You are so knowledgeable. I have been waiting for a show like this. I agree that you get what you pay for. We only have Joanne’s and Hobby Lobby. Their fabric is very hit & miss. Fabric widths are even skimpy. Thank you for info and please do more on fabric, (what is bottom weight?).
Sure! Bottom weight is anything you would use to make pants (or things for your bottom half). It’s usually heavier fabrics that also is good for jackets and coats as well!
Love the new set-up. You and the chair look great in that spot, and lighting looks good. I also feel that your chatty personality that is so willing to teach is what I keep returning to, to watch. I have watched all your videos and have learned so much from you. Thanks so much for inspiring me and taking the time to teach me.
TomKat Stitchery What do you mean by substrate? The literal translation would be the ‚layer under‘. So it could mean soil for plants or gel for bacteria in petri dishes. I would love to find out what it could mean in the context of fabric.
@@nommh Maybe you know the meaning of substrate by now but if not..."Textile substrates are formed from yarns or fiber webs by several techniques including weaving, knitting, tufting, and nonwoven formation. In addition, composites of textile substrates are formed by methods such as adhesive bonding, formation of back coatings on substrates, and flocking."
This was very helpful! I am hesitate to buy fabric online but, with this guide I will probably try a few purchases from some of the online stores you have suggested. I certainly like everything you have made! You have a gift to instruct and sometimes that requires the gift of gab! Thanks for taking the time to make these informative videos.
I totally love Stylemaker fabrics, too! Everything that I have purchased from them has been top rate. Lastly, videos on various types of fabrics and their uses would be great. Thank you for all your direction in sewing!
Whitney, Thank You to the moon for this detailed video. I have been looking for "better quality" fabric now that I'm being pickier about what I purchase. I agree..you get what you pay for. I would love to see you have a series educating us on different aspects on a variety of fabrics. Education is pricesless. Thanks again.
This was one of my favorite videos. I have been sewing for years and find that really fine fabric is the way to go. From cutting out to sewing to care it is definitely worth it to go with quality. My time is important to me, and if I am going to spend time sewing, it is important to use the best that I can afford.
Awesome setup, Whitney! You look terrific in this video. The angle view is cozy in that corner. It seems to catch your natural beautiful coloring better. 😘
You look terrific in this video. These softer colors in your top and lipstick flatter you. The deep colors seem too strong. I enjoy watching you whatever you wear.😉
Yesterday I sewed up two T-shirts in no time at all! It was because of watching you! I was hearing your voice (sew in the bowl) which helped me be successful! I could listen you talk about anything!
Being a person like mom says having the gift of gab, that has helped me in my past careers as a Floral Retail & Wholesale sales person and designer plus Real Estate apartment receptionist. I appreciate your chatty videos and sewing experiences. You are my favorite UA-camr, no pressure intended. The fact our size and height are close is priceless.
Thanks Whitney for all of your wonderful information, I have truly learned a lot from you. We are very similarly built and that’s why I particularly appreciate your thoughts on the patterns companies. Keep it up! I almost feel like you’re one of my BFFs on line!!
Thank you so much for this video. I live in an area where there is only Joanns and they seem to carry very little for clothes fabric. This has been so very helpful. Thank you.
I agree with others; the setup is great and you look very relaxed and comfortable today. Thanks for the information; fabric is always a hit or miss for me....thanks for the hints and your recommendations. Have a wonderful day.
Your journey and words feel familiar to my last 6 weeks. Maybe, it's something like the 7 stages of grief - when a catastrophic set of events set off a series of reactions that we all go through to arrive at a point of purposely moving forward with the crisis and finding a new normal. Your video presentation is a powerful tool for all of us. Thank you. Like many, sewing for me is a meditative process that centers and brings me to a place of calm - even when the project goes south! I know when to take a break, to be idle for awhile, to refocus on the dilemma, and return to the mess with determination and a smile, knowing I have been here before and problem-solving will rule the day. I am grateful for this community.
If you have any viewers in Michigan I have used Fields Fabric several times. They have 4 locations on the west side of the state. They have a great online site and fast service plus flat rate $6 shipping. They are the only place I can fine French Fuse interfacing, plus their Ultasuede is great. Also Vogue Fabric in the Chicago area and So Sew English. And always Fabric Mart Fabric, I’ve gotten some really good sales from them especially when the site is 60% off, stocked up on some fabulous wool suiting and silk. I love that you mentioned about pricing quality fabric can be pricey but I look at it this way I can buy a pair of pants at Walmart for under $20 or Talbots for 200.00, quality can cost. I have made so many garments only to be disappointed because I used cheaper fabric. Just starting to buy Indy patterns, but absolutely love Cashmerette and Love Notions. Great suggestions, your the best. ,
Thank you for theses recommendations! You’ve got me curious about the Fields Fabric! I’m not too far from Michigan and we are up there quite a bit. I might have to make a trip when life opens back up!
That particular green is so flattering for you, Whitney! Take care of your back! Here at 71 I have just had spinal fusion and I wish I had not waited so long. It isn’t a breeze to have it done, but to be without pain is wonderful!
Cant tell you how helpful. The reason I wanted to sew was to get better and more interesting fabrics than available in ready made. You have provided the resources. I made some mistakes on line with other companies. Lots of learning and thanks for sharing.
Love the new view and the talk about online fabric stores. Where I live the closest fabric stores are Jo-Ann and Hobby Lobby. Next time I visit my friend in Chicago, we are planning a trip to the store you went to on the south side of Chicago.
This is so helpful! As a beginner, I am completely lost at how to choose fabric online. And loved to learn about independent pattern designers. Thank you for your video!
