Hi there,
Thanks for visiting us today.
Shopping online has become more and more prevalent these days. Specially when you want to find something different than what your local store can provide.
This is a trend that has been incorporated into the fabric shopping behavior of every single sewist out there.
It is easier than ever, convenient and the prices are very competitive.
There are a few things to keep in mind when buying fabric online:
1. Know your fabrics: The options and variety can be overwhelming, I know. When I started buying fabrics online, I decided to stick with the types of textile I knew. Then, I purchase a few books to learn more about fabrics and I felt confident enough to purchase a wider variety.
2. When unsure about the fabrics, purchase a swatch: It will make your life easier.
3. Check shipping options: I find this part very important. The shipping costs on a parcel are a deal breaker for me. I always double check the rates, the options and the extra costs that they have. Check before getting all excited! (trust me)
4. Check the fabric amounts: Some stores will ask the yardage amount you want to purchase, some will ask for meters. However, more independent fabric stores online will ask for a specific quantity; units you want to purchase (it can be 1/2 yard, 1/4 yard, etc). Check what will be the equivalent per unit purchased.
5. Look for a blog link to check on ideas for projects: Most fabric stores these days provide a blog with great tips, tutorials and projects showcasing their fabrics. This will give you a better idea of the overall quality of the fabrics you want to purchase and useful ideas for future projects.
6. Youtube videos: Similar to number 5. This has become more and more prevalent in fabric stores. The video tutorials are a great way to check on the fabric quality that the store is offering. Plus, there are great tips and ideas on them!
7. Find bloggers who often talk about its fabric store choices. It is always good to have a great recommendation before buying online 😉
Here is a short list of my favorite fabric stores online. They have been always helpful t answer my questions and the shipping rates (and time) are very convenient:
Please, click on the names to be re-direct to the online store:
DGPATTERNS
Thanks for visiting us today!
Natalie Darcy says
I have recently been getting more into sewing and tailoring my own clothing. Since I am new to this, I have yet to learn how to effectively navigate through a fabric store! Do you have any advice on how to do this best? I appreciate an article like this with such helpful advice concerning shopping for fabric online. I will be applying your tips in this area the next time I try to buy fabric online, thank you!
Daniela says
Thanks for your comment Natalie,
I found it challenging to buy fabric online at the beginning. I tended to keep it for the quilting cotton type of fabric for a while, since I was sure what I was going to get. Then, I starting learning more about fabrics: Fabrics and Pattern Cutting by Winifred Aldrich really helped me to understand what fabric will do best on specific patterns. Some fabric stores have better navigation search on their sites. I use search engines on stores to check for fabrics. I also sign up for newsletters with new arrivals and blog post on suggested fabrics, that always give me good ideas 🙂
Happy Sewing!
Meg Lund says
I never knew that buying fabric online was an option, however, it seems like a really great way to get those unique or limited fabrics you want! That being said, I really like the suggestion you give to know your fabrics. Shopping online for fabrics you know nothing about could be really hard, and you will probably order the wrong stuff. Thus, doing your research and knowing your fabrics will help you to buy what you are looking for and what you want. Thank you for sharing!
ora exacta says
Am aflat aceasta pagina, dupa ce am cautat despre 7
Useful tips to buy fabric online pe Google. Se pare ca informatia
dvs e foarte valoroasa, mai ales ca am mai gasit aici si despre ora, ora
exacta, lucruri interesante si folositoare. Mult succes in continuare!