the first time i saw LQS prices i nearly fainted. i swore then and there that i would NEVER take my business to an LQS.
since then, i've gained more experience shopping for quilting fabrics and supplies. i've learned to compare LQS to online prices by adding in the cost of shipping before i do the next-level math. (of course, since my nearest LQS is an hour away, i also have to factor in my time, gas, and the inevitable who-can-go-to-savannah-and-NOT-stop-for-lunch? expenses.)
the LQS nearest me usually has a very nice selection of fabs on sale. her regular prices average $1 less per yard than other LQS i've seen in person and online. in fact, at least half of the yardage in the joann's down the road are priced higher and none of them are nearly as nice. her notions are priced competitively when compared to almost any other source. they're very nice people. i could go on. suffice it to say that i could write a nice long list of compliments.
my intent is not to "slam" this LQS or others. i enthusiastically recommend it often to others i know like to shop in LQS.
still, as an individual, i remain stuck on two key points which seem to apply to LQS in general. all but the sale fabs are priced higher than i normally pay online - shipping included. and i have to rearrange my life to shop there.
if LQS are content (and can stay in business) catering to a narrow slice of the market, and if their customers are content to cater to the convenience of the LQS, i say "more power" to all involved. freedom of choice and all that.
it simply does not work for me. and i won't "work for them." :roll: :lol: