The main places to buy fabric are fabric stores, big-box retailers, online shops, and secondhand sources—each with different prices, selection, and return policies
You can find sewing fabric at dedicated fabric stores, chain retailers like Walmart and Target, specialty online shops, and thrift stores. The choice depends on what you need: dedicated fabric stores offer the widest range and staff who know textiles, while online retailers often have lower prices and access to hard-to-find materials. Big-box stores are convenient for basics but carry limited selection. Thrift stores and fabric swaps cost less but require patience to find what you want.
Each source has trade-offs. If you need information on fiber weight or care, a local store with trained staff saves time. If you want a specific designer print or custom color, online is your only option. If your budget is tight, thrift stores and discount chains stretch your money furthest. Most sewers use multiple sources depending on the project.
Key Takeaways
- Independent fabric stores and chains like Joann Fabrics stock bolts of cloth organized by fiber type and weight, with staff who can advise on fabric choice for your project.
- Online retailers including Etsy, Spoonflower, and fabric-specific sites ship to your home and often carry designer, vintage, and custom-printed options not found locally.
- Big-box stores like Walmart, Target, and Costco sell basic cotton and blends at lower prices but typically stock only a few colors and patterns.
- Thrift stores, estate sales, and fabric swaps offer used and vintage fabric at a fraction of retail cost, though selection changes constantly.
- Return policies vary widely—some stores allow returns with a receipt, while online shops may not accept returns on cut yardage.
Dedicated fabric stores and what they carry
Joann Fabrics is the largest fabric chain in the United States, with over 800 locations. They stock quilting cotton, knits, woven suiting, linen, specialty fabrics like minky and fleece, and notions (thread, zippers, buttons, elastic). Staff are trained in fabric types and can help you choose material for a specific garment or project. Joann runs frequent sales and coupons—checking their website or app before you go can cut costs significantly.
Independent fabric stores vary by region but typically carry higher-quality materials than chains, including European imports, natural fibers, and designer prints. They often have smaller inventories but deeper knowledge. Many now offer online ordering with local pickup or shipping. Search "fabric store near me" to find independents in your area, or check the American Sewing Guild directory for recommendations. Staff at these stores often sew themselves and can answer questions about how a fabric will behave in a finished garment.
Specialty stores focused on quilting, knitting, or garment sewing exist in many cities. Quilting shops stock precuts (charm packs, layer cakes, jelly rolls) and high-end cotton. Knit-specific stores carry jersey, rib, and stretch fabrics. These shops usually have staff who sew themselves and can answer detailed questions about fiber content and care. They also often host classes and sewing circles, which can help you learn which fabrics work best for different projects.
Online fabric retailers and their strengths
Etsy connects you directly to independent sellers worldwide. You can find vintage fabric, hand-dyed materials, and small-batch prints. Prices range from budget to premium. Shipping times vary—some sellers ship within days, others take weeks. Read seller reviews and shipping estimates before ordering. Many Etsy sellers specialize in specific types of fabric, so you can search for exactly what you need rather than browsing a general inventory.
Spoonflower specializes in custom-printed fabric. You upload your own design or choose from thousands of existing patterns, then order it printed on your choice of base fabric (cotton, linen, knit, etc.). Prices are higher than mass-produced fabric but useful for unique projects. They also sell pre-designed fabric from independent artists. This is the best option if you want a pattern or color that does not exist in stores.
General online retailers like Amazon, Fabric.com, and Mood Fabrics stock a wide range at competitive prices. Fabric.com and Mood are fabric-specific and have detailed descriptions and fiber content. Amazon's fabric selection is large but quality varies—read reviews carefully. Shipping is usually fast, but return policies differ: some allow returns on uncut yardage, others do not accept returns on fabric at all. Always check the return policy before adding to your cart.
International sites like Minerva Crafts (UK) and Tessuti Fabrics (Australia) ship worldwide and carry European and specialty materials not easily found in the US. Shipping costs are higher but useful if you need a specific type of cloth. These retailers often stock natural fibers and quality prints that appeal to experienced sewers willing to pay for premium material.
Big-box and discount retailers
Walmart and Target carry basic fabric in their craft sections—mostly cotton prints, solid knits, and fleece. Selection is limited (usually 10 to 20 bolts in-store) and changes seasonally. Prices are low, making these stores good for beginners or large-yardage projects where cost matters more than variety. Staff typically cannot advise on fabric choice, so you need to know what you are looking for before you arrive.
Costco occasionally stocks fabric bundles and precuts at steep discounts, but inventory is unpredictable. You must be a member, and selection changes weekly. Check in-store or ask staff when new fabric shipments arrive if you want to catch good deals. Some Costco locations stock fabric more regularly than others, so call ahead if you are planning a trip specifically for fabric.
Discount fabric chains like Hancock Fabrics (now online-only) and local closeout stores sell overstock and discontinued lines at 30 to 50 percent below regular retail. Quality is the same as full-price fabric—you are buying what did not sell elsewhere. These stores are worth visiting if you live near one, since prices can be significantly lower than chain fabric stores.
