Do you shop at Connecting Threads?
 

I get the Connecting Threads catalogue and also their emails. They carry beautiful fabrics. I'm confused as to why their prices are so much lower than all other designer fabric. Is the cotton inferior? I have ordered and it seems to be good quality. Does anyone have insight on this? I'm also wondering if you have used their thread for machine quilting? Does it compare to well known brands? Thanks.

I have used their fabrics many times and they always seem to be high quality. I know they only do their own line and maybe they can have more control over their costs. Their shipping charges etc are also always reasonable.

i have used thread from them, and it works fine for machine piecing and hand sewing. i haven't hand quilted with it yet, so i can't attest to that.

Off the top of my head -

No middleman.
Imagine if Kaufman or Hoffman were selling direct to you.
No salesman or wholesalers (Checkers/United Notion, etc.) or shipping costs (like from Asia to Kaufman warehouse to Checkers warehouse to the LQS - you're ultimately paying for ALL those transportation costs).
And each step/stop has its own mark-up.

Their fulfillment operation is part of a larger company, so there are economies of scale there.

Also, they can make a bit less per yard but make it up on volume.

Their quality is not as good as quilt store brands, IMO. Lots of threads on this if you do a search.

Haven't bought any thread yet but it's one of my favorite catalogues to order from!

i use their thread in my juki on my frame. it is a bit linty, but i'm happy with it

I haven't bought any fabric from them since they it was no longer American produced. Not their fault - everything went offshore. I really don't like their designs as much but it's a personal preference. Their thread was great with my Brother machine, but way too linty with my Bernina, so I stopped buying it. My suggestion is to buy a spool or two and see how your machine behaves with it. I still have my Brother machine, but only piece with it now, so I can still use up the thread that I bought.

I have used a lot of their thread in the past because you just can't beat the price for the selection. After a little scuffle with them over customer service about a year ago I haven't ordered since though. They sort of said "if you're not happy with us then don't let the door hit ya on the way out..." for the most part. I think that kinda stinks. :( As far as the fabric, in all fairness, I like it and have never had any issues. I actually really like their thread and was super bummed after my experience with them. Customer service is huge to me though so for future orders I'm spending a little more and buying Superior thread. They have been outstanding in that department.

I'd say if you're unsure try it and decide for yourself. Free shipping over $50 when purchasing online is a great enticement. I don't think there is anything wrong with their products. :)

Edited to add: No I don't think it compares to Superior or Aurifil or some of the higher end brands. It compares more to Coats and Clark thread in my opinion and I like Coats and Clark but my sewing machine doesn't! :) If I had a choice between C&C and CT, even though they ticked me off I'd pick CT. ;)

There fabric quality is excellent!! I order from them often. Their price for their Batik fabrics is great. I recently called them asking they come out with some "Shabby Chic" fabric prints for a change. Many of their prints are too "cutsie" for me but many I also like.