Five Unexpected Places to Find Fabric and Sewing Supplies!

Hello Shiny Crafty People and welcome back!
Today I’m talking about five unexpected places go find sewing fabric and supplies.
I’m the video, I talk about a number of videos I’ve made showing some great finds at Dollar Tree stores. Here are some links:
• Ten More Great Sewing ...
• 11 More Dollar Tree Se...
Check out the kitchen boa video here: • Easy 30-Minute Craft! ...
I also talked about a certain kind of glove that will protect against cuts. You should buy the best glove(s) that you find and that are the most protective. I like ones that also have gripping dots on them to make it easier to keep your measuring grid in place. Here’s a link to one I’ve used: amzn.to/3UqERlf
If you want to join our Facebook group, check it out here: share/UMFLLi...

[@suek7086]

I like to use the zippered bags that sheets and comforters come in. They are sturdy and are great for keeping projects in.

[@monicab8176]

Never thought about using dollar tree dog collars for the hardware! Word!!!

[@saraburke4795]

Thrift store handbags often have interesting hardware as well as zippers. Thanks for these tips!

[@colettel2361]

I made a wedding veil from a Martha Stewart valance from Walmart. It was a beautiful lacey satin and we were in the boondocks of Kentucky attending a family reunion which turned into an impromptu layed-back wedding. Yeah!😉... The bride looked beautiful! Who would have thought it possible!?! Thanks for your tips... really good ideas!

[@timothytotten9409]

That is awesome!

[@user-nv5pr8ur6f]

😂 you do know you've just furthered the joke that family reunions are hillbilly dating pools! Sorry but had to say it (part is my family is from TN). That was excellent catch for the veil!

[@wvglitter7761]

​@@user-nv5pr8ur6f bwahahahaaaaahaha 😂

[@barbbarnes469]

The cutting glove...... EXCELLENT idea! About 10 years ago I was cutting fabric with a rotary cutter that had a dull pinking shear blade on it. I was using a regular ruler. You guessed it. I cut off the end of my left index finger! It bled for 6 hours! PLEASE! Take his advice and use a glove. Also, NEVER use dull blades... it isn't worth it. Use the proper set up. Thank you for telling people about this.

[@Regeina]

Thrift store fabrics are great for historic-themed costumes. I once bought a new king comforter ( beautiful silver - blue color with baroque style pattern) in Goodwill Outlet and have made it into a splendid Tudor-era gown, adding some dark blue, golden, dark red silky fabrics, sourced also from thrift store curtains and place mats. There were so much seamless fabric in that comforter, that the other side with stripes and most of batting is still left for yet another costume. Also, I once bought two real silk taffeta large window drapery panels $ 4.99 each in another Goodwill, which later turned out to be of regular price $ 800 each (as per I-net research), since manufactured by one well-known company. I am going to make those into a Marie-Antoinette style ballgown for dancing in one of the Versailles historic reenactments.

[@timothytotten9409]

Great finds!!

[@karenr.sternberg1920]

Sounds great!! I'd love to see it when it's all finished!!

[@janinecroteau5946]

I bought a beautiful satin outer shower curtain It had shoes 👠 and handbags 👜 printed on it. I cut it up and made it into shoe bags for travelling!

[@timothytotten9409]

Such a great idea! How lucky that it had that print!!

[@BrendaAnderson73]

Love love love this idea! Will be watching for these type curtains!

[@theMermaidRhonda]

Here in Cincinnati there is a recycle/reuse place that is open twice a week where you can go and everything is free. They have tons of fabric, yarn, thread, tiles, and just about everything else. They do it to keep it from the landfill. I went a few weeks ago and scored a huge box of tapestry fabric that I donated to my local historical reenacting group. I'm sure there are places like it in other cities. I even found some vintage Stretch N Sew patterns!

[@timothytotten9409]

So cool. I will try to check it out next time I come to Cincinnati. I have good friends there and it might work out to visit the place. Thanks!

[@krisqueen5939]

I love this idea and would like to open something like this in my town. How do they cover the cost of the shop and labor?

[@mouse.bones20]

What is it called? I know of the Indigo Hippo for secondhand fabric but this sounds like a different place

[@alterederathrift]

In Austin, Texas, there is a similar store called Austin Creative Reuse. In San Antonio, Texas, there is one called Spare Parts. :)

[@jtedandlindasimpson7044]

Love stretch & sew patterns.

[@nancyhaefner4596]

I am from the Tulsa Oklahoma area. I went into a Salvation Army Family Store and found 5 yards of a Charlie Brown Great Pumpkin material. The cost: a total of $3.00! I made a skirt with it.🙂

[@timothytotten9409]

So wonderful! I love Tulsa. I got to speak for a very exclusive fundraiser at the Frank Lloyd Wright house there in Tulsa. What a cool town and a lovely (but huge) home. It’s still for sale too.

