Interesting thread! My LQS is absolutely wonderful, and a fun place to visit. They have wonderful quilts on display, guild meetings, classes, great conversation! It is a great place to problem solve and receive wonderful advice. I learned long ago to value the quality materials with all the work and time that goes into a major project. Also, I think with quality materials and threads etc, it goes better along the way. I live in Ocean Springs MS, and our LQS just moved to a new location and should be wonderful when they get settled in the space. They warmly greet their regular customers, and also any visitors that stop by. The other day there was a woman and her daughter from Washington State in the store. I would love to visit other quilt stores when I travel, but MANY of the small LQS are not wheel chair accessible, and I am disappointed when I track them down!