If you’ve been intimidated by the prospect of attending a wholesale fabric show, you won’t find a better introduction than the Chicago Fabric & Trim Show which takes place next week, May 26 & 27th.
Mostly targeted at independent designers, most vendors offer low or no minimums! This is an excellent opportunity for folks in the Midwest to shop for fabrics, trims and guts. A partial listing of the 100+ vendors can be found on the AIBI site.
If you’re a member of the F-I forum, check this thread to meet other members who are going and to get the details of Jay’s open house the day before. If you can’t make the open house on the 25th, there will be a meet up on the 26th. Jay is a wonderful host; rumor has it that he buys the first round.
Details:
The Chicago Fabric & Trim Show
Hosted by the AIBI (tel: 312-836-1041)
May 26, 2011 Hours: 9:00-5:00
May 27, 2011 Hours: 9:00-4:00
Location: Conference Center, Merchandise Mart (2nd Floor Pedway)
Free but pre-registration is required.
Credentials: Driver’s license, business card and a tax ID number
Will there be a show like this on the East Coast?
I went to a textile show in NYC a few years ago and it was ultimately useless, most vendors were from overseas and hard for me to work with in terms of payment terms. The few that I did seem to be able to work with sent me the wrong goods when I ordered.
Hi Harper,
This is the only show directed almost solely to DE’s. The show is small but you can probably see about 50 lines of fabric, buttons, zippers and more. All of these lines have minimums ranging from no minimum to 25 yds. Many lines allow you to sample and then comeback and take advantage of continuity that is offered.
Are there other small minimum shows? Yes. I know of shows in Las Vegas, Seattle and Minneapolis, however these are directed to either quilters or fabric retailers. I hope that helps
This is exactly what we need! I can’t attend this show and most of the Vendors listed don’t seem to have websites or contact info findable by Google. I’m calling the Show to see if I can get a program.