[@marcysikes]

I purchase inexpensive bed pillows for the fiberfill they are stuffed with. Cheaper than a bag of fiberfill!

[@timothytotten9409]

Such a good idea!!

[@rebeccacamacho-sobczak4282]

OOOoo such a great idea!!

[@BrendaAnderson73]

Wonderful idea! Thanks for sharing.

[@jackyfreeman5530]

I have bought cushions from the op shop and used the filling!

[@bevwest7428]

I love the thrift store for sheets to be used in many ways!

[@nodramamoma]

Same here! Some of the most beautiful prints can be found in thrifted sheets. 😊

[@tinasitz6742]

Love getting sheets at the thrift store to use as the backing of a quilt.

[@fondasarff9701]

Whenever I get sewing supplies at Harbor Freight or my local co-op hardware I always say to the checkout guy, "Bet when you came to work this morning you didn't know you working at a craft store." The reactions are precious! I've also noticed the selection of crafty things increasing in the co-op so maybe letting the folks know what customers are looking for is handy for all.

[@ginnylawson8533]

I bought a lot of my sewing supplies at Harbor Freight. I love that store.

[@debbiedebbie9473]

No man working at the hardware store wants to be called precious. 😮😊

[@nancybubenik7498]

At Harbor Freight I have picked up rotary cutter blades for a fraction of the cost, in their rug cutting section.

[@IrishAnnie]

Good, because Hobby Lobby is squeezing out craft items for cheap home decor from China. It’s getting harder to find what I want or need there.

[@IrishAnnie]

@@ginnylawson8533. I had no idea they had sewing supplies.

[@robinkrieter3273]

I always have my eyes open for the unconventional sewing and craft item. My sewing table is a Husky work bench from homedepo. It adjust the height very easy, it has a great wooden top. The big plus is, it was a lot cheaper than the adjustable sewing table. ❤❤

[@MyraWilson-pn9ow]

I loved my first homedepot butcher block adjustable “sewing” table so much I bought 2 more in longer lengths. I ordered the drawers for the other 2 to store patterns. My room is complete and so much sturdier and cheaper than the junk particle board stuff craft stores sell.

[@RoseOriginals]

Timothy, you out did yourself with these tips. I especially liked the 5 gallon bucket idea. We purchased a travel trailer recently and didn't want to spend a lot of $$$ changing out the curtains, so I used painters' drop cloths. I bleached them and I swear they look and feel like raw silk. Made all 3 windows for about $13. Thanks again for sharing!

[@timothytotten9409]

Such a good idea for the curtains!!

[@Kayenne54]

I bought a whole roll of calico to make curtains. The interesting thing about calico is that the more you wash it, the whiter it gets. Also takes dye well, of course. Made some single bed sheets, so it also gets softer as it gets washed, and due to the original fibre, is very strong and long lasting. Painters' drop cloths I've used to provide a 'weather wall' for the outside catio. Relatively inexpensive to replace, and somewhat water resistant.

[@RoseOriginals]

@@Kayenne54 Cool!

[@susancnw59]

You can get 5 gal buckets at bakeries or ice cream parlors.

[@donnaholbrook6733]

At the thrift store a way to find fabric is to look thru the clothing section men’s larger shirts have large sections of fabric that can be recycled. You can also find smaller zippers and lace and buttons. Not big pieces but if making textile jewerly or children’s clothes. Just let your imagination go wild. Love your video’s so much information.

[@timothytotten9409]

Great idea!!!

[@TheRozylass]

My mom and grandma also used sheets for quilt backings. In those days wide backing fabric was not available at any price. It was an amazing day when it did become available, but sheets are still the way to go if money is tight.

[@Debee109]

Went to a thrift store recently to look around for fabrics for backings and walked out with two King size ,100% cotton, Doona covers for $2 each. So I now have four king size pieces of backing to use. I also check out the handbag section for zips as well as for the D-rings and lobster claw catches and ornamental metal pieces, or to recycle handles and straps. Belts are also a good option for recycling parts, buckles and fabric/leather.

[@arlenesmith7883]

Yes sheets are wonderful for quilts! Sadly, Walmart used to have a very large selection of single sheets (twin size) for $5 ! Many colors an and prints to match! I make donation quilts for our church. Now they are $10 each and the selection is 4 colors!! Not progress!! Ugh!

[@user-kn3bz4xp6h]

I only use thrifted bed sheets for my backings. It saves on cash and the environment

[@dorothysmith5459]

​@@user-kn3bz4xp6h13:35

[@julieschaefer9964]

I also use sheets for backing quotes as well as making capes for Halloween costumes. Both use so much material! Love the tips. Can't wait to use them 😊

[@janicestewart5612]

I have gone to Harbor Freight for my notions. Canvas tarp, telescopic magnet stick, and a magnetic tray.

