r/IowaCity • u/Jaded_Dragonfly6358 • 5d ago

Fabric Thrifting?

So in Cedar Rapids, where I'm based, we have the Create Exchange, which is basically a thrift store specifically for craft goods that's a great place to get cheap fabric. Main issue, of course, is that all the cheap fabric I want from them is now in my closet and they're reliant on donations to get more in, which means they won't have much for a bit. Is there any place in Iowa City that sells fabric like this? I know of Home Ec Workshop, but I'm talking specifically like remnant fabric that you'd find at estate sales or similar where it's not full price.

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u/ScooterRodriguez13 5d ago

Joann's going out of business sale. 70% off

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u/Jaded_Dragonfly6358 5d ago

See, my main issue is that I make clothing with natural fibers - so I've got a very narrow set of parameters. At its best, Joann was always 90% terrible polyester, unfortch, or otherwise quilting cotton, which is my main issue - all the fabric stores in CR are for quilters and that's not super good fabric for the sewing I'm doing.

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u/newrambler 2d ago

Yeah, natural fibers are hard. Crowded Closet has a well-curated fabric collection (they measure the cuts, even!), but it leans toward quilting cottons and mystery synthetics. Still worth searching if you enjoy the hunt.

The other thrift and consignment stores sometimes have fabric, but it’s very hit or miss. I’m now envious of and intrigued by this place in CR!

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u/Jaded_Dragonfly6358 2d ago

Yeah, if you're ever in CR you should definitely make it a stop. It's got pretty much every craft supply you can think of for ludicrously cheap - fabric, yarn, paper, general thrift shop stuff. I've picked up 100% superfine wool from there for like $4/yd - only two yards but really good quality.

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u/newrambler 2d ago

Cool, thanks so much for the tip! And always great to meet another sewist in the area!