The main places to buy sewing material
You can buy fabric and sewing supplies at fabric stores, big-box retailers, online shops, and secondhand sources. Each has different prices, selection, and return policies. Your choice depends on what you need, how quickly you need it, and whether you want to see and touch the material before buying.
Fabric stores carry the widest range of materials and staff who know how to answer questions about weight, weave, and care. Big-box stores like Walmart and Target stock basics at lower prices but less variety. Online retailers offer convenience and often lower prices, but you cannot inspect the fabric in person. Secondhand sources like thrift stores and fabric swaps cost less but require patience to find what you want.
Key Takeaways
- Fabric stores employ staff trained in sewing and carry specialty materials like silk, linen, and technical fabrics that big-box stores do not stock.
- Big-box retailers sell cotton basics and thread at lower prices but have limited selection and may not restock specific colors or weights.
- Online fabric shops let you order from home and often have lower prices than local stores, but shipping takes time and you cannot feel the material before it arrives.
- Thrift stores, estate sales, and fabric swaps offer used fabric and supplies at a fraction of retail cost if you have time to hunt.
Fabric stores and specialty shops
Joann Fabrics is the largest fabric chain in the United States, with over 800 locations. They carry cotton, knits, fleece, specialty fabrics like silk and linen, notions (buttons, zippers, thread), patterns, and tools. Staff can answer questions about fabric weight and fiber content. Joann runs frequent sales and coupons — checking their website or app before you go can cut prices by 20 to 50 percent.
Independent fabric shops exist in most cities and towns. They typically stock higher-quality materials, carry local or regional brands, and employ people who sew themselves. Prices are often higher than Joann, but selection is curated and staff information is detailed. Many independent shops also offer classes, which can be worth the cost if you are learning a new technique.
Specialty shops focus on one type of fabric — quilting cotton, knits, upholstery, or technical fabrics. If you sew a specific type of project, a specialty shop will have deeper stock in that category and staff who know the material inside out. These shops are usually found in larger cities or online.
Big-box retailers and discount chains
Walmart, Target, and Kohl's sell basic sewing supplies and cotton fabric at prices 20 to 40 percent lower than fabric stores. Their stock includes solid-color cotton, fleece, thread, needles, scissors, and straightforward patterns. Selection is limited — you will find common colors and weights but not specialty materials or unusual prints.
These stores restock slowly, so if you need a specific color or weight and they are out, it may not come back. Return policies vary: Walmart and Target accept returns with a receipt within 90 days, but Kohl's has a shorter window. If you are new to sewing and want to practice on inexpensive material, big-box stores are a good starting point.
Online fabric retailers
Etsy hosts thousands of fabric sellers, from small mills to individual makers. You can find vintage fabric, hand-dyed materials, and specialty prints. Prices vary widely — some sellers charge more than local stores, others less. Shipping is usually $5 to $15 per order, and delivery takes 5 to 14 days. Read seller reviews and return policies before you buy, because some sellers do not accept returns on cut fabric.
Fabric.com, Mood Fabrics, and Spoonflower are dedicated online fabric retailers. Fabric.com carries a broad range of materials at prices similar to or lower than Joann. Mood Fabrics specializes in designer and specialty fabrics. Spoonflower prints custom fabric from your own design or from their library of independent designers. All three ship within 5 to 10 business days and accept returns within 30 days if the fabric is unused.
Amazon sells fabric and supplies, but quality is inconsistent — read reviews carefully and check the return policy. Some sellers ship from overseas, which adds 2 to 4 weeks to delivery time. If you have Amazon Prime, shipping is faster and free, which can offset higher prices.
Thrift stores and secondhand sources
Thrift stores like Goodwill and Salvation Army sell used fabric, yarn, and sometimes new supplies at 50 to 80 percent below retail. Stock changes constantly, so you have to visit often and be flexible about what you find. Fabric may be stained, faded, or have limited yardage, so inspect carefully before you buy.
Estate sales and garage sales often include fabric and sewing supplies from people who have stopped sewing. Prices are negotiable, and you can sometimes find vintage or high-quality material at a fraction of what it would cost new. Check local listings on Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, or estate sale websites in your area.
Fabric swaps are informal exchanges where sewers bring fabric they no longer want and trade or buy from each other. These happen in person at sewing groups, quilting circles, and community centers, or online through Facebook groups. Prices are low and you meet other people who sew.
Comparing price, speed, and selection
| Source | Price | Selection | Speed | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Joann Fabrics | Medium (with coupons: low) | Wide | Same day (in-store) | Cotton, basics, patterns |
| Independent fabric shop | Medium to high | Curated | Same day (in-store) | Specialty fabrics, information |
| Big-box retailer | Low | Limited | Same day (in-store) | Budget projects, basics |
| Online fabric retailer | Low to medium | Very wide | 5–14 days | Specialty fabrics, variety |
| Thrift store | Very low | Unpredictable | Same day (in-store) | Budget projects, vintage |
What to check before you buy
Look at the fiber content on the label or product description. Cotton, linen, and wool behave differently than synthetics or blends. Check the weight — lightweight cotton is different from heavy canvas, and the pattern you choose may need a specific weight to drape or hold shape correctly.
If you are buying online, read the return policy. Some sellers accept returns only if the fabric is uncut and in original condition. Others do not accept returns at all. If you are unsure about color or texture, buy a small amount first or order a swatch before committing to yardage.
Ask about shrinkage if you plan to wash the finished project. Some fabrics shrink 3 to 5 percent, others more. If the seller does not list shrinkage, assume cotton will shrink and buy extra yardage or pre-wash the fabric before cutting.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much fabric do I need to buy?
That depends on the project. A straightforward pillowcase needs about one yard; a dress or skirt usually needs 1.5 to 3 yards depending on size and pattern. Always check the pattern instructions before you buy. If you are unsure, buy a quarter yard extra — it is cheaper than ordering more later and paying shipping again.
Can I return fabric if I change my mind?
Most fabric stores accept returns within 30 to 90 days with a receipt, as long as the fabric is uncut and in original condition. Online retailers vary — some accept returns, others do not. Check the return policy before you buy. Thrift stores and secondhand sources usually do not accept returns.
Is online fabric cheaper than buying in person?
Sometimes. Online retailers often have lower prices than local stores, but shipping costs $5 to $15 per order. If you are buying a small amount, shipping may make the total cost higher than buying locally. Compare the total cost including shipping before you order.
What is the difference between quilting cotton and regular cotton?
Quilting cotton is tightly woven and holds its shape well, making it good for structured projects. Regular cotton is looser and drapes more, making it better for clothing. Quilting cotton is usually slightly more expensive. For a beginner, either works — choose based on the project you want to make.
Where can I find fabric if my local store does not have what I need?
Online retailers like Etsy, Fabric.com, and Mood Fabrics carry specialty materials and hard-to-find prints. Shipping takes longer, but selection is much wider. If you need fabric fast, call independent shops in nearby cities — many ship small orders quickly.