<Page> EXHIBIT 23.1 We consent to the reference to our firm under the caption "Experts" and to the use of our report dated March 5, 2001, in Amendment No. 1 to the Registration Statement (Form S-4 No. 333-66462) and related Prospectus of Michaels Stores, Inc. dated August 15, 2001. /s/ Ernst & Young, LLP Dallas, Texas August 13, 2001