BOZEMAN — Joann Fabric and Crafts has been open for 80 years. The store has been dedicated to inspiring creativity in the Gallatin Valley Mall since the mall opened in 1980. But on Monday, the retailer announced that after filing for bankruptcy, it will shut down all Joann stores and liquidate its inventory through going-out-of-business sales.
“My immediate reaction is shock and disbelief because they have been the go-to fabric shop since I don't even know how long,” says Laura Fisher, a seamstress who owns a handmade clothing shop called Revivall.
“I think this could be a great opportunity for us to start supporting our local businesses and less than the box stores when it comes to sewing,” Fisher says.
Fisher says textiles can be extremely bad for the environment.
“As much as I love fabric, I am also aware of the impacts it has on the environment, so I buy all of my fabric deadstock, which is leftovers from the industry,” Fisher says.
Fisher has been the 4-H sewing leader for three years; she tells me all 4-H sewing kids get discounts at Joann.
“Joann's always had coupons, they always had discounts, and that was so enticing to shop there, and that's clearly not sustainable if we just watched them declare bankruptcy and go out of business,” Fisher says.
Fisher says there are plenty of local fabric businesses.
“I think it is important for people to know as we start supporting other shops that you are going to be paying a little more but also your quality of fabric, which then turns into the quality of your garment or your quilt, whatever you are working on will also be able to last longer,” Fisher says.
Her bottom line: “They are not going to get the same discounts or price points maybe, but hopefully, it will entice people to understand the value of shopping locally.”
