jamh

Our local wal mart is shutting down its fabric department!! It's so sad! And the next closest shop is 1 1/2 to 2 hours way. which is just to far to run for last minute project. So i was wondering if i opened a store in my town, where would i get the bolts of fabric, notions, all the good stuff! i haven't done any research yet, just wanted to say it out loud, get some feed back. You know? your ideas!

Shemjo

You would have to go Wholesale! Marshalldrygoods sells wholesale as well as retail. Do research before you invest!

Scissor Queen

Checkers distributers, United Notions, the Moda repesentative.

Tippy

Yep, I'd contact wholesale distributors before jumping in with both feet..
We recently had LQS close.. but this week... a new shop opened in the same location... Color me tickled!!! and she has a MUCH better selection.. she actually has some bright fabrics. and she was telling me some of her plans for the shop.. sounds WONDERFUL!!
One bit of advice I'd offer.. it's nice to stock what you love.. but remember, not everyone is going to have your same taste.. that was one problem with the other shop.. only bought what SHE liked.... ICK!!!

Scissor Queen

I wouldn't even consider opeing a store unless I had a hundred grand in the bank. 3/4 for inventory ans start up costs and the rest to keep the store running for 6 months or so.

wvdek

Hmm... that's a lot of dough, but of course you are probably correct. Wish our town had something better.

lacikat

Our Walmart eliminated fabric about a year ago, shortly after JoAnn's closed their local store so we have to travel at least 25 mile for a decent selection. We have one shop that carries only primitives and one that carries apparently what she likes. Neither has what I care to work with. But all the other Walmarts I've been to in Michigan still have fabric although I hear they are going to discontinue it. Oh well, now I have a lot less reasons to go there.

Skeat

If you are serious, then here's some suggestions I'd suggest...
*Check out library books on business, espec quilt business
*Find a way to keep your store fees of rent, etc as low cost as possible
*File for not only a tax number but make sure to be a LLC (then you become a wholesaler on shows....all you have to do is inquire)
*You can start up w/a very least amount...for real!! Start w/essentials of basics...have yourself involved already while you prep in quilt groups...they will follow you:)Offer basic classes...and, even a tea time for all stitchers to come in and work on their projects for free....who wouldn't want to take a break and shop!:)Know that not all shops were loaded w/much money when they started...!
Those are the very basics...have a game/business plan of what you want...where you want to go, etc. What kind of quilt store do you want everyone to describe?? Most of all....Best of Luck!! Determination is what we are all about;)Skeat

jamh

thanks for the great ideas! im talking to the SBA yo see if they can help

PurplePassion

Something else to think about--if you are running a business, will you have time to enjoy making your own quilts?