Although it is not my responsibility to keep anyone in business, I certainly believe in spending my money locally. I am very fortunate in that my LQS is very friendly.
Yes, the prices of fabric have gotten very high. So has the price of books, clothing patterns, thread, buttons, etc. I remember when a dress pattern cost $1.75. Now they're up to $13.00 or more. The worst part about that is the pattern pieces are printed on tissue paper!
If you have your choice between using a debit card or using a charge card, use your debit card. The percentage taken is much lower.