[@timothytotten9409]

Such a good idea!!

[@janicestewart5612]

@@timothytotten9409 I believe you purchased velcro there about a year ago.

[@amandac.5846]

Yes!! I got some rulers there too. My aluminum one is great for ironing a hem over.

[@Debee109]

No Harbor Freight in Australia but I visit the Auto shops for the telescopic wands, magnetic trays and also for dent pullers as ruler handles (much stronger than the craft ones) for a fraction of the price of the craft branded ones.

[@suek7086]

I bought two magnetic parts dishes for my pins. I spray painted them both in colors to match my sewing room. I love them. I also use them to run over spilled pins and they collect on the bottom and are easy to use.

[@Kayenne54]

Most of the Thrift stores I've gone into, the best "stuff" has already been "put aside" by the actual volunteer workers. Before it even gets out onto the floor. There's method in their madness for "volunteering" you know.

[@carolgateman129]

I had a farmer friend who saw me using a seam ripper years ago and suggested I try a scalpel she used on her farm. I tried one and I have been using them as seam rippers for 30 years now and they are fantastic if you are careful.

[@misscharlotte5075]

Sheets are wonderful to make curtains out of. Especially, if you have amatching bedspread.!!. 😊

[@timothytotten9409]

So smart!!

[@colettemcwilliams1325]

My mother used to do that when I was growing up.😊

[@dorothysmith5459]

Ō​@@colettemcwilliams1325

[@bevreader1005]

Also for lining tote bags and purses!

[@jeannettasmith2825]

I purchased 4 Yukon 3-drawer workbenches from Harbor Freight and put them together to use as a cutting table. My new table is 40” x 10’ and I have 12 drawers for all of my sewing and quilting notions. I also purchased a large container of Command hooks from Costco and stuck them to the legs of the tables. The hooks hold my quilting rulers and templates. Additionally, I bought 2 of the Yukon workbenches and use them as an ironing surface. The vise extends all the way out and holds the base of my iron. All of my ironing supplies fit either in the drawers or on the shelves below. :)

[@timothytotten9409]

So smart!

[@campwisdom4312]

How much were the Yukon tables? Thanks

[@jeannettasmith2825]

@@campwisdom4312 They’re normally $180. The day I went to order them, Harbor Freight was running a special so I got them for $140 each.

[@jeannettasmith2825]

@@campwisdom4312 The tables were on sale for $140 each. I had to pre-order them and they arrived in a couple of weeks. No additional charge for shipping.

[@jtedandlindasimpson7044]

For those who occasionally need a lg cutting space for big projects, I bought plastic, height adjustable, foldable sawhorses for the table base( not very expensive as I recall. I used a regular flat interior door painted white do it was nice & smooth ( left over from a remodeling project as the top & a very lg cutting mat. Sets up & down in minutes. I keep the sawhorses in the garage & the door behind a hanging door that’s usually always open. I drilled two decent sized holes in the end of the cutting mat that line up with 2 long wood screws with heads placed in the wall studs behind a door. Very easy to hang up or take down, use this system all the time. Interior luaun doors are very light because they are hollow. System is strong enough for any sewing needs.

[@jinaburris334]

I came across some pillow forms at Wal-Mart on clearance for $1.50. I grabbed several and used the stuffing for my memory bears I make. I'm always trying to think outside the box for craft supplies. Thanks for your tips.

[@timothytotten9409]

So so smart!!

[@romonaelrod7870]

I use bed pillows from Wal-Mart to make my pillow forms.

[@pamstorch5683]

Great tips! I’ve found many supplies at local thrift stores. 24x36 Olfa cutting mat like new $2.15. I’ve found Olfa pinking and wave rotary cutting handles and just bought new blades for them. I’ve also taken the long zippers out of those plastic bags sheet sets come in.

[@rosethread5509]

I also loved the dog collar idea. I liked your storage idea. I use a large fishing tackel box for my sewing supplies and one for my art (penciles, pastels, ect.). I have found that it is made from stronger plastic and have ajustable compartments to fit the sewing supplies that I need.

[@timothytotten9409]

That’s a great idea! They do seem to be made in a sturdier way.

[@lynnez.2818]

During the pandemic, I wanted elastic shoelaces but couldn't find them anywhere. I went to Dollartree and bought hairbands. They worked perfectly and I haven't had to replace them in four years.

[@timothytotten9409]

Such a good idea!

[@barbaraness4507]

Zip ties can be used in place of boning, some gardening gloves for free motion quilting, tackle boxes to organize supplies, and hemostats used for turning fabric right side out are some things you can find at these stores also. 😁

[@Debee109]

I go to my local big box hardware and salvage the woven plastic package strapping they throw in the rubbish to use as boning or to keep the top of thread bags open, may sometimes need to glue two pieces together to obtain the stiffness required but it is free & keeps it out of landfill.

