How I Shop A Fabric Store | Plus a Fabric Haul!

[@susanc1179]

You don’t need to be apologetic about buying fabric. You don’t fabric shop in person often AND you are a prolific seamstress. You are not a fabric collector. You are actually sewing the fabric you’re buying. It’s also part of your business & brand building. (and not our $$ or business 😂). I just love the turquoise & green French jersey and all the blues! I can’t wait to see what you sew.

[@TomKatStitchery]

Aww! Thank you!

[@ceceliaharris5660]

I love seeing your new fabrics and hearing your plans. I understand your worries that it might look extravagant, but I’m telling you that you need not apologize for your hobby! Folks who love to read buy a book, read it once and place it on a shelf. Other hobbies encourage acquisitions as well. We need to let that go. Enjoy making more plans and sewing up all these lovelies.

[@TomKatStitchery]

You are so right!

[@beepbopboop3221]

I didn't catch the apology. LoL. Souvenirs in the form of fabric are fabulous. My daughter went to greece and I asked for local yarn. She misunderstood and brought me accrylic yarn that is probably sold everywhere. I meant find yarn made locally or yarn from local fiber farms. That's ok. It's cute yarn. I have never knit with yarm with flowers attached. I just need to decide what to make with it. It demands to be a baby thing. She got me a pink skein and blue skein. I am going to assume that she wants baby layette items with it. This was her honeymoon trip. I'm just holding it until needed. She's been ambivalent about babies. It could easily be more bearded dragons or a puppy instead. I'm not opposed to making a blanket for a dragon or bandanas for a puppy.

[@ChristineSewsALot]

Shopping for fabric in person is a treat!

[@TomKatStitchery]

It really is!

[@janicek6399]

Retail therapy is a very real mental health aide, even if its only twice a year. I wish I lived closer to either of these stores! You did awesome.😊

[@TomKatStitchery]

I agree! It felt good to be with friends as well!

[@paulajohnson420]

Those bright screen print florals are totally BEAUTIFUL!!!! and...you'll look just lovely in them!!!!

[@TomKatStitchery]

Thank you!

[@kathschultz2517]

Hello Whitney. Thanks for sharing. I haven't found any fabric shops around me that aren't exclusively quilt shops (except Joann), which is very frustrating. So I'm always listening when you tell us your online sources and you do such a nice job describing the fabrics. I would love to hear about your favorite tools and notions from Wawak!

[@TomKatStitchery]

A notions video is a great idea for the channel!

[@teresastevens2084]

What a color feast for the eyes! When I first discovered you on KZbin in 2019, your aesthetic leaned more toward solids and what I felt were conservative, classic color ways. Fast forward to 2023 and It’s as if a colorful butterfly has emerged from its chrysalis! You used the word “stunning” to describe them and I believe you are spot on! These fabrics are GORGEOUS and I can’t wait to see what you make from them! I’ve taken your lead and will be making many casual summer dresses for this season! Online fabric shopping is still a struggle for me but I’m learning. I’ve always loved the idea of going rogue with a fabric and pairing it with a pattern for which it is not intended. (Thank you Whitney and Karina!) ❤️

[@TomKatStitchery]

Karina is the Queen of mixing unexpected fabrics with patterns!

[@hoosierhandmade22]

Hello, Whitney, so neat to see my local Southern Indiana fabric shops featured in your video! I’m so glad you enjoy shopping there as much as I do and I love that you’re sharing them with this community! 🥰 It was so fun to shop alongside you, thank you for sharing! Happy Sewing ❤~Tiffany

[@TomKatStitchery]

We talked about you at University of Sewing! I follow your channel as well and it's nice to see other Hoosiers on here!

[@dianemontavon5670]

You can sew for me anyday LOL ....I'm still trying to get my fit down correct. Love all your fabrics can't wait to see the makes.

[@TomKatStitchery]

Holler at me if you need any help!

[@dianemontavon5670]

@@TomKatStitchery Your directions and tutorials are great. My problem is trying to add 2.5" FBA just doesn't work. Messes up the armscye too bad. Going to go up one size so I don't have to add as much. Thinking I could do a narrow shoulder adj. so the shoulder seam fits.

