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Dressew Supply
Category: Shopping Arts & Crafts Fabric Stores Fabric Stores [Edit]
337 Hastings St WVancouver, BC V6B 1H6
Neighbourhood: Downtown
(604) 682-6196
- Hours:
Mon-Sat 9 am - 5 pm
- Price Range:
-
$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- No
- Parking:
- Street
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
49 reviews for Dressew Supply
Review Highlights
"of fabric, zippers, buttons, ribbons, et al."
(in 10 reviews)
"They only accept cash and debit."
(in 6 reviews)
"excellent discount fabric section (their prices are awesome."
(in 3 reviews)
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49 reviews in English
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Review from Cathy S.
1/23/2012 1 Check-in Here
Based on previous Yelpers experiences, I came armed for battle - a pocketful of cash, no beverage in my hands and potential snide retorts for surly salespeople. I only needed 2/3.
When I entered the store the cashier looked up and said hello, a young salesperson smiled and nodded to me when we passed on the staircase, a salesperson cheerily said " sure" when I asked if I could store the bolts I wanted on the cutting table while I continued to shop and then even cheerily added to call her when it was time to have them cut. Maybe it was a middle-aged don't-f*ck-with-me beacon I was emitting or the fact that it was early in the day before they before they all got tired and cranky, but I can't say a single bad thing about the sales help there.
As a store for notions and trims, Dressew is top notch. For the fabric, you have to do a lot of separating the wheat from the chaff, but there are some really nice fabrics buried within the dreck. The sales room requires patience and highly tuned foraging skills as there are some bargains to be found. I will be wearing a fantastic chartreuse and lemon colored plaid wool skirt this spring that will have cost me $4 to make!
For fabric addicts like me, this a store full of potential and a blissful way to spend some time. I will keep those snide retorts in mind to break out as needed. -
Review from J N.
Vancouver, BC
1/16/2012 1 Check-in Here
The last two times that I visited this place, they did not have the buttons that I was looking for; These were the same ones that I bought here three years ago; the ones that I accidentally threw in my large dumpster with the trash, exactly 20 minutes after I spent an hour searching for the ideal button at this very store. Yep, karma's a real b**** sometimes.
However, it still deserves at least a three, as I really don't know where else to look that won't cost me a fortune. I love admiring the button tubes wondering what kind of type "a" personality dreamed up this ingenious idea.
I love wandering the wig isle in January while pretending that I'm just getting an early start on Hallowe'en.
And I love taking a sneak-peak at the "ends" of rolls of material while I dream for one second about what it would be like to be able to sew.
And then I leave, wondering if and when they will every carry those buttons. If I had known they were this difficult to find, I might have thought twice before hurdling my bags in that bin, just three years ago. (sigh). -
Review from Victoria J.
Vancouver, BC
1/13/2012
It's not in the best part of town and there can be some weird people in the store sometimes, but you will not find a fabric store better than Dressew in BC. You can get some really great fabrics, notions, etc from here for a much cheaper price than the other few fabric stores in BC. My favorite part is the huge selection of zippers in all sorts of sizes in colors. It takes up half of the lower floor and is so much fun to go through.
In terms of service, it's sort of hit and miss. Dressew only takes phone calls from 9am to 10am and they are open from 9am to 5:15pm (I know, what a weird time). Also take note that some employees are nicer than others. In general, they all seem to know their stuff and you can ask them anything about sewing like types of fabrics to use for a garment, laundering instructions, etc.
The biggest negative for me is that they don't sell any patterns except Burda (and that brand has bad pattern instructions). If they did sell patterns, this place would've gotten 5 stars from me. -
Review from Ruby D.
Vancouver, BC
11/29/2011
Hahaha, it's so true. The customer service at Dressew is not great, but everything else is! Two floors of fun. This place has fabric galore, anything you could ever want plus a huge bargain section in the basement.
If you're a vintage lover like me, you will be all over the notions department. Tons of old stock from decades ago, and did I mention good prices?
Don't be scared, this place is worth checking out! Just don't go on Sunday, it's the only day they're closed. -
Review from Rheanna F.
Vancouver, BC
8/19/2011
Oh Dressew, you may be cheap, but you're full of so much good stuff that i'm still gonna spend 50 bucks anyway! While i do love sewing, i'm not fabulous at it, so the discount section in the basement is my best friend! I can always find great fabric, but it isn't so expensive that i'm going to pull out my hair stressing over messing up whatever it is i'm trying to put together!
