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Play Time, Inc.
283 Broadway, Arlington, MA 02474, United States
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Je
Review №1

Great local at store with TONS of stuff & very helpful staff. Dont be fooled by the appearance from the outside, this store is much larger than it looks! Its got a large ground floor thats packed with art & party supplies of all kinds!! and then another whole floor downstairs thats the same size, thats also packed with stuff! They have sooooo much stuff!!!! And its not a chain which I love! As I always mention in my reviews when relevant, going here supports a small, local, female owed business. (I took pictures of some of the party supplies for my friend so I thought I would attach them, but theres TONS & TONS & TONS of other stuff, these pics are just of the party supplies).

Sa
Review №2

If you want to get lost in a warren of creativity supplies, definitely come here. Knowledgeable staff will help you navigate the bountiful stock.

Ju
Review №3

Everyone who has an interest in any type of art, or crafts, or has kids who may have a craft project coming up, should check out this local gem! What a world to enter into. The staff is just so wonderful. And they seem to have everything. With each visit I notice good stock levels. And if you think it may be there, but cant find it, just ask. And for anyone who is thinking of starting to draw or paint, this is a place you will likely feel comfortable checking out unfamiliar items. As an artist, I always leave happy and inspired! By the way, theres a parking lot too!

Ba
Review №4

This was my favorite store from childhood and 40 years havent changed it a bit. So happy theyre doing well and taking their part in creating new artists.

Ji
Review №5

Not just for artists, not just for little kids, there is teen stuff, dad stuff, party stuff, card stuff, new stuff and old stuff.

ri
Review №6

They have everything related to craft and art!!Beautiful store and happy people running this store.

Pe
Review №7

The loveliest staff, good prices, and a wildly cool inventory that has met my every crafting need, furniture construction and electrical work aside. Whether just to look around or for specific needs, this is a community art store that could not be a better visit nor heartier recommendation!Be warned that their posted hours online arent up to date; the google suggestion was wrong and Id call to make sure.

Be
Review №8

As an artist and crafter, this is my very favorite store to visit

Fa
Review №9

Too much stuff crammed into the space to be able to see what you want on the shelves. Could barely get through some of the aisles. Could have been a good store if not for the absurd amount of stuff they had in there.

Sa
Review №10

Arrived shortly before close but holy cow! I dont know how they managed to cram so much stuff in here! I cant wait to come back and really look around - I could spend a whole day here just browsing 😁

Ev
Review №11

Cute local craft store right in the heart of Arlington Center. I get my beads and crystals from here for my jewelry shop.

Ja
Review №12

Best craft store I ever been in. Sad there isnt one in my hometown. 4 stars because they really need an online store

Pa
Review №13

Very nice store! Great products for children and adults. Pleased with selection and very orderly.

To
Review №14

Great selection, kind staff, and you dont give money to Jeff. Whats not to love?

hi
Review №15

Ill call it a hobby shop with arts and crafts . A fun store .

Ba
Review №16

Great spot! I think they must have everything a crafter or even a beginer crafter needs!

Mi
Review №17

Very friendly employees, large inventory, and good prices. Great store to get materials for some fun activities with the kids.

Do
Review №18

Plàytime has all the stationary, office supplies, craft making and bead work supplies you could possibly need. They are jam packed with all those supplies and if you, cant find what you want, ask and theyll find it for you (they will order it for you -ask for Carol, shes the owner and she knows everything.

Le
Review №19

One of the oldest art and crafts stores around New England.Has almost everything for arts crafts drawing etcRun dont walk. Get to this store asap and give them your support.

Za
Review №20

Every time I have come here Ive left with more than I planned on, felt satisfied about the price, AND, I always wonder why I dont come back more frequently. Shop local, love your community, create inspiring, imaginative, beautiful works in your life. And let Play Time, Inc help you along the way 💖🙏🏼

Er
Review №21

Old fashioned and well stocked....perfect place to grab affordable materials for artists and crafters. Come in for one thing and youll leave with a bag full.

Te
Review №22

They have a great craft store downstairs. This is my go to place for small crafty projects. Lots of nice paper and model supplies upstairs.

Er
Review №23

Always have everything you want or need for any occasion

Ri
Review №24

Great store. Arts, crafts, hobbies. PlayTime will have whatever you need and then youll find items that you never realized existed.

Ka
Review №25

It has everything. More than you can possibly believe. They have never failed me.

Ke
Review №26

Wow this is a serious art store. Dont let the name fool you - this isnt just for kids! Theyve got everything and the staff are super friendly and knowledgeable.

