Fabric Shop in London: Quilt Fabric & Shop for Quilting

Quilting is a beloved hobby that blends creativity, tradition, and community. In London, quilt shops offer unique fabrics and fresh ideas—from iconic Liberty prints to modern, eco-friendly textiles—that inspire quilters of all levels.

This guide introduces the best quilt shops across London, practical shopping tips, recommended workshops, and notable quilting events. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert quilter, you'll find valuable insights to enhance your quilting experience in the vibrant fabric scene of London.

Why Explore Quilt Shops in London?

London is a quilting destination rich in history and creativity. From iconic shops like Liberty London with their signature prints to hidden gems offering sustainable and globally sourced fabrics, the city blends tradition with modern design.

Many shops also host workshops, classes, and community events—making them more than places to buy fabric. Whether you're after unique materials or creative connection, London’s quilt shops offer inspiration and expertise for every quilter.

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Ray Stitch (Islington, North London)

Ray Stitch is a go-to spot in Islington for modern quilters and sewists looking for quality fabrics, expert instruction, and a welcoming creative space. The shop offers a curated selection of organic cottons, linens, Japanese imports, and project kits, both in-store and online.

What makes Ray Stitch stand out is its outstanding workshop program. From beginner crash courses to 3-day intensives like bag-making, classes are hands-on, well-paced, and led by kind, knowledgeable instructors. Students leave not just with finished projects, but also with confidence and a stronger skillset. The upstairs studio space—bright, calm, and inspiring—adds to the experience.

Fabrics are priced between £4.50–£6 per fat quarter (approx. $5.70–$7.60 USD) or £18–£25 per metre (approx. $22.50–$31.25 USD). Workshops range from £65 for day courses to £240 for intensives. Staff are helpful and invested, often remembered by name in reviews, making the shop feel like a supportive creative community.

Whether you're shopping for premium fabric or learning to sew from scratch, Ray Stitch offers inspiration, skill-building, and friendly guidance—all in one beautifully designed space.

Fabrics Galore (Battersea, South London)

Fabrics Galore is a long-loved gem in South London’s Battersea neighborhood, offering a colorful and affordable fabric selection for quilters, crafters, and home sewists alike. Whether you're shopping online or visiting in person, the shop is known for its great service, speedy delivery, and consistently high-quality fabric—something repeat customers across the UK continue to praise.

A standout feature of Fabrics Galore is its broad variety: from plain cotton poplins and quilting cottons to water-resistant polyester and fun novelty prints, there’s something for nearly every project. Their cotton poplin—known for its soft yet structured feel—is a favorite among beginners and experienced quilters alike. Staff are helpful and knowledgeable, whether guiding in-store visitors or assisting with online orders. Even when minor issues occur, customers highlight how quickly and kindly the team responds.

Prices are refreshingly accessible, with cotton poplin starting at £7 per metre (about $8.75 USD), and water-resistant polyester from £6 per metre (around $7.50 USD). Fat quarters are also available for around £2.50–£3.50 (approx. $3.10–$4.40 USD), making this shop an excellent choice for quilters building a stash on a budget.

Fabrics Galore frequently appears at quilt shows across the UK, and many shoppers first discover the brand through these events before becoming loyal online or in-store customers. If you’re in London, visiting the physical shop is worth the trip—not just for the variety, but also for the tactile experience of browsing bolts and discovering unexpected gems.

Whether you're sourcing fabric for a school bag, a quilt top, or a creative weekend project, Fabrics Galore delivers a balance of quality, affordability, and charm that’s hard to beat.

Sewing & Craft Superstore (Tooting, South London)

Sewing & Craft Superstore is a treasure trove for quilters, crafters, and hobbyists. This spacious, multi-room shop offers an impressive selection of fabrics, threads, ribbons, trims, beads, knitting and crochet supplies, and sewing machines—all under one roof. It’s one of London’s few remaining large-scale craft stores that feels personal and welcoming.

Shoppers praise the helpful staff, especially a kind and knowledgeable woman near the sewing machines who’s great with beginners. Prices are budget-friendly, with quilting cottons starting at £5–£7 per metre (approx. $6.25–$8.75 USD), and there’s a vast array of low-cost notions and tools.

The ground floor is accessible via a ramp, though some areas like the sewing machine showroom and the Sewing Machine Museum (open first Saturdays monthly) require stairs. The shop has a warm, nostalgic charm—more like a community hub than a chain—and it’s ideal for hands-on browsing and old-fashioned service. Bring a list—and if you can, bring cash.

MacCulloch & Wallis Ltd (Soho, Central London)

MacCulloch & Wallis is a historic Soho shop known for its vast selection of haberdashery, trims, fabrics, and specialist tools. Since 1902, it’s been a go-to for both professionals and hobbyists, offering hard-to-find items and a charming, old-world shopping experience in the heart of London.

The basement is the star attraction—an “Aladdin’s Cave” filled with ribbons, zips, buttons, sequins, faux fur, and feathers. Upstairs, you’ll find yarns, crochet hooks (including rare Tulip sets), and a solid selection of quality fabrics. It’s especially loved by costume designers and advanced sewists but is equally welcoming to beginners.

