So, you're ready to tackle that new sewing project! You've got your design in mind. You've got your sewing machine all tuned up. You've got the bobbins filled. You're ready! But how do you find the perfect fabric to go with your special project? We can't all shop at Mood like the Project Runway designers.
So, where do we find the ideal fabric? The answer: Almost anywhere!
Of course, there's the obvious local fabric store, but let's delve deeper.
- Check with Mom, or Grandma, or Great Aunt Matilda at that next family reunion. Odds are good if you're looking for vintage fabrics, they're looking to have you haul away their old stuff.
- Visit your local thrift store. If Aunt Matilda donated her attic to the local Goodwill, you can probably buy yards of it for $2.
- Talk to your friends, find out what fabrics they have. They might have something just sitting at the bottom of their closet that they forgot about which is exactly the accent you need on that skirt you're finishing up.
- Go online, eBay, Etsy, or check Craigslist, especially the Free section. Just found this beautiful post: "Lots of fabric: gingham, felt, flannel and much more. Free to someone who sews and can use it! Please briefly tell why you want it. "
- Get brave and venture into your local flea market, wheel and deal your way into fabric bliss.
- Check out your neighborhood yard sales. You would be surprised!
There are countless places to find your new fave fabric. And, think about it, if you want to stand out in a crowd, there's no better way then by using a textile that has been out of print since your grandmother was younger than you. And there's no better way to find it than your own way. Just remember, it's not just a cute top, its a great story.
