I also hate to see Joann's get bagged - they carry all types of fabrics, to cater to all types of sewers and quilters. After many years of buying there, I know how to pick out the quality cottons - no, they are not all the same-you have to take care to know what you are purchasing and if you want good quality, stick to their higher priced brand names (not Keepsake-most of that is mediocre quality) and feel before you buy. And no, they don't have the good selection of the premium brands the LQS has, but you can get good quality for much less if you know how to use their sales/coupons. ALWAYS check the fabric content and brand name when buying off their clearance table - but sometimes I have noticed a piece of fabric will get wrapped around a plain or generic cardboard. It's a gamble unless you are already familiar with that fabric and know the line. I have purchased the majority of my fabrics there and now, always stick to the premium/designer names and go by feel as the real test. Sorry, but I like quality, but can't afford the prices at LQS (unless I get them off the sale table), and never buy fabric unless I get at least 40-50% off. The premium fabrics go on sale frequently for 30-40% off, then use my Joann's card for an extra 10% off, or, like now, have an extra 20% off everything coupon. Now, I can go buy those lovely fabrics I want and get them for 50% off. And if you can't wait until they go on sale, use a 40-50% off coupon (s) and make your own sale. There are always pleanty of them.
Sorry you had this problem, but the point I wanted to make is that not all their fabric is cr@% - and not to be put off by one piece you bought that wasn't a better quality quilting fabric.