[@tammyfritschie1697]

​@Debee109 I have done the plastic strip thing too.

[@vickifennell3615]

Great ideas!! Out my way in West Virginia, we have a store called Harbor Freight. Great for the same types of things in your Rural store. And I LOVE getting my fabric from the thrift stores. I pick up shirts on dollar day that have great patterns as well as getting vintage sheets that I use for the backing of my quilts..LOVE getting vintage sheets for $1-$2

[@suek7086]

My favorite place. Before I discovered them for sewing supplies I used to get impatient with my late hubby spending a long time there. How stupid was that?

[@EmmieC]

I’ve made some great bags from tablecloths and curtains I’ve gotten at thrift stores. And dollar stores often have fabric placemats that make great pouches, makeup bags or bottle totes.

[@csjackson76]

I have used clearance cotton table clothes to cut up and make quilts,especially the ones with bright colors.

[@andreas.23]

I used the left over aisle runner from my daughter's wedding for practice fabric and pattern try outs. We had a 50% off coupon which made it very cheap.

[@ruthvaughan450]

FYI: About using a sheet for quilt backing, some long arm quilters won’t accept a quilt that’s backed with sheet fabric because some sheets aren’t straight grain. I found this out early on. On small quilts that I finish myself, sheets are a great option.

[@toots810usa6]

I make denim quilts that I tie off and use a flannel sheet for the backing. Kids love them and they are so warm in winter.

[@chjspiritualinvestigatives1187]

I love thrift stores for fabric, notions, and even vintage patterns ❤

[@janl845]

Can I add a couple? Harbor Freight has lots of tools. I have purchased their magnetic bowl for my pins. They sell hemostats, they are used in hospitals. But I use them to hold the ends of elastic. When you are making a pair of shorts or PJ bottoms. You can clamp the elastic together and try them on for fit. Harbor Freight sell inexpensive tarps and microfiber towels. My local Saver's does a great job selling fabric. They stuff a bag full of fabric, it sells for $7, cheaper on Senior day. If I don't like a certain fabric, I donate it back.

[@timothytotten9409]

Such a good list of extra ideas. Thanks!

[@sharonlalli1414]

Microfiber towels are great. But never use fabric softener. They loose the ability to absorb.

[@ellenpowell4155]

Microfiber towels are not good as backing for items like bowl cozies bec they are not 100% cotton, but would be OK as an extra layer in hot pads between the top n bottom cotton pieces.

[@nancy9478]

​@@ellenpowell4155I use the hemostats to turn my bowl holders right side out.

[@lynnkraus6715]

Another place I get fabric and notions is Daiso. They are a Japanese 'dollar store'. They are not in all states yet. Loads of locations in CA, but also in WA, TX, AZ, NV, NJ and NJ. And it looks like there are several in Canada as well. Thanks for the video. My grandmother never bought batting for her many, many quilts. She always used flannel blankets.

[@timothytotten9409]

I’ll check next time I’m in one of those states. Sounds like a cool store concept

[@mrsducky3428]

Went to one in Los Angeles, plan a whole day! It was massive and had stuff in every square inch! 🤣

[@Kittyququmber]

The best stores are DIASO ESPECIALLY while in Asia. The Diaso stores in American are nothing compared to the DIASO in Asia. My favorite store while living in Asia!!!

[@Debee109]

@@Kittyququmber Visited several Daiso stores in Japan last year when we were touring. They are absolutely amaziing. Don't know about the stores in the US so can't comment or compare.

[@sandrac8770]

Yes Daiso has a sewing/craft section with really cute items too 🤗 The Daiso's closer to my area are quite small compared to the one in Japan Town Mall in San Francisco.

[@momistaken]

Great ideas, Tim! My favorite hardware item from the tool section is the various magnetic steel bowls. Mechanics use them to keep track of all those nuts and bolts and smaller tools; we can use them in our work, too! Also, years ago I used a tarp to protect my couch from a new puppy. It tucked around the cushions nicely and was easier to launder than a slip cover.

[@timothytotten9409]

Great tip!

[@joanne305]

Harbor freight has a ton of items you can use in the sewing room. Tool boxes, rulers, magnets , magnetic dishes for pins to name a few.

[@mrsducky3428]

Agreed! Right now there is a harbor freight 9 drawer tool box in the living room filled with sewing notions and a sewing machine and serger on top! Plus the magnetic power strip on one side and the magnetic rack on the other holding ironing aids 😂

[@vickiporter2945]

I’ve been using painters cloths for years to make grocery totes…you have some great ideas❤️

[@timothytotten9409]

That’s a great idea!

