Monday, December 12, 2016

Monday Musing: Online Fabric Shopping

What is your feeling about sewing in today's immediate-gratification world inundated with "cheap" clothing?  I've mentioned to my family and friends how I felt it's a dying art form, and the closing of brick-and-mortar stores like Hancock helps solidify this fear.  Having limited fabric sources in my area is a big deal for me, especially given my preference for feeling and handling fabric as part of my purchasing process.  There are many online fabric sources available, and I've honestly tried to shop them, but I can't seem to get past my need for tactile input.




So, I'm just curious to know if you purchase fabric online, and if so, what is your process in determining which fabrics you'll use for a given project?  Have you purchased something online that you've later found to be disappointing?  What was your recourse?  Is there an online resource you highly recommend, and why?

Please share...I'm really interested in hearing your thoughts.

Be blessed!

Aisha

4 comments:

  1. I shop online with a very open mind. Fabrics are sometimes what I expect, sometimes not, but when they are not, I usually find that they are perfect for something else I have had in mind.

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    1. Thanks, Sarah. I suppose I do need to come out of my comfort zone and change my MO when it comes to fabric shopping.

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  2. Ms. Aisha...I agree with Liz! I shop online with an open mind! I've actually experienced what you mentioned...ordered something online and when it arrived, it wasn't quite right for the project. However, it could be perfect for another project at some point...so into the stash it goes! I believe some online fabric stores will allow you to return the "unused" fabric if you really don't like it (you have to check their return policy first). You could always order a swatch before you commit. However, you have to be quick about it, because fabric supplies run out fast! I find it much easier to order online because I'm not overwhelmed with all the beautiful fabric in my face at once! I can sort just what I'm looking for and if I want to see what's new, most online stores have a category just for that too! I don't think sewing is a "dying art", it's just reformatting to fit today's society. There are so many people (men and women) choosing to sew their own clothing because they are tired of the "industry standards" and some because they love being creative (I'm a little of both!). To be honest, I am so very happy there is a online option for us...I've found beautiful, luscious fabrics for half the costs at times. Also, I've found things you can't get at a Hancock or Joann as well. (Can you tell I love online shopping? LOL!!). It's such a great option and there are soooooo many stores, that some of us have found our favorites and stuck with them. I shop with whomever has the best deal at that time for what I want. Fabricmart, Mood, Michael Levine (my fav right now...fast shipping!), Knitpop (they have great auctions and mystery boxes), Spandex World, Fashion Fabric Club...it goes on and on!

    Now that I've burned your ear, LMBO!! If you're interested, order some swatches before you commit. Good Luck!

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    1. LOL...Myra, I so love the openness with which you provide feedback. You have given me a lot of information to process and I so appreciate that. Thanks, also, for the source recommendations...I'm familiar with the first 3 you noted, but others are very new to me...I will absolutely have to check them out. Thank you again!!

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