My favourite fabric stores in Sydney, Australia

It’s no secret where all my money goes—I spend it all on fabric! Well, sometimes on food.

Years ago, I used to buy fabric from a sweet old nonna named Maria, who had a garage in Petersham. She would reminisce about the days when they had a garment business across the road. Maria sourced end fabrics from various cutters and contacts from her previous life, and the fabrics were not only affordable but often hidden gems. Unfortunately, I stopped going, and now I wonder where she is. I hope all is well.

Here are places to buy fabric and notions in Sydney:

The Fabric Store: Dangerously close to my workplace, many lunch breaks have been spent browsing the options. I enjoy checking the remnant boxes near the counter for bargains. They specialise in deadstock from designers and their specially milled fabrics. I particularly love their heavy-weight linens—super durable for shorts and much better quality than the fabric used in garments from high street brands. Sometimes, they even have sales with discounts ranging from 15% to 40%.
Tessuti: While I don’t shop here often due to the higher prices, the fabrics they offer are truly beautiful. They have a lovely selection of wools and bridal fabrics.
EM Greenfields: A wholesaler of fabrics and trims, EM Greenfields boasts a wide array of options. On level 1, near the cashier, there’s a section of bargain ends. This level also houses trims, zippers, threads, and more. When shopping here, keep in mind that items behind the counter cannot be pulled off the shelves directly. Instead, speak to a staff member who will assist you. Minimum orders apply; for instance, ribbons must be bought in whole spools, and zippers come in sets of 5. Threads can be purchased individually. For those using rasant threads, this place is a go-to—sewing is far less painful without constant thread snapping.

On level 2, you’ll find a diverse selection of fabrics. Choose your options from the binders, and a staff member will compile a list for you. Take this list down to the cashier to pay while they cut your fabrics. Note that they only sell whole metres, and any cuts under 10 metres incur a cutting fee per cut. The service can be a bit hit and miss!
Remnant Warehouse: This store is a great find for swimwear, tulle, and a selection of quilting and general garment fabrics.
Textiles and Lace: As another wholesaler, Textiles and Lace specializes in evening and bridal fabrics.
Drapers Fabrics: While not having bought extensively from here, Drapers Fabrics stocks a lovely range of products and has a new store in Newtown.
The Selvedge Society: Situated on my way to pilates, The Selvedge Society offers a good selection of options. Despite your limited browsing time during the week due to my working hours, the weekend visits seem rewarding. Supporting and encouraging more of these stores is always a plus.
Elsegood: Wholesaler with lovely silk options.
Cabramatta John Street: Cabramatta is home to numerous fabric stores, particularly on John Street and Park Road. Although sifting through polyester can be tiresome, the trip is worth it for fabric enthusiasts seeking gems.