[@patty6375]

My foyer, ceiling to floor, curtains are Harbor Freight chic. 😂 Drop cloths are great.

[@AJDay-kh4ud]

I use the tea towels to make a purse/ bag for my wheelchair. With the buckles I got at a thrift store. ❤ your channel!!!

[@louisefoster1449]

Hello Tim, I was so interested to see your latest tips video. When you showed the cushioning floor mats, I realised that I had some in my garage, left over from a different use. I got them immediately and brought them to my sewing space (where I am now) and put them down at my ironing board. Ooh, it’s so comfortable underfoot, I love it! Ikea sometimes sell bolts of canvas fabric cheaply. So, thank you for your tips and tutorials. Best wishes, Louise, Dublin, Ireland 🇮🇪

[@timothytotten9409]

So smart! And I love the IKEA detail about fabric. I’m gonna make a video about IKEA soon; so many people have never been there so it will be cool to share the sewing items from there!

[@dawsie]

Another good place to use those mats are in the kitchen, at the sink, the cutting bench and the stove are the 3 places I have mats best move I ever made as I use to do a lot of prep work for meals.

[@Seams_in_the_Wild]

Hi Louise Foster, from Louise Foster! 😂🤣

[@chesmom2]

Timothy, these are great ideas for thinking "outside the box." I never would have thought about using dog collars for notions. I'm just getting back into sewing and your tips are so helpful - thank you!!

[@timothytotten9409]

Glad it was helpful!

[@lulu-qw8xy]

Thank you, I especially like your idea of the bucket with the storing compartments inside! Could use to store items that you are already using working on for a small craft project. ❤

[@LeighMerrydayPorch]

That last thrift store tip is genius.

[@SuPie1353]

My suggestion is if you need pattern paper because you need to make paper patterns go to a medical supply store and buy a roll of the paper they use in doctors offices to cover the beds. It's about $5 a roll, makes great pattern paper, and I can use it to cushion gift bag gifts or my fragile seasonal ornaments as well.

[@dianneunderwood8456]

Your last tip to check out the Thrift stores for fabric is spot on! I have found many great buys at our local thrift store from upholstery material to fine silk! And sometimes the amount is incredible (8 yds of silk was donated there one time). Needless to say the sewists in our town are happy to check out the wonderful bargains.

[@timothytotten9409]

I wish my own thrift stores would put out fabric. I have never seen raw bolts of fabric or anything other than big blankets and sheets.

[@RyunoOhi]

@@timothytotten9409 don't turn your nose up at sheets, shower curtains, & other large swatches of cloth. As long as it doesn't have a lot of seams, those fabric items can be taken apart, cannibalized, & given new life very easily. I've made a few capes from curtains, lol.

[@lindy4462]

Bravo to the shower curtain for plastic for bagmaking! Really original and definitely cheaper!

[@Debee109]

Can also salvage the plastic/vinyl bags some items are packaged in for the same purpose. I use the plastic/vinyl bags sheet sets, doona covers etc come in as project bags and to store and gift completed quilts in. Folk will quite often give them back so they can be re-used multiple times.

[@dawsie]

One thing I love to buy is the square washers I put two together and cover them with fabric as they are a little ruff to the touch. Once covered I use them as patten weights so that it keeps my pattern in place on fabric that you cannot use pins on while cutting around the pattern. They are also handy to keep the patterns in place while trying to workout the best layout on your fabric. Nothing worse than the patterns floating away when you’re placing down another one.

[@timothytotten9409]

What a great idea!

[@krisqueen5939]

Love this idea

[@user-kn3bz4xp6h]

I only thrift fabric now. I get adorable vintage/hood quality fabric there, pay less, and it’s more environmentally friendly. I even use bed sheets etc in my quilting & other projects

[@deborahbeatty]

The canvas drop cloths are just lovely to work with or to use as curtains after washing. They become much softer and take paint and dye so much better.

[@timothytotten9409]

Great tip!

[@SewingWithLawayne]

Another great place for fabric is if you have a Goodwill Bin store close by, pay by the pound instead of per piece. Plus if you go to the thrift store remember closes are FABRIC too, I have made a few quilts for womens Extra Large dresses I found and cut up for fabric. Mens shirts are great too.

[@joanoconnor3896]

Hi Timothy. I agree with the Thrift store idea. I was lucky to find two queen sized linen duvet covers for $5.99 each! I washed/dried them and will be making dresses out of them. Joann's wanted $15.99/yd. Use bed sheets as toilles.

[@sahmnancy]

Also, the thrift store will often have sheets - individual sheets or even full sets. I've made dresses for my granddaughter out of cute kids sheets with fun prints. I even have some curtains and tableclothes set aside for dresses for myself.

