I know and understand your dilemma!! I am in the same position. I would like to support my LQS's (I am lucky in that I have quite a few within 30-45 minutes drive), but, the cost of the fabric and notions is astronomical. My solution? I buy fabric on-line from the States!! Even tho' I live in South Australia, I spend the majority of my quilting money in America - go figure!! Compare the cost: Kaffe Fassett $25/m (yes! $25!!) in Adelaide, and with the shipping and exchange rate - $12-15/m from the States!!
Basically, I pay approximately 1/2 price for the same fabric if I purchase it from America!! Oh yes!! This also includes Australian Aboriginal fabric made in Australia!! How's that work? I can buy it cheaper in America than where it is made!!
So, at the moment, especially since our exchange rate is so great (yipee !!) I will continue to enhance the American economy!!
The best online shops: fabric.com; fabricdepot.com; quilthome.com; virginiaquilter.com; equilter.com & aaaquiltersupplybizland.com. I have had great service from all of these suppliers, but especially fabric.com!! They have gone the extra mile for me several times!!
Spend your money where you want to!! Even tho' you may pay a bit more somewhere else if you get exceptional service and the people are great!!
Kind regards, Dianne