I am a new quilter in the toddler phase. Just wondering what the difference in fabric is between Joann's and my local quilt shop? Joann's is cheaper and I get an extra 10% VIP discount.

occasionally they will have a bolt or two of the same fabric, but not very often. the quality of quilt shops are usually way better, but joanns has some good quality fabrics too. much better variety at local shops also. joanns carries mostly alot of their own fabrics designed just for their stores. just check for yourself the difference in the quality and you can see for yourself. also a preference on who one would rather support. . . local shops are corporations!

Given the amount of work, time, effort, love, sweat, and sometimes tears (smile) one puts into a quilt, I recommend purchasing the best quality fabric affordable to ensure longevity. IMHO

Think you meant to say "local shops OR corporations" :)

I haven't shopped at Joanne's for ages because I wasn't finding quality fabrics at mine. You can feel the difference when you finger them. The difference is mostly in the thread count, like 200 ct sheets on your bed vs 400 or 800.

Some of the gal's here have said they get LQS quality from an online store called "Connecting Threads.com". I actually just placed an order this evening for a few of their sale fabrics, so I'll know when I get them. Their prices are VERY GOOD!! Especially if you shop the clearance section, which I did for my trial. I also bought some of their thread so I'll try that too.

it has taken a few years to learn the feel of fabric --i was advised to carry a 5x5 peice of good fabric [unwashed] when buying "bargain' fabrics untill i developed the feel of the ' HAND' but it still depends on what you want them for a gift like a wedding quilt deserves the best an i spy for a jelly+ juice toddler needs to be bright + washable put the good stuff in the graduation quilt

Since you are a new quilter I see nothing wrong with going to Joanns or Hancocks and trying to find a nice quality fabric on sale or with cupons if you have them. That's what I did when I started not wanting to pay the higher price for fabrics when learning. Now I only use QS quality (quilt shop) fabrics. Once you feel you are happy with your quilting then you can move up on quality so to speak. You will learn by touch/feel, thread count quality fabrics in your own way. Just make sure for now you can't see through the fabric and you will be just fine. There are many people that never purchase QS quality fabrics because of cost and their quilts are still stunning and beautiful. You just have to decide for yourself what works and is pleasing to you and most importantly what you feel you can afford and not cause problems with your budget.