Sew Sampler January 2023 UNBOXING | Are Quilt Subscription Boxes Worth It!?

[@sewbeitquilts]

Wow! Thank you all so much for all of the amazing comments of support and your thoughts on subscription boxes too! It is always a little scary posting a video that is different from how I normally go about unboxing. I am so glad that everyone is understanding that it wasn't about it not being a good subscription, but that it just isn't right for me anymore. I am reading through all of the comments and I will slowly start replying to everyone. I really try to respond and acknowledge everyone that takes the time to comment because I so appreciate every single one of them. I am a little behind though! I was out of town last weekend and will be going out of town again in a few days. Busy busy!

[@margm4]

Hi Fallon, I think there are quite few of us who sadly agree with you. The novelty has worn off, for me, and I unsubscribed a little while ago, because of the cost, mainly. Though I still buy from FQS, though postage will always be a killer, but at least I’m now buying what I want! ❤️🇦🇺

[@sewbeitquilts]

Your cost was probably vastly different from mine too! I completely understand your decision.

[@BeckyMortonWeeks]

I agree with your decision. I would rather buy whatever I am wanting to work on.

[@AvivaHadas]

I'm so glad someone is addressing the elephant in the room. Since you don't know the ins & outs of readers, the magnifications are between 1 & 5, my eye dr said I should use 3.5 for threading needles. So 2.5 wouldn't work for me, so I found this to be a very weird inclusion since the odds are that the magnification would be wrong for most people. Good Value - something inexpensive that you won't/don't use isn't a good value. (Think of the grocery store, sure you can get Hot sauce for cheap, but you don't eat spicy food, so you actually wasting that money, not to mention the money sunk in storing it.) Paying more for something you will use is actually a better value.

[@cindysullivan1540]

I love my Sew Sampler box...it is a little gift to myself and I have made quite a.few.of the projects. I also love seeing all the new fabrics. I'm not stopping!!

[@virginialegault4699]

Love Sew Sampler!!! Well worth the price.

[@corinnehartrick6339]

I'm so glad Fallon that someone else feels like I do. I gave up my subscriptions quite awhile ago. I'm in Canada and that box cost me $56.00 and change. I felt it was not worth it , I struggled for awhile about what to do and then said enough it's not for me. And it never was. I gave up all the subscription boxes a year ago and I'm happy to say I kept Open Gate box. That one I really love. You are right about having things in your sewing room that you will never use. So Thanks Fallon for everything you do.

[@opengatequilts6867]

Thank you Corinne!

[@sewbeitquilts]

Corrine, $56 would be hard to justify because you are getting up there to the actual value of the box, but then the actual value for you drops drastically if there are a few things you don't like or won't use. That's so hard. For me, the Open Gate box is structured so differently. I don't have to invest more money to complete the projects. Yes, you need backing for the larger project, but since they are wall hangings or table toppers you can use a material like muslin and not invest a ton of extra money. I understand that it is comparing apples to oranges since Sew Sampler is structured as a sample box and Open Gate is a project box, but when I look at what I have actually made throughout the year I made about half of the Open Gate projects because everything was ready to go. I didn't make anything from the Sew Sampler and I even purchased extra material for two of them!

[@Carol_Sews]

The only box I ever purchased from anywhere was the 2022 Jolly box. I loved a couple of the notions and liked the 5 inch square packs, but then I had to spend more money for the fabric required to complete the project. All-in-all I don’t think sampler boxes from anywhere are worth the money because there’s too much stuff in them that people don’t want, and that just creates clutter or adds to the waste stream. I think it’s more frugal to keep an eye on websites, KZbin, and Instagram to see the new fabrics coming out and just order the ones you want even if you have to pay regular price. Just the postage for a subscription box times twelve months adds up; you can save that money and apply it toward fabric or notions you actually need or want.

[@suzik568]

Subscription boxes are like buying a surprise every month. I totally agree with you. I’ve tried a few subscriptions for a few months, but haven’t made anything from the boxes! I’ve also cancelled after a few months. I am disappointed in individuals on utube who get their boxes (usually free to them), that absolutely rave about how great the contents are! Seems so phony! So far, I have found only one other honest individual! Holly, from Dandelion Stitches, states her honest opinion….not in a mean way….but let’s known what she believes. She’s great.

[@deliad8826]

Hi Fallon, What an honest video and resonates so much with your viewers. I think the FOMO and the idea that the box is "a great value" tends to overshadow what really happens to subscribers. At the end of the day, they are a chunk of change that, if not used, creates stress and the fun and surprise is fleeting. I understand that collecting fabrics and notions is a hobby unto itself, but if it gets to be too much perhaps money is not well spent after all. You are so kind in your evaluation and brave to share your reassessment with your viewers. Perhaps purchase the last two bliss patterns for under $10 and take your family out to dinner with the savings from the last two boxes. I personally look forward to content with projects and tips and usually bypass unboxing videos by most youtubers.