[@TomKatStitchery]

@@dianemontavon5670 that might work!

[@nikkijohnson552]

You are amazingly organized and focus on intended projects as you shop! The color card helps to avoid distraction! I would be exhausted and exhilarated after this trip, but know you’ll make everything beautifully!

[@TomKatStitchery]

The color card helps me immensely!

[@dawnjeffersramstad8401]

These fabric stashes are so fun to knit with! I also noticed the chair location tweek--looking good!

[@TomKatStitchery]

Thank you!

[@letssewllc4406]

Thank you for the shoutout! We certainly appreciate and are glad you love the fabrics you got from us! In regards to the Bamboo Knit, we have 5 other colors available (Emerald, Red, Purple, Baby Blue and Yellow)

[@TomKatStitchery]

It's my pleasure! We had so much fun shopping with you!

[@kandacek63]

I need to stay out of fabric stores and stay off the online sites. But darn it, there are certain fabrics I need for specific projects. 😅 I went to JoAnn in Minnetonka, MN last weekend only looking for a few select pieces. I left with way more than I needed. I also placed a Minerva order during the latest member sale. But, in my defense, I don’t usually buy without knowing what I a plan to make with it. But I need to start using up my stash before any more.

[@TomKatStitchery]

I totally get it!

[@barbhuber7502]

You are so lucky to be close to those fabulous stores! I live in the Dallas, TX area and we have nothing like that for apparel fabric.

[@TomKatStitchery]

I am very lucky!

[@madebykarenmarie]

So many gorgeous fabrics! Love the digital prints. I actually think the floral silk would also make a really lovely half circle skirt (or something like that) with a nice lining.

[@TomKatStitchery]

Ooh! It would make a fabulous skirt with a lining!

[@lorelig]

I actually cut this fabric for you! Thank you so much for the shoutout, it was a pleasure to have yall in our store ❤️

[@TomKatStitchery]

It was so lovely to meet you as well!

[@kathygann7632]

This has been an amazing spring for you! Relax in Italy and enjoy the summer.

[@TomKatStitchery]

That's the plan!

[@funkyneeniestuff]

Your joy is contagious! Have fun sewing up those gorgeous fabrics.

[@TomKatStitchery]

I'm glad you enjoyed it!

[@janedrolet2807]

As a shorter woman with curves, I have found a flattering and comfortable look for me is skirt and top. This winter for our trip south, I made both my sister and I Sybil pencil skirts with tops, ( tidal, summer basic tank, the Cachet) in matching fabric. For some reason they seemed to flatter our height and shape more. Sometimes too much fabric can overwhelm a petite woman. One of Those amazing knit prints could work well. Love your choices.

[@TomKatStitchery]

I LOVE that idea! I bet you guys were the best dressed on your trip!

[@cecilehoare3053]

The tie dye blue fabric would look great as the Braddle top along with a Sybil skirt! I can't remember which brand has it, maybe Seamwork? A long line trench style blazer to wear over solid dresses, think of all the combinations you could have with that cotton sateen!! I will be your sew for friend!! Pick me, pick me!!! lol

[@TomKatStitchery]

I LOVE that idea!

[@cecilehoare3053]

@@TomKatStitchery I couldn't find the one I was looking for but your Jaskia could just be lengthened to skirt/dress hem length!

[@barbarafortune2031]

I think you would love a duster made from the silk, it would be beautiful with a solid top and jeans.

[@TomKatStitchery]

That would be stunning!

[@cherylsale4873]

Whitney, you had a party, 🎉. Gorgeous fabrics, can't wait to see your buys made up.

[@TomKatStitchery]

I did have a party 😂!

[@Southlagal26]

We love you and your channel and all your projects Whitney! Please don’t feel that you have to justify any purchase that you make. ❤

[@TomKatStitchery]

Aww! Thank you!

[@carolwampler1764]

Hi Whitney. Your fabric haul is absolutely gorgeous. Thank you for telling us about Let's Sew. I live a hour north and go to Evansville periodically, so it is nice to know there is a fabric shop that I can check out. Happy sewing!!!

[@TomKatStitchery]

You should definitely take a look. They have a TON of stock!

