Where to Buy Fabrics Online: Mood Fabrics Review 2024

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Are you wondering what is the best online fabric store out there?

Mood Fabrics – ever heard of them? You might recognize the name from the hit TV series “Project Runway.”

They’ve been a New York City staple since 1991, carving out a name for themselves in the fashion industry. But here’s the kicker: they didn’t just stay in their cozy brick-and-mortar store.

Mood stretched their threads into the digital realm, establishing an online presence that allowed them to ship their gorgeous materials right to your door – how convenient is that?

I’ve been a Mood Fabrics customer and am here to provide you with an educated and honest opinion and help you make the right buying decision for your fabric needs. 

I’ve tried many fabrics from different stores, brick and online, I feel that this brand’s claim of superior quality and price is justifiable.

Mood Fabrics’ selections make it the best online fabric store great for those looking for fashion fabrics and statement pieces. There’s a reasonable price point for every need. 

About Mood Fabrics

Best online fabric store: Mood Fabrics
Photo by Mood Fabrics

Mood Fabrics was founded by Jack Sauma, a designer who grew up in Lebanon and Sweden and graduated from a design school in the 1970s.

He and his wife moved to New York in 1976. He worked in New York, sewing clothing for famous designers such as Pierre Cardin and Michael Kors. He also launched his clothing lines, such as Isaiah and Joyce Jordan.

His career led him to a space in New York’s Garment District which opened as Mood Designer Fabrics in 1991. Its growing inventory of designer fabrics was an opportunity for expansion. The current stores Mood NYC, Mood LA, and Mood MI manifest the recognizable brand.

Project Runway, a very successful reality show, made Mood a perfect backdrop for the show in 2004. 

Mood is a reliable fabric source for fashion designers, fashion students, and home sewists. Mood is now considered “destination shopping” worldwide and committed to retaining its status for years to come.

Range of Products

Mood Fabrics has comprehensive product lines. You can definitely find something for your desired application, whether you’re stitching up for your wardrobe or giving your living room a new look.

Here are the main product lines available:

Fashion Fabrics

Stay trendy with a spectrum of fashion fabrics that let you express your personal style.

Whether you are looking for classics (such as cotton, linen, or jersey) or unique runway-worthy fabrics (such as brocades, silk, or silk), this category is enormous.

Mood Exclusive is prevalent in this category for unique prints you can’t buy anywhere else. Expect to spend a few hours browsing so you don’t miss any of the good stuff. 

Designer Fabrics

Here’s some of my Mood Fabrics haul.

Designer fabrics are among the highlights loved by customers because of their higher manufacturing standards. They often feature higher thread counts, which means higher quality. Whether making casual or formal attire, you can’t go wrong with designer fabrics.

MoodEarth

If you are a sustainable sewist, Mood Fabrics is committed to sustainable, ethical, and responsible sourcing practices. You can learn more about MoodEarth certifications here.

MoodEarth fabrics:

BCI (Better Cotton Initiative) fabrics that combine quality and an environmentally friendly approach.

Green Shirt Fabrics by Canopy is a non-wood material alternative to wood-based fiber (such as rayon and viscose) for the conservation of critical forests around the globe.

ECOVERO Fabrics is another eco-friendly alternative to viscose, certified with EU EcoLabel.

OEKO-TEX Certified Fabrics go through rigorous tests from raw materials to finished products. This is ideal for minimizing harm to both environment and human health.

Organic Fabrics use organic fibers grown without using harmful pesticides, insecticides, or fertilizers.

European Flax is a sustainable fabric source grown with zero GMO, waste, or harmful irrigation practices.

Recycled Fibers and Fabrics are made from waste such as plastic bottles, paper, or textile scraps.

Home Decor Fabrics

Looking to add charm to your space?

Home Decor Fabric is a diverse range tailored for enhancing your living space’s functionality or aesthetic appeal.

Whether you need fabric for easy projects like throw pillows and curtain panels or custom-made furnishings, your imagination is the limit with combinations of textures, colors, and patterns.

Leather

Mood’s leather selection speaks of durability and luxury. Whether you want to create a fashionable outfit or a designer equivalent bag, the selection challenges your decision-making because you would want to get them all.

Tools and Notions

This is a vast selection from the most-used notions (such as threads, zippers, needles, marking tools, and cutting supplies) to specific projects (such as bra-making and beading supplies) and other sewing supplies.

Custom Fabric Printing and Dyeing

Mood Fabrics offers custom fabric printing and dyeing services for your unique and personalized fabric needs.


As you’ve seen from above, it’s a fabric galore in Mood Fabrics right in the comfort of your home.

I’ve explored other online stores but have not seen a variety like Mood Fabrics. From my experience, I get to see a vast selection when I go to an actual fabric store, which is not always accessible to my location. With that said, a reliable online fabric shop is my go-to.

Fabric Quality and Selection

What makes Mood Fabrics stand out? As the “destination shopping,” it prides itself in:

  • High-quality fabrics
  • An unparalleled selection of the finest fabrics
  • Competitive prices
  • Eco-conscious and sustainable.

One of our dilemmas when online shopping is how we know that we are getting good quality fabric.

Touching the fabric is still the best test, so swatches are essential to fabric selection. I learned along the way to always check the online store if they offer swatches. This will save us a lot of frustration.

What are the indicators of fabric quality?

Fabric weave Designed in Canva.com

Fiber Content: High-quality fabrics often have a high content of natural fibers (wool, cotton, cashmere, silk). Blends (natural + synthetic) tend to be more durable than natural fibers.

