There was a time when a friend and I would go to Michaels at least once a week with our 40% off coupons in tow. Avid bakers and cake decorators, we were constantly tag-teaming and stockpiling supplies.

Neither of us go as often, but once in a while there are some arts and crafts projects that beg our attention. If you shop there, then you know that everything ain’t cheap but once you use the power of discounts, you will be pleasantly surprised once you get to the register.

Today, we’re sharing some Michaels shopping hacks that will help you save money. The best way to go about this is to hit the store in person where you can see the goods up close and make magical discount combinations come to life.

1. Store Coupon Hustle

   Okay, so you already get your weekly coupon from the newspaper, online, store app, or elsewhere, and it’s usually for 40% off. But did you know you can combine it with additional store coupons? You can use one coupon of each type for one transaction. That means tallying up your total with the 40% off promo code plus a “20% off your entire purchase” one. Try it!

2. Competitor Coupons

   Whoa, Michaels will honor the coupons of store competitors like A.C. Moore, Hobby Lobby, JoAnn, Amazon, Walmart, and Target. Print out a coupon (or flash an online one) up to 50% off for a single item and save.

3. Price Matching

   Find something on sale at a competitor? Bring the ad in with you and Michaels will not only match the price, but give you an additional 10% off.

4. Grab Bags

   Drop anywhere from $2 to $7 on a grab bag filled with goodies. You can’t open the bags to see what’s inside, but they’re usually filled with craft supplies or home decor items.

5. Special Discounts

   Teachers, military members, and seniors get special discounts every day of the year. Teachers receive 15% off, while military members and seniors get a 10% discount. Just check to see if exclusions apply.

6. Text Alerts

   Sign up for the store’s text alerts and get deals sent straight to your phone. Get alerts about specials like daily deals, coupons, and sales.

7. Orange Stickers

   Look out for orange stickers on clearance merch which indicates either a solid markdown or another drop in price is coming. On another note, green stickers mean that a new item has just been put on clearance. You can either grab those or wait until they’re marked down further.

8. Rewards Program

   Did you know Michaels had one? Perks include exclusive deals, invite-only specials and shopping hours, and no-receipt returns!

9. Discounted Gift Cards

   Snatch up discounted store gift cards through eBay, CardCash, or Raise and use them for your purchases.

Trust us, your shopping experience will be much better if you head out to Michaels armed with these tips. Don’t be shy about whipping out these ads and coupons like the budget savvy shopper that you are. To save even more, take a peek at those dollar bins in the front of the store too!

Do you love shopping at Michaels and why? Are you already hip to their coupon game or are these tricks surprises to you? What’s the most you’ve ever saved there in one trip?