Quilt stores are independently(privately) owned. They cannot return defective items back to the manufacturer. They cannot afford to "eat it" if someone abuses return policies like a big box store "can". The policy of "all sales final" stresses to the buyer to choose carefully. Shops want to take care of their customers within reason but they cannot afford to have an open return policy either. Even big box stores will deny customers who habitually return merchandise to continue to do so.
Sandy