Prices for quilting-weight cottons start at £12–£15 per metre (approx. $15–$19 USD), with trims from £0.50–£6 per metre ($0.65–$7.60 USD). While not the cheapest, the ability to browse and buy in person—without waiting for delivery—is a key perk.

MacCulloch & Wallis stands out for its depth of stock, knowledgeable staff, and timeless atmosphere. If you enjoy discovering materials hands-on, this iconic shop is a must-visit.

Rainbow Fabrics (Enfield, North London – Warehouse & Online)

Rainbow Fabrics is a top spot for affordable, ethically sourced designer deadstock. Based in Enfield with a vibrant warehouse and an efficient online store, it's a favorite for sewists looking for quality on a budget.

Warehouse visits are by appointment and just minutes from Southbury station. Guests get a quick tour, then browse freely. Staff are friendly and knowledgeable—willing to help with things like fabric composition tests or locating specialty finds.

Fabrics range from £3.50–£6 per metre (approx. $4.40–$7.60 USD), with selections including silk, cotton, jersey, and fashion-weight prints. The shop is especially known for sustainable surplus fabrics from the fashion industry, making it a guilt-free place to stock up.

Rainbow Fabrics stands out for its great prices, fast service, and ethical sourcing—a smart choice for makers who want more value and less waste.

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Workshops, Classes & Quilting Events in London

For quilters looking to learn, grow, or simply connect with others, London offers a vibrant calendar of workshops and events throughout the year. From beginner-friendly classes to advanced technique intensives, the city’s quilting scene is rich in both education and community.

Many quilt shops double as learning hubs. Places like Ray Stitch (Islington), The Village Haberdashery (West Hampstead), and Sew Over It (various locations) host regular workshops covering everything from patchwork and appliqué to free-motion quilting and hand sewing. Classes often range from half-day introductions to multi-day intensives, with prices typically between £60–£250 (around $75–$315 USD) depending on the duration and materials provided.

Instructors in these spaces are usually experienced textile artists or professionals from London’s design community, making these sessions not just educational but also creatively inspiring. Some shops even provide machines, tools, and fabric kits—making it easy for beginners to jump in without a big upfront investment.

Joining a workshop also offers more than skill-building—it’s a way to meet like-minded makers. Many attendees find quilting groups or friendships that last well beyond the classroom. Some shops even host evening socials or open sew nights where people return just to stitch, share stories, and stay inspired.

Beyond the classroom, London hosts a number of major quilting events worth attending:

• The Knitting & Stitching Show at Alexandra Palace (October) and Olympia (March) features workshops, exhibits, and hundreds of fabric and notion vendors. It’s one of the UK’s biggest textile events.
• The Festival of Quilts (held in Birmingham but draws a large London crowd) is another major event showcasing award-winning quilts, international artists, and hands-on learning opportunities.
• Local galleries and community centers in areas like Camden, Hackney, and Southbank often host seasonal textile exhibits, competitions, or pop-ups that celebrate modern and heritage quilting styles.

Whether you’re looking to learn your first log cabin block or exhibit a finished piece, London offers an accessible and inspiring quilting network—with opportunities around nearly every corner.

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Shopping Tips & Visitor Essentials for Quilters in London

Best Times to Shop:

Visit quilt shops on weekdays—especially Tuesday to Thursday mornings—for fewer crowds and better staff availability.

Where to Go:

• Soho: MacCulloch & Wallis near Oxford Circus
• Islington: Ray Stitch near Highbury & Islington
• West Hampstead: The Village Haberdashery
• Enfield: Rainbow Fabrics warehouse near Southbury Station

How to Save:

Sign up for shop newsletters and visit shows like The Knitting & Stitching Show for sales and exclusive deals.

Getting Around:

Most shops are near Tube or Overground stations. Check for step-free access if carrying bulk purchases. Not all shops are wheelchair accessible—call ahead if needed.

Where to Stay & Eat:

Stay near King’s Cross or Paddington for quick transport links. Many shops are near independent cafes—perfect for a post-shop break.

Quick Tips:

• Bring a reusable bag and your fabric measurements
• Carry some cash (especially for small shops)
• Consider shipping large purchases home if traveling

With a little planning, quilting in London becomes a fun, smooth, and inspiring experience.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Whether you're visiting London or planning your next quilting project from home, these extra tips can help you make the most of the city’s vibrant quilting scene. Here are a few commonly asked questions that go beyond the basics covered in the guide.

1. Can I bring my own fabric or tools to quilting workshops in London?

Yes, many workshops allow or encourage you to bring your own fabric or tools, especially for intermediate or advanced classes. However, some beginner sessions provide materials as part of the course fee. Always check the class details or contact the venue in advance to know what’s included and what to bring.

2. Are there any quilt shops in London that specialize in sustainable or organic fabrics?

Absolutely. Shops like Ray Stitch and The Village Haberdashery offer a strong selection of organic cottons, eco-certified fabrics, and ethically sourced materials. These are great options for quilters looking to reduce their environmental footprint.

3. Is it possible to take quilting classes online from London shops if I can't visit in person?

Yes. Several London-based shops, including Sew Over It and The Village Haberdashery, offer online courses or recorded workshops that you can join from anywhere. These often come with downloadable patterns or supply kits that can be shipped directly to you.