I buy locally as much as possible but it's not to support local merchants--it's just more convenient, or course. However, locally, the selection is terrible! I live in a small town and only have Walmart for fabric! I will buy anywhere online where I find what I'm looking for and the cost is reasonable. As far as taxes, I pay enough already and I'm not the least bit concerned the the state gets more taxes when I shop in other states vs my own! and I certainly don't want them to change the law so we can "gratefully" pay more taxes! I'm a member of the Tea Party-Taxed Enough Already!!