[@roseswalls3468]

I think you have made the right decision....I always like watching the unboxing, but never have the desire to buy them because I had rather go pick out what I like. I do think this is one of the best of this box I have ever seen. I just think a lot of times I can find better deals...and it is fun waiting for packages to come even when I know what is coming. I f I was there I would rip the papers off for you! I don't mind that at all. I can never just sit and watch TV, so that would give me something to do with my hands.

[@denisecargill5826]

I agree with your assessment. I have been quilting for a long time and have wrestled with whether or not to participate in the monthly boxes because I felt it would only add to my vast supply collection. I do get the occasional seasonal box which I enjoy and I like to live vicariously through other peoples unboxing videos! 😊 On a different note for paper piecing, you can spray the paper with a little water to soften and it makes it easier to tear.

[@sewbeitquilts]

I think I might stick to the occasional seasonal box this year too! Thank you for the tip on the paper piecing! I’ll try that!

[@lindseyendris7713]

@@sewbeitquilts Fallon, I unsubscribed to the sew samp,er box because I just wasn’t using the items. However, I did get the Cupid box and may just stick with the seasonal boxes as I do enjoy those.

[@jennystrahley927]

I totally agree with you. I have to/need to be in control of what I spend money on for fabrics and supplies so the surprise factor hasn't ever appealed to me. I've never subscribed to the Sew Sampler box and the only FQS box I've purchased was last year's Halloween box after I saw it revealed. You did a very nice job of explaining yourself and I see from comments that many people agree with you, me too. Oh, and I love love love the black and white fabric you purchased. I drooled because I want to make a black/white quilt too.

[@annettemaxie-mahmoud2390]

I agree with you Fallon! I am pretty new to quilting and when I first started, I was excited to subscribe to some boxes. At the end of last year I decided to evaluate the items and projects I received in those subscriptions and decided to drop the boxes from 7 to 2! I also think I will make more of the projects instead of letting the boxes stack up! 😊

[@sewbeitquilts]

It is really hard to cancel them. They really are so fun to receive. I look forward to all of them. But, when I looked back at what I made or used for this one... it just doesn't make sense to keep it. Now, some, like Open Gate, I made half of them and a great deal of the ones I didnt get to yet are in my keep box too. Plus, I don't have to invest a lot of extra money just to finish them.

[@lisamaynard5668]

I appreciated your honesty about your past history with subscription boxes. This post helped me make a final decision about Sew Sampler Box, because I have been on the fence for months.

[@sewbeitquilts]

You're welcome. It is definitely a fun box to get. It just doesn't work for me anymore with the extra cost to finish the projects.

[@crystalheartchannel]

I think a lot of people feel the same way about the subscription boxes. Thank you for your honesty!!

[@terriflanigan942]

Great Decision! I received about 4 of these boxes and didn’t get much I would use. And the stuff does accumulate fast!

[@brendasue2278]

So agree. I’ve been quilting for 20+ years. I’ve subscribed to Sew Sampler Box for four years. I haven’t made very many of the projects at all. I use the fabric for other projects. Most of the notions I either have or don’t like. I have liked the few times we got creative grids rulers. Love those. I’m planning to discontinue this box soon as I have more fabric than I will ever use, lol. I also used to get Quilty Box, but I discontinued that one before the original people sold out. I prefer to spend my quilty money getting something I really want.

[@ph5284]

I agree WTH you.

[@karenmay4033]

Watching your video was very timely for me. I had just watched a video on this subscription box & was sitting on the fence as to whether I should sign up for this year. 😳 The word "intentionally" rang a bell for me. I'm in the process of organizing my material stash & told myself I'm intentionally going to sew quilts this year from what I have. Thanks for posting this video.

[@peggyspinelli3820]

I agree with you. I have yet to do the projects from last year. I do LOVE the fabrics & notions but I would rather buy the fabrics that I need for a project I am working on. Thank you for your honesty.

[@terriekruger1857]

I agree with you. I have canceled all my box subscriptions. I decided that it would be better to invest the money I was spending every month on quilt products I will actually use. I love how you always give your honest opinion.

[@danah3070]

I agree with you, Fallon. I am very picky about subscription boxes. Your reviews have helped me make my choices. It's all a personal choice, for sure. Thank you for doing your reviews! Also, Lone Star has been my favorite quilt store for years. When she decided to retire, I almost cried. It will be sorely missed.

[@deecarr5369]

I agree. I cancelled mine last year.

[@dadams512]

Thanks for the honest review. I can't afford box subscriptions and wondered if I am missing out, but this convinced me that I am doing fine simply buying what I know I can use. Thank you.

[@deliabeckman8602]

I hear you. This year I dropped all but one subscription box, partly due to cost and partly due to starting to be overwhelmed with "projects and fabric". Of the boxes I've gotten, the only one that had projects that I've actually done (and I've done several of them), was Open Gates.

