Whether you’re an experienced seamstress or a beginner, finding the right fabric is essential to creating beautiful projects. But shopping for fabric can be tricky, especially if you don’t have access to a local fabric store. Fortunately, buying fabric online has become more accessible than ever, offering an incredible variety of textiles, patterns, and colors—all from the comfort of your home.
In this blog post, we’ll explore the benefits of buying fabric online, tips for making smart fabric choices, and some of the best places to shop for fabric online. Plus, we’ll provide affiliate links to some top-rated fabric options and sewing essentials available on Amazon to help you get started!
Why Buy Fabric Online?
Buying fabric online comes with a multitude of advantages:
- Wide Selection: Online fabric stores offer an extensive range of fabrics you might not find in your local shops, including rare prints, designer fabrics, and specialty materials.
- Convenience: You can shop at any time of the day, compare prices, and browse countless fabric options without leaving your home.
- Competitive Pricing: Many online fabric retailers offer competitive prices and discounts that may not be available in physical stores.
- Customer Reviews: Reading reviews from other customers gives you insights into fabric quality and how it behaves during sewing, which can be helpful when selecting the right material for your project.
Tips for Buying Fabric Online
While shopping for fabric online is convenient, there are a few tips to help you make the best purchasing decisions.
1. Know Your Fabric Types
Different fabrics are suited for different projects. Here are some common fabric types to help you make an informed decision:
- Cotton: Versatile and breathable, perfect for quilting, home decor, and casual clothing. Look for fabrics like quilting cotton or cotton broadcloth.
- Linen: Lightweight and perfect for summer garments or home textiles like tablecloths and curtains.
- Silk: Luxurious and soft, ideal for special occasions or delicate garments.
- Polyester: Durable and easy to care for, great for activewear, upholstery, and budget-friendly projects.
- Jersey Knit: Stretchy and comfortable, great for t-shirts, dresses, and activewear.
2. Check Fabric Widths and Quantities
Fabric widths can vary. Standard fabric widths are usually 44-45 inches, but some materials may come in wider or narrower rolls. Make sure to check the width and order the correct quantity for your project.
3. Read Reviews and Look for Fabric Samples
When buying fabric online, it can be hard to judge quality just by looking at photos. Read customer reviews to get an idea of the fabric’s texture, weight, and how it behaves when sewn. Some online stores even offer fabric swatches, which can be a great way to ensure the fabric meets your expectations before making a larger purchase.
4. Check Return Policies
Make sure to check the return policy of the fabric store before buying. Some stores offer returns or exchanges, but others may not accept returns on cut fabric. Knowing the policy in advance can save you from a potential hassle.
5. Be Mindful of Shipping Costs
Fabric can be heavy, so shipping costs can add up. Some online stores offer free shipping over a certain amount, so consider ordering in bulk if you need multiple fabrics or supplies. Additionally, look out for discounts or coupon codes that can reduce shipping fees.
Best Places to Buy Fabric Online
When you’re ready to buy fabric online, here are some great options:
1. Amazon: A One-Stop-Shop for All Things Fabric
Amazon offers an extensive selection of fabrics in various types, patterns, and colors, from quilting cotton to premium silk. With the convenience of fast shipping and customer reviews, Amazon is a reliable choice for fabric shopping.
Best Fabrics to Buy on Amazon:
Quilting Cotton: A staple for DIY quilting projects. You can find a variety of colors and patterns perfect for quilting, crafting, and apparel projects.
Check it out on Amazon!Fleece Fabric: Soft, warm, and great for making blankets, sweatshirts, and accessories.
Check it out on Amazon!Jersey Knit: Great for making comfortable t-shirts, dresses, or activewear.
Check it out on Amazon!
2. Fabric.com
Fabric.com offers an extensive variety of fabrics for every kind of project, from apparel to home decor. They offer a great selection of quilting cottons, wools, upholstery fabrics, and more.
Quilting Fabrics: Browse thousands of quilting fabrics, from modern prints to traditional designs. Check out their large selection of cotton quilting fabrics.
Sewing Patterns and Notions: In addition to fabrics, Fabric.com also carries a wide range of sewing patterns and accessories like scissors, threads, and sewing machines.
3. Joann Fabrics
Joann Fabrics is another popular online fabric store that offers an excellent selection of fabrics for a variety of projects. They also offer frequent sales and coupon codes to save you money.
Cotton and Flannel: Joann carries many varieties of cotton fabric perfect for quilting and apparel, as well as cozy flannel fabrics for pajamas and blankets.
Sewing Accessories: From needles to sewing machines, Joann has everything you need to complete your sewing projects.
Essential Sewing Tools for Working with Fabric
Once you’ve purchased your fabric, you’ll need a few essential tools to get started with your projects. Here are some must-have sewing tools available on Amazon:
1. Rotary Cutter and Mat
A rotary cutter is a great tool for cutting fabric accurately and quickly. Pair it with a self-healing cutting mat to protect your surfaces and extend the life of your blades.
2. Sewing Machine
For sewing fabric quickly and easily, a reliable sewing machine is a must. There are plenty of options for beginners and advanced sewists alike.
3. Fabric Scissors
A good pair of fabric scissors is crucial for clean cuts. Invest in a high-quality pair to make cutting fabric easier and more precise.
4. Measuring Tape
Accurate measurements are key to any sewing project. A flexible, retractable measuring tape ensures precision every time.
Final Thoughts
Buying fabric online is a great way to access a wide variety of materials and find the perfect fabric for your next project. With the right fabric, tools, and a little creativity, you can create beautiful, custom-made pieces that reflect your personal style.
Remember to do your research, read reviews, and check out the suggested tools to make your fabric shopping experience as smooth as possible. Whether you’re quilting, making clothing, or crafting, the perfect fabric is just a few clicks away!
This post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through the links above. Thank you for supporting the blog!
