As Joann Fabrics closes its retail stores, many mourn the loss of easily accessible materials, an entry point for hobby newcomers and a sense of community.

Fabric and crafts retailer Joann Inc., which has been a destination for generations of quilters, knitters and lovers of crafts projects for more than 80 years, is going out of business and shuttering all its stores.

Joann has announced its plans to shut down all its fabric and craft stores following a bankruptcy filing in January. In a statement released on Sunday, the company confirmed that GA Group, along with the Prepetition Term Loan Agent, has been chosen as the winning bidder to acquire nearly all of Joann's assets.