I love how they have a year 'round Halloween department. When you're as cool as my friends and i- did i say cool? I meant to say freaky!- you never know when you'll need a wig, fake blood or Elvis shades! Honestly, this place has EVERYTHING. If anyone has ever gone in here looking for something sewing or craft related and not found it, i really want to know what the hell they were looking for. Seriously.
As many people have mentioned, beware of the older ladies who work here. I'm not sure what happened to suck the happiness out their lives. Has the Grinch stolen Christmas from them every year in a row? Do they actually HATE sewing?! Are we all nincompoops and they are the only people discerning enough to realize it? I'm not too sure, just heed the warnings and if you have to ask anyone a question, seek out a younger member of staff.
I'm glad they've FINALLY started taking debit! No more running across the street to sketchy convenience stores to get money out before setting foot in the store! Phew! -
Review from Robin M.
6/30/2011 4 Check-ins Here
Oh c'mon, Dressew. Why you gotta be so bloody cheap? For those in the know, you know what I'm talking about. Dressew is this strange mega sewing-supply store with the most inexpensive random crap (and I mean this in the most lovingly way) that one might imagine. I lubs it here. And how could I not?
- Sew-on glitter patches? Check
- Dead-stock buttons? Check
- Bags of leather scraps for 3 bucks? Check
- Rows of fake-gold earrings and necklaces from the 80s? Check
- Halloween miscellany? Every October, check
- Hideous fabric that is so ugly that it's gone full circle to be super rad? Huge check
- Hours of my life sucked into one store on one visit? Non-issue check
Full on inspiration? Always.
Go ahead and take my money, Dressew. You already have my heart. -
Review from Lisa S.
Vancouver, BC
8/1/2011
Dressew is one of those places where you have to go in knowing what to expect, and you'll be fine. I actually love Dressew, because I don't want fawning sales staff and I don't want to discuss my latest craft project -- I just want to be left in peace while I look around to see if there's a fabric that fits the vision I have in my head. (Somewhat tangential note that will help you understand where I'm coming from on Dressew: I fly a lot and I knit to pass the time when I fly. That doesn't mean I want to discuss my project with every passing old lady on the plane. Just leave me alone and let me knit. I also don't want to go into detail with the staff at the yarn store. I know what I want when I see it; until then I want to browse in peace.)
Dressew is the best you'll find for fabric in Vancouver. I want huge selection and a decent price. I want someone to cut the fabric when I've made my choice and to ring me up. Dressew wins, hands down, in the selection and price department, and if I have to wait in line to have things cut or to be rung up, so be it. If I have to pay by debit to help the store keep their prices low, fine.
No, the staff here aren't friendly -- they're busy and (mostly) efficient. But they've never been downright rude to me. If you don't know what you're doing, they'll explain, matter-of-factly, how it works (fabric is cut and paid for upstairs, notions are cut and paid for at stations downstairs).
The other thing I love is the huge selection upstairs of random overstock knitting books and yarn -- often decent designers (Rowan, for example). Sometimes you can find some real gems for $1.99.
My one big complaint is the hours. They're closed after work during the week and they're not open Sunday, so that means Saturday and Saturday only for most of us. -
Review from Emma L.
8/15/2011 3 Check-ins Here
Sure, they're sticklers about the no drinks rule, and sometimes are grumpy when there's a big line up of people needing fabric cut, but they have a huge selection of fabric, notions, and costume supplies at reasonable prices. Most of the fabric I've picked up has been around $5 a metre, but they do have a sale section downstairs with prices as cheap as $3 or $4 per metre. They also have some crazy cheap thread that I am happy to take advantage of. Seriously, the whole bottom floor is so much fun to play in. Every single sewing supply and accessory you could think of is there.
My one complaint is the store hours. They're open 9-5 Monday through Saturday so there are no evening hours in which to shop, and only one day on the weekend. Because I don't work downtown, I can't just wander in anytime I like and pick up fabric for a new project. My trips to Dressew need to be planned. Actually, that's probably a good thing, otherwise my closet would be full of fabric...Listed in: Sewing and knitting and…
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Review from Erin U.
10/21/2011
Just go there. Honestly if you are making any kind of project, craft, costume, anything. They have everything you need and more. Be sure to go downstairs first to check out the discount fabric area. The staff are usually nice except the ones at the checkout sometimes can be rude. The location is great and go before the last week leading up to halloween and holidays or you will be in line and barely able to move inside. They only take cash and debit, no credit cards!!