Such good information. Thank you!! I will be rewatching this later. There is so much to learn but mainly because my melodramatic cat thought he was starving and he was so loud. Finally he fell asleep or fainted from hunger.
One thing I've learned is to make sure you check and see what units fabric is being sold in. Sometimes prices look great until you notice that the price is only for a half yard or meter.
I have shopped from Marcy Tilton in the US. They have fabulous knit prints and lots of other goodies. I agree with you about The Fabric Store they have awesome Merino. Love your new setup and please don’t stress about getting to grips with camera stuff,you are doing great. You will get there. Love from NZ💕
Though I don’t need any more fabric, I always love to hear of more good shops to buy from! One of my favs is B&J Fabrics. They have a beautiful collection of high quality garment fabrics, suitings, outerwear fabrics etc. A bit expensive, but so worth it. They also have great service and ship quickly!
Fabric Mart: I've never disappointment because I find the draping of fabric over a stool very helpful. Any company that does this, is my go to fabric store. The lighting is different in this video and is very becoming on you!
Love brushed poly knit from So Sew English. It’s so soft. Love their bundles they do ... usually a print with a solid. Going to spend time checking out all these fabric shops.
I'm a fan of Fabrics-store.com so I'm glad you mentioned them. I recently got some mid-weight linen from them in the "potting soil" color - you need to check it out as I know brown is one of your neutrals. It's an amazingly rich shade of brown - plus I love the name! Great video Whitney plus I loved hearing Gidget snore. So cute.
Ooh! I really want to try the mid-weight (the ones I bought were the heavy weight and the light weight). I’ll have to grab that color as it is one of my best neutrals!
I just found you and I’m so happy! This video alone provided me with information I have been searching for. I look forward to following along with you.
Thank you so much for the list. I have bought quite a bit of fabric form Style maker fabrics. They are always good quality. There end of the bolt fabric sale is good too. District Fabric is also a good store.
Thank you for another helpful and entertaining video Whitney :) So many fabric shops AND pattern companies that you point to I know (hahaha not surprising!). As a Canadian, I don't often (hardly ever) order from the US. The cost of shipping, customs charges, differences in our dollar all mean a no go. If we see something on a US fabric store site, we basically need to double the price to get a realistic price point and that will 99% of the time stomp the urge to press the buy now button right there :) There are a number of excellent online Canadian fabric shops now. Heather at Closet Case Files has listed a number of them on her web site. You mention Blackbird which I've been ordering from for years (long before she became rather famous :) ) Among others of my favourites are L'Ouseau Fabrics in Calgary, Canadian National Fabric, Threadcount Fabrics in Manitoba and Gala Fabrics here in Victoria also ships online. I shop in person at Gala and I can promise the quality of Penny's fabric is top notch. I think it's always great when people share their small local fabric shops that they love and also ship out. While listening to your list of favourite indie pattern companies, I was thinking, "Oh I hope she mentions Cashmerette!" And you did :) I too am close to the bottom end (size 12) of her size range (her top end now is 32) but I am always thrilled with the outcome of Jenny's patterns. When I look in my closet at my hand-mades, it's the Cashmerette ones that stand out as my favourites. Except my favourite Tee pattern which is the Fiona by Closet Case. I bought that pattern based on YOUR recommendation :) I'm busty too (you and I have a similar body shape although I'm 5'8" :) ) and thought right away this pattern would never work for me. But then I saw it on you, loved it and jumped immediately to purchase it. Now it's my favourite Tee pattern of all time. I have so many in my closet I've lost count :) Now that's a perfect pattern for a very drapey bamboo/rayon knit. I laughed at your interaction with your sewing partner and her cheeky snoring :))) So much fun to watch you always. It was so nice to hear you are enjoying having your family at home and close! I fear divorce lawyers might be hard to get a hold of in a few months :)
I agree that we need to share info about our local shops! I just saw that spreadsheet that Heather put out this morning and thought, how timely! I’m so very glad to hear that you’re enjoying the channel! Also, thanks for bringing up the Closet Case t-shirt! I need to make another one of those! They are perfect for a bamboo knit!
Love the chatty videos. I'd love to hear more about different kinds of knits and what to make out of what. I have some reallly soft rayon spandex that I'd intended for tops, but it doesn't have very good recovery and it clings to every bump and curve. I bought it because it's soft and won't hurt my skin when the fibro is flaring. But it still sits in my drawer b/c I don't know what to make with it that would be at least a little flattering.
You might try a swing tee with the rayon. The Laundry Day Tee by Love Notions, the Ebony by Closet Case Patterns are a couple that would benefit from the beautiful drape of the rayon knit, but wouldn’t cling!
Absolutely on video primers about fabrics!! Great idea :) This was a wonderful video and I took good notes - thanks for taking the time to do this for us! Blessings ~Deb
What a wonderful resource! I did purchase some stretch denim from Blackbird Fabrics on your recommendation and I love it! My only regret was that I should have got a 1/2 meter more than I did 😔.
Looking good; thanks for the info about fabric shops and pattern makers that we can purchase from. I have a stretch denim which I want to make jeans with, would the ginger jean pattern be ok for that, I don't want tight fitting jeans like jeggings, but also don't want wide legged jeans either. Maybe I'm just being fussy but I think this is why we decide to sew for ourselves because we're unhappy with RTW clothing. Thanks again, Jo 😊
The Ginger Jeans have two views. One is high waisted with a skinny leg and one is a mid-rise with a straight leg. I really like the mid rise with the straight leg!
