Quilt Kits, Is there a Difference?
 

Thinking about purchasing a quilt kit for a quilt pattern I like but wondering if there is a difference in them. Who to purchase from? It is listed on Etsy for $25 cheaper than the same thing direct from the designer. It looks like the same thing but is there that much difference? Neither one includes backing or binding so that is not it. Help me out here. I could put it together myself but then I run into finding shops that carry all the fabrics I need and have to purchase them in larger quantities than needed. Appreciate your input on this. Postage is not included so that is not a factor either.
Carol

I don't know about the kit you are interested in, but I do know that there can be a huge difference in the price of the same kit from one seller to another, or even from the same seller depending on whether or not it's on sale at the time. The designer may not discount her product because that devalues it to those who buy it for resale. Some things to watch out for are whether the cuts are generous or skimpy, and whether you will get the same fabrics pictured with the kit or substitutions. Buying kits can be less expensive than purchasing the pattern and individual fabrics. If all else looks equal, and if the seller has a good reputation, I would go for the cheaper price.

I order lots of kits from Missouri Star Company and Connecting Threads. I have had great luck with both companies. Try them, they also have lots of sales and daily deals. Good luck

As long as it is the same kit I would go for it but if the Etsy sales person uses different fabrics or cuts it himself, I would be way more hesitant. I have never been happy when I bought kits like that. It seems the fabrics were lower quality, not good substitutes both print and color and or cut to tight. Often it was all of them. Definitely do shop around as prices on the same kits can vary greatly. Also be sure to check shipping costs.

Fat Quarter Shop, I found, is very generous with their fabric. I always have a nice stash when I’m done with their quilt kits. Can’t say the same about any other online shop and I buy lots of quilt kits. FQS even packages their kits beautifully! I always go through them first. Give them a shot. They have the most quilt kits of any online store, by far. Jeanne

I've only bought kits from Craftsy. I had a couple of problems with the fabrics but they immediately fixed it. Wonderful customer service.

I would message the seller on Etsy and ask the pertinent questions? Same fabrics? and anything else you want to know.

I agree, contact the Etsy seller and ask if they've prepared the kit themselves or are re-selling one they purchased. I have found that they are always happy to answer questions.

Jordan Fabrics has very nice selection of kits of various patterns. I have bought from them and the kits are excellent. Not affliated at all just a satisfied customer.

I have bought several kits on eBay - resales of known sellers (Connecting Threads, Keepsake etc.): have gotten some great deals.

I purchased 2 quilt kits from Craftsy just minutes ago at a great price - a lot less than I would have to pay for the fabrics individually. My experience with them has been very good. In the past, I had one kit that was short on fabric (just 1 jelly roll when 2 were promised), so I immediately contacted customer service and I received a very nice apology along with immediate shipment of the second jelly roll. I usually buy kits to add to my stash of fabrics, not to actually make the kit quilt.

I had another experience at a LQS that was not promising. I had selected some fabric on a bolt, but the bolt didn't have the full amount I needed, so the clerk just went to one of their kits and removed the fabric from the kit. When I protested, I was told that they would just put another fabric into the kit to replace it. Obviously the kit would then be different than what was intended. I've never been back to that shop.

I'd say be SURE that if you encounter an issue; like you're short a fabric or not enough of what was supposed to be in it, that they will make it 'right' and not quibble with you about it. My mom bought one from a local quilt store and it was short fabric and they wouldn't make it right, so be careful. I've bought a few kits from mostly my local quilt shop and i know them so haven't had an issue but I know people have. Good luck. We as usual - want pics!

I just purchased some nice kits from Craftsy on sale and they do have nice kits. I like to have them on hand and the fabric can be used for other quilts as well. One of the kits with backing was only 76.00 and there are a total of 22 yards of fabric.

I have shopped from MSQC, Connecting Threads, Fat Quarter shop and Jordan's with no problem with their quality of fabric in their kits. I usually add to my scrap container with all of them. Good luck with whatever you decide to do and don't forget to post pics!

I've been told that these 2 companies are also generous with their fabric cuts, so you don't have to worry about
running short.

I recommend that whoever you purchase your kit from … open it immediately and check your yardage. I know friends that have waited for "years" to finally get started on a kit and find missing or a shortage of fabric and it is too late to purchase more of that line.

Thank You!
 

I would like to thank each of you for responding to my question. You have all been very helpful and gave me lots of information to think on and ask before I purchase. I appreciate you taking time out of your day and helping me. Some days we need all the help we can get or at least I do.

Carol