We made 4 stops:
- Chehalis for Billie's Designer Fabrics (yes the one from Sew Expo) and Sisters Quilting Shop.
- Rose City Textiles in Portland
- Mill End Fabrics in Portland
- Fabric Depot in Portland
Each place held it's own charm and PO (that's short for potential as my friend Kathy says). Many store owners, like the lovely lady at Rose City Textiles, were so happy to see us they put out cookies and juice. So nice!
Stop 1: Chehalis for Billie's and Sisters

At first I thought I'd buy this yummy herringbone pink flannel you see to the left and make some PJ pants or evena shirt. But then, I stumbled upon a sample of Kwik Sew's K3988, a yoga pant pattern that I own made of this fantastic poly lycra (read wicking). I have been studying active wear so I can make myself some really fun yoga outfits. Why? Because I want it to fit and I haven't found clothing shops nor patterns that either fit, carry something in a plus size or have what I want. And there we have the reason I started sewing in the first place - to have clothing that fits me, looks fab, and is in materials & styles that I absolutely love. Have already made a pair of yoga pants from a cotton T-shirt knit, but have been looking for something a bit sturdier for winter. This poly-lycra is Purrrrfect. And, it's a soft aqua/sky blue. Then, next to it, I found an Italian made, ultra fine, microfleece. Both were within my budget and less than $15/yd. How amazing is that? Truth be told, the fleece became my pillow for a nap on the return trip home. Double Win!
I stopped into Sisters and found some amazing fabrics. However, the owner was in a victim state of mind that she angrily expressed to me which turned me off from spending any money in her store. That was rather sad, because she has beautiful taste and amazing fabrics. Having been in exactly her position myself with my own business, I can appreciate her point of view, but I now understand better than ever that each person is important, even if no money is spent and everyone has a circle of influence where they can help or hinder you based on their experience. I hope she finds a happiness soon.
Stop 2: Rose City Textiles
I decided long before this trip that my new way of fabric buying must be focused around a project. No clear project, no purchase. I have a freakin wall of fabric that needs use. I must use that and only buy to a project. And I was able to stick to my plan and support my goals. That does not mean I won't be buying here. In fact, that means I will be back to buy only the right things and then will make and wear them, then share here with you. Yes, more sharing because of this new method which benefits RCT and you my darlings! My main goal was to find wicking fabric to make up some more sports bras. The lovely ladies at RCT ointed me to their best & sturdiest wicking fabrics and I bought a yard so I can make a couple.
Clicking on the images above and below, you will see several lovely fabrics you can purchase at RCT.
And the coolest discovery of all?! They supplied fabric for the show Grimm (WOOT! check out those 2 thank you cards I photographed on their store board above) and for Iron Man 3. OMGEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE! Supporting Oregon film. You know what that says to me? The opportunities for me to join the voiceacting and TV/Movie world are closer and more possible than I've ever known. Solutions and opportunities are everywhere if I keep my eyes peeled!
The other super awesome thing that happened at RCT is my friend Rae, who lives in Portland and whom I met during Kenneth King's Moulage class in September at Tacoma Sewing & Design, met up with us. So, not only did I have the huge joy of fabric shopping with the fashionistas on the bus, but I also got to catch up with Rae, see her delightful purchases, and receive wonderful, helpful feedback on what color choices would best suit me. She is such a sweetheart.
Stop 3: Mill End Fabrics

On my way out, I happened upon this amazing couch in pendleton blanket designs. I thought, why not replace only parts of the couch with blanket fabric? Don't you just want to snuggle up and read on it? The photo in the middle below shows you just how deep the store goes (wowza!). The photo on the right? Well, see the teeny tiny card with the oh so familiar writing that says LEVERAGE!?! Ooooo I had no idea the show Leverage would buy from another Portland store! Again cue the giddy excitement. :D