Ch
Review №27

Play Time is a conveniently located store with free parking that is absolutely stuffed with art and craft supplies. Be prepared to be overwhelmed. Sometimes things are hard to find but staff are usually good at finding things for you. Prices are great too: choices range from professional grade art supplies to more affordable lower priced, albeit lesser quality, items. Its also fun to browse.

Je
Review №28

I loved this store. They have ALMOST everything youre looking for in an art and craft store. Im only leaving 3 stars for now(which is generous for this review) because one of the employees (an older woman) who was working downstairs at the time I was there was VERY rude when I asked if they had a particular object. She didnt even lift a finger or show interest in helping me at all, just said NO and turned her head back away from me to whatever she was working on. Very nice to another customer but not me. Probably doesnt like anyone whos under the age of 55 bothering her.I want to come back but I dont know if Ill be comfortable visiting again for a while specifically because of that. And I hate having to feel and say that!

Be
Review №29

Nice place, inexplicably rude older women running it (the young people were great). Fine — You lost a customer.

An
Review №30

Very cool store

He
Review №31

The staff here are so nice and accommodating, the store has everything and their prices are always good. They have every brand of watercolor that exists (including QOR, which I couldn’t find anywhere else.) So thankful for their amazing staff, today a staff member that stayed late today because I didn’t realize the COVID hours are different. She told me to take my time and didn’t make me feel like I was bothering her. It’s nice to know people are still eager to help one another. Will be going back again when I need more.

Jo
Review №32

Play time is lovely, and has more variety than I would have thought possible.

Ha
Review №33

Honestly I really liked this store. they have everything you need for whatever craft project your doing. The staff are all really friendly. I love that they have their own parking lot

Ke
Review №34

They had everything we needed and more. Ended up buying a metal transformer robot to build. It is very difficult but we are power struggling through. The Cashier was super kind and complimented our choice of puzzle. 10/10 would definitely recommend.

Do
Review №35

An amazing local craft store that Ive been going to for 30 years. All types of craft and art supply materials packed into the two floors. Parking in back.

Le
Review №36

So much stuff! I only had a chance to explore one floor, over the hour and a half that I was there. Cant wait to check out the basement floor.

Je
Review №37

You can always find what you need at playtime they have stuff that you normally wouldnt find another stores the people are so helpful and every time I go I find new things and tons of activities to buy to take home and do with kids

Au
Review №38

Super friendly and great selection

Be
Review №39

Amazing variety of art supplies and very helpful staff

Ji
Review №40

A treasure trove of all the materials I could imagine needing for a project: inexpensive yarns and needles, crochet hooks and threads, beads, glues, papers, pens, paints, party supplies, both basic and high end, and much more ... the people here know the stock well and are happy to help. Worth a visit just to marvel at whats possible and to get all the wonderful things you didnt know you needed.

An
Review №41

This place has a very wide variety of crafts and other fun things to do. And their prices are very reasonable. Very friendly staff. The only downside is that its very hard to navigate a baby stroller down the isles due to how much variety they carry.

Ca
Review №42

I LOVE this place! Unlike what a friend of mine thought, this is not a toy store. Its the place to go for all your arts & crafts needs. From frames, sketchbooks & paints to beads, wool, ribbons, cords, yarn and so much more, this place probably has what you need for your current, future or long-forgotten projects!

Ma
Review №43

Great place to go when you are in need to specialize your gifts and invitations. You will find crayon to pearls. It is really a play time for the grown ups

Ja
Review №44

A small family owned and run arts and craft shop. It has a wide variety of products from canvases to plastic model kits, manga art supplies to yards of fabrics and ribbons. I regularly can find something every member of my family will enjoy. The prices arent that steep and the employees are all a pleasure. If you crave the art stores of yesterday youll love Play Time, Inc.

Je
Review №45

This craft store has an amazing selection of everything. You wont be disappointed, they have it all and more.

Ji
Review №46

If youre into arts or crafts its the Best! Quality materials and helpful staff. Easy parking in back.

Ja
Review №47

Great little big art store. Its a small place but PACKED with virtually anything youll ever need. The best part is you have to explore to find what you need and in the process of exploring get 300 more ideas for any projects. Once youve been enough times you get familiar with where everything is and youre just in and out. Prices are decent, beats Michaels. Staff is knowledgeable, unlike part time staff at a big art store. I just love this place

Na
Review №48

Wonderful shop. If you need any art, crafts, or even school supplies you can find it all here. Also has great fabrics downstairs and even party supplies. I definitely recommend Play Time if you ever need supplies for anything and you dont know where else to go.