[@sewbeitquilts]

I agree I love the Open Gate Projects and almost always work on them right away or set them in my keep collection because I will work on them when I get a chance.

[@roosterquilter783]

An excellent question. I am constantly evaluating my subscription

[@shannonhchase]

I came to the same conclusion. If you added up the full retail value from Lone Star, it would have shown significant savings as well. Excellent video! You were very fair, were considerate of all parties, and offered a well thought out, unbiased opinion. Bravo!!!

[@lucyscott736]

When I opened mine. I was confused with the readers. Yes, I use readers 275. I’m canceling mine after the bliss bom is finished. I’ve been getting it for several years. I’ve always been afraid to cut into fabric. I did for the first time this weekend. I have all those boxes and never did a project. I’ll be busy for sometime. Lol

[@arriettysbags]

I think the reading glasses are a waste of money. I have prescription glasses so would be totally useless to me.

[@kimmie12191]

I agree! The readers are something that I won't be using. I also have been waiting till the bliss quilt wraps and I will be canceling my subscription. I would rather spend the money on fabric that I love.

[@sewbeitquilts]

After reading some more of the comments I am now really confused about the readers! I can now see that everyone would need a different strength so there really won't be many that can even use them. Kinda crazy they were added in the box!

[@arriettysbags]

@@sewbeitquilts that was my immediate thought. Over the years I have been watching the box openings from different people, I've come to the conclusion that every so often they drop the ball on the items. Not every time, just every so often. This is one of those times. When you out them in they looked very strong too.

[@deborahg9636]

I got it for a few months and came to the same conclusion! The box makes you want to buy more stuff to do a project if you like it, as not all of the supplies are there. So I quit as well. I want to make sure I use what I own! Or get a kit for a whole project. Thanks for your honesty!

[@johnsheridan8962]

I’m with you on this one, it doesn’t seem very advantageous

[@sherryebridwell8663]

I love the surprise of the boxes! Rebsfabstash boxes are awesome!

[@michellefrazier7499]

I have to say that I only carry one subscription box now. I find that I get better deals shopping online more for what “I” really want. So I tend to watch the box openings and get ideas for what I want to do. I prefer to do quilt alongs for what I want to do…

[@lindaholland683]

I agree. I don't receive this box but have enjoyed watching the unboxing. I feel like everyone likes a surprise but I wouldn't use most of the items in those boxes. I do subscribe to bi-monthly wool box. I have enjoyed it tremendously. There is a two year project and a one year project along with other random projects and notions. Yes, there are things that would need to be purchased like backing and/or binding and threads. I have tons of thread so normally don't purchase and for backing, been using random fabric that was purchased for a project then never done it. I recently donated fabric to a quilt guild to help make quilts for random organizations. The fabric was purchased at quilt shops because it was on sale and was thinking I would make something out of it. Right now, I enjoy the wool box and love to participate in random sew alongs. 🤷

[@mariafoley6227]

I agree - I subscribe to most of the ones you do and even several more and I have made the hard choice of quitting some. I’ve been with FQS sub box since it started and it’s just more of a habit than me actually doing any of the projects. But, you know - we can still watch unboxings from other quilters and is it’s something we love - we can always buy it! 😂

[@sewbeitquilts]

Yes! I still watch a few unboxings from boxes I just couldn’t afford to keep. I love watching them.

[@patriciaruppert201]

I agree. With todays prices it makes much mire sense to be selective in what you purchase. Get what you really want. ❤️

[@daleminatoya8330]

Thank you, Fallon. I, too, will be ending my subscription after I receive the final bliss quilt along. Although I love the excitement of the boxes, it does not work. I agree about being intentional.

[@sewbeitquilts]

Have you been keeping up with the bliss quilt? Oh my goodness! I was and then fell so behind!

[@daleminatoya8330]

@@sewbeitquilts , it is on my to do list. I want to make sure I have all the blocks and instructions to put it together. I was thinking about using fabrics from my stash.

[@glendacrouch1877]

I totally agree with you, I like to use my money on fabric & items of my choice. Having said that, I think the joy is simply getting a surprise each month for people that subscribe. Boy your purchases at the going out of business quilt store was great! Well worth the money & you saved money on your choice!

[@kendrabrimhall1606]

I agree. I tried a few when I first started and after awhile noticed I wouldn’t work on them mostly because I needed extra stuff. However I’ve seen your videos of open gate box and I tried that one this month and loved it. I finished both projects because I had everything I needed (except batting which is fine with me) since I purchased the backing add on. We’ll see how that one goes. So far it’s by far the best one. Thanks for your perspective.

[@opengatequilts6867]

Thank you @kendrabrimhall1606 I’m so glad you found us and like our boxes! We strive to give you what you need so you can make the quilts and projects.

