10 Places to Find Vintage Materials

Hi Stitchers-

You might have noticed that I like using and vintage inspired materials. Are you wondering where I find them?  Or where you might find them?  For some of you, it may be a little easier to source them but if you're creative, you can find them.  

Quick note: I love using vintage fabrics and notions for the history, texture, and uniqueness.  The downside to using them is that you can't always find what you're looking for.  

Here are 10 places you can find vintage fabrics and notions:

1. Thrift Stores - whether it's fabric squares or clothing and bedding or part of the bric a brac, there are tons of goodies to be found.  
   
2. Yard or Garage Sales - depending on the owner, there could be some great finds
3. Vintage Shops - you can always cut things up or remove them from their current location
4. Facebook Marketplace - I see people giving away or selling really great vintage items everyday.  Make sure to check it out.
5. Estate Sales - similar to Yard or Garage Sales but often there are previews online that you research before going.
6. Your Local Buy Nothing groups - people are always trying to clean out their stuff and this is a great way to get vintage items for FREE
7. Your local RE-Use Store - we have a place that you can donate art supplies and also "buy" art supplies (ie. pay what you can by donation).  I have found lace, buttons, beads, fabric and more there and I often visit to get more.
8. Church/Community Rummage Sales - these are nice because there are often more than one person that has a table so there typically is variety.  
9. Flea Markets - again, you can't be sure what you're going to get ahead of time but half the fun of scouring flea markets is finding those treasures.  
10. Online - Etsy and eBay often have beautiful vintage fabrics and notions and you can preview them a lot easier before you buy.

This is not an exhaustive list - I'd love to hear where else you search - but it a great starting point.  Don't forget there are a lot of items that can be used - not only precut fabric (ie. clothing, sheets, quilts, curtains, etc.).  Try to use your creativity when you are out and you will be surprised what you can find.  

Share your favorite places to search!  

Ally