Alternatives to Fabric Stores

Image via Sommer Designs

When redecorating a space in our homes, the selection of fabrics that we choose can make a dramatic impact on the final product. However, if you live in a small suburb like I do, your access to quality fabric stores can be limited. As well, fabric, regardless of where it is purchased can be very costly. If you need several yards of fabric to complete a project, you can often find yourself shelling out hundreds of dollars. As luck would have it, finding alternative, less expensive sources for purchasing fabric is not all that difficult.

Tablecloths

Tablecloths come in a variety of patterns and colors. From solids to stripes to florals, tablecloths are a great option when you need several yards of fabric but aren't willing or able to spend the big bucks for decorator fabrics. As a bonus, tablecloths are meant to be washed frequently so your dry cleaning bills just got a little smaller too.

I couldn't be more excited about this tablecloth from Dwell Studio for Target, $21.99 for a 60" X 104" tablecloth. That is nearly 3 yards of fabric!

Drop Cloths

Drop cloths used for painting are another affordable option when you need a lot of yardage but don't have the funds to afford the high ticket prices often associated with fabric. Check out how Lauren from Pure Style Home fashioned a canopy out of a drop cloth for her child's nursery. By stenciling the drop cloth, she got the look of a modern fabric at a fraction of the cost. Genius!

Need curtain panels? Drop cloths can do that job too. Consider borrowing Lauren's idea and stenciling your own or take a page out of Judy's book over at Gracious Southern Living and add just a panel of fabric to the top or bottom of a drop cloth to create a custom look. If funds are low but you love a particular fabric, this is an option that could work for your budget.

Sheets

Who would guess that these drapes are actually constructed from sheets. Michelle from Three Men and a Lady knew a good thing when she saw it and snatched up these sheets for her guest room makeover.

Off the top of my head I could see the same fabric used for a dozen projects:

-Throw pillows
-Covering a picture frame or picture mat
-Seat cushions
-Napkins
-Table runner
-Lined and used for a throw blanket
-Vanity skirt
-Covering an inexpensive particle board side table
-A fabric covered box
-A fabric covered inspiration board
-A bed skirt (I cheated, Michelle already came up with that!)
- Lining the interior of drawers or the back of a bookshelf.

Unlined Curtain Panels

Unlined panels come in lengths as long as 104 inches. Nowadays unlined panels can be found in a wide variety of fun patterns and colors at reasonable prices. This panel from Urban Outfitters is just $34.99

If your goal is to locate fun patterns and colors, don't overlook sources that cater to teens and younger children. This panel from PB Teen is available at lengths up to 108" and comes in a number of colors, $19-$39.




When cost is a factor, get creative, keep your eyes open and think outside of the box for different sources for fabric.