Originally Posted by
sewmary
"While you may (or may not) get a better price on items from internet only shops - you also do not get any of their expertise: Help with a pattern/fabric choices, nor can you go in an look around when you just need to get out of the house or have some adult company who understands your hobbies and can put you in a much better mood "
Very good points. My LQS knows me (at least by sight) and are not offended when I say I just need to look at fabric. They have been so helpful in finding co-ordinating fabric, etc.
As much as I like buying on line I made a vow to try to use my LQS as much as possible thisyear. I would hate for it to go out of business.
I'm with Mary.
One afternoon, a worker at my LQS spent over an hour with me helping me audition backgrounds for my (poorly chosen) main fabrics. She didn't tell me to start over because my choices weren't the best but helped me with good nature. Granted it was slow but her attention was really appreciated. When I decided to scrap it and start over, she was there to help me again. This is what I love about using an LQS.
And I especially like it when they point me to another shop when my main shop doesn't carry, or isn't inclined to order, fabric choices that I need.
And...the prices aren't always higher than on-line. For example, I wanted to buy a brand of pins that aren't readily available just anywhere on line. When I priced them from the vendors on line and added in shipping, it was cheaper to buy them at the LQS.
I know not everybody can afford to patronize the LQS but, if you can, please reserve at least a portion of your spending for the local little guy.
Off my soapbox - I know I didn't answer your question about CT. I've never used them. Sorry.