The fastest way to find fabric and supplies near you
Your best options are a local fabric store, a big-box craft retailer, or a general merchandise store with a fabric section. Fabric stores stock the widest range of materials and usually have staff who know sewing, but they are less common than they used to be. Craft chains like Joann Fabrics are in most towns and carry fabric, thread, patterns, and notions all in one place. Walmart and Target have smaller fabric sections with basics—cotton prints, thread, elastic, zippers—but limited specialty materials. The store that works best depends on what you need and how soon you need it.
The fastest way to find what is near you is to search "fabric store near me" or "quilt shop near me" on Google Maps, then call ahead to confirm hours and current stock. If you know exactly what you want, most chain stores let you order online and pick up the same day. If you are browsing or need information, visiting in person saves time and lets you see and feel the material before you buy.
Key Takeaways
- Local independent fabric stores offer the most informed and the widest selection, but you need to search for them by name or ask at a quilting guild.
- Joann Fabrics and similar craft chains are in most towns and carry fabric, thread, patterns, notions, and tools in one location.
- Walmart, Target, and other general stores have basic fabric and supplies but limited selection and staff knowledge.
- Thrift stores and estate sales sometimes have fabric, thread, and vintage notions at low cost, though inventory is unpredictable.
- Online ordering with in-store pickup is available at most chain retailers if you know what you want but do not want to wait for shipping.
Local fabric stores and how to find them
Independent fabric stores are still operating in many towns, but they are not always straightforward to spot. Search online for "fabric store near me" or "quilt shop near me"—quilting shops often carry general sewing fabric too. Call ahead before you go; many small stores have limited hours or close on Sundays and Mondays. Staff at these stores usually sew themselves and can answer questions about fiber content, weight, and whether a fabric will work for your project.
If you cannot find a store online, ask at a local quilting guild, yarn shop, or community center. People who sew know where the fabric is. Some towns have fabric co-ops or buying clubs where members order together and split shipping costs, which can be worth joining if you sew regularly. Independent stores often have better quality fabric and more specialty materials than chains, and staff can help you troubleshoot problems with your machine or pattern.
Joann Fabrics and other chain craft stores
Joann Fabrics is the largest fabric chain in the United States and has locations in most states. You can find the nearest store on their website, check their hours, and see what is currently in stock. They carry a full range of fabrics—cotton, knits, fleece, specialty materials—plus thread in hundreds of colors, patterns, notions, and basic sewing tools. Staff knowledge varies by location, but many stores have experienced sewers on staff, especially during busy seasons.
Joann and similar chains run frequent sales and coupons. Sign up for their email or check their app before you shop; a 20 or 30 percent off coupon is common. Other craft chains like Michaels also carry fabric and supplies, though usually in a smaller section than Joann. Prices at chains are generally higher than independent stores, but selection is more consistent and you can count on finding basics like thread, elastic, and common cotton prints.
Walmart, Target, and general merchandise stores
Most Walmart and Target locations have a fabric section in the craft or home goods area. Stock includes basic cotton prints, solid colors, fleece, and sometimes knits. You will find all-purpose thread in common colors, elastic, zippers, bias tape, and straightforward patterns. These sections are useful if you need something quickly and do not want to drive far, but the range is limited and staff are usually not trained in sewing.
Prices at general stores are often lower than specialty retailers, especially during sales. However, fabric quality and fiber content information can be hard to find, and the selection changes without notice. If you need a specific weight or type of fabric, call the store first to confirm they have it in stock. These stores work best for straightforward projects using common materials, not for specialty fabrics or hard-to-find notions.
Thrift stores and secondhand sources
Thrift stores, estate sales, and online resale sites sometimes have fabric, thread, and vintage notions at a fraction of retail cost. Goodwill, Salvation Army, and local consignment shops occasionally stock fabric bolts, spools of thread, and vintage sewing supplies. Estate sales are especially good for finding quality thread, old patterns, and specialty notions like bone buttons or metal zippers.
The downside is that inventory is unpredictable and you cannot order ahead. You have to browse in person and check back regularly. Fabric condition varies—check for stains, mildew, or damage before you buy. Online resale sites like Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist sometimes have fabric lots for sale locally, and you can arrange pickup to avoid shipping costs. Thrift shopping works best if you have time to hunt and are flexible about what you find.
Online ordering with in-store pickup
Most chain retailers now offer online ordering with same-day or next-day pickup at your local store. This works well if you know exactly what you want—a specific thread color, a pattern number, or a yardage of fabric you have already seen. Search the store's website, add items to your cart, and choose pickup instead of shipping. You avoid delivery fees and can start your project the same day.
The trade-off is that you cannot see or feel the fabric before you buy. If you are unsure about color, weight, or how a material will look in person, it is worth the trip to the store to check it first. Some stores allow you to return online purchases in-store without a restocking fee, so ask about their policy before you order. This option saves time if you are in a hurry and know exactly what you need.
What to bring and what to ask for
Before you go to the store, know what you are making or at least what type of fabric you need. Bring your pattern if you have one—staff can help you pick the right material and calculate yardage. If you are unsure, bring a photo or a description of the finished project. Bring a swatch of any fabric you need to match, and bring your measurements if you are making something fitted.
Ask staff about fiber content, care instructions, and whether the fabric needs to be pre-washed. Ask if they can cut the yardage you need and whether they offer alterations or other services. Many stores will wind bobbins, cut batting, or help you find the right needle for your machine. These services are often free or low-cost and can save you time at home. Staff can also recommend thread weight and type for the fabric you chose.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I order fabric online and pick it up the same day?
Most chain stores offer same-day or next-day pickup if you order before their cutoff time, usually early afternoon. Check the store's website to see what is in stock at your location and whether pickup is available. Independent stores rarely offer this service, so call ahead if you need something urgently.
What if my town does not have a fabric store?
Check thrift stores, craft sections at Walmart or Target, and online resale sites first. If those do not have what you need, online retailers like Fabric.com, Etsy, and Joann's website ship to most addresses. Shipping takes longer, but you have access to a much wider selection than any local store.
How much fabric should I buy?
Your pattern will tell you the yardage needed. If you do not have a pattern, a straightforward garment usually needs 1 to 3 yards depending on size and style. Ask staff to help you estimate if you are unsure. Always buy a little extra—at least a quarter yard—in case you make a mistake or want to make matching accessories.
Are fabric store prices negotiable?
Independent stores sometimes offer discounts for bulk purchases or regular customers, but prices are usually fixed. Chain stores run frequent sales and coupons, so it is worth checking before you pay full price. Sign up for email lists to hear about sales ahead of time.
What is the difference between fabric store fabric and craft store fabric?
Fabric stores usually carry higher-quality materials with better fiber content information and a wider range of weights and textures. Craft stores stock popular basics and novelty fabrics but less specialty material. For a first project, either works fine. As you sew more, you may prefer the selection and quality at dedicated fabric stores.