[@dakin7612]

I agree that this box seems to be more for beginner quilters. I never thought I would use a wrist pin cushion, but the one Marie taught me how to make on her KZbin channel, Maries Scrappy Creations, I love. It is so comfortable that I sometimes forget to take it off and it is less bulky than the one in the box.

[@cindytracy9707]

I purchased a special holiday box for Christmas. I wanted my husband to get me something that I wouldn’t know what was in it. It was from a designer that I like a lot of her designs. When I opened it and started looking at the projects I realized that there were things that I needed to purchase in order to finish the projects. The patterns were released a few months later. Yes I got the patterns at a discount but I need to spend more money to complete them. I might have purchased different patterns that I would like to do more than the ones in the box. I’m not saying that I didn’t get value for the money spent but I could have spent the money for things I would like to do.

[@sewbeitquilts]

It is so hard to really love boxes like that. I really want to receive everything I need to work on the project at once. I don't want to have to go buy a ton more stuff. At that point I would rather just go shop for a project I want to do.

[@brushlow9344]

I agree about this box. I stopped over a year ago. I think it’s a great box for a beginning quilter. But like you I never did the projects.

[@pooie0116]

I never got the box you're showing here, but last year I tried signing up for a monthly FQ subscription from Quilt Addicts Anonymous. I thought it would be really exciting to get a surprise bundle of fun fabrics every month. Worst. Decision. Ever. The information on the website was misleading. She had "$29.99" superimposed over an image of a FQ bundle of at least 20 fabrics and I thought that was a really great deal. what it actually was, was $29.99 plus $7.75 for 10 Fat Quarters (only 8 of which were part of the same fabric line. The other 2 were unrelated FQs that didn't go with the other 8 at all and 1 of the extras bled like a stuck pig and badly stained the rest when I washed them). None of the FQs I received was a full Fat Quarter nor were any of them cut on the grain. If that weren't bad enough, the fabric was ugly and the 1st month's delivery was delayed. When I asked for more clarification about the delay and what I should expect to receive, the response I got was poorly worded, incredibly rude and didn't address my questions at all. By the time I received the 1st unbelievably disappointing bundle, the money for the 2nd month of my subscription had already been extracted from my credit card. I had hoped for better luck for the 2nd bundle, but that fabric was even more hideous than the 1st batch. I immediately unsubscribed, but QAA continued to inundate me with emails several times a day until I finally wrote her a really nasty email basically chewing her out and demanding she leave me alone. None of the fabric I received from this awful subscription was enough to make a decent sized quilt even if I liked the style or colors. The only thing any of this fabric is good for is practice blocks, but I honestly get angry every time I look at any of these butt ugly fabrics from such a horrible rip-off operation. Lesson learned. I will forever only buy exactly the fabrics I want in exactly the amounts that I want from trusted sources who know how to cut fabric.

[@the-painted-quilter]

I’m having fun with the patterns. I use fabric from what I have to make the projects. I have yet to buy specific fabric for this. I love getting bits and pieces of new fabric lines. The notions have been handy so far. The readers are too strong for me at this point. So far I’ve been able to use most of everything sent, so far so good. And I’ve been quilting for a long time. 💕

[@the-painted-quilter]

And I tend to only keep subscription boxes for about a year 👍

[@barbarabaker346]

Hang on to the readers - you will use them in time 😉

[@gingerquilts2pickles]

I loved getting the Sew Sampler every month but I discontinued it for the same reason. The fabrics have piled up without me using them yet and I gave several of the notions away. I love the fabrics and pattern ideas and I do have a few favorite notions that I may never have gotten otherwise. I miss getting the box but go spend about the same $$ at my LQS

[@Heare2Watts]

Thank you, Fallon, for the honesty about the Sew Sampler Subscription Box. I first subscribed halfway through the year and my first box was in July, and I unsubscribed at the end of December. My cost was $32.48 each month and with the $5 increase, would take them to $37.97 (tax and SH included in cost) For 2023--my cost would be $455.64---So I will PASS. That is what people need to consider--not how much it is per month--but how much have you spent for the year and what did you do with the box contents. All of mine are still sitting in the boxes--unused. The boxes are exciting when you get them in the mail, but then you look at them and question if you will use any of them. I decided that they weren't. Instead, I would rather take that money, and find a nice FQ bundle and a pattern I want, than the SS box. Those readers are high strength and would be useless to MOST people--so there is a waste of $$, the pin cushion is another novelty that wouldn't get used. I feel the sew sampler boxes have been so heavy in useless and repeated items. How many magnetic or regular pin cushions do you need? Same with the seam rippers.

[@michellejaggard9657]

I was in the Moda Fat quarter Subscription Stash Builder for a year. My Stash is built enough so I switched to the Sew Sampler. I have been getting it for 6 months. I have been sewing for over 50 years. I too will be making a decision soon.