[@amieinnovascotia3237]

I case the local Value Village for sheets to make pillow cases and covers for the bed to toss over the made bed each day to collect cat hair. I go through a lot of pillowcases. Cats!

[@conniedeshazo3031]

The best place to buy sheets for backing is the Goodwill type stores. They’ve been washed and washed so they Are already soft. . Top sheets are rarely worn.

[@timothytotten9409]

Such a good point! I am thinking about making a few project just out of stuff I find at Goodwill.

[@patty6375]

Last time I was at a Goodwill (very recently), I was told they no longer wash their items before setting them out to sell. It takes too much time and money for them now. Keep that in mind. I wash ALL items from thrift stores, etc, in my washing machine regardless of what the labels say. If I make something with the material it needs to be able to "live" my life style. And most everything does quite well.

[@MissyS1614]

At some thrift stores near me, they will go ahead and put out fabric, but they’ll hang it up in the home decor or bedding area. Also, if your thrift stores arent too expensive and you don’t mind a tiny bit of work, men’s dress shirts hold a LOT more fabric than they might appear to! And if you don’t want to fuss with seam ripping, just cutting off the seams and cuffs gets the job done very quickly.

[@Craftythrifter]

Thrifting is how I get sheets for quilt backing and I LOVE to look at the tote and string bags for exactly what you mentioned. Handles, zippers, hardware, straps and strings. That stuff is very expensive so even if you pay a few dollars, if you get a couple of pieces off of it, it’s worth it! Did not think of the canvas and leather though, great tips!!!👍🏻

[@annettegraff8323]

I buy the totes with zippers for knitting and small zipper bags for notions ! Can't make em for that ,even with coupons at Jo Ann ! 😊

[@ellenedwards7029]

I find church rummage sales and estate sales the best. I can usually get a whole bag if zippers fur a dollar or two. Recently I found a whole large box of beautiful old lace fur three dollars. They always have containers and odds and ends things fur projects. I also get sheets at thrift stores fur quilt backing. It's always the thrill of the hunt

[@annettegraff8323]

@ellenedwards7029 We don't have those here! The estate sales have lines forming before daylight and they limit # of persons inside They are usually way higher than thrift or Flea markets ! I've found all of those things at our thrift store s including bougie upscale yarn fir 99cents! Men's shirts have better quality fabric for quilting in a variety of colors ,stripes and checks than Jo Ann Walmart or Hobby Lobby! Imo

[@ritatilley9380]

I make Log Cabin quilts out of men's shirts n nurses uniforms. It's good quality cotton n doesn't fade.

[@marinaabad4995]

The Dollar Tree has a pack of 8 nickel sized magnets for the $1.25. I buy the 2 1/2" "jelly rolls" in solids for $5. I found the quality to be fine, I used it sashing for a quilt that has been washed, with no problems.

[@smarttraveler8232]

Yes! I thought the same thing about the pet collars at the Dollar tree! Great place to get hardware cheap.

[@michelemowrer5717]

Thrift stores. Large clothing. Left overs at garage sales...put to the side of the road. Buy old clothes for the buttons and zippers. Old drapes for Christmas Stockings. Furniture stores have old swatches if their upholstery samples. And...hint...i use craft dowels, long match sticks, etc for my embroidery thread. Stick them into packaging styrofoam. Stack thin pieces of the foam together and wrap edges with twine. When the top layer gets overused switch out which layer from in between gets to be on the top. God bless.

[@sandrahunt5916]

Thank you Timothy, for your willingness to share such great finds and ideas. I am starting to get into jewelry making and your tip on the leather laces from the store that sells things for animals was a hit. Just returned from Tractor Supply (the store where I live) and for less than $10 I nabbed a bag of leather laces. Blessings.

[@SharonRStudio]

This was a great video. Never thought of Tractor Supply (or the one you mentioned). I do frequent thrift stores. I found a beautiful piece of Sari fabric on my last trip, and lots of XXXL mens shirts to cut up for fabric.

[@palominogirl2732]

You're a GENIUS! I thought I was the queen of using items for uses other than what they were intended for, but I bow to you, Tim! Specifically the dog collars for D-rings and strapping. I just stared at those D-rings and other hardware for putting on bags I'm making for a craft fair in JoAnn's the other day and thought, wow, there's quite a mark-up on those!

[@Cre0leD1va]

I routinely get my rotary cutter blades from my local Harbor Freight Tools. I get my quilt backings from thrift store sheets. I even found a sheet and curtain combo to make myself a duvet cover... thanks for all your suggestions!😊

[@timothytotten9409]

I hadn’t thought to look at harbor freight! Are they good blades?

[@Cre0leD1va]

They cut pretty well, I could easily cut 4 layers of fabric. 😊

[@beckyscheller9358]

I also use garden gloves for machine quilting. The rubber one work great. Lots of good ideas.

