything we needed while we selected beads. She even took the time to show my daughter a couple of tricks to create professional looking jewelry and told us to call if we had any questions. It was quick but thorough; and my daughter is happily enjoying her new hobby. Can't wait to go back. read more

I can honestly say for over ten years, this has been my favorite go to spot for my many jewelry projects! My girl Sookie definitely knows how to pull me through most of my decision-making projects. The inventory never fails and of course i always leave with more than intended. I love this place! read more

My 5th grader informed me one evening that he needed toy soldiers by the next day for a Civil War project for school. So I started checking: Target and Walmart didn't have them, and Amazon wouldn't arrive in time. In desperation I drove to Schaefer's and asked if they had any toy soldiers in stock. A nice employee pointed me to the aisle, which not only had a good selection of toy soldiers; Schaefer's had actual Civil War toy soldiers! Complete with the correct uniforms, cannons, flags, etc. It was way more specific than I'd even hoped to be able to find. If you need something niche for a hobby or a craft, check Schaefer's first! read more

This shop has a great selection of hobby's supplies to choose from for beginners and dabblers. They have a deeper selection of train set and model vehicle hobby supplies than the other selection of things, but that shouldn't discourage you. They also have a super great selection of gems and minerals for jewelry making. Checking out can be a little confusing sometimes because the registers are in a central gem case near the entrance/exit, and there isn't really a "line up here when you're ready to check out" system. But the employees are aware of this confusing bit, and look out for people who look confused near the glass counters. Haha. I heard that in the past they have had signs supporting not so great humans up, but in the past year that I have been going I haven't seen any of those signs, and have always felt welcome. read more

Helpful staff and a wide variety of product, on of the better stores in the area for RC hobbies and even more

Large and well stocked a "toy store" for boys and girls even under covid19 staff was friendly help and very present great attitudes, sometimes hobby store have that "you are bothering me" by buying something attitude I was surprised and will return again read more

I love this place, They always have a great selection of model kits and while they aren't the cheapest, it's still worth it.

As hubby and I were driving around we spotted this shop. Hubby wanted to stop. We had just left Grants Farm and I was tired so I waited in the car. Hubby came back out five minutes later and opened my car door and said, "this place is like Michaels on steroids!" lol. So of course I had to go in! This shop is awesome! It has everything you could possibly want for any project! They have a fantastic selection of models and all the supplies to put them together! Tons of beautiful ribbons and a wonderful selection of art supplies for writing and drawing. I really didn't get a chance to explore the entire store so I can't wait to go back when I'm not so tired! I love finding a new craft store, especially one so great read more

Schaefer's Hobby Shop - Arts & Crafts Near Me - St. Louis, Missouri

This hobby shop is probably the most complete and knowledgable hobby shop in the metropolitan area. They have materials and probucts for just about any hoppy of craft that you can imagine and at just about every level of interest from beginner to full on expert. We have shopped for model train parts and plastic models and crafts supplies. Just be sure to give yourself plenty of time to wander around and even find a new hobby to become interested in. read more

The selection was really great, and honestly it was a really nice establishment. However, my wife and I had an unfortunate experience with a member of the staff. It's not an uncommon practice these days to bring in your own bag. My wife and I do it at 95% of the stores we go to. My wife did the same today as she was looking to shop for beads for jewelry making. As she was selecting beads to purchase right next to the register, she put one of her selections in the bag. A store associate very sharply told my wife to take all of the items out of her bag and leave them at the counter. My wife went to the counter to do so, and when she kindly asked if the store didn't want her to use her own bag, the associate very condescendingly told my wife, "Absolutely not" and chuckled as if my wife were stupid for asking. We continued to shop. About a minute later, we both noticed the woman very actively watching us from across the store. As we went to other parts of the store, it became clear that she sent one of the other associates to watch us to make sure we weren't shoplifting, I assume. I suspicion we were profiled by this woman because we looked different than their normal clientele. We made our purchase, and then later decided to return the items as we were pretty annoyed and saddened by the whole situation. Now, taking a few things into account, I would understand if the store did not want people to use their own bag. It's their store, therefore their right to say so. However, there's a different way to do it rather than being incredibly passive/aggressive about it. You could have simply said, "Hey maam, we don't allow people to bring their own bags in." and we would have complied. It's not that hard. Her manner was unprofessional to say the least. Many things could have happened that we don't know about here. Maybe the woman was just having a bad day. Maybe they've had an issue with shoplifting lately and have been on their toes. Maybe the woman is just a sad bully. Whatever the reason is, I feel sorry for her. It's unfortunate really, because they had an incredible establishment in terms of inventory. With that said, the whole experience has led us to the decision that we will never give them our business again. I would suggest that you do not either. read more

I will continue to leave one star reviews until someone replies to my email. It's very unprofessional to basically call me a liar and leave it at that. Absolutely ridiculous customer service. Hopefully the one star reviews will bring their overall rating down. I can explain it all for the 4th time if I need to. read more