[@koyyapugh7618]

I agree I did the same thing .I still have several projects from boxes I purchased 3 yrs ago. I only made one project. I think I bought 6 mths worth of boxes

[@samwise8562]

I canceled mine. I haven’t liked it in a while and I’ve never made anything from the boxes. I looked at the totality of it and 80% was things I wouldn’t have bought. I found I just liked getting mail that’s not a bill.

[@donnaking-royal431]

I've watched unboxings and thought of how nice it would be.... if only. Maybe it's good luck that I can't justify the expense in the first place. It's fun watching other people unbox. I'm good with that, even if I feel a bit jealous sometimes LOL

[@tinadenike2357]

i was getting the box for 3 years & stopped 2 years ago . I decided I would just save the money & buy what I wanted & things I would really use.i like to watch the unboxings but there hasn't been anything that has made me say wow I really wish I still get these boxes

[@sewbeitquilts]

That is how I think I will feel. I will watch the unboxing because I really think they are fun to receive. Just financially it doesn't make sense anymore at this point.

[@tinadenike2357]

@@sewbeitquilts 100% correct

[@angelastoutenger7944]

Right now I’m getting two subscription boxes…Sew Sampler being one of them. I know in the next few months I need to make a decision and cancel one of them. The projects and notions keep piling up. I’m a Lori Holt fan so I was very pleased with this month’s box except for the readers. I actually previously purchased one from Fat Quarter Shop hoping they would help when cross stitching. Unfortunately they didn’t work for me and to avoid the expense of return shipping I put them in my donate box. Therefore I wasn’t happy to see them included this month especially since there are so many other Lori Holt notions that could have been included. You have definitely given me a wake up call when adding up the annual cost. Thanks Fallon. See you next time.

[@sewbeitquilts]

I have found I am really becoming a huge Lori Holt fan too. My taste keeps changing so much. I am really loving the slightly brighter colors and mix of patterns. I may try the readers when I work on some hand stitching because my eyes tire fast. But, I do think they may be a tad too strong for me. I think the readers were probably a huge miss since many people won't be able to use them. I am admitting I am not very privy to the numbers on the glasses, but I imagine we will all need a different strength.

[@angelastoutenger7944]

@@sewbeitquilts I think based on everyone’s eye prescription the readers are definitely an item that should not have been included. I think the ones that I ordered were either 3.5 or 4. I couldn’t see at all with them. Tried the ones in the box again this morning and everything is blurry. I hope they work for you.

[@ruthannestewart4878]

Wonder if we crossed paths in Bryan on Saturday? Small world! Sad to see the store close. Good luck with your projects!

[@sewbeitquilts]

Yes! Small world indeed!

[@JoJoQuilter]

I had so many subscription boxes from fat quarters that I decided to cancel at the end of 2021 to 2022 and then what I did is I took the boxes that I had for fat quarters and sweet water I got plastic open bins from Joannes and I started starching each project in each subscription box that I got and I labeled the box have it all cut and ready to go it took me from September to pretty much now to get it all set up so I am going to catch up on my sewing projects. Wish me luck.

[@sophiafatcat]

I quit this one a couple of years ago...I did so mainly because they were stacking up. Most of them I liked, but those in the last year are not any that I really was thrilled about, including this one...I also got tired of having to buy the finishing kits and many times the notions were nothing that I would use.

[@vickicranfield5008]

i agree that sew sampler seems to be aimed at beginners. I like getting new notions that I probably would not pick up, I think like you I will continue the box till the bliss quilt along is finished, then reevaulate Maybe I will go to local quilt shops with that spending $"s.

[@michellebusch9551]

I started with the box when I was very new at sewing. It was great to help me build. However I now feel I don’t need to get it anymore. Because the notions are repeating. I still love fqs and will continue getting stuff from them. I loved the box but like you, I need to be more intentional and I haven’t made any of the patterns in the box. I have made the special boxes and will probably continue to get them.

[@sewbeitquilts]

I completely agree with you. It is a fabulous box and such a fun way to be introduced to new fabric lines, designers, notions etc. It is a very budget friendly way to learn what you like and don't like while you start to build your stash. It definitely isn't a bad box at all. It just doesn't work for everyone depending on what they are looking for.

[@susanonealsmith8434]

I agree with you completely about being more intentional about what we spend our money on. I did SS for a few months in 2021 as a new quilter, and I think combined with us not getting out a lot back then and the novelty of a getting a box in the mail once a month worked for me then. But buying the finishing kits etc...that was not for me. I ♥️ the subscription box I'm getting now, three one yard cuts of fabric that introduces me to a line I probably wouldn't have seen, and I know I have enough for a three yard quilt.:) I hope you're happy with your decision, I believe you made the right one.♥️

[@karenbrunette6314]

A lot of ppl I follow feel the same way about the box. I don’t think a monthly box will be in my budget any time soon it’s fun to learn about the fabrics/designers but everyone s tastes are different so to spend money on a surprise doesn’t work for me. I’ve only been sewing since July n I’ve only purchased yardage as per needed for my first quilt I’m making.

[@loiscasey1338]

I’ve been thinking the same thing.

[@nancywelsh5247]

I agree 100%. I just canceled my subscription because I don’t like filling up my space with items I didn’t choose and will probably not use. I was never a fan of the patterns that came in the box. I have never made anything from the boxes and I’ve been getting them for two years! I have enjoyed the notions though.

[@jilldoemer1634]

No, the boxes maybe good for a new quilter, but someone that has been sewing for a number of years, I probably already have the items are in the box. Especially the Sew Sampler Box. I still watch the monthly box opening just to affirm Iam not missing anything

[@sewbeitquilts]

When I cancel I will likely keep watching others unbox. I will still be curious about the fabrics and notions. My favorite part of the box is the notions I didnt know about and ended up loving. It will still be fun to see what is in them even if I am not getting it anymore.

[@susanbrown7788]

I was so glad to hear that your are questioning the value of the subscription boxes and deciding if you are getting if the contents you are receiving is worth the cost. I have watched a lot of videos of subscription box openings. Lots of them are the same you tube station. One of the first questions I asked myself is how much are they spending every month???? Maybe I'm the only one that thinks this...

[@alexandra-zaza-burns]

I think they are great to begin with or if you are new to quilting but I have so many notions and after a while they can become quite samey. I used to get a few different subscription boxes for various things including cosmetics but began to feel like you about them.

[@donnahoefler2748]

I agree with you also. I cannot bring myself to purchase kits as I do not always use everything included. I did get a jewelry making kit for a while and quit getting that for the same reason, too much cost for what I would really use in the boxes. I prefer to touch what I am going to buy and see how it goes together and fabric is one of those things that needs to be seen and evaluated before it is bought. Thank you for this video it was informative and helpful for sure.

[@FredaM]

The glasses are magnifying glasses for fine handwork like cross stitch on high count linen or embroidery.

[@earlinemcgahen3931]

If you cross stitch with Adidas 14 18 or 22 count the glasses will come in handy real tiny stitches

[@patriciahibbard7345]

I agree and need to cancel the box I get. I have never made anything and I’ve even purchased extras thinking I would make them. Time to save money and quit filling up my sewing space!

[@carmenmaldonado6486]

I was so excited to join the subscription box, but like you I find that even though they are so cute I’m not using everything and other than the January fabric, I don’t like the November or December fabric, the readers are cute but I already use prescription glasses. Maybe they should have added the pressing roller to go with the paper piecing. I buy regularly from Fat Quarter Shop and I love their customer service. But I’ve been quilting since 1992 and have a lot of notions. I recommend the boxes for new quilters.

[@leeannguiette1950]

I agree 100% about a certain subscription box. There were two months that I was more excited about the sturdy box it came in than the content. I'm looking for a new subscription box. Any suggestions.

[@opengatequilts6867]

@leeannguiette1950 we have a project based subscription box. You get 2 projects, a spool of Aurifil thread, a notion that is usually used in the project and either a fat quarter or a new Open Gate pattern. You can sign up here www.opengatequilts.com/subscription-box we’d love to have you!

[@sewbeitquilts]

I would definitely suggest the Open Gate box. I have many unboxings to look through so you can see if it is a good fit for you. I love that it is project based and you can work on projects as soon as you get the box. If a project requires interfacing, ribbon, buttons or any other extras it is always included in the box. I really feel like that is a quality I don’t see in other subscription boxes I have tried. I also find that the choice of fabrics and patterns really fit my tastes. I like really classic patterns and floral fabrics. Another box I would suggest that didn’t work for me, but I felt held a lot of value is the Pineapple Quilts box. I think I only purchased two boxes but I really felt like it had great patterns and a lot of fabric. However, it didn’t work for me because it wasn’t the style of fabric I typically like. It wasn’t my taste but you can check out those unboxings to see if it is your style. Even though I didn’t particularly like the fabrics I received I really felt like I wasn’t being ripped off versus what I paid and what I received. While it didn’t work for me I can see people who love the types of fabrics in this box really appreciating how much you get for your money.

[@leeannguiette1950]

@Sew Be It Quilts thank you. Thank you very much for replying. I'm gonna go look at unboxings.

[@debcobb9739]

I don't like the subscription boxes. I have watched many opening the boxes and rarely is everything in the box the kind of fabrics and notions you would buy for yourself. Even though the charm packs are pretty...is it something you would pick along with the readers and the pincushion? I am of the opinion that I want to buy what I like and know I will use ...not what I make just because I have it. I guess if you know someone who could enjoy those things you could accumulate enough to put into a gift and let them decide how to use it or pass it on. I do really like the fabrics you bought for yourself in the black and white fabrics...I look forward to seeing them made into a lovely quilt. Many blessings.

[@jeanielipskey1272]

Hi Fallon, yes I too am rethinking about these boxes. I had 3 last year. 2 from Primitive Gatherings(1 wool, 1 quilt) & from Sew Yeah, I am getting Sew yeah this year (it rolled over), am not renewing the Primitive Gatherings. (They are high, but it is wool). Although, I've had trouble with using the qr code on the sew yeah box, did like the fabric they sent. I actually think I will just stick with Jenny's Christmas box at MSQC.

[@judygovotsos7916]

I have canceled this box a while ago due to budget and having to buy so much more extra fabric. Don't think the readers were a good idea to put in rhe box since there are people out there who already wear glasses for reading. What boxes do you paid for each month vs boxes that you receive from companies? I really enjoy your utube and having hubbie on at times. Have a great week

[@cheryleaston6820]

I kinda agree with you as well. It is fun to get the box each month but after the 12 month BOM is over I may also cancel. Onlt benn getting it about 16 months but in the middle of this years BOM. TFS

[@darrelllenapayne8813]

Thank you for the transparency and honesty you shared. I have never had the finances to be able to participate in any monthly boxes but thought long and hard as you have mentioned while questioning myself; would I use the items...would it really be worth it...are the items I would get be something I would have picked out otherwise...and the main question remains, how would I have to do without if I chose to participate? Thank you again so very much I am thrilled I came across your video.

[@ph5284]

When FqsSends us small projects I just wish they would send all necessary fabric & hold all notions

[@sewbeitquilts]

I agree! Especially when the pattern is for something like a table runner!

[@laurabuckles7961]

I think subscription boxes are all about the excitement of getting a surprise in the mail. Nothing wrong with that, but for me I really have to watch what I spend very closely. I subscribe to email newsletters of shops I like, and occasionally when they have a deep discount sale on something I've looked at before I'll get that, and that's my excitement. :) There won't even be much of that this year though, as I just went through some stuff and holy cow, where did all these charm packs come from, lol!! Time to use them! Good price on that embroidery thread, it's insanely expensive at some places.

[@nursekate6772]

I've never been a fan of subscription boxes. I find that if I follow several different KZbin Channels I can find a ton of different quilt projects and a list of patterns and fabrics to buy. Plus if I find a video with a pattern I like, I will go and buy fabrics to make 2 or more quilts in different color ways.

[@Cherry_Gingham]

You may have moved on from this topic already, but you can buy the Bliss Blocks separately so really you can cancel anytime. I'm not fond of the idea of project boxes, I don't often use quilt kits and I like to pick my own fabrics and my own projects. I like the sew sampler as kind of a fun inspiration box. I file the patterns by pre cut type, put the pre cuts into my stash and put the notions away with the rest of my quilt tools. The sew sampler patterns I have used I have done with my own fabrics and when I use the fabric from the boxes, I use it along with fabric already in my stash, I'm not buying their finishing kits. Sometimes I gift the fabric or notions to family or friends, this weekend I made some placemats from a junior layer cake from a box from last year while wearing the wrist pincushion from this box. The stash box is not for me but it is fun to see your joy as you go through it each month. Do what you love!

[@sewbeitquilts]

I did think about buying the last two Bliss Blocks separately but they are around $5 by themselves! I figured I might as well get the full box just two more times.

[@camiclark557]

I totally agree with you about what comes in the boxes. I just dropped my subscription to the Pastry Shop after the December box was another pumpkin quilt that we already got in November. Decembers should have been a xmas quilt pattern and fabric. For another 40.00 she added the xmas quilt. Very disappointed in that. I felt used and cheated as a subscriber. I am now very selective too. I found also a lot of things, like a tomato pin cushion, were not exciting to receive.

[@dgraham719]

I decluttettered my sewing room, and 75% of what I got rid of was from subscription boxes. I personally don't care for small projects, so I canceled them. I only subscribe to 1 from creative notions. I do wish the boxes could make an entire quilt without having to purchase a ton more fabric.

[@VickiKolman]

I realized that I like the FQS sampler boxes for learning about new notions but now I wait for an unboxing and order the couple that I see that look interesting, rather than buying the whole box. I enjoyed some of the fat quarter bundles better than the sampler box, but even then it was mostly for stash building. If looking for an actual project box, FQS isn't the right place. (I still order from them, I just choose my own things now)

[@peggystong8413]

After watching this video I came to agree with you. I have become a little disappointed with the box maybe for the same reason I didn't make many of the projects and I would have to spend another $50-60 for materials to do the projects. I could spend the amount on something I really wanted to do. It is difficult for them to come up with boxes that everyone can use each month but after getting them for a while I have built up enough stash that I can move on.