[@karolmolpus9536]

Incredible fabrics...... excited to see everything finished.🎉

[@TomKatStitchery]

Thank you!

[@gloriaallender1886]

Oh my gosh! All your fabric is stunning! Plus, it gave me ideas for using some fabric in my stash. Thank you for such an upbeat, inspirational video!

[@TomKatStitchery]

I'm so glad you enjoyed it!

[@ladylouise1969]

Everything is beautiful-but I especially love the double border print, and the digital print-stunning! Cannot wait to see everything made up!! :+) If there is enough of the digital print, it would make a fabulous jumpsuit!! The silk you bought reminds me of voile the way it hangs...lovely. That graphic print you bought for the fall is so dramatic-I love it!!

[@TomKatStitchery]

Oh my goodness! You're right! that digital print would make a fantastic jumpsuit!

[@rosh6378]

I'll be your friend 🙌 lol sew for me .. sew for me hahaha... love all your fabrics 😍

[@TomKatStitchery]

😂 I love it!

[@mumsie2739]

Lovely fabrics! I am always drawn to the fabric you buy for your daughter...so I am thinking my colors would be similar to hers! Always appreciate vicariously shopping through your excursions!

[@TomKatStitchery]

I'm so glad you enjoyed it!

[@cherylrizzuto8956]

Hi Whitney! So fun to hear and see your fabric haul. I enjoyed meeting you at University of Sewing. Thank you for the shout out about camp, can't wait for summer sewing camp!

[@TomKatStitchery]

My pleasure! It was wonderful to meet you as well!

[@glendavizecky7581]

You pick out some great fabrics! That last print would be a pretty Smitten jacket to go with some of your solids. Like the Pontes you picked up from Fabric Mart. I hack the Itch to Stitch Amador top into a dress using Tustin dress. Thank you for sharing your fabric haul and shopping! I look forward to seeing your makes. Fun video!

[@TomKatStitchery]

That's a great point!

[@carolynnicholls7551]

Great video for fabric shopping! Could you demo what it looks like when you pick out fabrics not on your color palette,using the color card.❤

[@TomKatStitchery]

That's a great idea! I will totally show that next time!

[@stillstitchin]

Sounds like you do a good job of balancing project and stash fabric. I appreciate that and enjoy seeing your ideas for sewing up your new fabric.😊

[@TomKatStitchery]

I'm so glad you enjoyed this one!

[@darshnarach8889]

Ohh that digital print would be a gorgeous upton and cropped jacket

[@darshnarach8889]

Haha no sooner did i type that as you mentioned pattern emporiums cropped jacket and then the upton

[@TomKatStitchery]

YES!! Great minds think alike!

[@Escape10mom]

Upton with a Smitten cropped Jacket! Those last 2 😍😍😍

[@TomKatStitchery]

That's what I'm thinking!

[@helenwood3199]

❤ blue & green on white terry.

[@TomKatStitchery]

Right?! I almost didn't grab that one, but it kept calling to me 😂.

[@alisonpugin3401]

You can sew for me 🎉 I love seeing the fabric shops .. our shops sell fabric with no labels and content as to what exactly you are getting .. makes it tough to choose!

[@TomKatStitchery]

I bet that does make it tough to choose!

[@sewvintageglamwithunadoyle2775]

Love that cotton sateen 💕 I’m obsessing with Gertie’s Elsa Culottes right now so I’d say those with a cropped jacket.

[@TomKatStitchery]

Yes! I'm a Patreon member of hers as well. That would be amazing!

[@sewvintageglamwithunadoyle2775]

I’m toiling mine right now - well I started a few weeks ago, had to pause because of some other commitments but will be back on them again this weekend 😊

[@Northandsouthsewing]

I love the silk in the body too/sleeve with something under. You’ll get more use out if it, I bet! It’s incredible!

[@TomKatStitchery]

I was just so drawn to the print!

[@beepbopboop3221]

The fabric with the yellow roses has a Wonderland vibe. I think it wants to be a New Look dress with some petty coats underneath or lace on the hem if you're not a million skirts kind of girl.

[@TomKatStitchery]

Ooh! I can totally see that!

