Return policy comparison · 2026
Michaels vs StewMac
Policy data verified April 17, 2026 (Michaels) and July 24, 2026 (StewMac)
Michaels
A
4.2 / 5.0 · Excellent
Winner
StewMac
A
4.5 / 5.0 · Excellent
The verdict
StewMac has the more generous return policy in 2026, grading A (4.5/5.0) against Michaels's A (4.2/5.0). It wins 2 of 5 scoring axes; the biggest gap is the return shipping: free returns (incl. by mail) versus free in-store; mail may cost.
Score breakdown
Five axes, 5.0 points total — the same deterministic grader behind every Thrifle policy page.
MichaelsStewMac
Return window · worth 2.0
Restocking fee · worth 1.0
Return shipping · worth 1.0
Holiday window · worth 0.5
Transparency · worth 0.5
Key terms side-by-side
| Michaels | StewMac | |
|---|---|---|
| Return window | 180 days | ✓ 365 days (unaltered, unused) |
| Free returns | Yes (in-store) | ✓ Yes (members) |
| Restocking fee | None | None published |
| Return shipping | Customer pays mail shipping | Standard customers pay return shipping; StewMAX members get free return shipping (prepaid domestic label, international costs reimbursed on receipt) |
| Holiday extension | ✓ Not specifically extended | None published |
| Non-returnable | Custom framing, cut fabric, seasonal items after season, gift cards | Consumables (sandpaper, finishes, glue, polishes, cleaners), started kits requiring assembly or finishing (pedal, amp, or guitar kits - these get gift cards or replacements instead), altered or worked items |
| Watch-out items | Seasonal items expire with season | — |
Michaels tip
Generous 180-day window with receipt. Custom framing and cut fabric non-returnable.
StewMac tip
Tonewood has to come back completely untouched - no sanding, cutting, or shaping - so don't start a guitar build until you're sure you're keeping the wood.
Frequently asked questions
Who has the better return policy, Michaels or StewMac?
StewMac has the more generous return policy in 2026, grading A (4.5/5.0) against Michaels's A (4.2/5.0). It wins 2 of 5 scoring axes; the biggest gap is the return shipping: free returns (incl. by mail) versus free in-store; mail may cost.
What is Michaels's return window?
Michaels's return window is 180 days.
What is StewMac's return window?
StewMac's return window is 365 days (unaltered, unused).
Does Michaels or StewMac offer free returns?
Michaels: Yes (in-store). StewMac: Yes (members).