I had to reply to this -- I finally retired in 2000 and backpacked to eastern europe. Digging for the Hermitage Museum in St Petersburg Russia, visiting quilters in finland, Poland, Estonia and Lithuania, passing thru Germany and staying in Austria and Slovakia. I had a bet with a quilting friend that I couldn't find cotton fabric MADE in whatever country I was. I did!!! and the search added to my stay in everyplace. I had to ask questions, met other quilters and actually "taught"a class in Poland at a small shop using smiles and hands on showing. The owner spoke some english and we had a wonderful time. The most amazing fabric shop was in Vienna -- a whole 5 floors of fabrics -- one floor for just cottons.
Later I travelled to other countries and the only place I didn't find COTTON was in China. I don't read or speak chinese so I couldn't wander around. Meeting other quilters was always a highlight.
Mim