Despite Toronto's vast array of artists and creative minds, finding the right stores to help you break into the sewing field can seem challenging at first. Whether you've recently moved here, are new to sewing or have recently had your favorite fabric store close down, Toronto has some great shops to help you get going. Here are five superb shops to choose from depending on your needs.

FabricLand

The easiest fabric store to access for most people is Canada's largest fabric chain — FabricLand. They currently have 12 stores in the GTA and many more scattered all over Ontario. It is a great one stop shop for virtually all your sewing needs. It is one of the few stores where you can buy patterns from all the major designers such as Vogue, McCalls, Butterick, New Look and more. They also have wide selections of fabrics of all kinds and other necessary sewing accessories such as thread, zippers, buttons, clasps and appliques. Most of them also have a designated upholstery section if you are looking to upgrade the look of your home and furniture. Because it's a chain they offer regular sales that are well publicized on their website. So take a peek and make sure you get what you need at the best price available!

King Textiles

The selection at King Textiles is absolutely astounding. It's very rare to come across a textiles store that has three spacious floors carrying all it has to offer. The main floor holds the majority of their fabrics — from upholstery, to drapery, to cotton, silks and more. The top floor is an additional space for holding even more fabric — particularly those that take up more space such as linens, heavy lining and furniture stuffing. In the basement you'll find a wide array of buttons, clasps and other accessories. Because of the sheer quantity of fabrics available you'll want to give yourself plenty of time to look around. The products are all well rolled and carefully stacked so as to keep them clean and organized. But because there are so many, you will need to look closely so as to not pass by the perfect option. The fabrics are organized to some degree (i.e. stretch lycra together, holiday themed cotton together, etc.) but they aren't labelled so you will have to look around to make sure what you're looking for hasn't been placed in a different category than you expect. The staff are very friendly and knowledgeable so don't hesitate to have them point you in the right direction if you're feeling a little lost. The prices here are amongst the most reasonable so the chances are high you'll find what you're looking for within your budget.

Downtown Fabric

photo Eleni Moutsias

Downtown Fabric is a lovely little fabric store on the Queen Street strip. It is smaller than some of the other stores but what it lacks in quantity it makes up for greatly in quality. The rolls of fabric are neatly organized around the walls and down the centre of the room so you get an immediate sense of what is available the moment you walk in. It also allows you to do a quick circle of the products so you will know if what you're looking for is there within a few minutes. They do have additional fabrics in the basement so don't hesitate to ask if you are looking for something specific. Many of their fabrics are extremely unique and unlike anything you'll find anywhere else. So if you're looking to create something fun and exciting, you simply must stop by and take a look. The owner is particularly kind and knowledgeable about his products. And if you find something you love but it is slightly out of your price range he may be willing to offer you a bit of a deal if he can. The prices are quite reasonable though so you shouldn't have too much trouble finding something within your budget.

World Sew Centre

This family run business is small but effective. It may not have the expansive layout of some other stores but it is full of hidden gems. If you are looking to take on a quick and budget-friendly project, this is a good place to check out. The prices here truly can't be beat. Unlike other stores where you are constantly turning over bolts of fabric to see the prices, you can almost assume it's within your budget here. Although it won't necessarily be your go-to store for creating an exquisite gown or elaborate drapes for your sitting room, it's a great place to check out for simple sewing or quick crafts such as throw pillows or pouches. You'll also find a wide selection of thread, trims, ribbons, elastics and other gadgets such as scissors, pins and sewing machines.

Finer Fabrics

This is the place to go if you're looking for quality fabric and don't mind paying a little extra to get it. You won't find upholstery or drapery fabrics here but it's filled with stunning silk, crepe, lace, embroidered material, high-end accessories such as appliques and more. They also have patterns if you find a fabric you weren't expecting and are looking for an idea of how to use it. Although the prices are considerably higher, the store does regularly have excellent sales that you can take a look at. The salespeople are particularly helpful and are often more than willing to help you track down whatever you are looking for.