I also like sew so English or is it So Sew English?! Also LA Finch fabric in CA. Always have good luck with both. Also Ellie and Mac with live videos to almost every pattern. I never even look at directions with Deannas videos.Enjoyed learning about your likes. Studio looks great and love your dress and color on you! So beautiful! Thanks, again.
I haven’t watched all of this yet but surprised not to see Megan Nielsen in your list -after all you made me buy the flint, rowan and dawn jeans patterns! For fabrics in the UK -merchantandmills.com, raystitch, Lamazi fabrics, Guthrie-Ghani. Lovely Monty dress and I so love the sound of your little helpers feet padding across the floor towards you.......
Great summary! Thank you. I'm glad you've had good luck with Style Maker Fabrics. Me, not so much. I also bought the autumnal floral print rayon you shared recently. Unfortunately, I bought it before I saw your fabric haul video. The background color looked teal on my iPad, so I was shocked, and disappointed, that the background was a very dark navy. That fabric will look great on you, but my coloring is lighter than yours, so it won't look very nice on me. The owner allowed me to return it, at my expense I imagine, and recommended I request swatches going forward. I think I'll shop from the rest of your list instead.
😃 I would add Girl Charlee for fabric because I have literally never heard of anyone getting anything but great things from them and how great their customer service is... and Sew Over It in the U.K. (Though they do deliver all over the world) their fabric and customer service are raved about!
Thanks for the good info! Lots of ladies must have bought the Cielo...the paper version was very hard to find in stock...got the last one on Etsy. BTW: snoring is not restricted to pug-nosed dogs...we had a mini-doxi (long snout) who snored so loud she used to wake us up 🤣
Thank you so much. Great info! Your ideas give me much inspiration! I am also a "Hoosier" - near Fort Wayne! I am specifically looking for black rib knit fabric to make T-neck shirts AND black coat weight wools (merino/boiled, etc) to remake a fav coat of mine. I will check out these fabric stores!
Whitney, thank you for this resource. I was wondering if you could update it periodically? Also, have you tried ' Beyond the Pink Door'? It is a small shop ( Andrea is the owner) in Ireland.
Whitney I would love to see fabric videos. Also, I would love to hear your opinion on making your own blocks and patterns as Suzanne at Sew Custom does. In terms of fit what are the pros and cons? Because I am tall and curvy about size 14, I find so many patterns ill - fitting. By the time I do all the adjustments I need I feel like, “OMG Why didn’t I just start from scratch?!” Thoughts? Thanks 🙏
Patsy Foote there is a Facebook group Lush Fabric Australia, also a Web Site the same name. Every Sunday Tracey introduces new fabrics. It is a family business. Also online parties every now and then.. Have a look. $10.00 flat rate shipping.
Love ur videos! I know it’s so basic but even though I’ve sewn for years I feel like I’m missing something as far as fabric prep before cutting. Have u (or could u) a video on fabric prep? Ex: straightening grain or general prep for knits.
I have use fabric-store.com linen in a pair of great elastic waist pull on pants. Their linen definitely gets softer with washings. The pants were made with their heavy weight (not softened.. lots of nubs) and after a couple of washes was MUCH softer than I expected. The purple medium weight linen I got for a dress (still wavering on the Lily pattern and which to make.. leaning towards a tunic with 3/4 sleeves.. but the dress looks SO comfy for the current situation we all are finding ourselves in.)
Oh.. I also took a chance with Fabric Warehouse Direct and was quite impressed with the quality. I got some of their cotton jersey, cotton gauze and a few of the lighter weight prints for some scarves. I was surprised by the quality of the material. Not "the best" but definitely better than what I expected for the prices.
I can't shut up... LOL. If you could do a video on good places for notions online.. I can't find a good petersham (just general grossgrain) and it gets expensive shopping at a bunch of shops to get all the supplies I need (shipping adds up).
This is good to know! I’m excited to make up and wear this linen. I think I’ll do an end of season comparison once everything has been worn and laundered a ton. I will say that the heavy weight that I bought did get a ton softer after just the first wash. I really love linen!
Great video, I'll have to save it for reference, as I trust your experience. I do have a few favorites to share. A few comments mentioned marcytilton.com, I'd like to add that she also lists pattern suggestions on each fabric's detail page. Louise Cutting has patterns, sewing books, and fabrics at cuttinglinedesigns.com . Florida based, Louise's designs and fabric choices are geared to hot weather. For anything outdoor, rockywoods.com has lots of heavy duty fabric, sun protection fabric, about every camouflage print in various fabrics, and associated hardware for making backpacks, etc. They also have a selection of outdoor and active wear patterns from several different companies. saf-t-pockets.com is a pattern line with hidden pockets. They started in the 90's, so some of the early patterns may look dated. I have made up several, and sometimes just incorporate the pocket pieces and the instructions into other patterns. They were bought by thesewingplace.com, so I don't know if Dana Bontrager plans to extend the line. Thanks again for your list.
Surprised you didn't mention anything about the 'Big 4' or any of their designers - what you like and dislike about them. I did hear it was 'independent' pattern companies you were reviewing but I'm still not seeing the benefit of all that copying, cutting and taping for those that CAN get them for $1.99... Maybe helping to find that 'independent' that will someday be part of the Big 5?
I had a lot of questions about my favorite independent designers so that’s why I stick with just that category this time. I do love quite a few of the Big 4’s stuff as well!
Sewing with a decent quality fabric means the battle is already won. I like organic cotton from a small wholesaler who produces there own hand loom cottons abroad and simple block prints. The owner has a statement. If you cannot except the odd irregularity in hand loom and prints then we are not the company for you, our colours are impregnated into the yarn for longivity and we keep things simple.
