I try to surf globally and shop locally. But you're right, with free shipping it's becoming harder and harder to do. (Realize the free shipping has to be made up somewhere, so we may see it folded back into the cost of the fabric.)
I have a few favorite shops that give such good customer service that it's worth the trip. I get lots of good tips and suggestions I wouldn't get online. One shop in particular will order and send me items I see online from other sites. She knows me well enough that she can suggest fabrics that will go with a pattern I'm looking for. Yes, I pay for shipping (It's a 45 min. drive) but at least I feel I'm helping keep the shop going.