Ladies,
I have a dear friend that is praying about opening a quilt store in our town in texas. I am doing some leg work for her on her and we'd like to hear from YOU.

Please tell me what you MOST like about the quilt shops you shop.
What you DON"T LIKE at them
What you'd LOVE to see them have, do or carry
Anything else that you would like to suggest as a must have for a new shop owner.
What do you like in notions, or fabrics or patterns?
Just tell us what YOU would have in a quilt store if YOU could open your own.

Thanks, this should be fun to see everyones suggestions. I can't wait.
:)

courtyous staff resonable prices and a large fat quarter bin with current stuff not just junk. also a nice clearance area.

reasonable prices and good hours -- especially for those of us that work during normal hours (8-5). I love having some evening or Sunday hours...because that is usually the only time I have to go. Being open 10-4, tuesday-saturday means that i can rarely shop there.

A large room with tables to lay out backs and tops for pinning and space for guild meetings.

Variety of selection of patterns and notions!

My LQS is so very sweet and kind.

1. They have someone in the shop trained to sharpen scissors there in the shop while you wait. You dont have to leave your babies.

2. They have a play area for little ones set up in a safe area of the store(not near any doors) that can be seen from all areas of the store.

3. They have large tables available to set up and use at no charge if you want to come in and sandwich/pin your quilt.

4. They send out class lists both by mail or email. Which ever works best for you.

5. They have internet access and will order fabric/notions that they dont have in stock or dont normally carry.

Thank you to those of you that have already left some suggestions. These are great! Keep'em coming.

courteous staff (no quilt police)

carts to carry fabric bolts

loyalty cards

Staff that not only says, "Can I help you" but actually leaves the counter and DOES try to help you find what you need!

Evening classes are my favorite things ever. I work during the week and on Saturdays, so those are the only ones I'm ever able to attend.

Hours until 7pm on some nights are also very convenient.

The biggest thing that encourages me to go a few extra miles for one quilt shop over another is being greeted by friendly and personable staff. One store is very "snooty" and you know they just want you in there to spend your money. The other is fun and I appreciate being greeted when I enter and having someone ask if I need any help (whether I do or not).

A big, beautiful batik section also draws me over like a magnet.