I understand that it depends on the distance between repeats. Do I take my tape measure to the fabric store, unwind the fabric off the bolt and measure? (I can already see the dirty looks from store employees). And if I need to do this then how do I purchase fabric on line??

I have seen, at some on-line fabric shops, where they tell you the distance between repeats.
If not, I'd call them and ask... Most have a number listed, the ones I've all talked to have been very nice and very helpful.

I have never had anyone give me dirty looks when I unwrapped a bolt to measure. I even will open a pattern to see how difficult it is. I went to a seminar once and a national famous teacher told us that if the shop gives you a hard time, find another. Love the quilt shops I visit.

Good idea.

Sorry, I meant to say that asking the store what the repeat is would help. I am sure most shops get this request now that so many are making items with a repeat in them.

I'd agree with others that any fabric store that won't let you measure doesn't deserve your custom. :shock:

Another tip is to take two small mirrors with you. If you hold them at various spots over the fabric like an open book, it'll give you an idea of the kaleidos you'll get.

Online, some sites tell you the length of repeat or at least give an image with a tape measure alongside so you can judge. In the past, whenever I've emailed a supplier to ask, they've always replied. Here's some links, happy shopping! :D

http://www.jandofabrics.com

http://www.virginiaquilter.com

http://www.canadianquiltshop.com/by-...c-4_6_205.html

http://www.equilter.com/

I can't even imagine shopping in a quilt shop that wouldn't be happy to measure the repeats for you! For that matter all the shops I shop in probably already know which fabrics make great OBW and already know the repeats.

Every shop that I have been I can just take it to their cutting table and measure away,

I know the books suggest a min size repeat, but depending on the size of block that you are doing, you can use almost anything, it is more of the print that I look at, of course most people don't have my tendencies, (I tend to get carried away and cut them small, which is a habit that I am hoping to break in the near future) My smallest was strips cut at 1 3/4" I did do a bigger one or two as well.

I have taken fabric to the table to look at it better, no problem. If someone would object, I would consider not shopping there again. I cannot believe a fabric store would encourage you to buy a pig in a poke! I LOVE seeing , feeling and buying fabric! My shops do everything they can to encourage my passion!

I forgot to say that you have to open it up anyway to see how big the repeat is across the width. Some are bigger or smaller, or offset like the one Gai was using in hers.