Replies

1. 
   SewistKitty | Sep 07, 2007 12:58pm | #1

   On the site, Pattern Review, some sewers have tried it with mixed results. I order fabric often online but only from fabric websites. Do you have experience using ebay? I have purchased some items on ebay with good results. Some of my suggestions would include: looking at the seller's ratings from previous customers to see what the customers say about the seller, see how the seller describes the fabric, see if the seller sells only fabric or a bunch of miscellaneous goods. I was looking at vintage sewing machines and patterns on ebay. Some sellers were clearly experts at what they were selling and gave complete information and photos of their products. Others made comments such as, "I can't guarantee that the pattern has all of its pieces" or the sewing machine was stored in a damp basement. Check out the return policy. Some sellers jack up their shipping fees very high to make up for the low cost of what they are selling. I hope that these tips have helped.
   I would look around and get acquainted with the site before purchasing.
   Hope this helps.
   Kathy

2. 
   Pattiann42 | Sep 07, 2007 11:26pm | #2

   Yes.  I just bought a 3, 1 yard pieces of a discounted pattern from one seller and also some pre-cut squares for .99.   Check the seller's rating and feedback and always use PayPal.

3. 
   Bloss1996 | Sep 08, 2007 02:16am | #3

   Hi GailAnn,

   I have bought a number of things lately from Ebay fabric included.  I have been very happy with everything I bought.  The material I bought was described well and was shipped quickly.  Just do everything to protect yourself.  Check everything about the seller and yes, I do use PayPal. 

   In the past, I have bought new shoes as well as a crystal statue and was also very happy with these purchases.

   Carol

4. 
   fashionnut | Sep 08, 2007 05:43am | #4

   YES I bought some great silk velvet Burnout fabric 29.00 a great vendor is fabricsupplier she has some great stuff including medium weight navy blue pinstripe 5yds (60") she is very reliable also go to http://www.fashionfabricclub.com join the club (4.00) you get swatches and the prices are phenominal also http://www.emmaonesock.com let me know how you make out with these suggestions.

5. 
   dayenu | Sep 10, 2007 06:45pm | #5

   I regularly buy fabric on ebay. here are a few ways to avoid getting hurt:

   if feedback is less than 98%  avoid them unless the feedback indicates a death in the family ( a one time thing)

   avoid quantity sellers with few feedbacks, it means they had bad feedback and are starting with a new name.

   make sure it comes from a smoke free environment

   be aware of fair pricing so you make sure you are getting a bargain.

   occasionally I buy straight fron india/china  too and the stuff always has an odd smell so for those purchases I only buy washable. sometimes it takes several washes.

   I buy dupioni  for $9 a yard regularly.  the silk vender is one of my favorite sellers. and I went crazy of a waverly out of print fabric for my bedroom, making sheer bed curtains, window shades, pilllows and a duvet and all the fabric was ebay. I saved wads of money.  Right now the window shades to be made for my guest room is a cotton toile I got on ebay for 4.99 a yard.

   Definitely use ebay !!!

1. 
   GailAnn | Sep 10, 2007 07:53pm | #6

   Good to know.   Last week I bought 4 yards of 100% wool in a pink and blue plaid.  So we'll see, how much I like it when it arrives.  Gail

2. 
   fashionnut | Sep 12, 2007 04:42am | #7

   I could not agree more fabricsupplier is one ebay vendor I have been very happy with burnout velvet (silk) and some great dress fabric. have fun but follow the advice. Cyndy

6. 
   sewfunn | Sep 12, 2007 07:50am | #8

   Hi, I have purchased tons of hockey themed fabric from ebay. It is "sewfunn" to bid that I sort of went overboard the first time. Shame on me! Every person or business that I bought from,and there were about 15, sent the fabric quickly and in perfect shape. I was very pleased. I think you should do it. Have fun!!