Originally Posted by
rjwilder
Lately I've been disappointed with some fabrics from my LQS. It appears the big brands and designers are now making less quality fabric. Sure it feels good in the store on the bolt but once it's home and washed it's thin and not as much body. Kaffee Fasset is a real disappointment, used to be my favorite, not anymore.
Originally Posted by
wildyard
I agree! It's not the source of the fabric, but the fabric itself, that makes a difference. I am convinced that you can get high quality fabric in many more places than just expensive LQS and online stores.
If I like the fabric, it goes in my quilts. Most of my stash I have no idea at this point where it came from.
Originally Posted by
Dolphyngyrl
As long as you can tell quality you can shop anywhere. Quality varies everywhere. Joanns just makes it convenient and you never have to pay full price with coupons. I got a whole Christmas quilt backing and all for like 60 bucks so can you find a LQS for that price no. I also do a lot of small projects with joanns. Most big projects come from LQS but I have found lovely fabrics at joanns and their premium legacy muslin can't be beat it is wonderful quality
It's been the same with me. I bought a designer branded fabric from another source that wasn't a Big Box store. Once I brought it home & washed it as my habit, it is just as limp and cheesy as the reputed Big Box offerings.
I am now auditioning future fabric choices by running them through a simple test. Instead of buying a large amount of a given fabric, I make my selection of a given bolt. Then I ask for a sample (a small swatch) of that fabric. Or if swatches are not allowed, then I buy a 1/4 yard or so. I take that piece home & wash & dry it. If it's quality is up to my expectations, I go back & buy it. If not, I did not waste any money and time on hidden trash.
Although, if it's on sale or clearance, I judge it solely on it's hand qualities & take a chance!