The Michaels Credit Card, issued by Comenity Bank, holds the promise of substantial savings on all your crafting essentials, from glitter to glue and googly eyes.
However, as we delve into the details, it becomes evident that only the most strategic shoppers will truly capitalize on this card’s potential.
Crafting the Michaels Credit Card Narrative: A Deep Dive into the Details
1. Exclusive to Michaels Purchases
While the Michaels Credit Card offers a lucrative 9% back on Michaels Store purchases, it’s essential to note that this is a closed-loop card. This means it can only be used within Michaels stores or on Michaels.com. Moreover, the rewards earned can exclusively be redeemed at Michaels, limiting your options compared to general-purpose cash-back cards.
2. Rewards: Trackable Yet Fleetingly Time-Bound
Tracking and redeeming rewards with the Michaels Credit Card is refreshingly straightforward. Earned rewards, issued in $5 increments, are conveniently tracked online or in the Michaels app. However, the catch lies in the expiration period – rewards vouchers expire 32 days from the issue date. Crafting a strategy to make the most of your rewards becomes crucial with this time constraint.
3. Perks’ Quality Raises Questions
The Michaels Credit Card boasts additional perks, including a one-time 20% discount on the first purchase, occasional free shipping, and periodic special financing offers. However, the true value of these perks becomes uncertain when considering Michaels’ ongoing sales incentives and the availability of similar discounts without card membership.
4. The Burden of a Balance
With a hefty 29.99% APR, the Michaels card can quickly lose its luster if you carry a balance. The interest rates far exceed the credit card average, emphasizing the importance of paying off your balance promptly to avoid nullifying any earned rewards.
5. Credit Card Rewards vs. Free-to-Join Program
The 9% back in rewards might seem enticing, but it’s crucial to recognize that this rate includes the Michaels free-to-join rewards program’s base earnings of 3%. Members with over $300 in eligible purchases receive 6%, making the credit card’s additional 3% rewards less impressive for many frequent shoppers.
Crafting Your Credit Card Strategy: Is Michaels the Best Canvas?
For the avid Michaels crafter, the Michaels Credit Card might hold allure, but its limitations and potential pitfalls make it imperative to weigh your options. Consider whether a general-purpose cash-back credit card offers more versatility, providing true cash back without the time constraints or exclusivity of the Michaels Credit Card.
The Michaels Credit Card is a tool for the craftiest of shoppers, requiring meticulous planning and a penchant for strategic crafting to truly reap the rewards it promises. Unlock the full potential of the Michaels Credit Card by navigating these intricacies, ensuring your crafting journey is not just creative but financially savvy. Craft on, savvy shoppers!