Whether you're building your collection of memorabilia or learning a new craft skill, Melbourne's east has a diverse range of stores for obscure pastimes.
Did we miss a hobby hub? Let us know by emailing [email protected]
Aron’s Collectibles
Aron Challinger opened the doors of his store in 2000, specialising in either fuelling or reawakening nostalgia in pop culture from the 1980s to today.
Challinger buys and sells a variety of items, including old Star Wars or Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles action figures and vehicles and a significant collection of Funko Pops.
Where: 1 Main Street, Blackburn
Opening hours: Monday to Saturday, 10am-6pm; Sunday, 10am-5pm
Patchwork with Gail B
Launching the business in 2004 across local market stalls and selling goods from her home, Gail opened a physical store about 15 years ago.
There are more than 14,000 pieces of fabric for sale, as well as an assortment of sewing, quilting and other textiles supplies. Crafters of all skill levels are also encouraged to keep an eye on the calendar for upcoming workshops and classes.
Where: 202 Canterbury Road, Bayswater North
Opening hours: Monday to Friday, 9:30am-4:15pm; Saturday, 9am-1pm
Miners Den
Operating as the largest specialised network for metal detectors and gold prospecting equipment, Miners Den’s range includes gold pans and specialised gold maps.
Where: 2/517 Whitehorse Road, Mitcham
Opening hours: Monday to Friday, 9am-5pm; Saturday, 9am-noon
The House of War
The House of War sells a wide range of pieces across the world of tabletop gaming, including military simulated games and other board games.
Its catalogue also includes miniatures, trading card games, role-playing books and hobby paints, while groups can hire out dedicated spaces for their next game.
Where: 52 Maroondah Highway, Ringwood
Opening hours: Thursday, noon-6pm; Friday, noon-9pm; Saturday, 10am-9pm; Sunday, 10am-6pm
Branchline
Specialising in selling model railway pieces and paraphernalia, Branchline has been run by members of the Atchinson family since 1979.
The team has a wide range of old and new model locomotives and is also knowledgeable in repairs.
Where: 490 Dorset Road, Croydon
Opening hours: Monday to Friday, 10am-5pm; Saturday 10am-4pm
Thumbnail Image Credit: Branchline/Patchwork with Gail B