SIX TIPS FOR BUYING FABRIC ONLINE

KNOW YOUR FABRIC

  While quality online fabric stores will always give good descriptions of each fabric, knowing what these descriptions mean is critical before you can shop online. One cotton fabric won’t be the same as the next: they will feel different and drape and fold in different ways. Do yourself a favour and start collecting samples whenever you can and labelling them, whether or not you need that particular fabric at the time. This way you will be building a nice fabric “archive” to go back to whenever you need to compare or confirm features and fibres of the fabric.

REQUEST FABRIC SWATCHES

  Fabric swatches are extremely helpful, and most can be ordered from the online fabric store for free or for a minor fee. Before you do, always contact the online store if your desired fabric is at risk of being sold out by the time you want to purchase.

LOOK FOR DETAILED FABRIC DESCRIPTIONS

  The more detail, the better. If you can make an educated decision based on the product description and images, then buying fabric online will be a breeze.

LOOK FOR SITES WITH LOTS OF GOOD QUALITY IMAGES

  While top quality images are great, seek out ones that show you exactly how the fabrics fold and drape. This will help you determine the difference between stiff and soft fabric.

COLOUR: BE OPEN MINDED

  Bear in mind that the colour on your computer screen won’t always be the same when you hold the fabric in your hands. This is where fabric swatches come in. Take the extra time to order them and put your mind at ease.

RETURNS AND EXCHANGES

  Be sure to check these details before you shop. The risk of buying fabric online will always be that you may not get exactly what you expected. A quality online fabric shop will understand this risk and allow for exchanges and returns if you are not satisfied with your purchase. You’ll be an online shopping whizz in no time!