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Review from Malloreigh M.
Vancouver, BC
4/14/2011
Oh my gosh, the service here is AWFUL. I've had a friendly cutter once but I think she was a part-timer. Everyone else who has ever interacted with me at this store is stone-cold and cruel. They won't even respond to small talk, and no matter how fast you're trying to move, you're waisting their time. It's awful. It makes you feel really small.
BUT OH, THE SELECTION. And the deals. And the selection! When I used to work at Fabricland in Victoria, we would tell legends of Dressew... -
Review from Monica M.
Vancouver, BC
6/10/2011
They have EVERYTHING. Check the basement for clearance fabric and notions galore. Upstairs has costumes year-round and tons tons tons of fabric. The yarn is mostly acrylic but cheap ($1.99/ball).
They have 3 floors (but only 2 are accessible to the public) and another off-site warehouse... so if you don't see what you want, ASK!
They are a bit short-staffed (and sometimes short-tempered) but all the employees are super knowledgeable.
P.S. Avoid Dressew in mid-late October like the plague! The line-up goes around the block for all the Halloween stuff. -
Review from Jessica O.
Vancouver, BC
3/2/2011 1 Check-in Here
I have never in my life been treated with the level of utter contempt that the older female staff have shown to me in my last 3 visits.
I love the selection and low prices of Dressew, but the sheer rudeness of certain staff members when asked simple and polite questions such as "excuse me, do you know if you have this style of military button? If so, could you help me find it?" In this instance, the woman spat back at me "Um, no. How would I know? We have a lot of buttons. Go look over there." I was so taken aback that my jaw dropped.
On my previous visit I made the mistake of entering with a latte in hand. Noticing the "No drinks" sign, I was about to ask the woman at the counter where I could set my fresh, 6 dollar coffee when she raised her voice and dressed me down loudly. In front of other patrons. When I asked my original question of "where then can I place my coffee while I shop?" she told me I had to throw it out or leave. Rudely. Shockingly rudely. Other patrons actually chuckled and shook their head in disbelief at her attitude.
I could detail other instances, and I have spoken to no less than half a dozen other customers who have experience this same type of treatment.
I am SOOOOOO DONE with Dressew. Upper management, I hope you are reading this. All of the younger employees I have encountered are sweet and helpful, but some of the long term employees have a SERIOUS chip on their shoulders. It's outrageous. This needs to stop. You're allowing your good name to be dragged through the mud by this strangely bitter, perplexing and frankly, upsetting service. You've lost a customer until this problem is remedied. -
Review from Gina I.
5/4/2011
I love this place because it has awesome random things and tons of buttons and sample fabrics for cheap.. and and and.. I've found good stuff here.
However, the people (mostly the older lady folk) are miserable. They YELL at each other and are snarky with each other.. it makes the whole experience uncomfortable and then I just want to leave. How can people be so cruel to each other? I wonder what the lunch room is like. -
Review from Dan J.
Vancouver, BC
2/3/2011
Dressew has all kinds of nifty fabrics and sewing supplies. And their prices are reasonable. Nothing terribly exotic or high end but it's a good place for basic stuff.
However, the old women who work here are exceptionally mean. They are condescending, impatient and rude. Not in a funny charming salt of the earth way but in a toxic 'I despise you for shopping here' kind of way. Seinfeld had a Soup Nazi. Vancouver has a Sew Nazi.
15 mins before closing one of the more obnoxious ones yelled "We're closed. You need to leave!" I got so fed up I said to her "You know that's no way to talk to your customers. Why are you so rude to people?" She paused and slowly turned her head. I flinched, thinking she might take a swat at me but instead she looked me in the eyes, spun around and walked away. No response. It was as if she'd heard that so often that she didn't care anymore.
I HATE going here. There are a couple of younger staff who are helpful, but even they get yelled at by the old ones. I don't know why they would work there. Can you imagine what their staff Christmas party is like? Besides the awesome homemade sweater exchange I bet it sucks.
I have shopped here with my stylists and with my girlfriend. They seem relatively civil toward them. But when I go in with male friends they're mean. Umm could it be that they're sexist? Nah...
Next time I'm going in drag.Listed in: Not Funny! Grrr.
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Review from Kari C.
2/5/2011
Dressew is a haven for people who dream of luxuriating in fabrics or swimming in a pool of buttons. They carry a huge array of fabrics, notions, findings, costume pieces, accessories, and seasonal decorations, often more affordably priced than other stores.
