nearly all LQS (local quilt shop) are small businesses. the owners can't spread their overhead expenses across several outlets.
because location is a critical element to LQS success, they are often found in high-rent areas.
an LQS can't afford to gamble on buying in volume, either, so they are not as likely to get the deeeeeeeep discounts a chain store can negotiate.
a smart LQS owner will "compensate" her customers for the higer prices by offering other services not normally found at chain stores. they include, but are definitely not limited to:
1. personal assistance in selecting fabrics
2. special orders of fabs not in stock
3. classes
4. personal advice or quick tips/instructions regarding techniques
5. either in-house machine sales and/or repair or referrals to reputable dealers/repair shops in the area
the list goes on, of course, and will vary from shop to shop.
it's a shlep for me to shop for fabs any places except walmart or online. the nearest LQS to me keeps her prices fairly competive with one of the major chains. sooooo ... guess where i stop first if i'm in search of something so special i'm willing to pay full price. :lol: