Whenever we travel, we often stop at places of interest. On our recent return from New Jersey I asked my hubby if we could stop at MaryJo's Fabric store in North Carolina. We were on the right road, so it wouldn't take us out of the way.
I had been to MaryJo's several years ago, and was overwhelmed with their fabric selections. Thinking it would be the same this time, we headed to Gastonia.
Having driven many miles, it was late and we were pretty tired with we arrived. I was washed with anticipation about what was behind those doors.
Okay, to say I was disappointed would be an understatement. Yes, there was plenty of fabric, but not what I remembered. Very little name brand lines. A lot of fleece and half of the store was filled with decorator fabrics. I so clearly remember purchasing civil war fabric years ago, but this time most of the fabric appeared to be theme related. The only name brand lines I saw was Downton Abbey.
Now don't get me wrong, I am not a fabric snob, as I do purchase fabric from JoAnn's and Hobby Lobby. But at least at JoAnn's the fabric is put on sale occasionally or you can use a coupon.
There were only a few customers in the store, whereas I remember the store buzzing the last time I was there. So what has happened?
Here's a couple of samples on display.
Nothing like Hancocks of Paducah where they have dozens of samples for inspiration.
Would I go back? No. Even if we were in the same town, it would hardly be worth my time to walk the aisles.
Have you ever experienced such a change when you returned to a well known store?
Anyway, enjoy your weekend. And Happy Quilting.
