I want to open a small fabric store in a rural area but am not sure how to go about stocking?

Question

I'm not interested in just quilting fabrics, but a variety for sewing of garments, crafts, etc. Also, notions, patterns and the like. There is nothing close by. Whenever I need fabric and notions I go 30 miles to Walmart (usually they don't have what I need!). The nearest large city is 2 hours away. Surely there are others in this area that feel the same as me and would welcome this type of business! Where do I start???

Answer 1

First, make a business plan. This will cost money, and you need to be sure that you can do it. Once the numbers are set, register your business and get a business license. I'll let you figure out the logistics of having a business, since you only asked about stocking. To get the fabric and notions, go to the websites of the manufacturers (like Moda, Benartex, Hoffman, Northcott, Timeless Treasures, Maywood Studios, PB Textiles, Marcus Brothers, etc.) They have log in info for businesses and you can set up an account with them. You'll probably need to provide your business license info. You may be able to order online, or you might have to request a catalog and order that way.

Answer 2

I read on another question that Wal-Mart is eliminating it's fabric department. Therefore, you should have plenty of business. Read some books on starting your own business. You can get them from your library or Amazon.

I am sure, that as in any field or interest area, there are some "basics" which every sewer expects to find in a store (but since I loathe sewing, I don't know what they are!). Go to Wal-Mart on a busy Saturday, before they close their fabric departments, and see what people buy. Ask people you know who enjoy sewing and crafts what they would like to find in a store. Start a sewing and crafts club at your church or in your small town. Then you can see what the members are interested in.

Answer 3

I would stock the store with the fabrics you feel are most common for garments and crafts. Then I would stock things that Wal-mart does not carry. After that stock the basics. You will find that most people will come to your outlet first because it's convenient but also if you don't have what they are looking for they haven't wasted as much time as if they had driven to Wal-mart and discovered their item was not there. You can also offer to special order items. From the special order list, take note of things that are widely requested and begin stocking those items. This will also help develop word of mouth and a loyal customer base.