Da
Review №49

This is absolutely the most incredible crafts store Ive ever seen. Two stories completely packed floor to ceiling with .. everything. Yeah, its a little cramped in there, but thats part of the magic.

He
Review №50

A very nice place to go if youre looking for craft supplies, paper, or art books! The place is very cozy and has reasonable prices!

Ka
Review №51

This is my go-to arts and crafts store! I prefer this over Michaels any day, and it’s right down the street. The prices are really reasonable and they hold every craft item I’ve been looking for. They constantly run sales and the staff are very helpful in assisting with all your needs. I highly recommend for a novice crafter or for an experienced artist.

Ka
Review №52

One of my favorite places! They offer so many items that its a bit crowded even with two floors, but the prices are very reasonable, and the staff is super friendly and helpful. If youre into any type of visual arts or crafts, Play Time is sure to have what you need.

Gr
Review №53

Over-stuffed store with many new & used item, went to buy a picture frame and after some searching found a nice one.

Ca
Review №54

Huge selection of art supplies: I love the rainbow of ribbon and tulle! Tonight we got modeling clay and I got cookie cutters and tins to bake Christmas cookies! Staff is super nice and helpful!

Mr
Review №55

I love this shop, and we need to support them. They carry a very large range and mix of crafts supplies including framing, painting, school project stuff and lots of other odds and ends. I am a jeweler and I often need little things with projects or display purposes and this place great.

D
Review №56

Wow! Drive by all the time. Thought it was just a small art store. I was off to Michaels and then thought no going to try these folks. Literally, a HUGE craft, art, and hobby store with incredibly helpful people. Saw the one bad review. I found that they asked a lot of questions to make sure they knew what I wanted because they have so many options for every type of art tool. They arent just like oh aisle 4, they literally take you through the whole store and give you all your options. Super kid friendly. Selection way better than Michaels. Do yourself a favor and try this place out. Seriously awesome!

Da
Review №57

A local business with long-serving and knowledgeable staff

Sy
Review №58

Lot of fun! They have a little bit of everything and a lot of some things. Great art supplies, and a nice selection of seed beads and jewelry findings.

Ge
Review №59

Play Time has everything! Although, you will probably need help finding it.

Bl
Review №60

I love getting lost while I explore.I found my favorite travel journal and sketching paper while poking around the marker section. I never get board here.

We
Review №61

Amazing place! Love it there!

Gr
Review №62

Play Time has something for everybody, stores like this are almost non-existent these days. They have a wide selection of frames and framing supplies, plastic model kits, stamps & inks, party supplies, textiles, etc. We can always find great things to keep our kid busy during plane trips.

Ch
Review №63

They have everything regarding crafts, paints inks, and a whole lot more. You can get small glass bottles, fountain pen ink, and good writing paper, but more in the setting of an art store, rather than a stationary store.

Cr
Review №64

I love all the unique crafting supplies!! Whether you want to paint, color, stamp, use wood, vinyl, cardstock, stuff for birthday parties and just so much more. I love this place and it is always a welcoming atmosphere. The women who work there are just sweet and so helpful.

Il
Review №65

Its a great arts and crafts store! You can find really wonderful things here. So much more to choose from than the big chain stores. You have to ask the owners where to find things, as the store is so packed full!

Hi
Review №66

Great store, jam packed with art and craft supplies, party supplies as well. Friendly staff. Great kid sticker selection!

Al
Review №67

Excellent large and well stocked store for all arts supplies.

Te
Review №68

Comprehensive supplier for both craft and fine art supplies.

Ch
Review №69

Great local store. Lots of hidden gems around. Dont be afraid to ask for help finding things.

Da
Review №70

This place has everything. The staff are helpful and you never have to worry about them being out of stock of what you are looking for.

Al
Review №71

Great store for all things arts and crafts. Lots of variety. Staff is helpful but it can still be difficult to find what you are looking for. Parking lot behind building.

ge
Review №72

Nice selection of art supplies in many mediums; from childrens through professional quality. Friendly staff.

Ja
Review №73

Amazing local place with great prices and a wide selection. Store is a bit more messy than what you would find at Blick, however.

J
Review №74

Labyrinth, fun searching, initial goal met and additional ideas seeded. Will be back soon...

