Shelves full of projects, all protected.
Property and inventory, general and product liability, in-store classes and workers' comp for craft, fabric, hobby, art supply and toy stores.
By Sam Alishahi · CA Insurance License #4348151 · Reviewed October 2026 · How this page is researched
Busy aisles, classes and kids
Craft and hobby stores carry a lot of small, flammable inventory: fabric, paper, paints, solvents and resin. They also draw families, so customer falls, falling stock and children in the aisles are steady sources of claims.
Many stores hold classes and birthday parties, which a basic retail policy may not contemplate, and toy and hobby stores that import directly can be treated like the manufacturer in product claims. I tell carriers about classes and imports up front so the policy fits how you run.
- PropertyInventory, fixtures and seasonal stock.
- General liabilityCustomer falls and in-store classes.
- Product liabilityToys, kits and supplies you sell.
- Business incomeLost sales after a covered loss.
What underwriters will ask
Having these ready means I can go to market on the first call. The quote form asks for the same things, and anything you don’t know yet can wait.
- Store: address, square footage and building details.
- Inventory: average and peak holiday values.
- Classes and events: how often and who attends.
- Products: what you import directly and from where.
- Revenue and payroll: annual figures, including online sales.
- History: current policies and claims.
Craft store insurance, answered
Are in-store classes covered?
Often, under general liability, when the carrier knows you hold them. Tell me how often and who attends.
Do I need product liability if I only resell?
Retailers can be named in product claims. If you import directly, the risk is higher because there may be no U.S. manufacturer to share it.
Can coverage rise for the holiday season?
Many property policies can include a seasonal increase for inventory, subject to the policy.
Is repairing customers' sewing machines covered?
Repairs bring an exposure for customers' property in your care. Tell me if you service machines so it's included.
Do you offer craft, hobby and toy store insurance outside California?
Yes. Clients across the country send the same quote form. Sam Alishahi is licensed in 48 states and Washington, DC and places policies there directly. In Florida and Washington, where Sam's licenses are still being issued, a partner agency in your state helps in the meantime. The shopping across carriers works the same way. Rules, minimums and markets differ by state — see insurance requirements by state.
Official sources
Send your store details. I'll shop it.
Address, inventory value and revenue are enough to start.
Alishahi Insurance · Saman Alishahi, independent insurance broker, California License #4348151. General information, not a quote or a promise of coverage; coverage depends on underwriting and the terms, conditions and exclusions of the policy actually issued.
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(877) 711-4545Answered 24/7 · CA License #4348151
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