Many people think of it as an institution, or historical landmark, because it is famous for its selection, long-standing history, and is a surefire destination for crafty people, or costume-searchers. Unfortunately, my experience with them today made me think that it was a different type of institution entirely.
I was looking for a lightweight, white fabric to make curtains, and rushed there from work, knowing that it would be closing soon. I made it there with a bit of time to spare, and knew exactly what I wanted. It turned out to be total mayhem in the store with people everywhere, and also lined up at tills to pay, because they were having a 50% off everything sale.
If you like scoring a deal, come here any time and leave with at least forty minutes left before closing. If you're a sadist in need of some jollies, come in half an hour before closing because you can already feel the tension in the air. After hearing a horror story from a friend who was there too near to shutting time a few years ago (they grabbed her by the arm to make her leave) I quickly picked up a bolt of fabric that I would be happy with and turned around, to be confronted from afar by a furious punk girl (complete with crossed arms and stripey leggings), who said, "You better bring that to a cutting table within a few minutes because we're finishing up!"
"Okay! Thanks!" I replied, looking for the other cutting table because that one had a line-up, and froze in front of it when the lady there angrily instructed a young man to inform me that "she just missed last call and has to go!" It was almost like The Red Queen just found me and ordered him to chop my head off.
I felt really bad for him. How humiliating. Instead of yelling at him to come and tell me (when I could clearly hear her. She was loud and right there!), she easily could have told me herself or spared him the embarrassment and asked him nicely to let me know.
The poor guy, he came over, looking sheepish, and said quietly, "I'm sorry. If you come in tomorrow at 9, nobody will be here and you can shop all right."
My heart wanted to scream, "Run like the wind, man, do they always treat you like this? No fabric discount is worth it!" but I was shocked and all I could squeak out was a tiny "Thanks. Whatever."
I was leaving, walking through an aisle, and another fabric bolt caught my eye. My hand brushed it (to feel the texture) as I walked past. Big mistake!
"You need to get out of the store RIGHT NOW," another Dressew lady snapped as she stepped in front of the aisle, blocking my way. I don't know why she did that, it's counter-productive to her goal. So without saying anything, I began to walk off, in the direction of the door.
"Don't you roll your eyes at me! We've already been closed for five minutes!" she shrilled as I continued. How she could tell from looking at the back of my head was amazing. Surely this witch possessed magical powers and had a few kids of her own.
Most of the younger associates seemed diligent but scared of the matronly whip-crackers. Their consistent I'm-going-to-cross-my-arms-and-yell-at-you-from-te n-feet-away schtick was a total Mom-ism (you know!) and really grated on my nerves. Part of me thinks they do it instinctively because most of the staff are middle-aged moms, part of me thinks that it's a defense mechanism in the employee training guides so that it's harder for people to leap over tables or rolls of fabric and shake them by the shoulders. I had to breathe deeply and fight the urge to do so.
Yes, it must have been a crazy long day for them, and they have to clean up after closing, but don't freak out on your employees and customers. It looks as though a few other Yelpers have also been given The Death Stare. Horrendous.
In short: Dressew, thanks for a verbal spanking worthy of a surly, angst-riddled 13 year-old. Just thinking about it makes my cheeks go all red (the ones on my face!). The best thing that I can say about your store's team, is that you know how to make me feel young again.
The one-star rating is for their good selection, because their service gets -100 and Yelp doesn't have an option for that. Today I left sad, angry, and empty-handed, but might come back again when I'm 60 and want to remember what it's like being a teenager. Oh, joy! Now that's something that money can't buy! Talk about a hidden gem, you can now thank Yelp for uncovering the fountain of youth.Listed in: Eff THIS Noise!
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Review from Allen W.
Vancouver, BC
Updated - 4/23/2011
I love reading the 1-star reviews -- I just don't get how such crazy situations happen, certainly hasn't been my experience.
I visited early this morning and had my best Dressew day ever -- no lines!
I browsed through the cottons ... the selection has grown and is now overflowing on nearby shelving. I was surprised to find a few prints by Heather Bailey and Amy Butler, along with a lot of Michael Miller. A woman cleaning up the area let me know all the places where they had cotton bolts stashed to make sure I found the full inventory.
Cutting staff were helpful and friendly, making jokes and talking about my fabric choices. In another aisle, a staff person asked if I needed help and struck up a conversation.