Excellent experience go to Schaefer's first before going elsewhere. Answered all of my question about train set for grandson without pushing most expensive one. Great selection of toys for children of all ages. read more

You need to show photos of your products so we can see if you may have something we need for our project before driving a long distance only to find out you don't have what we're looking for ,especially your train products, Thank You read more

Great hobby and craft shop! They have quite a lot of model supplies and paints. They also have jewelry supplies, painting, paper crafting, dolls, miniatures, and more. I appreciate the variety while still having a lot of options for specific hobbies. read more

I try to stop by Schaefer's every time I am in town. They have a friendly & Knowledgeable staff. I can't wait to go back and see what's new. read more

I was apprehensive because an earlier review from June noted that the staff weren't wearing masks, but today they all were. Hobbies are fun but not worth putting my health at risk, so I was relieved to see the staff being safe as well as helpful. ps: Not sure why my profile shows me as from SF... I'm from here in St. Louis. read more

I wanted to change the way my shoes fasten and I was turned away by a nearby shoe repairman. I drove to trusty Schaefer's, where 3 different people listened to me, answered my questions, advised me, and cheerfully sold me what I needed. I've shopped here for many years and there is truly no other store in St. Louis that compares. Thanks for always resolving any craft, jewelry, leather, baking, and everything diy issue for decades. You're absolutely the best in town!! read more

Great hobby shop. Biggest in the area if you don't count the big, box stores like Micheals or Hobby Lobby. I will echo the other reviewers in saying that the ladies in the checkout area can be pretty inattentive. I have found, however, that the gentlemen over in the RC area can check you out as well and are much more responsive. I really love this shop and come here for all of my modeling stuff now. They cannot be beaten on their paint and tool selection. Great area dedicated to model trains, rockets and cars. Very knowledgeable staff and always willing to help you find what you need. read more

Ok...I can't say I'm Susie Hobby...but I know when I am in a good craft store/hobby store...and this is not one of them. My friend and I hit this place up looking for three things (1) yarn for my knitting (2) good scrap book paper and stickers for my friend Mary and (3) good beads for some fun jewelry making old lady Sunday afternoon activity. Total Failure.... The yarn selection is dismal at best. Anyone that knits should not even bother trying this place. They only carry one brand (Red Heart), it's 30 cents more per skein than at any other craft store. I mean, seriously? What makes your yarn so much better? There is basically no scrap booking stuff at all here. The paper was all boring, the stickers were largely cheesy and nothing you would want to use, and again, the prices...WHAT? As far as beads and jewelry go...ok, they have a ton of beads. I think this may be their thing actually. However, they are almost painfully expensive. For what you would spend on a short string of glass beads here, you could buy three strings of beads anywhere else. Why bother? Even if your selection is good, it's not worth it.... They do have a ton of models, and I think it's cool that they let you bring your dogs inside so they don't have to roast/freeze in the car, but seriously, it's not enough to make me come back. Especially not when Michael's and Ben Franklin's and any number of independent stores is far better...and generally cheaper. read more

Wow - I really liked this craft store! Mike T brought me here on Sunday, as we were in the area and I needed a Beadazzler STAT! OK, maybe not STAT, but I needed it soon and most of the craft stores close to my house would be closed on Monday. Schaefer's is a tad expensive, but they carry some higher quality items than some other fabric stores that I've been to lately. For instance, the iron-on letter that I bought there were the good, fuzzy kind that don't require a ton of heat to stick on to your tees. The service was pretty good as well! As I was wandering the aisles, looking for a Bedazzler, several ladies helped me to find what I needed. But they were nice enough not to lurk or make me feel uncomfortable, either. So now I have a Bedazzler and some rhinestones to go with it. Who's coming to my next craft party? read more

I just visited schaeffer's hobby shop and was as to see 3 employees working "on the floor " and behind the counter without masks. All customers (except myself) also came in without masks. This store's policy shows a lack of concern for the customers and personnel. Schaeffer's is a small store with narrow aisles. I won't be going there again. read more

Went over there this afternoon (you really have to love coupons!) for the 1st time and came away fairly impressed. I went for the beads and never saw half the store as I stalled out there. What I did see was a relatively limited selection of beads, dollhouse miniatures, models, stamps, & trains, but then the store itself is not that large. I did see things that I haven't seen before--certain findings, chains, etc., and a decent array of beads on strings. (and the dollhouse stuff was cute) The husband & I spent too much money, I can tell you that. It is on the pricey side for some things, but so far it looks to be worth it, especially since I can get to some of the chain craft stores for what they lack or have too over-priced. Knowledgeable staff, which is always a plus, and willing to talk about their experiences or crafty passions. read more

This is a great local hobby shop. Prices are comparable or even better than online so you can shop here with confidence you're not being over charged. Very knowledgeable and helpful staff also is nice. read more

