IrishNY

I pay more attention to the feel than the price when determining quality. I find good fabric at lower prices occasionally using this method.

okiepastor

don't forget to watch for heavy sizing--which makes it only feel heavy to the hand--crumple/rub it between your fingers to see if it feels like starch!

wolph33

sometimes it is the same fabric-just depends on who is selling it

Leota

what is irritating is to find the exact same fabric at large fabric chain like Hancock Fabrics for $5/yd AFTER you paid $10/yd at the LQS..

AliKat

It is several things:

[1] Yes, the thread count and the quality of the material used.
[2] The quality and depth of the dyes used. Cheaper fabric doesn't have the same quality dye.
[3] The number of finishing steps used in making the printed fabric.

Some fabric companies do fabric for different stores. The cheaper and least costly for the WalMart type stores; then that for Joann's; then they sell the end of roll to some quilt stores at a discount because it is literally the end of that fabric line; then the best is for our LQS's. You absolutely do get what you pay for.

However, if you want something that will be abused and it is OK for it to wear out relatively soon, then go with the cheaper fabric. If you want an heirloom quilt to be loved and kept, then go to the LQS.

ali

M.I.Late

Feel both a piece and a bolt of each. You can feel the difference. But, always look at a single layer. Some folks think their $3/yard fabric is worth $10 and it isn't. At the same time, some of that $10/yard fabric feels and looks fabulous.

steelecg

That's right - second runs and end of run fabrics are different - I look for sales and figure my time and effort are worth the cost.

grann of 6

Feel of them, and try the wrinkle test. If it is good quality fabric it won't wrinkle as much. Just wad it up in your fist and squeeze it tight and then see how long it takes for the wrinkles to relax. The poor quality fabric will just sit there in a bunch, the good quality will start to smooth itself out.

theresa.redington

I always have felt that if I want a quilt to last, I will always go for the $10 a yard vs. the cheaper ones because we put a lot of time and love into our quilts. And I do want my quilts to last quite a few years. so my motto is: You get what you pay for".

Raggiemom

This is good information--thanks!