I both print my own PDFs and send them out to be printed. My favorite shop is pdfplotting.com . They have the best prices that I've found for printing and they are quick!
Great video! I am going to try out some of these companies. I do alot of sewing with linen and order frequently from Fabric-Store. I do like their linens even though they are not as soft as they could be. I did read though that the really soft linen doesn't hold up as well due to the processing that is done to make it real soft. Not to sure what to believe...I'm in the market for a serger and would like to have a medium priced machine. Any suggestions? Thanks!
I’ll have to make all these linens up and then do a comparison at the end of the season when they’ve all been worn and laundered a bunch! I’m actually thinking of getting a new serger (and keeping my current one set up as a coverstitch). I love the Babylock sergers so I’ll let you all know what I find out in my research!
I tend to shy away from anytime offered in extra cup sizes as I am not overly endowed. Guess I’m afraid it will be big everywhere. Is Cashmerette for plus sizes?
I just ordered a 3 yards of rayon jersey from Style Maker fabrics to make a maxi length t-shirt dress. Is this a bad combination? Will rayon jersey be too drapey for a maxi dress?
Now that is a lot of information!!!! Hours of fabric hunting ahead...thank you. I am wondering if you have a good source for pin wale corduroy as one of my daughters wants some trousers in bottle green or wine, and the other daughter wants a rich purple corduroy bomber jacket xxx
I very much enjoyed t shirt week. Along the way, I made Pamela’s tee in a cotton spandex and continue to struggle with a nice finish on her curved hem. I heard you mention showing us that but could not find it. Which video is it? Or could you do one?
I did show that hem. I’m racking my brain, but I think it was in one of the daily vlogs during t-shirt week (those daily vlogs are also under the t-shirt week playlist). I should have sectioned that technique out into one of the “formal” videos. I can film a separate video on how to sew a curved knit hem!
Whitney, thank for sharing all those resources! You are a wealth of generosity and knowledge, I hope everyone appreciates what you have just shared.
It’s my pleasure! As I am sure you have noticed, I really love to talk about sewing 😂.
Yes, you are the most qualified to give advice. Let’s not forget to look at the tag in the left interior of our RTW to learn about substrates.
You are so knowledgeable. I have been waiting for a show like this. I agree that you get what you pay for. We only have Joanne’s and Hobby Lobby. Their fabric is very hit & miss. Fabric widths are even skimpy. Thank you for info and please do more on fabric, (what is bottom weight?).
Sure! Bottom weight is anything you would use to make pants (or things for your bottom half). It’s usually heavier fabrics that also is good for jackets and coats as well!
Love the new set-up. You and the chair look great in that spot, and lighting looks good. I also feel that your chatty personality that is so willing to teach is what I keep returning to, to watch. I have watched all your videos and have learned so much from you. Thanks so much for inspiring me and taking the time to teach me.
What a lovely thing to hear! Thank you so much!
I would be very interested in videos about the different substrates of fabrics.
Love the new setup, hope it works out !
Sure!
TomKat Stitchery What do you mean by substrate? The literal translation would be the ‚layer under‘. So it could mean soil for plants or gel for bacteria in petri dishes. I would love to find out what it could mean in the context of fabric.
@@nommh Maybe you know the meaning of substrate by now but if not..."Textile substrates are formed from yarns or fiber webs by several techniques including weaving, knitting, tufting, and nonwoven formation. In addition, composites of textile substrates are formed by methods such as adhesive bonding, formation of back coatings on substrates, and flocking."
Yes talk about fabric substrates! Great content by the way, thank you!
Sure!
This was very helpful! I am hesitate to buy fabric online but, with this guide I will probably try a few purchases from some of the online stores you have suggested. I certainly like everything you have made! You have a gift to instruct and sometimes that requires the gift of gab! Thanks for taking the time to make these informative videos.
😂 the gift of gab is definitely a gift that I have! I’m glad you’re enjoying the channel!
I totally love Stylemaker fabrics, too! Everything that I have purchased from them has been top rate. Lastly, videos on various types of fabrics and their uses would be great. Thank you for all your direction in sewing!
Great!
Whitney, Thank You to the moon for this detailed video. I have been looking for "better quality" fabric now that I'm being pickier about what I purchase. I agree..you get what you pay for.
I would love to see you have a series educating us on different aspects on a variety of fabrics. Education is pricesless. Thanks again.
Sure!
Perfect Lighting and great resources!
Thank you!
This was one of my favorite videos. I have been sewing for years and find that really fine fabric is the way to go. From cutting out to sewing to care it is definitely worth it to go with quality. My time is important to me, and if I am going to spend time sewing, it is important to use the best that I can afford.
I agree with you, hands down!
Awesome setup, Whitney! You look terrific in this video. The angle view is cozy in that corner. It seems to catch your natural beautiful coloring better. 😘
Well that’s lovely! Thank you!!
That sage colors looks terrific on you- makes your eyes pop!!!
Thank you!
You look terrific in this video. These softer colors in your top and lipstick flatter you. The deep colors seem too strong. I enjoy watching you whatever you wear.😉
Thank you so much!
Yesterday I sewed up two T-shirts in no time at all! It was because of watching you! I was hearing your voice (sew in the bowl) which helped me be successful! I could listen you talk about anything!
Well that’s a lovely thing to hear! Thank you!
That color on you is ABSOLUTELY STUNNING on you!
Thank you so much!
Being a person like mom says having the gift of gab, that has helped me in my past careers as a Floral Retail & Wholesale sales person and designer plus Real Estate apartment receptionist. I appreciate your chatty videos and sewing experiences. You are my favorite UA-camr, no pressure intended. The fact our size and height are close is priceless.
