Yesterday, I too had a good experience at Joanns. The lady who cut my yard goods also sewed so she helped me thru the sewing machine needle choices. Went with Schmetz's and got their sharps. Only one bad thing, I asked where the stitch rippers were located and 2 teens, who worked there, assured me that they were with the notions. SO NOT TRUE!!! The ones I was looking for were with the quilting tools.