Wednesday, January 10, 2007

tell me why...


I would like someone to explain why I am ignored when I walk into a fabric store. Particularly a specialty fabric store. (I even get ignored at large chain stores.) I try to be kind, unoffensive and polite. I try not to bother the people working and figure things out myself. I wait my turn, even though I am usually the ONLY person in the shop. I get ignored and insulted. For the last year I have tried to "buy locally, " for two reasons. The first is I really like to physically see the fabric before I buy it. Second, I want to support local small business owners. I love to look at fabric on the internet...looks like I will be buying on the internet from now on. You snotty shop owners have insulted me one too many times. I'm going to Walmart, the only place where the fabric ladies speak to me. ( They even talk to my children, and smile!) I will have to buy my notions there...

A few months ago, when I was discouraged with the same thing...I considered opening my own fabric store. (I did lots of research.) I wanted to open a shop where there were fun projects hanging up, good looking fabrics, you know, the place you dream about walking into..can you see the stack of crafty magazines and books, right over there by a cute red velvet couch, begging you to sit down and find a really cool project. A great atmosphere and kind, helpful salespeople, fun classes. Whether you were new to sewing or a pro you would feel like you were appreciated when you walked in. I could do it, nothing is impossible, especially since it's something I love and I'm good at. As soon as my guys are old enough...I.will.do.it.
Is the new generation of people who sew being treated like this? And why do these shop owners not see the potential income for them? All those old ladies aren't going to be able to quilt forever, you know. Open your eyes.

3 comments:

beki said...

You go for it! CUstomer service seems to be a lost art these days.

IamACanCerViVer said...

Fabric, beads, yarn........It can't be that hard. Watch out you snotty shop owners, Betsy's going to take your business!

Becca said...

Hmmm...that stinks! I just found your blog from Beki's (where I lurk as well).