Yesterday, I took a client on a private tour of the garment district, showing her the best places for the kinds of things she loves. While we could have spent a week visiting stores that would have delighted her, we settled on a specifically curated (by me) selection of stores, which she adored. I, for one, felt like a fabricaholic in a sea of temptation... but I resisted the urge to splurge, just deciding on a few things I will be picking up after the snowy weekend passes... Yeah, I know... stop it - you're not the boss of me!
I've had quite a bit of coffee today... can you tell?
First off, I have to tell you that B&J Fabrics (reviewed not
once, but
TWICE on this blog, but could use an even FRESHER take now) has a KILLER assortment of printed cottons going on right now. The colors will make you swoon. As always, some will really challenge you bank account, but there is also a healthy amount of affordable goodness there, too. Just dig in, and you'll see! (Note: Don't start on the walls and hangers.)
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| B&J Fabrics - March 7, 2013 |
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| B&J Fabrics March 7, 2013 |
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B&J Fabrics, March 7, 2013
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We also stopped into
Royal Fabrics. While not one of my usual haunts, we were lured in by the windows, featuring a beautiful cotton lacey 1960's inspired... I dunno what you'd call it. Very cool though. Cue Goldie Hawn and some go-go boots, and we're on! All kidding aside, they really do have some very pretty things.
Spandex House. Need I say more? If you want to make a swimsuit, this is where you go for your fabric. The colors, variety, prices and quality are fantastic, so that one was a no-brainer.
DIY Fabrics for home dec fabulousness. I am almost certain the sign on the store read "DIY", and I've even called it "DIY" myself, but I think their business card or something may have read "Day to Day" In any case. This post, and the one it is linked to, will still get you to the proper place on the planet.
Mokuba Ribbon. A deep sigh. I have written an article in the
current Vogue Patterns Magazine about this land of wonder. An audible sigh was heard from my client as she explored the beauty of their offerings. Don't just look. Touch. You'll be a believer.
SIL Thread. Because they have plenty of what you need when it comes to thread, among other things.
Panda - Because they have lots of supplies and tools people need.
Daytona Trimming - Because I've been going there since I was little, and it feels like home to me. I love their old-fashioned approach to business, and that they've got all the swim cup sizes, and crazy-wide elastic!
Steinlauf & Stoler - Because they have quite a range of interfacing types. I buy my muslin and pattern paper there, too.
Joyce - Because they are all kinds of awesome! And they have all of the handbag stuff, swimwear D-rings and cool closures, feathers, and leather trims.
Metro fabrics - with a deep sigh. Right now... and I mean RIGHT NOW. The texture and sheen of some of the new fabrics he's got are awesome. Ask Kashi to show you the new turquoise silk... He'll know what you mean. Heaven... Also, look at the dotted/spotted pearl shade of silk that looks like a home dec fabric or a jacket. Absolutely to die!
Fabrics & Fabrics (formerly Lace Star) - Psst... Just take a gander at the printed silks right now. Oh, and EVERYTHING ELSE!
So, yes. We squeezed that into ONE day, and it was a FLOOD of information and inspiration. We both loved every minute of it, though.
I haven't been pushing the
Speakeasy tours lately, since both are nearly at capacity now, but you may still inquire, or ask to be notified about any trips to be planned for later dates.
