Have you ever wondered where to donate unused fabric in MA? The answer is Swanson’s Fabrics in Turner Falls! Owner Kathryn Swanson had a suspicion that we textile makers end up hoarding materials we won’t use because we can’t find a place “good enough” to accept our de-stashes. So she created a community thrift store – for MAKERS!
Swanson’s is a fabric and fiber craft store, stocked with the unused textiles, notions, and supplies donated by makers, which caters to both a global online market and a robust local community in Turners Falls.
Swanson’s has enjoyed immense popularity and growth, recently expanding from the original storefront location in downtown Turners Falls, MA to add “The Stash House” location as well. At the Stash House, Kathryn is able to store, organize, and display her ever-growing (and ever flowing!) stash of textile yardage and other fiber goods. She now accepts donations there during all regular business hours, offers virtual shopping appointments via Zoom, and schedules classes and community events.
The Swanson’s mission is simple: to be a matchmaker between the hoarded surplus materials of overwhelmed crafters who desperately need to destash (but could never TRASH!) their excess goods, and the creative entrepreneurs, educators, students, hobbyists, utilitarians, environmentalists, etc. in need of affordable materials.
At Swanson’s Fabrics, students and teachers shop for free, goods and services are accepted as viable trade currency for goods and services, and everyone else pays just $4/yard for ANY textiles. Now that’s what we call a fantastic deal …and an irresistible invitation to head to Turners Falls (or the Swanson’s website) to do some guilt-free shopping!