Best bead store in St. Louis! Great prices, amazing staff & huge selection! The staff is extremely knowledgeable and can help with a variety of different projects. They also take orders for a small labor fee. They do repairs and have a quick turn around time! Highly recommend! read more

The best things about Schaefer's are the loose bead and metal stamping trays. They additionally provide the best selection of filigree components & bezel settings, and metal noodle tubes. Maybe most people can conceptualize a project accurately enough to invest in entire strands of beads & stampings, but I need to play around a little bit beforehand, so this is a vast help to my designs. Unfortunately, six years ago I stopped by Schaefer's on my way to work wearing my scrubs and, while I was looking at the seed beads, made the mistake of using my Chapstick. This was a mistake because, as I was putting it back in my pocket, one of the employees approached me as if she thought I was stealing. I showed her that it was just my Chapstick, but it seems to me that I've been treated coolly ever since. I get it---every bead shop has thieves. Based on their newsletter, Ladybug Beads is robbed blind with regularity. However, sometimes it really *is* just Chapstick, and if Schaefer employees would have checked their inventory after my visits over the past six years, they'd realize that. In any case, be sure to remember to keep your hands away from your pockets at all times while shopping. Your lips will just have to shrivel up til you get back to the car. read more

Great place but have to take off 1 stars because of the rude teen at the RC counter. He was fixing a RC car and did not even look at me as he was talking and repeatedly walked away from me to talk with other customers. Very poor service. Great service from girl at counter though. And the other guy at RC counter. read more

Just left and feel the need to make note that I will think twice before coming back. Not even upset that one girl asked if the item I just handed to her (that I had a question about) was even from this store! But then I take my items to check out, where NO ONE wanted to wait on my because they were eating, and I say hi to the cashier. She says nothing, no hi, no did you find everything ok, nothing. Checks me out, tells me the total, swipes my card, bags my stuff, all the while talking to co-workers about how bored she is. Then hands me my bag and walks away. Again no bye, have a nice day. Nothing. Very disappointing with a mom and pop store. I'll go elsewhere. read more

OMG we 'discovered' Schaefer's last summer and rode our motorcycles over to check it out. Thank bob I didn't have the truck to fill up cuz I was in bead heaven. So many lovely things to touch. I have been to numerous bead stores in the metro area and none match the selection and quality at Schaefer's. The boy loves model cars and trains and he was equally impressed. We parted ways at the front door only to seek each other out over and over to say "You have to see what they have!" We are super fans of Schaefer's Hobby shop :) read more

I can only give here a 3 star because of the rude young kid at the rc counter but I do like u can browse the part your self with for me is great because I customize rc and sometimes you just gotta search for what u need part number just won't cut it but don't let this steer u away because I'm a regular and haven't seen that rude kid since read more

This place had jewelry findings and beads that I hadn't seen before! That alone amazed me as I'd been beading most all my life! Lucky for me, the beads I wanted were also at a great price. I noticed that some jewelry items were more expensive than what I'm used to but they also stock precious metal clay - which I'd never seen at a retail store. They didn't have much in the way of yarn (darn it!) or scrapbooking and seemed to have a ton of model-making supplies. The salespeople were VERY helpful and knowledgeable - unlike the kind of service or expertise you'd get at Michael's or Joann's. Really a great resource. read more

5 stars based on knowledgeable staff who are happy to help in the RC and model rocket departments. Especially the old guy in the RC section - he's cool. Wish it was a little bigger, but whether I'm browsing new toys or looking for replacement parts to fix a plane after a crash, I always enjoy going to this place. Not sure what's up with all the beads and flower stuff, but I'm a guy... read more

Such a wonderful place. That staff is just lovely, so friendly and helpful. If you have any interest and craft hobbies this is the place for you. read more

Absolutely fantastic selection for jewelry making. Large selection of beads, cords, findings, etc. I got a bead design board unlike any I've seen elsewhere, bead mats, a bead loom, and some art gel today. Excellent prices (much better than that well-known chain hobby shop), and the staff is very friendly and helpful. This visit was well worth the drive down to Gravois. read more

I originally visited this craft store about a year ago and had a horrible experience and then decided to give them another shot today and nope same experience. Worst customer service I've ever seen in my life. All of the female staff are stuck up with their noses in the air. They have a very I'm better than everyone else type attitude. I wouldn't bother with this store unless in fact you are also just as snobby then you may find it to be a great experience. Snobby as all hell! Would never revisit this store. I also was going to spend about $50.00 and I took my business elsewhere. read more

I'm here right now and have been asked twice if I need help. Awesome service. Just wish they had some classy elephant jewelry to remind us of the poaching. read more

High prices, poor service, and un knowledgeable or unwilling to help staff. Most of their items are bottoms shelf, yet still have mid to high shelf prices. If you are not there for crafts, but for RC items, forget it. read more