David Green: Why I Admire Him, and Why His Story Inspires Me

Holleigh Locklyn
Jan 20
3 min read

Woman in a blue sweater and hat lovingly hugs a framed photo of an older man. Background shows a pegboard with decorative items.

Hello again, Sweet Mamas!

I just felt so inspired after my last post about Hobby Lobby that I decided I wasn't quite done dwelling on my favorite store of all time.

One thing I didn't get too much into in my last post was the story of David Green, the founder of Hobby Lobby. I admire him so much, from business, personal, and faith perspectives. From humble beginnings to building one of the largest arts and crafts retailers in the country, his life has been an incredible example of what it looks like to pursue success with a God-centered purpose.

David’s story starts simply: in 1970 he took a $600 loan and began crafting tiny picture frames in his garage. It was (and still is!) a true family business, with his wife (a real Proverbs 31 Woman if I've ever encountered one) and kids helping all along the way. From that one small act of creativity and entrepreneurship, Hobby Lobby was born, a company that now employs tens of thousands of people and brings joy to countless homes. What a wonderful reminder that ANYONE can succeed in this country with enough entrepreneurial spirit, hard work, and faith in God!

Group of five people smiling outdoors; one in glasses, another in a pale dress. Sunlit foliage in the background sets a cheerful mood. — A young David Green with his family

But what makes David truly stand out to me isn’t just his business success: it’s how boldly he lives out his faith through it. He’s known for running his company according to biblical principles, and from closing stores on Sundays to supporting Christian causes, the Greens have made it clear that their faith isn’t compartmentalized - it infuses every part of their lives.

Two men stand outside a "Hobby Lobby" store with a "Grand Opening" banner. The setting is welcoming and celebratory. — The Grand Opening of the First Hobby Lobby Store

A Legacy Beyond Crafts: David Green and The Museum of the Bible

One of the most remarkable legacies tied to David and his family isn’t a store at all — it’s the Museum of the Bible in Washington, D.C. This massive museum, funded largely by the Greens, was created to educate and inspire visitors about the history, narrative, and impact of the Bible.

Man in a suit holds rolled paper titled "Museum of the Bible" against a dark, textured wall, conveying a serious mood.

With tens of thousands of rare books, scrolls, and biblical artifacts (part of what’s known as the Green Collection), the museum is a place where people from all walks of life can engage with Scripture in a deeply meaningful way.

Bronze sculptures of three figures in a dark room, illuminated by a soft, mysterious blue light from an open door. — The "Exodus" portion of the "Passover" Exhibit at the Museum of the Bible

I love that David’s passion for the Word didn’t stop at decorating homes — he wanted to share the story of God’s Word with the world.

DIY: Tiny Picture Frames —

A Tribute to Hobby Lobby’s Beginning

Since David’s first products were miniature picture frames, I had to include a simple DIY project for you to try at home! This is perfect for decorating, gifts, or even your next craft activity with your kiddos!

What You’ll Need:

Small wooden sticks or tiny pre-cut frame pieces
Wood glue or hot glue
Acrylic paint in your favorite colors
Tiny photos or decorative paper
Clear glossy sealant (optional)

Steps:

Assemble the Frame:
Glue four sticks together into a square — two long, two short — to make the frame shape.
Paint & Personalize:
Let your kids paint them bright or soft colors! Add polka dots, stripes, or glitter if you want something fun.
Insert the Photo:
Cut tiny pictures or decorative paper to fit the frame opening. Slide it in and secure with a dab of glue.
Seal It (Optional but Recommended):
Add a glossy sealant to make them last longer.

Display them on a shelf, tie them with ribbon as gift tags, or even make a wreath out of several tiny frames!

Crafting like this makes me think about how something small like a simple frame can turn into a business that blesses so many.

David Green’s life reminds me that every ordinary choice (from where you shop to how you honor God with your work) matters. Whether it’s supporting faith-based values at Hobby Lobby or celebrating the Bible’s story at the museum, his legacy points back to the One who gave him every good gift.

If you loved this peek into the heart behind Hobby Lobby, drop a comment below - and try those tiny frames with your little ones!

Share your prayers and blessings - and your New Year's Goals!- with the Home Sweet Holleigh community! Comment below or engage on social media! Find me on Instagram and TikTok at @homesweetholleigh