Are you wondering where to find great fabric? Here you will find a list of resources and avenues as you hunt for that perfect fabric. The sources vary widely depending on what you are looking for and what your budget is. I've been buying fabrics for the past 4 years or so. My inventory is constantly being added to whenever I see something that I love and can't pass up. I live in Fullerton, CA so if you live around me, you've hit the jackpot! Here's the rundown...
Home Fabrics and Rugs www.homefabricsonline.com
If you live in Orange County, California, this is my #1 go to source for cotton print 54" wide fabric. Their inventory changes often, you never know what they'll have, and the prices rock. For example, a cotton print that retails regularly for $18 or more per yard is only $6 a yard. If you LOVE fabric, you owe it to yourself to make a trip to see them. Plan on staying for an hour or two! Their web site will give you a list of stores in your area. My favorite is the one on Gridley off the 605 fwy. They also carry ready made curtains, down inserts, and higher end fabrics.
JoAnn's Fabrics and Crafts www.joann.com
This is my go to source for quality batting, chenille, flannel backed satin, and notions (such as thread, needles, pins, and cutting supplies). Make sure you sign up for their mailing list so you can get notices of sales and coupons for 40% off.
Big Y Fabric www.bigyyardage.com
I use this resource to check out their sample books. They have access to all the major mills but most have to be special ordered and have a minimum yardage requirement. If you aren't familiar with what is out there, you may want to spend some time educating yourself on the different companies. You'll find some fabrics to buy right off the bolt but be prepared to pay a premium.
Calico Corners www.calicocorners.com
This is a national chain with lots of stores that you can go into and see fabrics. They provide in-home custom design services and have a well stocked showroom with plenty of decorator fabrics on the bolt. They are well-staffed and well-organized. Expect to pay a premium but you may find lots that you love. Great source for inspiration and for a smaller yardage purchase.
Marshalls/TJ Maxx
Another national chain with many storefronts across the country. This is my favorite place to look for matlesse blankets, quilts, and shabby chic looking sheets. The quilts and blankets are great for slipcovering sofas and chairs. The yardage you get with a sheet set is awesome. You may have to make several trips to find what you want, but when you find an awesome rose bouquet on bright white you'll be in heaven. Snatch them up while you can.
House Fabrics Online www.housefabrics.com
This is a fabulous site for buying yardage for a project when you know the exact name and manufacturer of the fabric. You'll pay more than Home Fabrics and Rugs, but less than a regular brick and mortar shop. Access to more variety is a plus. Also, when you need a large amount of yardage in the same fabric, it allows you to buy by the bolt at a fair price. Solid denim, canvas, and cotton are available in a rainbow of colors. Great choice for slipcovers.
Michael Levine Fabrics www.mlfabric.com
This is a huge store in Los Angeles' garment district downtown. Lots to choose from hot off the presses. Discounted fabric on rolls that they've had for a while. Fun to go see but a ways to drive.
And don't forget about the non-traditional avenues:
flea markets
Ebay
estate sales
bedding at department stores
your own linen closet
thrift stores
Located in Fullerton, CA by appointment
Sewing Classes
Are you interested in learning how to sew? Do you need a refresher course?
Pull out that dusty sewing machine and make an appointment with me to go over the basics in home decor sewing. One class goes over ruffles, bias tape, zippers, and cording. If you prefer, we can design a class around making a project you want to learn (pillow, apron, blanket, etc.). Take a look at the different products I make or pull out a picture from a magazine and we'll come up with a pattern to make it happen.
Class size is kept small so please call first to check availability. Classes offered:
Wednesday mornings 8:15 to 9:45
Wednesday evenings 7:00 to 8:30
*Call for other times
Pull out that dusty sewing machine and make an appointment with me to go over the basics in home decor sewing. One class goes over ruffles, bias tape, zippers, and cording. If you prefer, we can design a class around making a project you want to learn (pillow, apron, blanket, etc.). Take a look at the different products I make or pull out a picture from a magazine and we'll come up with a pattern to make it happen.
Class size is kept small so please call first to check availability. Classes offered:
Wednesday mornings 8:15 to 9:45
Wednesday evenings 7:00 to 8:30
*Call for other times
Lampshades
Lampshades are a great way to add a one of a kind design element to your decor. I have a stack of wire frames to choose from or you can bring in the frame from your own lamp. I will then tear off the existing fabric and begin again.
One of my favorite looks is to use 100% linen in a soft creamy white color. An embroidered monogram or initial, a row of coordinating cabbage roses, or a ruffle around the bottom rim can be added too.
Prices start at $35 for the labor. Call me to discuss any ideas or questions you may have.
Slipcovers
Love that shabby chic look you see in decorating magazines but can't find where to buy those all white washable slipcovers? Look no further...you've found me!
My slipcovers are completely removable, custom fit, and can be tailored to any style you choose. Use matlesse, quilts, duck, canvas, denim, or cotton prints. One of the best parts of having me design and construct your slipcovers is that you can specify all of the details that you want. The skirt style can be simple with clean lines, super frilly with lots of ruffles, or somewhere in between as with inverted pleats. Add an embroidered monogram to accent pillows for fun. I've had the pleasure of making lots of slipcovers for lots of people.
Pretty much anything can be slipcovered. Consider:
sofas
chairs
ottomans
window seats
bench cushions
parson's chairs
vanity chairs
Estimates for labor:
chair seat - $40
ottoman - $75
armless parson's chair - $100
wingback chair/ one loose cushion - $220
overstuffed chair/ two loose cushions - $270
sofa/ two seat and two back cushions - $370
Give me a call if you have any questions!
My slipcovers are completely removable, custom fit, and can be tailored to any style you choose. Use matlesse, quilts, duck, canvas, denim, or cotton prints. One of the best parts of having me design and construct your slipcovers is that you can specify all of the details that you want. The skirt style can be simple with clean lines, super frilly with lots of ruffles, or somewhere in between as with inverted pleats. Add an embroidered monogram to accent pillows for fun. I've had the pleasure of making lots of slipcovers for lots of people.
Pretty much anything can be slipcovered. Consider:
sofas
chairs
ottomans
window seats
bench cushions
parson's chairs
vanity chairs
Estimates for labor:
chair seat - $40
ottoman - $75
armless parson's chair - $100
wingback chair/ one loose cushion - $220
overstuffed chair/ two loose cushions - $270
sofa/ two seat and two back cushions - $370
Give me a call if you have any questions!