90% of my fabrics come from local quilt stores. I like to support the locals.
When I'm making a demo piece, or trying a new block or technique I use less expensive fabrics. Once I get to the main project I sew with top quality fabrics... I just feel better about it.
When I took my 3 month beginner's quilt making class many moons ago the instructor spent about an hour one day explaining the difference in fabric grading, gray goods (Greige Goods). She did not own the fabric store nor was she vested in it). If I'm feeling tight on money I still hit the LQS, but I shop their 50% off bin first...lol
I have bought some novelty fabrics from JoAnn's for funzie things and they have been fine, but when I'm sewing a super special quilt I get my fabrics from a LQS.
Yes.. a topic like this could launch a riot....LOL It's what you can afford... so.. use the best quality fabrics you can afford. I have had a few fabrics from the LQS's that have had issues, but over the years I've become friends with these shop owners, and they back anything they sell.
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Last edited by Highmtn; 01-16-2012 at 05:26 PM.