I wandered around for an hour and ended up with a basket full of merchandise ... but there was so much more than I didn't let myself buy.
I found a good selection of different interfacings, discovered bow tie hardware in the lower level, picked up a handful of zippers, Coats & Clark thread, and organic cotton batting. For some reason, the bin of remnant leather pieces lured me in but I resisted.
Another fantastic Dressew shopping experience - once my new sewing machine arrives I plan on spending even more time at this store.Listed in: Get Your Craft On!
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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12/9/2009
What an amazing shop! I spent over an hour there today and barely explored more than a few aisles.… Read more »
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Review from Nicole F.
5/4/2011 17 Check-ins Here
I'm not sure why it's taken me so long to write a review for Dressew. I've been a customer for about 6 years.
The thing I love most about Dressew is the fact that they always, ALWAYS have what I need. I can't think of a time I've gone inside hunting for something and not found it.
They have a decent selection of fabrics and a decent selection of yarn. There is an huge amount of different faux fur fabrics as well.
I've always been able to find the most random crafting supplies in here that I never would have expected and there are so many zippers in here that a fellow design student and I literally spent half an hour looking through them because there were too many choices.
I avoid Dressew like the plague at Halloween. They are amazing for bagged costumes and costume construction and always have the scariest lineup for about a week before the actual day. Go earlier in October if you need something, or you'll regret it.
I've known since before ever entering Dressew that the customer service isn't exactly... great. I've lived with roommates that have worked here in the past, and have friends that have worked here much more recently and I've heard enough to know not to piss these ladies off or expect them to be overly friendly to me. It's kind of sad that I go in with this idea, but on the bright side, I've never actually had any bad experiences here. In fact, most of the employees I've dealt with have been quite friendly.
The hours kind of suck. If I remember correctly, they close at 5:15 every day and are closed on Sundays and most holidays. -
Review from Vannessa S.
Burnaby, BC
9/7/2011
I have horrific memories of slaving over projects in textiles class day after day and after school and during lunch hours on the brink of tears of frustration. Yet, when I walk into this store I want to give sewing another shot. If you asked me candidly if I'd ever want a pair of giant plastic novelty scissors, I'd say "no." Yet, when I walk into this store, I do.
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Review from Mira S.
Surrey, BC
12/14/2010
I like going to this store because of the huge selection of fabric and craft supplies.
I am not a fan of the customer service tho. I find that should you ask them a question, it is like almost asking for death sometimes! I don't think the management treat the staff very well. They seem miserable and blue most of the time. There is an older lady who works downstairs and she treats the other staff like they are dogs! I really feel bad for them and I find it very un-professional when a staff member gets yelled at or belittled in front of customers. Its bad energy and I don't like shopping and being a consumer in those conditions.
I haven't been there in a while so maybe that crabby, old bat downstairs is no longer there! -
Review from Rachel P.
Vancouver, BC
9/23/2010
I aspire to be artsy-crafty and sometimes I even believe that I already am!
I will sit down in front of some miscellaneous project with a flurry of creative energy only to discover that in fact I have very few skills and can not create much other than a lump of crap covered in glitter and macaroni. Hmphf.
But, if there were anywhere out there that could motivate me to turn these creative whims into real crafts, it would be Dressew. They kinda have everything you need to dream up some wild project and their prices are fairly cheap.
They also have a huge supply of Halloween costume items at the moment - wigs, fake beards, cheap packages costumes, crazy hats, costume makeup, the works. I spotted a big old red wig that's going to make me a great Peggy Bundy from Married with Children this year.
Buttons, ribbons, zippers, material, notions, you name it, they've got it. I was shopping with a friend who was looking for yarn and I do have to admit we were a little disappointed by their limited yarn supply for such a big store.
I have to honestly say I never thought the words "we were disappointed by their limited yarn supply" would ever leave my keyboard and leap onto the internet. Who have I become?
Anyways, crisis of identity aside. They have heaps of craft stuff. Get on it, craft babes. -
Review from Heather M.
Vancouver, BC
7/30/2010
Dress Sew is simple. They are located in an old building that has cheap rent for a huge space downtown and they only take debit an cash. Because of these cut backs in overhead their prices are cheap. Their clearance section is huge and has bargain bin prices. they have high quality fabric, low quality fabric, hard to find fabric, a fur section that would make polar bears gasp, neat odds and ends, supplies, buttons, wierd stuff you didn't think was sold because it's from 1980 and everything in between. a crafters dream place.
downside: employees don't look like they are treated very well, are underpaid and must wrestle with the hard-done-by folks that live in that area. -
Review from Shiv K.
