Tariffs? No Sweat! 10 Reasons Quilters Have Been Ready All Along

Have you been inundated lately by emails and advertisements telling you to ‘shop now!’ before prices go up because of tariffs? I’ve got some thoughts to share, just some things that have been mulling around in my brain. This might be something that makes your overflowing fabric stash feel a tad more justified.

I know, we all get a little twitchy when someone mentions the size of our collections (mine could probably insulate a small town!). But hear me out, because these current times of tariffs and trade talk? Well, they might just be the moment us fabric hoarders have been subconsciously preparing for!

I know you know what I’m talking about and I probably don’t need to spell it out for you, but I will anyway. Let me lay out ten reasons why our lovingly curated (okay, maybe slightly excessive) stashes are looking pretty darn smart right now:

Price Stability (for now!)

Remember when you snagged that gorgeous batik on sale last year? Guess what? The price of new imported fabrics might be heading north soon, making your already-owned gems even more valuable in comparison.

Creative Freedom, Unbound

With potential price increases on the horizon, we hoarders have the luxury of diving into our existing stash without that little voice whispering about the cost of every inch. It’s pure, unadulterated creative play!

Supporting Our Past Selves

All those “must-have” fabrics and patterns we couldn’t resist? We were unknowingly investing in our future creative endeavors! High five to our past selves for their impeccable (if sometimes impulsive) taste!

Out of Print Fabric Collections

Our stashes are often filled with fabrics that are no longer in print. Does your collection include Tula Pink, Amy Butler, and Lori Holt treasures? These unique fabrics will become even more special as newer, potentially pricier, fabric collections dominate the market.

The Joy of Discovery (Again!)

Remember that forgotten fat quarter tucked away in the back? Now’s the perfect time to rediscover those hidden gems and let them shine in a new project. It’s like a mini fabric shopping spree without spending a dime!

Mixing and Matching Like Pros

A well-stocked stash allows us to experiment with different textures, colors, and patterns without the immediate need to buy more. We can truly flex our creative muscles and come up with unique combinations.

Quilting on a Budget (If We Choose!)

While the urge to buy new fabric is strong (trust me, I get it!), our stashes provide a fantastic opportunity to create beautiful quilts without breaking the bank, especially if imported fabric prices rise.

A Sense of Preparedness

Let’s be honest, there’s a certain smug satisfaction in knowing we have options. While others might be facing higher prices, we can confidently head to our stash of fabric and sewing notions and say, “I’ve got this!”

Fueling Our Passion, Uninterrupted

Our love for quilting doesn’t take a backseat just because of trade winds. Our stashes ensure that our creative flow can continue uninterrupted, regardless of external economic factors.

A Testament to Our Dedication

A substantial fabric stash is a badge of honor! It shows our commitment to the craft and our foresight (even if accidental) in building a beautiful collection.

Don’t Get Too Far Ahead…

While our stashes are looking pretty brilliant right now, let’s not forget the heart and soul of our quilting community: our local quilt shops. They are the ones who bring us the newest collections, gather us together for classes and retreats, offer expert advice, and foster that wonderful sense of camaraderie.

Shop now!

With potential tariffs looming on imported fabrics, now is the perfect time to pop into your favorite local quilt shop. Show them some love, browse their inspiring selections, and maybe even snag that one fabric you’ve been dreaming about before any potential price changes take effect. Let’s support the places that support our passion!

Happy quilting, everyone! And may your stashes continue to inspire!

xoxo,