Old fabric stores that have gone out of business often evoke a sense of nostalgia and a longing for the days when personalized customer service and unique fabric selections were the norms. Here, we’ll take a detailed look at some notable fabric stores that have closed their doors, leaving behind memories of the tactile pleasure of choosing the perfect material.
1. Hancock Fabrics
History: Hancock Fabrics was one of the most well-known fabric stores in the United States. Founded in 1957 in Tupelo, Mississippi, it grew into a nationwide chain with over 250 stores.
Specialties: Hancock Fabrics offered a vast selection of fabrics, including quilting cottons, apparel fabrics, home decor fabrics, and seasonal materials. They also provided a range of sewing notions, patterns, and crafts.
Closure: In 2016, Hancock Fabrics filed for bankruptcy for the second time and eventually closed all its stores. The closure marked the end of an era for many sewing enthusiasts who relied on their local Hancock store for fabric and supplies.
2. House of Fabrics
History: House of Fabrics was another major player in the fabric retail industry, especially during the 1970s and 1980s. Established in 1946, it expanded rapidly, acquiring other fabric store chains along the way.
Specialties: House of Fabrics was known for its wide variety of fabrics, patterns, and sewing supplies. They catered to home sewers, providing materials for everything from apparel to home furnishings.
Closure: After several ownership changes and financial struggles, House of Fabrics was eventually acquired by Jo-Ann Fabrics in the 1990s. Many of the stores were rebranded or closed, bringing an end to the House of Fabrics name.
3. G Street Fabrics
History: G Street Fabrics, originally located on G Street in Washington, D.C., was a beloved destination for fabric shoppers since its founding in 1942. The store later moved to Maryland but retained its reputation for quality and variety.
Specialties: G Street Fabrics offered an extensive range of high-quality fabrics, including designer apparel fabrics, bridal fabrics, and home decorating fabrics. They also provided sewing classes and custom services.
Closure: While not completely out of business, G Street Fabrics has significantly downsized. Several locations have closed, and the store has moved to a smaller location, reflecting the broader challenges faced by brick-and-mortar fabric stores.
4. F&S Fabrics
History: F&S Fabrics, located in Los Angeles, was a staple for the local sewing community for over 60 years. Known for its vast selection and knowledgeable staff, it was a go-to spot for both amateur and professional sewers.
Specialties: The store offered a comprehensive range of fabrics, from everyday cottons to luxurious silks and wools. F&S Fabrics was particularly noted for its collection of designer fabrics and unique prints.
Closure: F&S Fabrics closed its doors in 2017, citing increasing rent and the shift towards online shopping as key factors in the decision. Its closure left a significant void in the local fabric retail market.
5. Calico Corners
History: Calico Corners, founded in 1948, was known for its specialization in home decorating fabrics and custom services. With numerous locations across the United States, it catered to customers looking to create personalized home decor.
Specialties: Calico Corners offered a wide array of upholstery fabrics, drapery materials, and other home decor fabrics. They also provided custom upholstery and drapery services, making them a one-stop shop for home decorators.
Closure: Many Calico Corners locations have closed over the past decade as part of a broader consolidation effort. The remaining stores have been rebranded as Calico, focusing more on the custom services and less on the fabric retail aspect.
6. Fabricland
History: Fabricland, founded in the 1930s in New Jersey, grew into a well-known chain in the Northeastern United States. It served generations of sewers and crafters with its extensive fabric selection and sewing supplies.
Specialties: Fabricland was renowned for its diverse fabric inventory, which included apparel fabrics, quilting fabrics, and home decor materials. They also offered sewing classes and events for the local community.
Closure: Over the years, many Fabricland stores have closed due to changing market conditions and the rise of online shopping. The original New Jersey store, a landmark for local sewers, closed in 2021, marking the end of an era.
The Changing Landscape of Fabric Retail
The fabric retail industry has seen significant changes over the past few decades. The rise of online shopping has transformed how customers buy fabrics, with many opting for the convenience and vast selection offered by online stores. While this has led to the closure of many beloved brick-and-mortar stores, it has also opened new opportunities for smaller, niche fabric shops and online retailers.
Remembering the Legacy
These stores, though no longer in operation, have left a lasting legacy. They were more than just places to buy fabric; they were community hubs where people learned, shared, and grew their passion for sewing and crafting. The memories of shopping at these stores, the tactile experience of feeling the fabric, and the personal connections made with staff and fellow customers, remain cherished by many.
For those looking to find quality fabrics and sewing supplies today, online retailers and local independent fabric stores continue to provide a wealth of options. While the industry has evolved, the love for sewing and crafting remains as strong as ever.
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