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Frugal fabric sources

You don't always have to pay $8 for a yard of fabric. This tank top was made from a pillowcase purchased at a thrift shop for 49 cents. (Megan Cooley / The Spokesman-Review)
Megan Cooley
You don't always have to pay $8 for a yard of fabric. This tank top was made from a pillowcase purchased at a thrift shop for 49 cents. (Megan Cooley / The Spokesman-Review)
You don't always have to pay $8 for a yard of fabric. This tank top was made from a pillowcase purchased at a thrift shop for 49 cents. (Megan Cooley / The Spokesman-Review)

I’m the last one that should be writing on this topic, since I’m a sucker for a beautiful yard (or two) of new fabric. But I also love a bargain, and wanted to share some tips for finding fabric for a steal.

Thrift stores are one of my favorite places to look. Yes, sometimes they have yardage, but you can also find some treasures by digging through the bedding, tablecloths and long dresses. See the tank top up there? I made that yesterday from a pillowcase I bought for 49 cents. I loved the cheerfulness of the flower-power fabric.

Garage sales are another fun place to shop. Sometimes sellers will mention fabric or craft supplies in their ads. Other times you unexpectedly hit the jackpot while looking for a bread machine or Ab Lounger.

Antique stores often have a nice selection, too. And along those lines, be sure to hit the antique shows coming up, like The Farm Chicks on June 6 and 7, the Latah Variety Market on June 20, and the Two Women Barn Bazaar on June 27 and 28.

Sometimes you don’t need to look any further than your own closet. The fabric from a dress that no longer fits might make a nice apron. Old T-shirts can become hats, skirts, tank tops—almost anything. And take a look at what this crafter does with men’s dress shirts.

What are your tips for finding fabric frugally?

* This story was originally published as a post from the marketing blog "DwellWellNW." Read all stories from this blog