kristananne

I think that's high for basic calico stuff. I was shocked to see a tone on tone cream color going for $9/yd at Joann's.

But around here that price seems about right (actually cheaper) for a yard of designer stuff. I paid $12/yd for some new Heather Bailey stuff. I can't believe I paid that, but it was cheaper than ordering it online having it shipped.

Favorite Fabrics

IMHO Joanne's is playing price games recently. Being "in the business" I recognize some of their fabrics, and know what the real wholesale price is (for little shops, and you know the chain stores get a better deal).

I've seen some that are priced at $9.99, and I know the cost is more like $3.50. So if they sell it at 30% off, which is a common "sale" on their calico wall, then they're really selling it for the typical double-the-cost retail price.

Wait for a sale, know your brands, be an educated shopper. Most of us are already doing this!

Joanie2

I spoke with one of my LQS owners and she said prices were raised right after quilt market. We can really see the effect in her store noting that there is less fabric and some empty shelves are filled with things like quilt puzzles and the like. This economy is hurting everyone. I find I don't get to the quilt shops like I used to. I shop my stash first and then try to get fillers and I search for deals on line which clearly hurts the LQS. But we do what we have to. I trade with friends as well. I don't thinks it's going to get better any time soon so I'm trying to adjust wherever I can. At least I'm still quilting.

peyton

the price of fabric in the US is about HALF the price of fabric in Australia......

even with the high conversion rate, it's cheaper for me to buy my stuff in the US and get it posted to me

GrammaNan

One word "Coupons". Thank goodness for Joann's coupons. So far the price hike hasn't hit the Denver area. If I am going to have to spend that kind of money on fabric I may as well buy from the retailers on this site. I think the Admin may be working on a list so that we can support our board members. I already get most of my material at garage sales and thrift shops but I always need supporting fabric and backing and need to save money on those. We quilters will always find a way to quilt.

k3n

This has been said before, as you say and prices are going up everywhere because that is what prices DO in general. FYI, fabric in the UK is in general around 15 dollars a yard at best and here in France it's nearer 25 dollars. I know that in Canada, Australia, New Zealand and other European countries, not to forget South America where we also have members, prices are very high as well but you don't often see members from those countries complaining, unless in response to threads like this. Please spare a thought for us non-Americans. We can NEVER find fabric on sale for less than 5 dollars a yard and I see that often on US sites. And yes I can order online but then I have to pay shipping of around 12 dollars, don't get to feel or see before I buy etc etc. Sorry, here endeth the rant. :hunf:

sewaholic

Just think what you pay $10.m for we pay up from $21.99 per meter and if we buy from America with the money conversion - I think today it was $1.00 for every one of your .84 cents. You are still way in front. A parcel can cost $26. postage and handleing. I don't think our wages are much different either. Although I don't really know that side of it.

dar627742

the only way i can afford to buy fabric now is [like evertone else] when it's on sale,& i hit the jackpot at joanns yesterday !their clearance aisle was marked down 50%, then THAT price was marked down ANOTHER 50% !!!!was also lucky enough to ask for, say 1/2yd,then gotthe rest on bolt for another 50% off !!!got 14 yds plus sewing machine coverw/50%coupon for$25 !!!!felt like i'd died & went to heaven!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Katrine

And it's not only fabrics in Europe, or I'm sure in other non-European countries - notions, wadding, threads, books, are normally around between 50-100% more than the US. Even our machines are much more expensive.

harvsstuff

I am getting ready to go to Mary Jo's in Gastonia NC and load up on fabrics. Its on our way up North and my list is ready. Its a huge fabric store and her prices are very good. Denise