Aww! Thank you so much!
Thanks Whitney for all of your wonderful information, I have truly learned a lot from you. We are very similarly built and that’s why I particularly appreciate your thoughts on the patterns companies. Keep it up! I almost feel like you’re one of my BFFs on line!!
Oh! I love hearing that!!!
Thank you so much for this video. I live in an area where there is only Joanns and they seem to carry very little for clothes fabric. This has been so very helpful. Thank you.
Glad it was helpful!
I agree with others; the setup is great and you look very relaxed and comfortable today. Thanks for the information; fabric is always a hit or miss for me....thanks for the hints and your recommendations. Have a wonderful day.
It’s my pleasure!
Your journey and words feel familiar to my last 6 weeks. Maybe, it's something like the 7 stages of grief - when a catastrophic set of events set off a series of reactions that we all go through to arrive at a point of purposely moving forward with the crisis and finding a new normal. Your video presentation is a powerful tool for all of us. Thank you. Like many, sewing for me is a meditative process that centers and brings me to a place of calm - even when the project goes south! I know when to take a break, to be idle for awhile, to refocus on the dilemma, and return to the mess with determination and a smile, knowing I have been here before and problem-solving will rule the day. I am grateful for this community.
This was worded just perfectly! Thank you so much for this comment!
If you have any viewers in Michigan I have used Fields Fabric several times. They have 4 locations on the west side of the state. They have a great online site and fast service plus flat rate $6 shipping. They are the only place I can fine French Fuse interfacing, plus their Ultasuede is great. Also Vogue Fabric in the Chicago area and So Sew English. And always Fabric Mart Fabric, I’ve gotten some really good sales from them especially when the site is 60% off, stocked up on some fabulous wool suiting and silk. I love that you mentioned about pricing quality fabric can be pricey but I look at it this way I can buy a pair of pants at Walmart for under $20 or Talbots for 200.00, quality can cost. I have made so many garments only to be disappointed because I used cheaper fabric. Just starting to buy Indy patterns, but absolutely love Cashmerette and Love Notions. Great suggestions, your the best.
,
Thank you for theses recommendations! You’ve got me curious about the Fields Fabric! I’m not too far from Michigan and we are up there quite a bit. I might have to make a trip when life opens back up!
Your setup is great! Practice makes perfect and he who waits for perfect to act, doesn’t accomplish much in life.
This is a GREAT reminder!
That particular green is so flattering for you, Whitney! Take care of your back! Here at 71 I have just had spinal fusion and I wish I had not waited so long. It isn’t a breeze to have it done, but to be without pain is wonderful!
Thank you! I am definitely taking care of the back!
Lighting and new position is spot on. Thanks for all the resources, Whitney! I relate to your style very much so I appreciate it.
Oh good! I really appreciate all the feedback!
Just posted this request on one of your previous videos! Thank you for sharing all of these resources!!!🤗
Oh good! I’m glad you found it!
Cant tell you how helpful. The reason I wanted to sew was to get better and more interesting fabrics than available in ready made. You have provided the resources. I made some mistakes on line with other companies. Lots of learning and thanks for sharing.
It’s my pleasure! I’m glad you enjoyed it!
Love the new view and the talk about online fabric stores. Where I live the closest fabric stores are Jo-Ann and Hobby Lobby. Next time I visit my friend in Chicago, we are planning a trip to the store you went to on the south side of Chicago.
Yes! The Textile Discount Outlet is amazing! You can get lost in there all day!
This is so helpful! As a beginner, I am completely lost at how to choose fabric online. And loved to learn about independent pattern designers. Thank you for your video!
My pleasure!
Enjoyed this very much. Don't think my re-entry to garment sewing is up to expensive fabrics, but wonderful to know what to be looking for.
❤️
Such good information. Thank you!! I will be rewatching this later. There is so much to learn but mainly because my melodramatic cat thought he was starving and he was so loud. Finally he fell asleep or fainted from hunger.
🤣🤣🤣 those dramatic pets! What are we going to do with them?!!
One thing I've learned is to make sure you check and see what units fabric is being sold in. Sometimes prices look great until you notice that the price is only for a half yard or meter.
That will totally get me as well!
Awesome information, Thank you Whitney!
My pleasure!
Thank you! Love all you are doing, hang in there with the technology stuff it will get better.
❤️
Happy to watch and learn!
❤️
I have shopped from Marcy Tilton in the US. They have fabulous knit prints and lots of other goodies. I agree with you about The Fabric Store they have awesome Merino. Love your new setup and please don’t stress about getting to grips with camera stuff,you are doing great. You will get there. Love from NZ💕
Thank you! I forgot about Marcy! She does have great stuff!
I just love that dress on you! You always look beautiful but today 😘😘
Thank you so much! It was very comfy to wear all day!
Though I don’t need any more fabric, I always love to hear of more good shops to buy from!
One of my favs is B&J Fabrics. They have a beautiful collection of high quality garment fabrics, suitings, outerwear fabrics etc. A bit expensive, but so worth it. They also have great service and ship quickly!
I have never shopped from them, but would love to visit their brick and mortar sometime!
Fabric Mart: I've never disappointment because I find the draping of fabric over a stool very helpful. Any company that does this, is my go to fabric store. The lighting is different in this video and is very becoming on you!
Thank you!
Great angle! And, may I say, the light colors suit you so well. You look so young and fresh.
Well, thank you!!
I would love a series explaining fabric substrates!
Oh good! I have the first video up. I’m going to do one a month. Linen was May’s video and June is going to be activewear/swimwear fabrics!
