Please come and tell me your best fabric websites

[MontBlanc]

I'm helping my mum choose fabric for her new curtains but am clueless.

I've tried Laura Ashley but am a bit scared of the choice that comes up in google, I'd appreciate some personal recommendations. Many thanks!

[minipie]

Honestly? I found that websites weren't terribly helpful as the fabric often looks so different in the flesh. I sent off for lots of samples based on the website pics only to throw away 75% of them immediately.

The best bet I think is to go somewhere like John lewis or an independent interiors shop which has lots of fabric books - they will all order you samples for free and with no obligation to use their services.

Or there are places like Dunelm Mill which have a decent range at lower prices than the brand name fabric companies - but the range is more limited of course.

[MontBlanc]

Thanks minipie. Yes I did think I bet the actual fabrics are very different to the pictures, I think we'll go and have a browse in real shops as you suggest.

[amazonianwoman]

If you can hang on until after Christmas, John Lewis usually has some good fabrics in their clearance. I've never paid full price for any of the fabric I've bought to make curtains

[MontBlanc]

Ah good tip, thanks amazonian

[TalkinPeace2]

Blendworth in Horndean
WELL worth a visit .....

[mylovelymonster]

Ah - can I hijack & ask if there is a good site to help work out how much fabric I need for curtains? So I can take advantage of sales if I see them? Or do I just need my window measurements?
Is it difficult to make curtains? I have a sewing machine & a clear room at the moment to lay out! Any good books/guides out there? Would I be crazy to have a go?
TIA x

[Rhubarbgarden]

Marimekko is my favourite site for fabrics.