[@timothytotten9409]

Great tip!

[@lisadelvecchio229]

Your ideas are excellent! Thank you! 😁❤

[@jafallica]

You are just the sweetest and most talented guy. Love your videos and tips. My favorite fabric store is here in Massachusetts near Boston. It’s a family run store and they have the greatest fabric and notions. There drapery and upholstery fabric is no more than $5.99-$6.99 a yard. There remnant table fabrics are only $2.49-2.99 a yard! You can’t beat their prices anywhere. I never leave there without fabric! I always refer all my clients to buy their fabric there for their upholstery and home decor sewing they hire me to do for them.

[@sueCross-ke1cs]

give a name i live in mass please address too if you can

[@catehowell7091]

Yes - please share the store name. Thanks

[@renamcfarland2834]

I have found some useful stuff at harbor freight. Like drop cloths great for zip bags and pillows,and one of those things to draw big circles for patterns ( compass) this thing is amazing for those circl projects,ottomans ect . Also a tall container that has three shelves and they all spin ( mechanics use it to put like screws and stuff ) I put all my sew accessories in it. Cheaper there than the ones at hobby lobby. Thanks for all you information.

[@timothytotten9409]

Great finds! I’ll have to go back to Harbor Freight soon.

[@joycespecht3038]

Some really great tips - I was raised to use flat sheets for the backs of quilts, so much cheaper than any material and works so great. I have a magnetic bowl that I got from Harbor Freight for almost nothing - I saw one at JoAnne's for $17. just last week

[@timothytotten9409]

Great tip!

[@judywiggins5092]

My Harbor Freight is beside of my Jo-Anns. LoL.

[@auntdello5286]

Same here! As well as an Ollie's store. I've found many great sewing and crafty items there.

[@judywiggins5092]

@@auntdello5286 I love Ollie's too. Mine isn't as close but maybe 5 mins from the other stores. I even found great scissors at Tractor Supply. 6 different pair for only $6.99 for all!!! And I dare my husband to cut paper with them. I write Fabric ONLY on them!!

[@gigihomestead2927]

At the thrift store I have found cotton curtains for fabric. Cutting up used clothes for material is great. Used clothing can come from your closet, thrift stores, yard sales. Hand me downs from family and friends. You might get buttons, zippers and other items. In my case. Cutting up clothes is helpful with my anxiety. I am a new subscriber. Looking forward to your videos.

[@dianepelosi9625]

Great video, love the thrift store section as I love up cycling ideas. And the mention of your beloved grandma’s quilting for kids just touched my heart. My nana and Aunt taught me to sew and I treasure those times. My grandsons are showing interest in sewing, we shall see how that goes ❤️🙂

[@timothytotten9409]

Yes! Teach them. It’s a power tool for fabric and is such a useful skill to learn!

[@judywiggins5092]

@@timothytotten9409 I agree! I have 5 grandkids and 2 of them are males. They sew too. All are teens now but it's like riding a bike. Can sew when sitting near a machine.

[@bjtinker4499]

😊 home design centers. Sample fabric books that have been retired.

[@lorij7788]

Dollar Tree honestly is not as much a bargain as they used to be. That .25 made a difference because I can get fat quarters from Walmart for .99 as well as other crafting supplies a lot cheaper. I like thrifting for things like fabric and other things I can repurpose for items I sell. You just have to be patience enough to visit a lot of different thrift shops and yard sales. Thanks for the video.

[@susanowen1709]

So many useful suggestions! Love the hair ties for elastic, and getting hardware off pet collars. Sheets as backing fabric, brilliant. (My MIL does a lot of quilting, and she uses worn-out blankets as batting.) Thanks for sharing!

[@jenniferflores6191]

I don't disagree with the glove idea. I cut the pad of my index finger off with a rotary cutter. I still need to buy my gloves, so I haven't gone back to the project yet. Safety matters.

[@mrsducky3428]

Yeah, same with the finger! 5 stitches to put it back on and 15 years later, still don't have feeling in that finger! 😢

[@dawnlangevin6791]

Also at the thrift stores I have bought long cotton dresses or denim jumpers and cut them up to make smaller items. You can save buttons and zippers from those, too. Thanks for the other ideas!

[@robinburkett8568]

Aloha Timothy, first time viewer of your channel! These were great tips, even on the Big Island, where things are not convenient or available. Mahalo!

[@VonnieOdette]

Canvas for embroidered patches as well😊

[@kathrynmayer3991]

Thrift stores are great for finding buttons. Don’t need to find clothing in your size if you’re looking for the buttons.

[@meowzerzzz]

Thank you! This are great ideas!

