I did the Northern IL shop hop. For batiks, I would recommend Quilt Fabric in Willowbrook or buy online. Otherwise it is very hit and miss. The three shops I would recommend for variety are the one in Oswego, the one in Morris and Touch of Amish in Barrington. I keep hearing about the shop in Lisle but I never get there. From Grundy County, there is always Lolly's in Shipshewanna
I get the Hancock's of Paducah catalogue every year and keep it. At least you know what is out there. Sometimes they just arent making what you are looking for when you are looking for it.
Yes Sycamore closed.