Great information!: independent sources for fabrics and independent sources for patterns. Thank you. ~ L
My pleasure!
Thank you Whitney! 🤗🌞👏🏻
My pleasure!
Love brushed poly knit from So Sew English. It’s so soft. Love their bundles they do ... usually a print with a solid. Going to spend time checking out all these fabric shops.
That’s a lovely service!
I'm a fan of Fabrics-store.com so I'm glad you mentioned them. I recently got some mid-weight linen from them in the "potting soil" color - you need to check it out as I know brown is one of your neutrals. It's an amazingly rich shade of brown - plus I love the name! Great video Whitney plus I loved hearing Gidget snore. So cute.
Ooh! I really want to try the mid-weight (the ones I bought were the heavy weight and the light weight). I’ll have to grab that color as it is one of my best neutrals!
Thanks for all the info-your videos are very helpful to this insecure, inexperienced new sewer.
I’m so glad!
Oh thank you so much for posting this. We all needed this
My pleasure!
Yes I need to know more about fabrics.Thanks enjoy your videos.
My pleasure!
Love your sew alongside, and your daily blogs as well.
Sew alongs
I’m so glad!!
Hi Withney, great information, specially right now that we’re in quarantine. Thanks for taking the time!
My pleasure!
I just found you and I’m so happy! This video alone provided me with information I have been searching for. I look forward to following along with you.
I’m so glad to hear that!
Thank you so much for the list. I have bought quite a bit of fabric form Style maker fabrics. They are always good quality. There end of the bolt fabric sale is good too. District Fabric is also a good store.
I haven’t heard of District Fabric! I love finding out about new fabric shops!
Thank you for another helpful and entertaining video Whitney :) So many fabric shops AND pattern companies that you point to I know (hahaha not surprising!). As a Canadian, I don't often (hardly ever) order from the US. The cost of shipping, customs charges, differences in our dollar all mean a no go. If we see something on a US fabric store site, we basically need to double the price to get a realistic price point and that will 99% of the time stomp the urge to press the buy now button right there :) There are a number of excellent online Canadian fabric shops now. Heather at Closet Case Files has listed a number of them on her web site. You mention Blackbird which I've been ordering from for years (long before she became rather famous :) ) Among others of my favourites are L'Ouseau Fabrics in Calgary, Canadian National Fabric, Threadcount Fabrics in Manitoba and Gala Fabrics here in Victoria also ships online. I shop in person at Gala and I can promise the quality of Penny's fabric is top notch. I think it's always great when people share their small local fabric shops that they love and also ship out. While listening to your list of favourite indie pattern companies, I was thinking, "Oh I hope she mentions Cashmerette!" And you did :) I too am close to the bottom end (size 12) of her size range (her top end now is 32) but I am always thrilled with the outcome of Jenny's patterns. When I look in my closet at my hand-mades, it's the Cashmerette ones that stand out as my favourites. Except my favourite Tee pattern which is the Fiona by Closet Case. I bought that pattern based on YOUR recommendation :) I'm busty too (you and I have a similar body shape although I'm 5'8" :) ) and thought right away this pattern would never work for me. But then I saw it on you, loved it and jumped immediately to purchase it. Now it's my favourite Tee pattern of all time. I have so many in my closet I've lost count :) Now that's a perfect pattern for a very drapey bamboo/rayon knit. I laughed at your interaction with your sewing partner and her cheeky snoring :))) So much fun to watch you always. It was so nice to hear you are enjoying having your family at home and close! I fear divorce lawyers might be hard to get a hold of in a few months :)
I agree that we need to share info about our local shops! I just saw that spreadsheet that Heather put out this morning and thought, how timely! I’m so very glad to hear that you’re enjoying the channel! Also, thanks for bringing up the Closet Case t-shirt! I need to make another one of those! They are perfect for a bamboo knit!
Love the chatty videos. I'd love to hear more about different kinds of knits and what to make out of what. I have some reallly soft rayon spandex that I'd intended for tops, but it doesn't have very good recovery and it clings to every bump and curve. I bought it because it's soft and won't hurt my skin when the fibro is flaring. But it still sits in my drawer b/c I don't know what to make with it that would be at least a little flattering.
You might try a swing tee with the rayon. The Laundry Day Tee by Love Notions, the Ebony by Closet Case Patterns are a couple that would benefit from the beautiful drape of the rayon knit, but wouldn’t cling!
Thank you, this is exactly the video that I needed. All great information and you look lovely today in your Monte dress!
Thank you so much!
Absolutely on video primers about fabrics!! Great idea :) This was a wonderful video and I took good notes - thanks for taking the time to do this for us! Blessings ~Deb
I’m so glad you liked it!
What a wonderful resource! I did purchase some stretch denim from Blackbird Fabrics on your recommendation and I love it! My only regret was that I should have got a 1/2 meter more than I did 😔.
I hate when that happens!
Looking good; thanks for the info about fabric shops and pattern makers that we can purchase from. I have a stretch denim which I want to make jeans with, would the ginger jean pattern be ok for that, I don't want tight fitting jeans like jeggings, but also don't want wide legged jeans either. Maybe I'm just being fussy but I think this is why we decide to sew for ourselves because we're unhappy with RTW clothing.
Thanks again, Jo 😊
The Ginger Jeans have two views. One is high waisted with a skinny leg and one is a mid-rise with a straight leg. I really like the mid rise with the straight leg!
I also like sew so English or is it So Sew English?! Also LA Finch fabric in CA. Always have good luck with both. Also Ellie and Mac with live videos to almost every pattern. I never even look at directions with Deannas videos.Enjoyed learning about your likes. Studio looks great and love your dress and color on you! So beautiful! Thanks, again.