Thrift stores and secondhand sources
Thrift stores like Goodwill, Salvation Army, and local consignment shops often have fabric sections with vintage cloth, quilting cotton, and upholstery material. Prices are typically $0.50 to $3 per yard. Selection is unpredictable and changes daily, so frequent visits pay off. Fabric condition varies—inspect for stains, tears, and fading before buying. Many experienced sewers check thrift stores regularly because you can find high-quality vintage fabric at a fraction of what it would cost new.
Estate sales and auctions sometimes include large fabric stashes. Search "estate sale" plus your city to find upcoming sales. You may find rare vintage cloth and large quantities at low prices, though you usually cannot return items. Estate sales are also good places to find vintage patterns and sewing notions alongside fabric.
Fabric swaps and sewing circles in your area trade or sell fabric to members. Check local sewing groups on Facebook or Meetup to find swaps near you. These are social events where you can also ask other sewers for recommendations on where they shop and what fabrics work best for different projects. Many swaps are free to join and let you trade fabric you no longer want for pieces other people are clearing out.
How to compare prices and quality across sources
Price per yard varies widely depending on fiber content and source. A basic cotton print costs $6 to $10 at Joann, $4 to $8 on Amazon, and $1 to $3 at a thrift store. Designer or specialty fabric (linen, silk, technical knits) ranges from $12 to $30 per yard at independent stores and $8 to $25 online. Thrift fabric is always cheapest but may be discontinued or have limited yardage. Keep in mind that sales and coupons can shift these ranges significantly, especially at chain stores.
Check fiber content and care instructions before buying. A label should list the fiber (cotton, polyester, linen, etc.) and washing instructions. If buying online, read the product description carefully—some retailers list fiber content, others do not. Contact the seller if information is missing. Knowing the fiber content helps you choose the right fabric for your project and understand how it will behave when washed or worn.
Return policies matter, especially when ordering online. Joann accepts returns with a receipt within 30 days. Most online retailers do not accept returns on cut yardage. Thrift stores typically do not accept returns. If you are unsure about a fabric choice, buy a small amount first or ask the seller about their policy before ordering. Some online retailers offer swatches for a small fee, which can help you see the color and texture before committing to yardage.
Factors to consider when choosing where to shop
Selection: Independent stores and online retailers offer the most variety. Big-box stores are limited. Thrift stores are unpredictable but sometimes have unique finds. If you have a specific vision for a project, online shopping gives you the best chance of finding exactly what you want.
Price: Thrift stores and discount chains are cheapest. Online retailers are mid-range. Independent stores and specialty shops are usually most expensive but offer quality and informed. Your budget may determine where you shop, or you might use different sources for different projects depending on how much you want to spend.
Speed: Local stores let you see and touch fabric when ready. Online shipping takes 3 to 14 days depending on the retailer and your location. If you are working on a important date, shopping locally saves time. If you have flexibility, online shopping opens up options not available nearby.
informed: Staff at independent and specialty stores can advise on fiber choice, weight, and care. Joann staff have basic training. Big-box and thrift store staff typically cannot help with fabric questions. If you are new to sewing, shopping at a store with knowledgeable staff can help you avoid mistakes.
Convenience: Local stores save shipping costs and let you return items easily. Online shopping works if you know what you want or do not mind waiting for delivery. Consider whether you prefer the experience of browsing in person or the convenience of ordering from home.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I return fabric if I change my mind?
Return policies vary. Joann Fabrics accepts returns within 30 days with a receipt. Most online retailers do not accept returns on cut yardage, though some allow returns on uncut bolts. Thrift stores and discount chains typically do not accept returns. Always check the policy before buying, especially online.
What is the difference between quilting cotton and regular cotton?
Quilting cotton is tightly woven, durable, and usually 44 to 45 inches wide. It holds its shape well and is ideal for garments and quilts. Regular cotton (sometimes called broadcloth) is softer and looser-weave, better for lightweight shirts and dresses. Both are 100 percent cotton but feel and behave differently. Quilting cotton costs slightly more but lasts longer.
How much fabric should I buy for a project?
Pattern instructions tell you the yardage needed. If you do not have a pattern, a straightforward shirt typically needs 1.5 to 2.5 yards, a dress 2 to 3.5 yards, and a quilt 5 to 10 yards depending on size. Always buy a bit extra (0.25 to 0.5 yards) for shrinkage and mistakes. Staff at fabric stores can help estimate if you describe your project.
Is online fabric cheaper than buying in-store?
Sometimes. Online retailers often have lower prices than independent stores but similar or higher prices than Joann during sales. Shipping costs add to the total. Thrift stores are always cheapest. Compare the final price including shipping before ordering online.
Where can I find fabric for a specific project, like swimwear or upholstery?
Specialty stores carry project-specific fabric: swimwear shops stock chlorine-resistant knits, quilting stores carry quilting cotton, and upholstery shops stock heavy woven cloth. Online, search the fiber type plus the project (e.g., "swimsuit knit fabric" or "upholstery linen"). Etsy sellers often specialize in niche fabrics. Staff at independent stores can also order specialty materials if they do not stock them.