How to Find Fabric Cheap

You can find cheap fabric in unexpected places.

Sewing or quilting can become an expensive hobby unless you know how to find cheap, discounted fabric. Sometimes thinking outside of the box or searching through bolts and bins of fabric is required in order to find a true bargain. Make a list and search for discounted fabrics in several stores and locations. You may be amazed at what you can actually find, and you can save a lot of money if you put in some time and effort.

Instructions

1. Make a list of your fabric needs. Be specific: include prints and types of textiles desired along with how much of each fabric type is needed. Take the list with you whenever you shop.

2. Check your local fabric stores periodically for discounted bolts, returns, scraps and any clearance pieces.

3. Search on eBay for discounted fabric. Type in "fabric lot" and the search will return listings having more than one type of fabric up for auction. You can also type in specific materials or prints in your search, but keep in mind that you will save on shipping expenses if you order fewer packages.

4. Shop for tablecloths and curtains on clearance. These items are mostly fabric with the exception of hemmed or finished edges. You can also search thrift stores for tablecloths or curtains. The fabric may not look good draped over a table or as a window treatment, but it might make a great piece of fabric for one of your sewing projects.

5. Purchase severely discounted holiday fabrics right after the holidays and stock up for the following year. Holiday discounts can easily save 50 to 75 percent.

6. Continue repeating the above steps to keep a stock of discounted, cheap fabrics for all of your projects and needs.

Tips & Warnings

• If you're looking for a very specific print, your best bet is to buy it at retail price. Save your searching for things that are easier to find or compromise with another similar print or pattern of fabric.

References

• Quality Cheap Fabric: Discount Material