Saturday, May 23, 2015

Information About Shopping In A Fabric Store NJ Customers Need To Know

By Tammie Caldwell


Finding the right material for that first sewing project can be a daunting task for a beginner since fabric stores are packed with row after row of fabrics and supplies. Fortunately, there should be a helpful staff who will gladly assist customers in finding what they need; and armed with these handy tips before hitting the fabric store NJ customers in Fairfield should be sure to have a positive shopping experience.

Textiles arrive in fabric stores on "bolts", these are either cylindrical rolls or flat strips which the material is wrapped around. The kind of bolt used depends on which type of material it is and the preference of its manufacturer. Craft and quilting materials usually come on a flat, folded bolt, and textiles for making clothing and home decor pieces may be sold on either type.

Most larger fabric shops are set up in sections, with signs clearly marking the location of each category of fabrics according to their main use. Some smaller stores may not be organized in this manner, but staff can help customers find what they are looking for. Specialty shops may exclusively sell one type of material alone.

Before getting any fabric measured and cut, one must first check out its care and washing instructions and make sure its weight is appropriate for its intended use, salespeople are familiar with a wide range of textiles and can advise. There should also be some helpful information about the material printed on either the flat end of the bolt or if it comes on a roll, it may be on a hang-tag or printed sheet inside.

Fabrics come in a vast assortment of textures and styles for any project, be it a comforter, drapes, slipcovers, or a new outfit. Most apparel is made from "fashion fabrics" which can be either knit or woven and include denim, velvet, silk, wool, flannel, and polyester. Other materials can be classified as either quilting, home decor, craft, or fleece fabrics and they are used or a variety of personal and decorative items.

Bolts come in various width sizes between 36 and 108 inches. The amount of material required will be indicated on the back of the sewing pattern package, and for other projects, estimation will be necessary. A bolt may contain anywhere from 8 to 30 yards of material, and most stores will a minimum amount of 1/8 or 1/4 yard. Full bolts may sometimes be ordered.

The salesperson will place the material on a cutting table where it will be rolled out, measured, and cut from the bolt. If a smaller piece is needed, it may be possible to find a suitable "remnant" which remains from a bolt, and get a good price on it. If a sample is needed to take home, the customer may request a small swatch.

In order to maintain consistency, it's also important to select fabrics which are from the same dye lot, otherwise they may not be exactly the same in color intensity and tone. If two separate bolts are used, the customer should verify that they have the same dye lot number.




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