CompulsiveQuilter

I worked at Joann's for many years and bought tons of fabric, never knowing the difference between that and LQS fabs. OH WHAT A DIFFERENCE! Next time I need big yardage, I will bite the bullet and buy from my LQS, without a doubt. Joann's "designer" brands are good, but priced about the same as LQS. You can almost tell the quality of Joann's fabs by the price - and they have a big range of prices.

Tinabodina

I touch it and feel it. If I like what I feel, I buy it. It is that simple.

Pieces2

Quality fabrics will give you a quality quilt. A quality quilt will last longer through washings and wear. Cheaper fabric from Wal-Mart, some of JoAnns will be a cheaper looser woven fabric.
A better quality fabric is thicker, a closely woven fabric. Hold a cheap fabric and then a good quality fabric you will be able to tell the different easily by the feel. Better quality fabrics from a quilt store will produce a better quality quilt, you will be able to look at the finished quilt and tell right away if the fabric is a cheap fabric or a better quality fabric.
I prefer to buy good quality fabrics, buying when they have thier sales. I would rather buy fewer yards of better quality fabrics than more yardage of cheaper fabrics.

bbt4358

ditto

jad1044

I too am a cost conscious fabric buyer; but I make sure it is of good quality before buying; I even find many beautiful fabrics at the thrift shops - sometimes almost full bolts of it - be sure it does not smell smokey, stale or moldy before you purchase it - it is hard to get them smelling nice and sometimes you can't... but be a cautious buyer, and seek bargains of good quality - wherever you might be...

lisalovesquilting

My sentiments exactly.

skowron5

I was told by the owner of my LQS that they make 3 runs of fabric. The first goes to quilt stores, next a store like Joanns and the third to smaller stores I am not sure if you have heard of Ben Franklin that would be a place it would go. I am not sure where Walmart would fit in.

I have noticed lately the LQS fabric is not as good quality as it used to be

Bren

It's wonderful that you feel confident enough to embark on a Baltimore Album quilt. I have admired them for years, but have not made one yet. My feeling is this type of quilt is destined to become an heirloom; I would buy the best fabric I could afford for this project. Having said that, I agree with some of the other responders that it is possible to get good fabric at JoAnn's. You just have to touch and feel. Good luck!

bearisgray

I've found that how a fabric is like AFTER it's been washed and dried is a good thing to know.

I like Kona cottons for some things, but I think it's unwieldy for applique work.

time2quilt

I have purchased fabric from Walmart, JoAnn's, rummage sales, flea markets and about everywhere else. I agree that I don't like the thinner or stiff fabric. Once you start "feeling" the fabric, you'll see what we all mean. I have found that I can buy very good quality fabric online that is in the price range of Walmart and JoAnns. Buy what you like and can afford. Good Luck.