That’s great to know! I didn’t realize that Ellie and Mac did that. That’s great!
I haven’t watched all of this yet but surprised not to see Megan Nielsen in your list -after all you made me buy the flint, rowan and dawn jeans patterns! For fabrics in the UK -merchantandmills.com, raystitch, Lamazi fabrics, Guthrie-Ghani. Lovely Monty dress and I so love the sound of your little helpers feet padding across the floor towards you.......
I do like quite a few of Megan’s patterns. Her pattern block just requires a bit more fitting for my upper body. Her pants are great for me, though!
Thanks for sharing your favorites!
My pleasure!
Fabric tutorials would be great! Enjoyed the video! Thanks bunches! 🤗
Sure!
I’d definitely be interested in learning more about different fabrics. Thanks.
Sure!
This is a video I will be referring to often. Thank you
Oh good!
Great summary! Thank you. I'm glad you've had good luck with Style Maker Fabrics. Me, not so much. I also bought the autumnal floral print rayon you shared recently. Unfortunately, I bought it before I saw your fabric haul video. The background color looked teal on my iPad, so I was shocked, and disappointed, that the background was a very dark navy. That fabric will look great on you, but my coloring is lighter than yours, so it won't look very nice on me. The owner allowed me to return it, at my expense I imagine, and recommended I request swatches going forward. I think I'll shop from the rest of your list instead.
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Thank you so much for this video! So helpful! ❤️ a good reference and I’m going to do some shopping 💃🏼👗👕👚🥼👔🩱
Woo hoo!
😃 I would add Girl Charlee for fabric because I have literally never heard of anyone getting anything but great things from them and how great their customer service is... and Sew Over It in the U.K. (Though they do deliver all over the world) their fabric and customer service are raved about!
Girl Charlee is a good add!
Thanks for the good info! Lots of ladies must have bought the Cielo...the paper version was very hard to find in stock...got the last one on Etsy. BTW: snoring is not restricted to pug-nosed dogs...we had a mini-doxi (long snout) who snored so loud she used to wake us up 🤣
😂. Gidget will wake us up as well. Such a loud sound coming from such a small creature 😂.
@@TomKatStitchery exactly 😂.
Thank you so much. Great info! Your ideas give me much inspiration! I am also a "Hoosier" - near Fort Wayne!
I am specifically looking for black rib knit fabric to make T-neck shirts AND black coat weight wools (merino/boiled, etc) to remake a fav coat of mine. I will check out these fabric stores!
My pleasure!
Whitney, thank you for this resource. I was wondering if you could update it periodically? Also, have you tried ' Beyond the Pink Door'? It is a small shop ( Andrea is the owner) in Ireland.
I could definitely update this video! I have heard to Beyond the Pink Door, but haven't tried them yet. I'll have to do that!
So so helpful! Thanks a million!
My pleasure!
Great info, thanks Whitney!
My pleasure!
Whitney I would love to see fabric videos. Also, I would love to hear your opinion on making your own blocks and patterns as Suzanne at Sew Custom does. In terms of fit what are the pros and cons? Because I am tall and curvy about size 14, I find so many patterns ill - fitting. By the time I do all the adjustments I need I feel like, “OMG Why didn’t I just start from scratch?!” Thoughts? Thanks 🙏
I could definitely talk about making your own patterns!
You have access to some amazing fabric shops. We in Australia don’t have anywhere near as many. I’m in WA we have an amazing one called Lush Fabrics.
I too am in WA....where is Lush Fabrics?
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Patsy Foote there is a Facebook group Lush Fabric Australia, also a Web Site the same name. Every Sunday Tracey introduces new fabrics. It is a family business. Also online parties every now and then.. Have a look. $10.00 flat rate shipping.
Yes please, I would appreciate more info on substrates.
Sure!
Love ur videos! I know it’s so basic but even though I’ve sewn for years I feel like I’m missing something as far as fabric prep before cutting. Have u (or could u) a video on fabric prep? Ex: straightening grain or general prep for knits.
Sure! I can talk more about that in a future sew along!
I love Minerva it’s in England, but the shipping costs are sometimes cheaper than just staying in the US
I agree!
Loved this informative video❣️
I’m so glad!
Hello again Whitney. I was watching this video again bc it is such a great resource. What about Pattern Emporium?
This video is an old one, before I found Pattern Emporium. I need to do an update of this one!
Thanks for the great information!
My pleasure!
I have use fabric-store.com linen in a pair of great elastic waist pull on pants. Their linen definitely gets softer with washings. The pants were made with their heavy weight (not softened.. lots of nubs) and after a couple of washes was MUCH softer than I expected. The purple medium weight linen I got for a dress (still wavering on the Lily pattern and which to make.. leaning towards a tunic with 3/4 sleeves.. but the dress looks SO comfy for the current situation we all are finding ourselves in.)
Oh.. I also took a chance with Fabric Warehouse Direct and was quite impressed with the quality. I got some of their cotton jersey, cotton gauze and a few of the lighter weight prints for some scarves. I was surprised by the quality of the material. Not "the best" but definitely better than what I expected for the prices.
I can't shut up... LOL. If you could do a video on good places for notions online.. I can't find a good petersham (just general grossgrain) and it gets expensive shopping at a bunch of shops to get all the supplies I need (shipping adds up).
AK patterns site is down currently.. will have to check that one out another time.
I can definultey talk more about online notions shopping!
This is good to know! I’m excited to make up and wear this linen. I think I’ll do an end of season comparison once everything has been worn and laundered a ton. I will say that the heavy weight that I bought did get a ton softer after just the first wash. I really love linen!