[@Northandsouthsewing]

How fun. I’m getting excited for your makes!

[@TomKatStitchery]

Me too!

[@carolreece9950]

That top is gorgeous and the colours are perfect

[@TomKatStitchery]

Thank you so much!

[@karlawallace1633]

I loved your fabric haul. You inspire me!

[@TomKatStitchery]

That's so kind! Thank you!

[@alexandrawellington8028]

I approve of every purchase!!!! Absolutely necessary!!!!!!!! I was thinking for the digital sateen a cropped jacket, shift dress and pants. I cannot wait to see all the makes xxxxxxx

[@TomKatStitchery]

That is a great idea for that sateen!

[@darlenehembree3249]

You bought some beautiful fabrics!! Can’t wait to see what you make!🤗🤗

[@TomKatStitchery]

I can't wait to dig into this pile after Italy!

[@brenholmes4894]

You are absolutely selfless in your market research on our behalf :-) Your fabric selection is fabulous. I've gone all out for colour recently, too, unusually for me. I do try to buy fabric for planned makes, but today I cut a blouse from a pattern and fabric that were planned and purchased in 2021! I must do better, lol

[@TomKatStitchery]

I try my best to serve you all well 😂😂😂

[@2joanier]

The piece toward the end that has pink and orange (Ithink) roses with splashes of teal (the one you said you loved, LOL!) tells me it really wants to be a fit and flare. I think you said it was cotton spandex. They were all beautiful but that one actually spoke to me to say I want to be a fit and flare with a circle skirt. I’m just telling you what it said!

[@TomKatStitchery]

😂😂😂 I love it and I think you're right!

[@upcycledcopycat8389]

If you were to make a jacket of some sort with that floral silk it would def match those two solid knit dresses in your Italy plans. I say go for the jacket

[@TomKatStitchery]

Ooh! You're right!

[@debbiewhite3270]

Beautiful choices. I look forward to seeing ur makes. I've never been in a Shoppe like the ones u went to. That is so cool! Thx for the video.

[@TomKatStitchery]

I am very lucky to have two so close to me!

[@spavbio]

I LOVED this. Loved how you walked us through the decisions and patterns you planned to use them with

[@TomKatStitchery]

I'm so glad you loved it!

[@marathonfortruth4768]

Wowie these are stunning fabrics. There is no such shop within 150 miles of me. I do drive to a warehouse once a year which is 5 hours away, and load up. Pretty frustrating life for a garment sewist. Online purchasing is so difficult for me.

[@TomKatStitchery]

Ooh! A warehouse sounds amazing, though!

[@angiemcconnell9070]

Everything looks lovely! I have a Brattle cut out to sew up on my vacation. Looking forward to Augusts plans! Have a great week!❤

[@TomKatStitchery]

Thank you! You too!

[@victoriahannah1633]

Awesome Fabric & I can’t wait to see the makes. I ran into little glitch with my sewing. I got 2 button holes done with no problem then on 3rd one my machine started acting up really bad. Nothing I tried worked at all. So off to the shop. A clip on the tension thing had jumped from one side to the other side and also needed a good cleaning. So hubby & I go to pick it up. I wait in car while he goes in to pick it up. We get home and I go to try it out & cord is missing. So another trip back to repair shop. I have kept myself busy with a full body mannequin I just got myself. I’m in process of padding it out. Hopefully it will help me see what looks good on my figure and what doesn’t. Also will assist in fit.

[@TomKatStitchery]

Oh my! What an ordeal! I'm glad your machine is back and working again, though!

[@Queenread82]

If you made a sheath dress and a short jacket (ala Chanel?) you could use them as separates. Beautiful fabrics. I would love to see your son’s outfits mixed and matched (he doesn’t have to do a fashion show).

[@TomKatStitchery]

I'll definitely take some footage of my family members in their mom-made outfits as well.

[@Life50Plus]

One idea for the cotton sateen fabric....overall shorts. You can wear so many different color tees or tanks with it.

[@TomKatStitchery]

That is such a cute idea! I love that!

