Kit Kraft Hobbies: “A Crafty Fix Since 46”

You know the place. You’ve driven by it hundreds of times. Admired the vintage sign and overall look of the place. But you never went in. After all you don’t need anything there. Or so you think.

Then one day you finally walk through the doors and are blown away.

That place for me was Kit Kraft Hobbies in Studio City, California.

In business since 1946, first on Melrose in Hollywood, then in its current location for the past sixty years, Kit Kraft remains a mecca for Hobby enthusiasts of all ages. The place is a multifaceted creative wonderland.

Part toy store.
Part craft store.
Part tourist attraction.

As the elderly woman working the cash register told me, “We’re more than a store… We’re kind of a museum.” They truly are.

Need proof of the joint’s historical value?

Gaze up at the wall about the main entrance covered with facial mold masks of everyone from horror masters Boris Karloff and Lon Chaney to modern stars Johnny Depp and Arnold. Yes, that Arnold.

A quick key guide sits on the counter to help you ID the famous faces.

For those looking to get their craft on, Kit Kraft has everything.

Need retro repro model kits? (You know you loved them as a kid) They have everything from Hot Rods to the Universal Monsters. Hundreds to choose from.

How about Pinewood Derby supplies? (That’s the reason I came in) they have an aisle full.

And rockets? The have plenty of make your own options.

For those looking for a tamer flying experience they also sell a vast selection of kites.

Plus more paints, pens, poster board and doll house supplies (Bag of teenagers anyone?) then you’ll need in a lifetime.

(BAG OF TEENAGERS FOR MOD BETTY YES PLEASE! Actually I think I may get my pot holder weaving skillz back up to speed because I can support a cool vintage business like this long distance, as they sell things via their website! Mod B :-))

If crafting isn’t your thing, pick up a vintage looking tin robot. They have a display case full of them.

Or maybe grab a bag full of little plastic Japanese soldiers. An odd choice I know. But once you see them, you gotta have them.

Whatever your pleasure you gotta visit Kit Kraft next time you are in the Studio City, California area. It truly is a gem of a joint that I can’t wait to visit, again and again.

And that place in your town you’ve always thought of checking out? Do it. Today. You’ll be glad you did. 

Retro Roadmap Reporter Keith Valcourt