North Vancouver, BC
8/17/2011
Dressew is a place for finding all odd color accessories for sewing, plus Holloween costumes available all year round, fancy yarn with some knitting magazines and lots of fabric at a good price.
The ground level is full of fabric and costumes and the basement is where all the buttons (in a thousand different shapes and colors) and other types of accessories and fabrics on sale can be found.
The only problem is the rudeness of some of their staff. I have to admit that they are still better than a few years ago and you can now find some people there who are nice and willing to help customers. But sadly a few of them are still mad at working there (I think) and see customers as a nuisance.
I feel bad for those nice and welcoming staff that have to work with the rude and angry ones. -
Review from Carol L.
Vancouver, BC
8/16/2011
Don't walk in there thinking they're going to treat you like a human being.
The prices really make up for it, don't worry! I just learnt to get my costume supplies there! Recently, I've discovered crocheting and heard they have yarn. Now that I've seen the selection, I have to say it's limited to the thinner yarns, although it's quite a large selection of it. I was hoping to find the thicker yarns to make a hat or scarf with, but that's nowhere to be found. Otherwise, it's fine for thinner yarn selection! -
Review from Ema J.
Vancouver, BC
9/23/2010
I dont think I can add to what anyone has said so far so I will summarize. If you are crafty you MUST go here and check it out:
- cash and debit only
- excellent discount fabric section (their prices are awesome!)
- they have basically everything from yarn to halloween costumes at good prices
- excellent selection of buttons, zippers, yarn, ribbons etc. (notions)Listed in: Sewing
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Review from Crystal H.
Vancouver, BC
10/28/2009 2 Check-ins Here
A lesson in shopping Dressew for the art/crafting-ly challenged.
Lesson 1: Notions and fabrics must be recorded on different receipts because notions are taxed with both GST and PST while fabrics are just GST (until HST takes over of course)
Lesson 2: Notions sales staff and fabric staff don't mix and don't know each others departments, or so I've been informed.
Lesson 3: If you don't know what you're doing, clearance fabrics are the way to go. I got mine for $2 a meter.
Lesson 4: Conversions are made easy with charts on every cutting station.
Lesson 5: Cash and debit only! But my bill was only $20 for what I thought was lots and lots of fabric!
Lesson 6: There's a major difference in sales staff from one section to the other. The bitter (notice I did not say older) sales clerk was mean and impatient to start, screaming for "cutters" to come help out, but she came around when I started cracking jokes about being a clueless crafter myself. The can spot the young associates from afar by their vibrant hair colours. The one thing the punk hipsters and the bitter betties do have in common? They're all sporting some attitude with their threads of knowledge ;-) -
Review from Evilyn T.
4/5/2010 2 Check-ins Here
I love costumes, and I love making costumes with my creative juices even more. Dressew is the biggest fabric supply store in Vancouver, with a super convenient location on Hastings street, the only shitty part is that they close at like 5 and they aren't even open on Sundays. This means for a working girl like me, Saturdays is the only day to get the goods.
Make sure you have cash or debit when you go cuz they don't take anything else, especially not attitude. Dressew has a pretty big selection of costume accessories and wigs as well, so even if you are trying to generate ideas for costumes, you can come here to get inspired. There is a downstairs where you can gather up your trimmings, like lace, buttons and zippers. The prices are pretty decent, but they add up fast, so try not to get overwhelmed like I do and buy way more than you need.Listed in: Tips from the Halloween Queen
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Review from Sarah B.
USA8/6/2008
Pro: It's a WHOLE BUNCH of cheap fabric, ribbon, leather offcuts, findings, supplies, and other crafting sundries.
Con: It's a whole bunch of CHEAP fabric, ribbon, leather offcuts, findings, supplies, and other crafting sundries.
There's a lot of stuff here to want, but there's not too much here to need. That said, it's worth a visit if you're feelin' crafty but not searching for anything in particular or are super budget-conscious.Listed in: A Day (or Three) in BC
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Review from Kreag S.
Vancouver, BC
1/12/2009
My partner is in the middle of an art project and ran out of some black thin yarn that he is using in it....it's really important what he's making but the yarn is a big part of it..and he had bought it at Micheal's but we didn't really want to drive to West Van or Richmond..so we thought Dressew would totally have yarn!