[@reneemorgan9320]

Oh my gosh I am going to have to make a trip over there! How fun! Beautiful fabrics. 😍

[@TomKatStitchery]

I should put together a fabric shopping day/weekend at some point!

[@reneemorgan9320]

@@TomKatStitchery YES!!!! That sounds like a blast!

[@debbiebridges8807]

Love the prints and you motivate me r to get my colors done perhaps it will be my Christmas gift

[@TomKatStitchery]

Having my colors done was one of the best things I did for myself!

[@tobielurie4582]

Beautiful prints and colors. My sister lives in Evansville. I will have to go shopping when I visit.

[@TomKatStitchery]

You definitely need to take a visit if you're already down there!

[@pennygivan2551]

I love the new Lenox pattern from love notions. Are you aware of a similar pattern for wovens?

[@TomKatStitchery]

There is the Saltwhistle dress that has a square neckline. I've used that neckline and put it onto their Harmony blouse, so I think you could put it on any of their woven top patterns!

[@Timpsonsews]

Uptown will be gorgeous on that last fabric, but how often will you wear it? It’s so beautiful, I would want to wear whatever it is a lot!

[@TomKatStitchery]

That is a great point!

[@denisem9407]

Thank you for the virtual shopping trip. It's tough to decide what we don't need, so I admire your discipline. You came away with a great haul. That periwinkle knit and striped shirting are beautiful as are the dress fabrics, especially that digital cotton sateen and the double border print. Inspiring me to take a trip to the NYC fabric district.

[@TomKatStitchery]

I am so jealous of NYC fabric shopping! I need to make a trip up there!

[@denisem9407]

@@TomKatStitchery Maybe a TomKat Stitchery group meet up. Moods at least, B&J, Steinlauf & Stiller, M&J, what trip that would be.

[@TomKatStitchery]

@@denisem9407 that would be so much fun!

[@Hide_and_silk]

Stunning fabrics! Very curious to see what you do with the silk! I have a big collection of 2m cuts of vintage kimono silk - which sounds a lot but traditional kimono silk is only 14" wide. I'm thinking that some would look fabulous made up as waistcoats (vests in US speak 😁). I loved following you shopping. I honestly can't remember when I last went 'in person' shopping. Our nearest fabric shop here in France is Mondial Tissus which has both home dec and apparel fabrics but they are expensive and not inspiring but useful for haberdashery bits. TBH I tend to fabric shop on-line in the UK and get the fabrics delivered to my parents to pick up when we are visiting. However, a sewing French friend has just told me of a place in Lille (way north of us) that sells deadstock French couture fabrics so I'm now trying to think of a reason to sell a trip to Lille to the hubster (sounds easy but you've not seen my stash 😂😂😂).

[@TomKatStitchery]

Ooh! You have me intrigued by the shop in Lille 😂. I hope you can make that work! That sounds amazing!

[@rosepedalable]

Great purchases. Can't wait for the linen dress reveal!

[@TomKatStitchery]

I'm excited to sew it up and show you guys!

[@pattykingkade5778]

What gorgeous fabric! And I simply love your Lenox dress. Had to immediately buy the pattern.

[@TomKatStitchery]

Thank you!

[@suek7086]

Oh that double gauze is amazing! I have decided I need it. My color pallet is more like your daughters but I don’t care, I will have to make it work.

[@TomKatStitchery]

It is stunning in person. I just cut it out yesterday!

[@jojobtrcook1808]

That graphic print is awesome!! I would have loved to get this for myself, but have no idea where to look. If you have any suggestions, please advise me. Thanks so much for all you create and share with us!

[@TomKatStitchery]

I have a link for this fabric in the description box below, but where are you shopping? Are you in the US or elsewhere?

[@Northandsouthsewing]

That cotton spandex! What??? Omg!!! 💓 Did they have summer in your daughter’s color way (which is also mine smile)?

[@TomKatStitchery]

They did have some gorgeous digital prints in more muted summer colors as well!

[@adriennefranklin5986]

Loved going shopping with you! I'm not able to go shopping for fabric in person so this was extra fun! You made great choices although I don't know how you decided, so many beauties.

[@TomKatStitchery]

There were MANY temptations!

[@michellem3899]

I said Upton to myself as soon as you picked up that digital print cotton sateen!

