fabric

Susan please don't think I was being critical, online shopping isn't the problem, it's the large chain stores that are closing our LQS, the likes of Joanne's and here its Spotlight. Shopping online is still from a quilt store, mostly. I'm sorry the lights give you such trouble, I have a friend with the same problem, even I have trouble with them when they decide to flicker and I don't have epilepsy, flouros are nasty things. I also have problems with the super high pitch whistle that some of them emit.

I usually shop online too...but only purchase marked down fabric or use coupons for percentages off. However, lately, I have noticed a sales pattern. Some of the shops are raising their "back when prices were low" to the NOW prices and then putting them "on sale" for the former price. I would have not noticed this had I not been surfing the web and shopping locally for months hoping for a sale. I usually will not buy from these merchants. I know that in these times we all need extra, but....

I have bought fabric only once online, and that was just a sold black (from MSQC). I've always wondered how the colors in the photos compare with the actual fabric once you get it. Do you ladies just buy for your stash, or when you buy are you putting together fabric for a quilt?

Hi everyone! Great question!
I rarely buy online unless something really grabs me. I have the opportunity to buy from quilt shops in Lancaster - some are pricey (current new prices), lots are discounted. I usually hit the discounted shops - they are all fabric only shops so I am doing my part to keep them in business. I only stop at Joann's anymore to get my batting with a coupon. I don't make that much an hour so I have to think how many hours I want to work to afford such and such these days. With EVERYTHING going up, it wouldn't be easy for me to justify spending $10. something a yard on fabric - even if it is my love.
I usually 'shop' my stash first, then shop at the stores if there is something or particular shade of color that I need. I will probably be working on my long list of UFO's for the rest of this year though so unless I see something I MUST have while I am out at a quilt show like the one coming up in Hershey at the end of July, I won't be making any special trips or looking online to buy 'just because'.
Hugs,

Lynn, don't worry I didn't think you were being critical. I am fine about my epilepsy and have had it for 23 years now. This is the hand that I was dealt and have found many people with the same problem. I believe it has enabled me to see things from a different perspective.

I personally only shop at JoAnn's for the batting. Purchasing fabric online is a chore. The pictures distort the colors and I rely on the description to give me an idea of the actual color. I also put notations in the "comments" section of the order form as to what color/shade I am looking for and if the item is not that color could they please call me. You'd be surprised how nice these shops are to call me with the information.

Quilters are the best!!!! I have never found a more honest, compassonite group.

yes its horrible. I have so much stash I am sticking to just buying backing and background when need to. I don't buy anymore unless its a great price