I bought some solid black at joanns, decided I didn't have enough so I went back for more. When I got there I couldn't remember if I had bought broadcloth or quilters cotton so got the cheaper one. Once home I found that the blacks weren't the same shade or the same fabric content. So, lesson learned, check the bolt before you buy.

"broadcloth", in modern retailing, usually means a poly-cotton blend.

The symphony at Joann's is also a blend. I like their country classics solids. They are 100% cotton.

Debbie

http://www.calicoheartquiltshop.com/...iewDoc&docId=2

This site may help in the discussion of fabric grades and why you can feel a difference in the fabrics at your favorite quilt shop.

I bought some of that "Kona" fabric at JoAnns and was disappointed when I got home. It's thinner than I thought it was (I bought the white) and I ended up using a sheet with a tighter weave that I had on hand. I may use it later on in another project but will be purchasing higher quality basic fabrics for the stash for sure.

That's a great link, retrogirl, and it really sums up the reasons for the differences. Thanks. Kaufman's Kona is a denser weave (hence the term 'broadcloth') than even LQS printed quilting fabrics and I primarily use it for all solid quilts or for backings. It is a dream to work with and, at $3.98 a yard, is not expensive in my book (it's only $3.18 per yard by the bolt). I think maybe JoAnn's uses 'Kona' like most of us use 'Kleenex'. :?:

It's been years since I bought fabrics at JoAnn's, but not because I am a fabric snob (well, maybe a little :oops: ) and I am certainly not bashing anyone who does. I want the very best quality I can get for the quilts I make, most of which are my own designs and all of which are given as gifts to people I know and love. I buy mostly from local shops, more now than ever because of the state of the economy. I know I am blessed to have a great deal of choice about the matter. I simply do not want them to go out of business and will do all I can to support them during the rough times, just as they have supported me during the good. They are my friends and neighbors and their profits stay in the community. We all benefit in the end.

Thanks nor'easter. I do receive JoAnn gift certificates from friends out of town, most of whom aren't quilters. Mom and DH spoil me with LQS sprees at Christmas and B-day----sometimes mother's day as well. I prefer quilt shop fabric BY FAR but this is an expensive little hobby I have going on and I'm a SAHM. I'll use my stash and add to it every chance I get (never say no to fabric!!!).

I tend to buy notions at JoAnns and an occasional block of the month because I'd never be able to do one on time through the quilt shop and I can learn it at my own pace. I also purchase most of my books through Amazon now because the last one I bought at the quilt shop cost double what it was online. I just purchased a book recommended here and a companion and got free shipping. The two books together were less than one at the shop. ON the other hand, I couldn't imagine buying applique supplies through a chain store and I prefer the patterns available at the quilt store, too. I want to have my cake and eat it too. What can I say?
HAPPY SEWING!

You buy what you can afford...incomes vary. I am on social security, and am supporting a granchild. I own my house but have all the bills to contend with taxes, groceries, heat, replacing appliance, ect. These all come first. Then I can buy a bit of fabric...some where in the midprice range, and a few old clothes and sheets. I would love to buy all top of the line, but no can do....I like my quilts and so do my family and friends :wink: :wink: :wink: :wink: :oops: :oops: :mrgreen: :mrgreen: :roll: :roll: :roll: