In a world inundated with fast-moving fashion trends and mass-produced textiles, there’s an undeniable allure to what unique things I can find while secondhand shopping, thrifting, even yard sales. Fabric shopping is no different. It’s not just about finding a special piece; it’s about the thrill of finding something one of a kind and ultimately; the satisfaction of contributing to a sustainable and creative lifestyle.
When I started sewing, most of my fabric shopping was done online- blindly looking at materials (and prices per yard) to find something suitable. Not going to lie…this was a horrible experience for me. I turned to thrift stores- where I could at least touch the material AND fit into my small budget. Mind you, I never set out to be sustainable in my creative practice. My love of secondhand shopping, paired with knowing I’ll find something unique AND budget is what propelled me towards sustainability.
The Los Angeles area is home to Remainders Creative Reuse. Remainders is known as a craft thrift store. Its inventory is purely donation based, which means a woman down the street may have dropped off her entire thread collection or an LA production house donated its entire stock of fabrics that when unused from a TV series.
Stepping into Remainders is not like stepping into your local craft store. But that’s the charm. When you walk in, you are met with racks and shelving full of various craft, office, and hobby supplies. All meticulously sorted for you. Bins and drawers are labeled with “Rubber Stamps” or “paintbrushes”, even “Film Photography Supplies”. And it is up to you, the shopper, to explore and dig for what you may (or may not) have been looking for.
It is best to NOT go in with a specific list, but instead allow yourself to explore. If you find something- get it…it might not be there tomorrow. There is a special amount of time needed to look through bolts- touching and exploring.
When you take a left from the entrance and follow the outer walkway, you enter my favorite area: sewing notions and fabrics. There is a wall of fabric bolts, organized by color (oh joy!) as well as cubbies of pre-cut yardage, even bins full of remnants.
It is overwhelming. Especially if you are on a time constraint. But for me, someone who loves thrifting and sorting through everything- it’s amazing.
One of the joys of secondhand fabric shopping is the serendipity of finding unexpected gems. It’s not just about buying fabric; it’s about stumbling upon that one piece that sparks inspiration, or tells you “You won’t find me again”. My best find yet? Actually- two finds:
- 3 yards of uncut Liberty Cotton lawn, sold for a song.
- 6 yards of a 100% cotton railroad stripe denim.
I was able to pass the Liberty cotton on to other sewists, but I have been selfishly hoarding the denim until I find the perfect project (I am thinking a jacket x jeans combo!).
Beyond the rush of discovery, there’s a broader sense of satisfaction that comes with secondhand fabric shopping – the knowledge that I’m contributing to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly way of consuming. I said that this was not my initial intent with secondhand shopping- but it is now something that I am very conscious about when I source material or supplies for a new project.
Remainders Creative Reuse Space goes beyond being just a store; workshops and events hosted at the space bring together a diverse group of people, fostering a sense of community as well as introducing people to different forms of creative expression.
Secondhand fabric shopping offers a respite from the fast-paced world of trends and instant gratification. Remainders Creative Reuse Space provides the perfect backdrop for this, offering an experience that celebrates individuality, creativity, and a commitment to a more sustainable future.
5 Comments
I too love Remainders, which is actually a 501c3 non profit, I believe someone told me it is also a franchise. I don’t love thrifting for ready to wear, but this place is so much fun! I’ve bought beautiful wool fabric, and loads of flannel for burp cloths. My best find was spools of thread for my serger, at rock bottom prices. They also have classes for very reasonable fees. Good luck finding a similar store in your region!
Oh, I would love to find same kind of store here in Florida, Tampa area! Or, maybe there is one?
There is a store just like this Austin! I cannot remember the name exactly, but it’s simple like Austin Reuse or something. I go with my daughter when I visit.
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This sounds like a wonderful place for us thrifter/sewist types and for the environment…. I hope the idea spreads to other cities and areas of the country. My local thrift stores have a very small selection of fabrics, so I’m not motivated to shop for fabric there unless I am also shopping for other things. Thanks!
I love that you posted about Remainders! I’ve donated there a couple of times and been both glad and sad I didn’t have too much time to meander the aisles. I agree with the author — don’t come in with a specific list, but instead come ready for inspiration.