Well...we were right..they have lots of yarn....just no black? What's up with that? They have multi-colored and teal but no black...isn't it like a staple color?? I asked an associate standing near us if they had any yarn else where...her oh so helpful response was.."I don't know...if you don;t see it I guess not"...she didn't even look up at me from what she was doing...what the hell..do your job lady..it's not like helping me would have been hard..grrrrrrr..
SO we left..no yarn..and a little pissed off.... -
Review from karen c.
Vancouver, BC
7/12/2010
I LOVE DRESSEW. Everything is so cheap! I love it. Well..not everything...their fabric is pricier than other places like Textile Clearance House. These two are like my joints for anything I want to make.
Attitude is definitely a problem...but if you know what you want and just get it..it's all good! -
Review from Alexandria M.
Vancouver, BC
11/9/2009 ROTD 9/8/2010
Pretty much in agreement with most of the previous comments about this Craft Disneyland, so I'll just ask an open question to Dressew:
5:15? You close at 5:15pm? What's that about? Is it your intent to torment folks who work until 5? Have you ever looked out your windows to see desperate craft fans peltering towards you like rabbits, only to set foot inside just in time to hear you're closing? You're busier than McDonald's on 4/20! You could afford to stay open twenty-four hours a day! What am I supposed to do when I need maribou at 3am? -
Review from Amber H.
Vancouver, BC
9/11/2010
I've been frequenting Dressew since I was a small child and to me it's always been a magical treasure filled place. Aisles and aisles of trim, lace, buttons, iron on patches, silk flowers, zippers, yarn... you name it, they've likely got it in several colours!
If you're looking for a great assortment of fabric (don't forget to check their discount section!), need some notions or just want to browse the crafting goodness then Dressew is the place for you.
Also, on a side note - they have some of the BEST halloween accessories in town at excellent prices. I always make it a point to stop by there when planning my next costume. Just make sure you're prepared for the wait as there's always a crowd! -
Review from David S.
Burnaby, BC
4/28/2011
I didn't have any issues mentioned by some other reviewers. The people I spoke to were great, and happy to help.
Prices were cheap, and I have no complaints! If I ever need to make another costume, I'll definitely return. -
Review from Chloë E.
Vancouver, BC
11/10/2008
I love Dress Sew for its Boxing Day sale where everything is 50% off--it's the perfect sale to actually afford those $100 sewing shears that cut like a French guillotine. While the store's fabric selection is vast and impressive, it lacks quality. But there are plenty of other fiber treasures here.
Learning to knit? The $2 yarns are far better than the department-store afghan only yarn and it won't cost you an RRSP payment a-la boutique yarn shops. Need sequins? The array of shiny things here is unparalleled by any other fabric shops. Into beading? If you look hard, there are headpins, crimping beads, and earring hooks that cost plenty in jewelry stores. Bargain chocolate? Although I've never tried it, you can pick up a box of chocolates here for about 50 cents.
What you won't find here: patterns, excellent fabrics, helpful staff.Listed in: Crafty Vancouver
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Review from Lisa Marie M.
Vancouver, BC
10/31/2009
I went to Dressew a few weeks back,
to checked out the Halloween section (to which i found some things over priced.)
Large selection of pretty much anything you would need- from make it yourself, to ready to wear, and all the accessory's you may need.
I found some great fishnets, and some funky tights (sadly only snatched up one pair..)
I found some perfect back drop material (super shiny ) at 5.99/meter .
I asked a lady what the size would be as i had measured using a tape and did not write it down but knew it was twice the width of the tape and one and a half long or so ...she seemed to know what i meant and cut the material and away i went pleased with my purchases.
Sooooooo i go back a week later and i discover the tights i loved were all gone but there was a large selection of colors in the metallic backdrop material (Yeah!!)
I grabbed one bolt and asked a lady if she was free and when i explained what size i needed i was given THE MOST EVIL GLARE i have ever experienced!! I was so stunned i felt like she saw every sin i could ever commit and was judging me - this is nothing i have EVER experienced before !! I found myself hardly able to even talk....anyway she was rude and condescending. I normally would of never put up with this but i was in a hurry and needed the material. The store was packed and i was not about to search out management at that moment.
I just got the other colors of fabric for her to cut and took off to the other side of the store to avoid standing there feeling uncomfortable while she cut .
I returned and she was still cutting. I then received a call on my cell phone and before i could even say "can i call you back" she marched up to me and rudely said "You know this is CASH ONLY !! " To which i nodded, and hung up .....