D.
Review №75

This place has a huge selection, and you will likely find what you need. Super friendly staff, who try to save you money by suggesting lower priced items to fit your needs.Prices are slightly higher than Amazon etc., but I save a ton of time and get exactly what my two kids need for their school projects.A charming part of Arlington community.

Be
Review №76

A not so hidden gem for crafting. Staff is very helpful and inventory is plentiful. I walked out with quite a few purchases I didnt know I needed!

zo
Review №77

Two floors of lovely art and craft supplies, super friendly and helpful staff too!

Ma
Review №78

They have everything! Amazing resource for artists and crafters.

my
Review №79

Great little mom & pop art supply store. Definitely overwhelming unless you know what you need & not for the claustrophobic as the aisles are narrow and packed with product. They have a bigger selection of yarn colors - more shades of Red Heart and Sugar n Creme than the chain stores, but not a ton of specialty yarn (i was hoping theyd have Red Heart Scrubby but no). Tons of painting & drawing supplies & decent stock of other hobbies, & also party and office supplies. Definitely worth the time to explore or if you need specific materials that AC Moore & Michaels just dont stock

Ku
Review №80

It was fun place to visit. I would recommend it for families.

Bo
Review №81

This place is great! Its huge, and has just about everything relating to art supplies

Mr
Review №82

Wonderful store with an abundant supply of goods. Friendly helpful staff makes it a pleasant trip. The store is huge with a seperate level for crafting so thats quite fantastic for crafters. Parking space is available at the back of the store. Its a one stop shopping experience.

Ca
Review №83

Great store for anything for crafting

St
Review №84

Nice crafts store - a 70yr+ owned staple store of Arlington

Ki
Review №85

Crafters heaven. All that clutter is stuff you havent needed yet, but will. Better variety and prices than the big box stores.

Me
Review №86

Where is the list of stuff and price. Cannot check anything online if you have it before I come

Pa
Review №87

I have shopped at this store for 20 years. Art supplies, wrapping paper, picture frames, jewelery findings and beads and more. Friendly and helpfull staff..

M
Review №88

Packed full of craft and art supplies in a too small shop. It would be great if the staff were a little more helpful, but if you dont mind wandering around for a bit or moving racks to get to what you need, its fine.

La
Review №89

I love this place. An independent retailer who has tons of stuff, and things you cant even imagine. They are usually quite current with trends. When rainbow looms were popular, they had all of the stuff. Then parachute cord became the in thing, they had all the colors and plenty of ideas for how to use it. You have to check it out for yourself. Allow time to visit, theres so much to see. And, their prices are very good.

Al
Review №90

Art supplies treasure chest

Du
Review №91

In addition to the great selection of craft and art supplies, they have a good collection of birthday cards and other cards. Some cards are produced by local photographers.

Sa
Review №92

Good selection of eclectic art supplies. Local store in this age of the internet, which I appreciate. Lots of inexpensive options for craft paint too!

Da
Review №93

Nondescript sign, amazing inside. better than any craft store I have ever seen.

Ro
Review №94

So many awesome art and craft supplies, including craft kits for kids. Love this place.

Fr
Review №95

My wife really enjoys shopping there

DB
Review №96

One of a kind. Fun packed with materials and kid friendly.

Ma
Review №97

I LOVE Play Time. I can get Daniel Smith watercolors, pink yarn, and every micron pen all in the same place. The only trick is finding them somewhere in there.

Gu
Review №98

Playtime has been my go to spot for old school art and drafting supplies. Friendly service. Jam packed with product. Ladies there are friendly and know where everything going is.

Ro
Review №99

Lotsa fun, nice people, supplies for almost any crafts project. Artist and fabric craft supplies, paints, knitting, little tools. A range of items so extensive that a brief review cant do justice.

El
Review №100

So many fun crafting supplies!

Information
74 Photos
100 Comments
4.6 Rating
  • Address:283 Broadway, Arlington, MA 02474, United States
  • Site:http://www.playtimecrafts.com/
  • Phone:+1 781-648-3230
Categories
  • Party store
  • Art supply store
  • Craft store
  • Picture frame shop
  • Stationery store
Working hours
  • Monday:10am–5pm
  • Tuesday:10am–5pm
  • Wednesday:10am–5pm
  • Thursday:10am–5pm
  • Friday:10am–5pm
  • Saturday:10am–5pm
  • Sunday:10am–5pm
Service options
  • In-store shopping:Yes
Health and safety
  • Mask required:Yes
  • Safety dividers at checkout:Yes
Accessibility
  • Wheelchair-accessible entrance:Yes
Planning
  • Quick visit:Yes
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