When we visited Bolt Fabrics, the inviting atmosphere hit us right away. What really stood out was their upstairs studio—it’s where the magic happens. They host a variety of sewing and crafting classes, making it a fantastic space to hone your skills. 

Their focus on natural, sustainable fabrics is a big draw for anyone wanting eco-friendly options, and we were genuinely impressed by their commitment to organic textiles.

Their diverse selection is also impressive! Beyond just fabrics, they have a wide range of notions, hand-stitching supplies, books, and patterns. 

That said, we noticed their prices can be on the higher side. Some customers we’ve talked to suggested that offering discounts for loyal shoppers could help attract even more locals. 

On the bright side, the staff was always ready to help us choose the perfect fabric when we visited. Some customers also shared they received tips on their projects, making their experience even better.

Their selection is impressive and the space is so cozy

“I visited in person last week, and it was an amazing experience! Their selection is impressive and the space is so cozy. I love the way they have pattern books that you can flip through and see all your options. They carry quilting cottons, Japanese fabrics, canvas, and apparel fabrics including selvedge denim.”

Laurel Clayson, Google review

Their dead stock selection leaves me in awe

“Bolt Fabrics has an absolutely amazing selection of high quality fabrics. Their dead stock selection leaves me in awe. Customer service is top notch! Thank you, Heather, for making my Sunday shopping experience so lovely!”

Janis Cloakey, Google review

If you’re looking for a diverse selection, you’ve got to check out Mill End Store. We almost got lost in their massive 50,000 square feet showroom that’s filled with all kinds of fabrics, trims, and notions! 

While the selection is awesome, certain areas—like the zippers—can be a bit messy and hard to navigate. This can really be frustrating, especially when you already know what you want but can’t find it because of the sea of options.

However, they have some really unique finds that you won’t see anywhere else. These are often sourced from end runs of production. 

Plus, we found out that this place has been around since 1918! It started out as a wool mill, so it’s got some cool history that adds to its charm.

They’re also super community-focused. They host events and welcome local crafters to come in and share their passion for sewing and quilting. The staff was also consistent in assisting us with what we needed.

There were so many fabric options!

“There were so many fabric options! Staff were so friendly and easy to approach. Prices seemed higher than Joann’s but I think the large selection of fabrics make up for it.”

Tia Misuraca, Google review

I was very impressed by the knowledge of the staff

“This is my favorite fabric store in the Portland area. I was shopping for silk fabric, and they had a wide selection. The bric-a-brac collection is awesome. I was very impressed by the knowledge of the staff. I will continue to shop here for all my fabric needs.”

Peter Copley, Google review

Josephine’s Dry Goods might be a small and cramped store, but they offer high-quality fabrics. We got to browse their fantastic selection of luxurious natural fibers like Italian wool, Japanese denim, and French laces. 

They’re especially famous for having the largest stash of Liberty of London fabrics in the Pacific Northwest, drawing in fabric lovers who want something special and unique.

We were surprised that we got to have one-on-one project consultations, too! The staff patiently helped us pick out the perfect fabrics for what we were working on. 

During the consultation, we found out that sustainability is also a big deal for them. They source deadstock fabrics, which means they’re using leftover materials from other manufacturers. 

And if you’re looking for more than just fabric, they’ve got you covered with a great selection of buttons, ribbons, and trims. They have over 1,000 buttons to choose from! 

By far my favorite fabric store in Portland

“So incredibly kind and helpful!! By far my favorite fabric store in Portland. Great high quality options &  competitive prices, and the nicest employees I’ve met at art/ sewing store by far. Becky was kind enough to help me set up & understand my new machine just out of kindness and wanting to support me getting into sewing. They also have an amazing selection of patterns that I have yet to find at any other store! I can’t recommend this place enough, and look forward to needing new/ more fabric just so that I can stop by again!! 100/10 stars, I LOVE Josephine’s! Becky is truly one of the kindest and most supportive influences in my sewing that I have met, I am forever grateful for her (thank you Becky )!!!”

Jack Faulker, Google review

Best natural material button selection

“All time favorite fabric store. Best natural material button selection, wonderful array of Liberty, knits, wool, quilting cotton, linen, patterns anything you would need. Also very family friendly, I often bring my four year old and any place that makes me feel welcome with my wild boy is at the top of my book. My son and I have grown to love Bini, the owner very much we love visiting whenever we can. Highly recommend visiting this long standing stable in the making community”

Lindsey Landaverde, Google review

If you’re a beginner looking to experiment without breaking the bank, Fabrics For Less is a great choice. Most of their fabrics are priced between $3.50 and $6 per yard. 

During our visit, we noticed a fantastic selection that goes beyond just colorful patterns. They offer everything from lycra and velvet to sheer fabrics, making it perfect for costume makers or anyone wanting to create a little out of the ordinary.

We also loved the quirky layout, which adds to the fun of browsing. We’ve stumbled upon unexpected finds, and there’s even a section with rugs that gives the place a lively market vibe.

Plus, they regularly host workshops and events that bring local crafters together, creating a supportive community atmosphere.

While the low prices are appealing, we have to be honest that the quality can be hit or miss. Some customers we talked to said they encountered issues that only became noticeable after they used the fabric.

This store is great for costume makers!

“Going to fabrics for less reminds me of visiting fabric vendors in SoCal. Easy and straightforward. I was worried about this shop surviving after moving from NE 70th & Sandy (now ReRun 2). Great for costume makers-saw many Polynesian prints and accessories dedicated to Samoan clientele. Also the basics of threads, thread cones, needles. I appreciate a shop who caters to its customers.I also bought a hair clip on the way out.”

Drea Johnson, Google review

Helpful and friendly service, I love it

“What a fabulous tucked away fabric store! Everywhere you look there are gorgeous apparel fabrics, velvets, gown and formal fabrics, trimmings, upholstery fabrics, zippers, tassels, lace, jewelry, thread, even rugs and curtains. Helpful and friendly service. Love it!”

Nadia M., Google review

Modern Domestic has a cool selection of knits and wovens that are perfect for both clothes to home decor. We spotted some beautiful Liberty Cotton with floral patterns and some Cotton and Steele fabrics with modern prints that are great for today’s sewists.

They really support local designers too! When we checked out the store, they showcased patterns and materials from local talent.

We also loved that they offer classes for all skill levels, whether you’re into making clothes or sewing bags. 

Plus, as a Bernina Excellence dealer, they provide machine rentals and repairs. For just $8 an hour, you can rent a sewing machine on-site. We found this super convenient for those who don’t have one or want to try a class without lugging their own machine around.

That said, some customers have mentioned issues with communication around repairs. A customer we talked to felt unfairly charged after a technician accidentally damaged their machine and didn’t get much support when it broke down again shortly after.

Love this place! Highly recommend!

“Entire experience was nice. They offer good quality fabrics, I went for garment fabric and they had what I was looking for. Staff is incredibly nice, answered all my questions and then some. There was a kids class going on in the back and I thought that was cool. Love this place! Highly recommend!”

Victoria Garcia, Google review

So glad a place like this exists in Portland

“So glad a place like this exists in Portland! It’s one of my favorite places to shop for apparel fabric and get advice on my projects. The staff are so lovely and helpful. When I come in wearing something made with fabric I bought there, they recognize it!”

Ginger Clarke, Google review