[@0111vramj]

Ohhh just found you and hear you say you are in central Florida! Cool. Currently in St Petersburg and eventually moving towards Orlando area for hubby's job. Lot s of great tips in your video! Often times the "fabric" gets mixed in with the sheets and stuff at thrift stores.

[@AnnieAtRecess]

One of my favorite upcycled projects to this day is a children's fleece lined rain jacket that I took apart and reassembled as a doggy bed for my bicycle basket, with the added benefit of being waterproof on the outside and warm and comfy on the inside. I kept the flap closure pockets for poo bags and treats. Now, if I'm not looking for some specific clothing item, I go in looking for colors, patterns, and fabrications

[@timothytotten9409]

What a fun idea!

[@meatdog]

I'm stealing that idea for my miniature dachshund . He goes to all the stores with me. He'll love this. Thanks

[@Brandi62]

My favorite screw driver for my sewing machine is a ratchet style one from Harbor Freight. It gets under the foot and all to unscrew the screws.

[@mariekatherine5238]

I go to thrift stores. They have sheets, curtains, blankets, as well as clothing that can be altered or used just for the cloth. In the miscellaneous section, look for bags of thread, yarn, scissors that can be cleaned up and sharpened, sewing notions, etc.

[@Kate98755]

I have kept some of my clothes for barbie and doll clothes fabric. It would be very expensive to buy these fabrics, and the clothes look more real than those out of cotton. Blouses make great gowns, khaki pants make great totes for Barbie. I’ve made an entire quilt from plaid shirting fabric, I used a brown cotton that looked like leather strips for the backing, sashes and binding. The plaid, scrappy 9 patch is so beautiful. I have always looked at fabric in this way…I thought I was an oddball….but there are other oddballs ! My people ❤️👍

[@timothytotten9409]

Great tip to make doll clothes from adult clothes. You’re so right about the fabrics being more realistic!! Welcome to the club. Lol

[@ritaniemeyer4401]

I purchased a thick New Zealand wool horse blanket from a horse supplier. I use it for ironing. It works great and only cost $20.00. It looks and acts just like my small ironing mat but 10x larger.

[@timothytotten9409]

Wow! I love it!!

[@karenkay8928]

Thank you Tim. I buy my bag hardware from The Home Depot. I ask people to not trash old bookbags...I clip off the webbing and buckles. I also save the hardware from old or out grown dog collars. I like the 5 gallon bucket idea...but not for my sewing...for my granddaughters' art & paper supplies. Thank you ❤

[@timothytotten9409]

Such a smart idea. Thanks for recycling. It just makes sense!!

[@patcorona5979]

Great idea with the dog collar. New to quilting so I need all ideas that you have.

[@TutressToYou]

Yes, thanks for sharing Timothy.

[@rebeccahwalker4395]

Grrrreat video! I’m also in Central FL and I also struggle to say “Rural King.” Lol! But they have so much stuff there. Love this video - thanks for sharing.

[@timothytotten9409]

You’re welcome!

[@dNEj4q3ce]

I have found a lot of fabrics at the Habitat for Humanity. They have a lot of curtains.

[@timothytotten9409]

Hadn’t thought of that either! Great tip!

[@marionpaul9573]

Thank you, very helpful!

[@ursulagreen8374]

I use the seasonal wooden shapes for templates. They can be used to make pot holders to put on a counter for hot dishes

[@beyondallmeasure]

I'm totally using the bucket storage seat suggestion! ❤

[@timothytotten9409]

It's so good!

[@antoinettemitchell2888]

The horse was new to me ❤❤❤ tufs

[@susansmithey5317]

My local Ross store has great craft supplies. Especially scissors

[@MonaDidWhat]

Dog collar is a great idea

[@kathleenfcpl]

I get 1/4" masking tape at the hardware in bright green meant for pin striping. I use it for marking quilting lines and is way cheaper than what you find in fabric store.

[@user-bw2cr9qo9b]

Pleasantly surprised... i thought i was thrfty. Thanks

[@cynthiasimpson931]

I've gotten some nice-sized pieces of decent fabric at Goodwill. In particular, I got a 3.5 yard piece of embroidered denim for $5.99 and made a great jacket out of it, and later I found the same fabric at Jo Ann's for $14.00/yd.

[@timothytotten9409]

What a great find!

[@gonefishing3644]

You can also piece together a quilt backing using larger pieces of leftover quilting fabric in colors that coordinate with the quilt top. This results in a reversible quilt where one side has a blocky abstract art look.

[@timothytotten9409]

Great tip.

[@paulaneary7877]

Thanks for the video, making a seat out of a bucket is a GREAT idea.

[@jacquelinehazari4012]

I'm so glad I found this channel! I thoroughly enjoyed this video, I would have never thought to check some of the places you mentioned! I think I need to go on a trip to go check them out now. :)