Great video, I'll have to save it for reference, as I trust your experience. I do have a few favorites to share. A few comments mentioned marcytilton.com, I'd like to add that she also lists pattern suggestions on each fabric's detail page. Louise Cutting has patterns, sewing books, and fabrics at cuttinglinedesigns.com . Florida based, Louise's designs and fabric choices are geared to hot weather. For anything outdoor, rockywoods.com has lots of heavy duty fabric, sun protection fabric, about every camouflage print in various fabrics, and associated hardware for making backpacks, etc. They also have a selection of outdoor and active wear patterns from several different companies. saf-t-pockets.com is a pattern line with hidden pockets. They started in the 90's, so some of the early patterns may look dated. I have made up several, and sometimes just incorporate the pocket pieces and the instructions into other patterns. They were bought by thesewingplace.com, so I don't know if Dana Bontrager plans to extend the line. Thanks again for your list.
I’m so glad you liked this one! Thank you for all your recommendations!
Great information!
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Love the T-shirt neckline video Can you tell wich pattern do you use for the square neck l over it
It’s the Wanted Tee by Vanessa Pouzet. The pattern is in French, but I did a complete sew along during t-shirt week if you don’t read French!
I absolutely love that colour on you - can you tell me where you bought that fabric from?
Thank you! It’s a linen I bought from Let’s Sew, a wonderful fabric shop in Evansville, Indiana!
Check out ready to sew for wovens. I just made 4 of the Josette tops because I love hearts.
Ohh! I haven’t heard of them so that’s exciting!
Whitney you may want to check out Silhouette Patterns and fabric. They are located in Texas.
That’s Peggy Sagers isn’t it? I’ll have to take a look!
Surprised you didn't mention anything about the 'Big 4' or any of their designers - what you like and dislike about them. I did hear it was 'independent' pattern companies you were reviewing but I'm still not seeing the benefit of all that copying, cutting and taping for those that CAN get them for $1.99... Maybe helping to find that 'independent' that will someday be part of the Big 5?
I had a lot of questions about my favorite independent designers so that’s why I stick with just that category this time. I do love quite a few of the Big 4’s stuff as well!
I didn’t hear you mention Ellie & Mac. How do you like them?
I think this video was done before I discovered Ellie and Mac. I have used a few of their patterns now and have been very pleased with what I've made!
Sewing with a decent quality fabric means the battle is already won. I like organic cotton from a small wholesaler who produces there own hand loom cottons abroad and simple block prints. The owner has a statement. If you cannot except the odd irregularity in hand loom and prints then we are not the company for you, our colours are impregnated into the yarn for longivity and we keep things simple.
I LOVE that!!
Many of the fabric stores you recommend carry PDF patterns only. Do you send your PDF patterns to a print shop, and which one do you prefer?
I both print my own PDFs and send them out to be printed. My favorite shop is pdfplotting.com . They have the best prices that I've found for printing and they are quick!
Great video! I am going to try out some of these companies. I do alot of sewing with linen and order frequently from Fabric-Store. I do like their linens even though they are not as soft as they could be. I did read though that the really soft linen doesn't hold up as well due to the processing that is done to make it real soft. Not to sure what to believe...I'm in the market for a serger and would like to have a medium priced machine. Any suggestions? Thanks!
I’ll have to make all these linens up and then do a comparison at the end of the season when they’ve all been worn and laundered a bunch! I’m actually thinking of getting a new serger (and keeping my current one set up as a coverstitch). I love the Babylock sergers so I’ll let you all know what I find out in my research!
@@TomKatStitchery Thank you very much!
I tend to shy away from anytime offered in extra cup sizes as I am not overly endowed. Guess I’m afraid it will be big everywhere. Is Cashmerette for plus sizes?
Cashmerette is for a curvier figure. The others do offer smaller cup sizes as well as the larger ones!
How often do you check each online fabric stores " New Arivals"?
I usually peruse the New Arrival sections about 1-2 times a month just to stay current.
See over It, and I Am Patterns are good as well
Those are good ones!
I like your lipstick
Thank you!
Hi your link to akpatterns doesn’t work do they have a new one? Thanks in advance.
Hello! Unfortunately, AK Patterns closed their doors earlier this year and no longer has their patterns available.
I just ordered a 3 yards of rayon jersey from Style Maker fabrics to make a maxi length t-shirt dress. Is this a bad combination? Will rayon jersey be too drapey for a maxi dress?
It depends on what you’re wanting. I think rayon jersey would be beautiful for certain maxi dresses!
@@TomKatStitchery do you have any recommendations for smaller busted women?
For some reason I do not see the usual links below. I went out and then back in and there they were, weird.
That is weird!
Now that is a lot of information!!!! Hours of fabric hunting ahead...thank you. I am wondering if you have a good source for pin wale corduroy as one of my daughters wants some trousers in bottle green or wine, and the other daughter wants a rich purple corduroy bomber jacket xxx
Stylemaker fabrics has some pin wale corduroy!
@@TomKatStitchery thank you
I very much enjoyed t shirt week. Along the way, I made Pamela’s tee in a cotton spandex and continue to struggle with a nice finish on her curved hem. I heard you mention showing us that but could not find it. Which video is it? Or could you do one?
I did show that hem. I’m racking my brain, but I think it was in one of the daily vlogs during t-shirt week (those daily vlogs are also under the t-shirt week playlist). I should have sectioned that technique out into one of the “formal” videos. I can film a separate video on how to sew a curved knit hem!
TomKat Stitchery I did a speed run through them all and could not find it. Separate video would be great!😘