[@sewbeitquilts]

I am so scared to go back and look at what I spent to purchase the extra material for the two projects I wanted to finish. I know I will finish them at some point, but to think I spent all of the extra money to finish a project nearly a year ago and have done nothing with it was really eye opening. I need to work on some of these projects I have stuff for before I spend more money!

[@marianacary4819]

I am also waiting to get the last card for the block of the month and then cancel .

[@robinh]

I like the idea of it, but the reality is I would rather use the money on supplies for a specific project . I've purchased a couple seasonal boxes in the past. Found a few fun notions, but i usually resell over half the box. I also dislike paying extra for shipping as I always get free shipping at FQS when I place orders.

[@thehouseofjane]

I stopped unboxing the SS because it just wasn't 'doing it' for me anymore. I wasn't crazy about the notions and even the patterns weren't my style. I always loved the fabric though. Even with selling the boxes that I didn't like, I couldn't make anymore videos because my heart was not into it and I just didn't want to be negative on my channel. I do appreciate your video!

[@sewbeitquilts]

I have to agree with you. I think I liked almost all of the fabric except the one that was fairly recent and had fish on it.

[@tamaraclayton6848]

The only box I get is Open Gaits. They always have complete projects.

[@opengatequilts6867]

Thanks @tamaraclayton6848. We are so glad you are with us!

[@sewbeitquilts]

Yes!!! It is my absolute favorite! I looked back at the year and this box I worked on a lot of the projects! Plus the only material I ever need to add is backing for the large project. I usually use muslin since it is low cost and works great for wall hangings and table toppers! That keeps my cost down.

[@opengatequilts6867]

@@sewbeitquilts thanks Fallon!!

[@Liss9248]

I made a promise to myself to only do 1 subscription at a time. So right now I only receive the pastry shop box.

[@sewbeitquilts]

Oh I haven’t heard of that one!

[@beverlydavis5142]

I know how you feel. I’ve always enjoyed my sew sampler, but it’s got where everything they send is not worth the money to me so after March, I will canceling my subscription

[@connieolson8497]

What is the line of the white with black flowers lime? I agree, value of subscription VS products. I stopped and buy what I need. I love this mother 5” stacker but the rest no thanks.

[@florence9876]

Add me to the list of people who no longer get the sew sampler box. I have WAY too much stuff that I dont use and I believe the box is tailored to the beginner quilter. However, because of this box, I am notion rich and I am knowledgeable about what designers are my favorites and who makes the best patterns.

[@barbmckinlay5108]

I got that box Oct-Nov 2022. I only liked the Nov fabric, 1 or 2 of the gadgets and none of the patterns. I cancelled…partially because the price went up $5/month. Beware the wrist pincushion. You might stab your wrist if you get used to wearing it and forget to put it on.

[@lilybee_]

I subscribed to one box and had a bad experience. I now only subscribe to BOM if I want to do the quilt.

[@shaunachristensen3289]

Hi Fallon, I have been thinking the same thing. It seems to me that the items in the boxes aren't as good as they once were. Maybe that's just me. But I don't see any sense to throwing good money after this amount of time and not getting the kinds of stuff I want. Or maybe I just don't like what I am getting. Whatever the reason I just don't have the money I use to spend on stuff that isn't what I want to sew. Sorry for rambling, I am just frustrated.

[@saramcintosh2183]

Most of the subscription boxes charge so much postage to send to Canada that it makes them not worth it. I have a subscription box fromCanada but I cancelled it because I didn’t love the projects most months

[@donnabogart4576]

I subscribe to only 1 box I am very happy with it, any extra money I just buy what I like

[@sewbeitquilts]

Do you mind sharing the box you love?

[@donnabogart4576]

I get creative notions box always get 9 fat quarters - patterns - don’t usually get any of those notions that you don’t need

[@donnabogart4576]

@@sewbeitquilts I get the creative notions box

[@lindseyendris4898]

I ended up cancelling my subscription because I wasnt doing anything or really using any of the notions out of the box either. I couldn't justify paying for something i wasnt using.

[@susanbellrvliving]

If you have don’t like CANCEL I love them

[@krisr3493]

I unsubscribed last month when the price went up, I have been thinking about it for a while and when it went up I took that as a sign.

[@sewbeitquilts]

While I understand the price increase... the price of everything has gone up, but it does greatly impact my decision as well. We all, I believe, are needing to be a little more careful with where we spend our money right now.

[@valmartinez-west9725]

I get the FQS box and this year is finishing up my second year. I am over it and will be stopping it at the end of the bliss patterns. I have not started that quilt along let alone did lasts years monthly quilt along. As far as readers in a box I believe that is a personal thing. I need stronger ones so they are no good for me. I got the Primitive Gatherings box last year and have already stopped it. That box just wasn’t for me.

[@eprohoda]

Bravo,professionla unboxing,want more views?!