Thread count (number of threads per square inch): Higher thread counts typically mean a more durable fabric. To calculate this, you’ll need a ruler and a magnifying glass.

  • Measure and mark a square inch of your fabric
  • Count both horizontal and vertical threads of the square inch
  • Add the two numbers, and that’s your thread count

Weave type: From the sturdy twill to the delicate satin, the weave affects both the feel and function. A tight and consistent weave with no visible gaps indicates good quality. To test: rub the fabric with your thumb and forefinger to feel the weave’s strength.

Finish and texture: There should be no signs of pilling (clumps) or loose threads. It should have a smooth finish and consistent texture. 

Weight and drape: The fabric should be appropriate for its purpose and drape well, without being too stiff or flimsy. Fabric weight is calculated from standard measurements – GSM (grams per square meter) and OSY (ounce per square yard). The higher the number, the more dense the fabric is.

There is no single indicator of a fabric’s quality. Even more challenging when looking online. So, we mostly rely on user’s experiences and the store’s reputation. Also, swatches are our friends, and it’s a great way to get familiar with the different fabric types.

Pricing and Value

Are you getting the best bang for your buck when splashing out on fabrics online? While Mood Fabrics may not be the cheapest ticket in town, they are known for a wide range of options, from budget-friendly basics to luxurious designer textiles.

Now, assessing the value for money, it’s not just about the price tag, right? It’s about the feel-good moment when the fabric exceeds expectations. You want to stretch your dollar without compromising on quality.

  • Affordability: Can you find options that won’t break the bank? Sure thing!
  • Quality: Are those threads worth their weight in gold? Sometimes they are!
  • Variety: More choices for you to find that perfect match.

And let’s talk perks! Hunting for deals is part of the fun:

  • Coupons: Save a few bucks with special discounts.
  • Top Picks: Curated selections to help you stay ahead of the trends.

Mood Fabrics also has an Online Rewards Program where you can accumulate points for shopping. Here’s more, the Mood Insider membership provides you with exclusive fashion insights and early access to deals.

Customer Service

For those seeking inspiration, stores like Mood Fabrics, famously featured on Project Runway, can guide you from indecision to the perfect fabric choice. Their assistance doesn’t just end with a purchase; customer service is readily available to help you track your order until it arrives safely at your door.

Here’s a snapshot of the customer service you can expect:

  • Instant support through live chat features
  • Fabric quizzes to find your ideal material match
  • Inspiration from designer collections featured on TV
  • Personalized help for quilting and other projects

Based on my experience with Mood Fabrics, it has excellent customer service. Reaching out to them feels like a friendly conversation with someone who genuinely wants to help. You feel informed and satisfied, ready to tackle your next fabric adventure!

Online Community and Resources

First things first, there’s an exciting collection of free sewing patterns offered by Mood Fabrics. They’re convenient for anyone looking to whip up some handmade wonders without breaking the bank.

Plus, Mood’s social media presence includes Facebook and Instagram, where you can share your projects.

You’ll find:

  • Online Community: Interact with like-minded folks and sharing of handmade creations.
  • Swatches: Test the material before you commit.
  • Inspiration: Ideas galore to spark your next masterpiece.

Shipping and Returns

Here’s the scoop on what to expect when buying from Mood Fabrics, and on the off chance things don’t go as planned, how to send ’em back without a fuss.

Shipping Costs & Delivery:

  • Free shipping for a minimum domestic order of $150.
  • International shipping is available via UPS Iparcel. Shipping cost depends on the destination.
  • Most orders are processed within 72 hours, and shipped Monday through Friday.
  • Express shipping is available

Here’s the deal on Returns:

  • Fabrics, trims, special orders, and anything cut to size can NOT be returned or exchanged
  • Notions and tools sold as a whole item that is UNOPENED may be exchanged or returned for full store credits (less shipping fees)

Remember these tips for a hassle-free fabric shopping experience. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Navigating online fabric stores can be both exciting and overwhelming. You’re about to uncover answers to commonly asked questions that will smooth out your browsing and purchasing experience.

Is it more budget-friendly to shop for fabrics online compared to local stores?

Yes, you can save money by shopping online due to various deals and the possibility of bulk discounts. For example, buying from Mood Fabrics, with unbeatable variety and reliable quality, can be cost-effective.

How can I determine the quality of fabric when shopping online?

Examine product descriptions for fiber content and weight, and take advantage of fabric swatches if available. For instance, stores like Mood Fabrics provide swatches to ensure the fabric meets your standards.

What are some tips for first-time buyers to choose the right fabric online?

First, read reviews to gauge previous customers’ experiences with the fabric. Also, start with small quantities to test suitability, and make sure to check the store’s return policy in case the fabric doesn’t match your expectations.

You can read my guide on how to choose fabric for your project.

Verdict

80% of my capsule wardrobe is created from Mood Fabrics and their free sewing patterns. 

Mood Fabrics, being a fashion fabric store, is an easy sell for people like me looking for unique designs to express individuality and style.

As with any digital purchase, the colors and textures you see on screen will not be 100% the same in actual product. Difference can be minimal or negligible, but some may have significant differences. I only had a few with noticeable differences in color, in knits with geometric designs.

So if you have a special or very specific project, request a swatch before buying to ensure the fabric suits your needs and expectations.

If you are looking for the best online fabric store, I recommend Mood Fabrics for their quality products and value for money. It is a one-stop shop with different budget ranges, various products, and free sewing patterns.

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AUTHOR

Dianne is a sewing enthusiast who is passionate in sharing her sewing journey and practical advice. With her focus on sustainability, she aims to create valuable resources and enriching experience for fellow sewists.