Fabric Lovers Unite
Why do I want to start a fabric store?
The answer is simple: I love fabric! I've been sewing for seven years now, and once I discovered that there is more out there for garment makers than just quilting cotton, I was hooked. I went to JoAnn* almost every Saturday. On my lunch breaks, I would browse amazing online shops based in Canada, the United Kingdom, and Australia (you might even know which ones I'm talking about š). As we sometimes joke in the crafting world, my love of fabric was its own hobby, only somewhat related to sewing anything up.
Then the world changedā¦
Joann's closing was a huge bummer. Call me old-fashioned, but something about going into a store and touching the things I'm about to buy makes the experience of shopping so much more enjoyable. The whole trip feels like an experience to look forward to rather than a way to pass the time scrolling on my phone.
Here was the thing about Joann, though: they just never quite had what I was looking for. Sure, they had a dress-making section, but I could never find the gorgeous, drapey viscose and giant tropical prints that all my favorite influencers were flaunting.
Enter online fabric boutiques. I have to tell you, the first time I ordered a viscose twill from the UK (finally getting over the hefty shipping cost), I was amazed. I just sat there petting it like a dog. It was the most beautiful thing I've ever seen. In hindsight, that is exactly where the fabric addiction started.
Then the world changed againā¦
Tariffs. What can I say? If you can buy fabric from another country right now, you might be shocked at the costs it incurs. At the time of writing this, my favorite Canadian companies and the Australian Post have halted shipping to the US altogether. Some companies have low tariff offerings, which is helpful. Still, though I'm willing to splurge on my hobby every once in a while, I'm not made of money! The scant few American shops left standing are great, but once again, they don't have everything I'm looking for.
Does any of this sound familiar? When I created the survey that you all filled out, I just wanted to know if anyone here in Omaha felt my pain. It turns out, there are fabric lovers right here in my hometown! I'm listening to exactly what you all want this store to be. So far, you want quality fabric and gorgeous prints, but please, make it affordable! I hear you! Many of you are on the edge of your seats for sewing classes, but a lot of you aren't sure. Again, I hear you!
The fact that you all took your time to give me feedback is what motivates me to make this dream a reality, so thank you. I'm so excited about the adventure we're about to embark on together! Next up: Location hunting, renovations, buying stock (Woo!), and maybe even a soft launch just for you all, my co-founders!
*Joann Fabric is a registered trademark of its respective owner. This business is not affiliated with or endorsed by Joann.
