Where can I buy cute fabrics? How to choose stylish fabrics and recommended places to get them

Introduction

"The pattern on this bag is so cute!" "I want to make something with this fabric!"

You may have seen a vividly colored and patterned piece of fabric in the city or on social media and felt excited, but then you gave up because you didn't know where to buy it.

In this article, we will introduce in detail how to choose ``cute fabrics'' that can be used for handmade crafts and interior decoration, as well as some surprisingly unknown ways to obtain them.

Things to know before looking for cute fabrics

Basic points for choosing fabric

When choosing fabric, it is important to choose a material that suits the purpose.

Cotton feels nice on the skin and is easy to handle, so it's recommended for beginners. It can be used for a wide range of purposes, such as bags, pouches, and cushion covers. It's also easy to wash, making it perfect for making everyday items.

Linen has an appealing natural texture. It is breathable and becomes softer with use. However, it does wrinkle a little easily, so it is best suited to those who enjoy its rough texture.

In addition to the material, it's also important to consider what kind of pattern you like. Choose geometric, floral, animal motifs, or other designs based on your preferences and how they complement your interior.

If you find a ready-made fabric and think, "I want this fabric!"

If you see a bag or piece of clothing in town that you like, one option is to inquire at the store that sells that product.

Shops that sell ethical brands and fair trade products in particular often provide detailed explanations about the materials and production background of their products. Feel free to ask questions such as, "Where is this patterned fabric made?" or "Can I buy similar fabric?"

Where to get cute fabrics

1. Visit the textile and wholesale district

Japan has several textile towns and wholesale districts that fabric lovers will want to visit at least once.

Tokyo: Nippori Textile Town

Nippori Textile Town, with around 90 fabric stores within walking distance of Nippori Station, is Tokyo's representative fabric mecca. From casual fabrics to high-end imported fabrics, there is an astonishingly diverse lineup. Each store specializes in a different field, so it's fun to visit several stores.

Osaka: Around Semba Center Building (Honmachi to Sakaisuji Honmachi area)

Semba in Osaka has long been known as a textile town. The Semba Center Building is home to many wholesalers, and there are many stores where the general public can shop. It has a different atmosphere from Tokyo's wholesale district, and you can have fun finding bargains.

Nagoya: Chojamachi Textile Town and Large Specialty Stores

Chojamachi Textile Town, within walking distance of Fushimi Subway Station, was once one of the nation's leading textile wholesale districts. Although the number of stores has decreased, there are still many attractive shops remaining. Nagoya is also home to large fabric specialty stores with a wide selection, such as Otsukaya and Nuno Densetsu.

The biggest attraction of these textile towns is that you can actually touch and feel the texture before making your selection. Another great thing about these stores is that you can purchase by the meter, so you can buy only the amount you need.

2. Online fabric stores

If you don't have a textile town nearby or are too busy to find time, online shops are convenient.

If you search for "fabric online shopping," you'll find a variety of specialty stores. Shops that sell imported fabrics have a wide variety of unique patterns, such as Scandinavian designs and African prints. In addition to product photos, an increasing number of shops are also posting close-up photos and videos of the fabric, making it easier to imagine the texture.

3. Large craft stores

National craft chains such as Yuzawaya and Okadaya are also easy for beginners to enter.

If you tell the staff what you want to use it for, they will give you advice on the appropriate material and the amount of fabric you will need. This is especially helpful for beginners to handmade crafts. New patterns are added every season, so it is recommended to check regularly.

4. Fair Trade Shop

If you care about ethical choices, check out shops that sell fair trade products.

Traditional African and South American fabrics are bold and unique in their use of color. By choosing environmentally friendly materials and products where you can see the faces of the makers, you can create products that fit your own values.

5. Markets in overseas travel destinations

If you love traveling, searching for fabrics at local markets can be a fun experience, especially in Africa, Southeast Asia, and South America, where you can find colorful traditional fabrics.

You may have to negotiate the price, but that's part of the fun of traveling. You'll enjoy communicating with the locals and finding your favorite piece.

6. Use ready-made products as remake materials

Instead of buying "as fabric," you can also look at it as a material that has already been made into a product.

For example, African print bags and pouches. Upcycling is also great, as you can take apart old items and remake them into different items or use them as patchwork material.

Cute items available in our store

CROSS TRADE sells products made from traditional African fabrics. Although these items are already manufactured, they all allow you to fully experience the charm of the fabric.

Kangarui items

The Kangarui double shopper bag features a colorful and pop design by Kenyan-raised Japanese artist Rui. The original design combines hand-drawn art and photography, inspired by the African wilderness and animals.

Tote bags made from cotton are stylish enough on their own, and you can enjoy the beautiful texture and pattern of the fabric.

Mochila from la narrativa

Although not from Africa, mochilas are hand-knitted by the indigenous Wayuu people of Colombia, and are masterpieces that showcase traditional knitting techniques and a sense of color.

The warmth of the handcrafted items, which take two weeks to a month to make, and the combination of vibrant colors make these items the epitome of "cuteness."

Other African fabric products

The accessories and miscellaneous goods produced in Kibera slum in Kenya are also attractive for their colorful fabrics and materials. They offer highly designed items made from environmentally friendly recycled materials.

Expanding your world through fabric selection

A journey in search of "cute fabrics" becomes more than just a shopping experience.

Where the fabric was made, who made it, what cultural background does it have? Knowing these stories will help you develop a sense of appreciation for things.

Choosing fair trade and ethical products, in particular, can help support the lives of people living in faraway places. A choice that starts with the feeling that something is cute can have the power to move the world in a slightly better direction. With that in mind, doesn't choosing fabric become more exciting?

summary

Cute fabrics can be found in a variety of places, including brick-and-mortar stores such as Nippori Textile Town, Osaka Senba, and specialty stores in Nagoya, as well as online shops, fair trade shops, and overseas markets.

The important thing is to choose one that suits your purpose and values. If you come across a piece that you think is "this is it!", taking into account the material, pattern, and even the background behind it, it will surely become something special.

We encourage you to find your own favorite fabric. The items you make with it will surely bring color and joy to your daily life.

Representative Kaoru Tsuji

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About CROSS TRADE

CROSS TRADE is an online store that sells products made in poor areas such as slums in Africa, fair trade local items made with love, and environmentally friendly, sustainable goods.

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