How to Find Quilt Shops

No longer are you limited to local quilt shops when selecting fabric for that special project. Now you can have whatever fabric you want delivered right to your front door through the internet. Let’s look at the advantages of both buying fabric locally and buying fabric online.

Buying locally does have a few advantages that an online retailer can not touch. The main advantage is the expertise of the staff. Usually, everyone on staff at a quilt shop is an experienced quilter. They can give you suggestions on notions, batting and fabric choices.

Plus, the shop is almost like a community resource that offers classes and special events. There is one shop that offers a Super Bowl Widows’ party! Go to a shop often enough and the owner will know your name and your preferences.

But what if there is not a local quilt shop in your area? Believe it or not, purchasing fabric on ebay may be your best shot. Make sure that the fabric is from a smoke-free home and is being sold by someone with a good feedback rating.

When you look at the picture of the fabric, you will want to note the name fabric company, the group name and the name of the fabric. With that information, you can go to the fabric company’s site and see better pictures than what is probably taken with a homemade camera. Some fabric sellers will take a picture of the fabric with a ruler so you can get a good idea of the scale of the fabric.

Purchasing fabric from on-line quilt shops is another choice. My favorite place online when it comes to price is fabric.com. For the good price, however, you sacrifice selection. Not all fabrics that coordinate in a group are available. Yardage is limited.

They do list the number of yards available, however, and let you know if the fabric is going to be reordered. If you see something you like, stock up because it may be gone next time you go looking for it.

As always, consider the final cost. Going on-line has to be worth the shipping and handling costs that will drive up your total. You will also need to factor in delivery time. If you need fabric for a last minute baby quilt, it is best to find an “emergency” shop within driving distance.

Quilt shops do not have to be brick and mortar. Now you can have access to whatever fabric you want through the internet. Take advantage of it. You will be amazed at what you’ll find.