[@TomKatStitchery]

😂 Great minds think alike!

[@lakeshagadson357]

i would do my fabric shopping at joanns kohl's either Macy's

[@TomKatStitchery]

❤️❤️❤️

[@jennitaller3368]

Can’t wait for my new pjs. Love the neon trim!

[@priscillathomas9215]

I wondered what you thought about the trim! She knows you well! 😍

[@TomKatStitchery]

Isn't that fun?!

[@cathykieser53]

I forgot, when are you going to Italy? We are going August 14 - Sept 1. Please share what you are wearing.

[@TomKatStitchery]

We are going in June. I will definitely be sharing what I'm taking as well as filming an "outfit of the day" while I'm there!

[@glendavizecky7581]

All the challenges now are done on Instagram. I find posting on Instagram hard and cumbersome. A quick tutorial on how to post would be helpful. Thank you for your videos!

[@TomKatStitchery]

That's a good idea!

[@maureencapobianco3596]

The new Lenox pattern is very cute. What do you suggest for the topstitching if I’m using a regular sewing machine? Zigzag stitches wouldn’t look good.

[@TomKatStitchery]

I actually used a straight stitch for the topstitching around the neckband. Because it's a wide neck and doesn't need to stretch to go over the head, it works great! As far as the hems, I would recommend a twin needle. This will look like two rows of straight stitching on the right side and then it creates a zig zag on the wrong side so that the hems can stretch. You can get tunneling with a twin needle, so I suggest using a double sided tape like the SewKeyse double sided hem tape. This not only keeps your hem in place while you sew (it washes out), but it adds some stability to the area and helps prevent the tunneling!

[@karolmolpus9536]

Foldover elastic is new to me, how do you use?

[@TomKatStitchery]

I use it in place of knit bindings on tops, t-shirts, underwear, nightwear, etc.

[@karolmolpus9536]

@@TomKatStitchery I'm trying to find pretty binding for finishing sleeves and hems. Recommend a source? Pretty binding?

[@TomKatStitchery]

@@karolmolpus9536 is it for knits or wovens?

[@cindywinkler4172]

Where are you located? That fabric store looks spectacular

[@TomKatStitchery]

These fabric stores were in Bloomington, Indiana, USA and Evansville, Indiana, USA

[@sibyllolson3237]

How do you use fold over elastic? I’ve heard of it but have no idea what to do with it.

[@TomKatStitchery]

I use it for a few different things. It's great as an alternative to knit binding on t-shirts, tops, underwear, etc. I also really love using it on the Luna Loungewear set. Instead of making my nightgown straps with the knit strips, I just use the fold over elastic. It's much more stable and you can get a lot of fun colors!

[@karolmolpus9536]

Orange cotton spandex MAXI 😅

[@TomKatStitchery]

Yes!!

[@priscillathomas9215]

What size is your Color Guru card? 3 1/2 x 5, or 5x7?

[@TomKatStitchery]

Closer to 3.5X5

[@kathygann7632]

What a great fabric store! I’m still angry that Fabricland, who had wonderful wool and silk and linen bought out House of Fabrics which also carried beautiful fabrics. Then Joann Fabrics, whose previous name was Discount Fabrics and carried cheap stock, bought out Fabricland. Now Joann’s is a craft store, like Michael’s. There is no place that stocks nice quality fabrics. Just try to find a 100% silk, wool, or linen fabric.

[@kathygann7632]

Your son’s shirting would also look great with jeans shorts.

[@TomKatStitchery]

I hear you! It is very frustrating!

[@debbiebridges8807]

When do you begin sewing for fall? I’m not a fast sewer

[@TomKatStitchery]

I'll start around July or August, but you can start now if you want to take your time!

[@cathykieser53]

Could you please share the addresses of the shops you went to? Thanks so much for sharing

[@TomKatStitchery]

Sure! I can add that to the description box!

[@valclements7092]

❤️❤️❤️

[@TomKatStitchery]

❤️❤️❤️

[@lakeshagadson357]

your son looks like which parent

[@TomKatStitchery]

He looked just like me as a baby, but he is looking more and more like his father as he grows.