I have heard that the reason for eliminating fabric is to avoid having to have a PERSON employed to cut it - that's why they sell the precuts in some stores. I also heard they are eliminating custom mixed paints for the same reason. "A penny saved is a penny earned" seems to be their philosophy. Even when that penny saved loses sales to creative people. They sell mostly the cheapest, most cheaply made, and most mundane products. it's asll about the $, whereas your LQS owner is usually a real, helpful human being with a heart. AND better fabric.