I gathered all my fabric and told her "Thank you SO MUCH for ALL your help !" with a huge smile .
I went up to the cash area where they were obviously stressed due to the busy season. They were however friendly and polite .
My total came to over $120.00. However- i did not appreciate the *bonus* attitude.
I wish i would of worn my glasses so i could see her name tag, but i will return, and make a positive ID.
After being in customer service for many years, i do know the correct way to deal with this.Listed in: Downtown Vancouver, Shopping!!
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Review from Miranda L.
Vancouver, BC
8/10/2010
There's not much that I can add to the Dressew love, but I'll jump in anyway.
Dressew is my go-to fabric store for discount finds and notions, and it never disappoints.
I usually avoid upstairs (the more expensive of the discount fabrics, a few good finds but not usually what I'm after. In the tall racks in the back of the main floor are some good staples though like felt, which comes in handy).
Downstairs, however, is full of notions (and notions and notions... look for the 99cent packages of things like buttons and snaps! I keep buying them and filling drawers with them, figuring they're so cheap I'll eventually come up with a way to use them all).
And finally, In the back room downstairs is where you'll find the true bargains... my favourite find so far is thick, snakeskin printed purple vinyl for $2/yard. Score! Again, I figured out what to do with it AFTER I bought it (it's perfect for a table cover at craft shows, for what it's worth) -
Review from Wendy C.
Vancouver, BC
1/13/2010
I have loved dresssew for years. U know if u come here that you're most likely to get what u r looking for, if not stuff u weren't looking for!
And then there's the best stuff for Halloween of course. Let's get creative!!
I didn't give more stars cuz the payment system needs to get way more customer friendly. Ya I have an idea that it might keep costs for them down but still!
Also because they really need (me) to do their window displays WAY more creative and put -together-pretty! There just too much awesome window that is too valuable to waste! Specially in that beautiful architecture around!Listed in: I like-A-Lot!
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Review from Ingrid D.
Vancouver, BC
7/29/2010
Ahhhhh Dressew...... One of my very favourite shop in Vancouver for sure !
(only surpassed by Designer Fabrics Liquidator, a few steps away...)
They have such a wide choice of fabric, and all the other things that you need when sewing, it's amazing !!! and the price ! can't really beat it !! Especially if you go and check their clearance section.... 2$ a meter ?! Awesome !
They only accept cash and debit. but that's good enough for me... and I won't break my maximum charge on my debit in there anyway, looking at the price of things !! :-))
And yes... I even put a five. You know why ? Because when you go there with kids, everyone is actually very nice !!! So I never had those nasty look or snotty behaviours.
But beware !!!! NEVER EVER go in there the week before Halloween 9unless you want to buy a costume and you're late, of course!)... Cause that's a nightmare !!!! SOOOOOO many people it's insane !
Other than this, it's usually a bliss and you get out with way more things that you were intending to buy at the beginning :-)
And then, after a few more efforts, you can proudly display your kids new cloths on your blog.... isn't this amazing ?!!? :-) -
Review from Kelly M.
Port Moody, BC
9/3/2011
It was a customer of mine who reminded me that the best prices for fabric was Dressew. I had totally forgotten about them since I moved away. The dismal reviews about the crummy service, grumpy old staff etc sure had me braced for battle when I arrived. How nice to have a young gal and an older one happy to help me with all the fabric treasures I purchased. Even more surprising was when I had to return with some fabric that was cut too small (I brought my measurements notes with me to show what I had given the cutter) and the manager quickly cut new fabric to the correct size and made sure I was satisfied! Thanks gals!!
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Review from Desiree M.
Halifax, NS
4/20/2009
Literally the best discount fabric store ever. My latest amazing finds include drapey light icy purple jersey for $1/metre and a universal invisible zipper foot for $3.69. You won't find too much high end fabric, but you will find a good selection, endless notions, appliques, and trims, and the ultimate source for cheap costume supplies. That's not to say that they don't have any good quality fabric as well - because they do. They have some nice linen, a smallish selection of quality cottons, and some very nice plain and patterned silks.
They also have a massive selection of $2 yarns, mostly acrylic and often novelty. -
Review from Sarah O.
11/14/2010
For Vancouver, this fabric store is the best it's going to get. If you can't find it here, whether that "It" is suppplies or inspiration, you won't find it anywhere. Crafters and designers, get your sewing machines and hot glue guns out and unleash yourself at Dressew. Love it!
