When asking yourself about something to do near me in New York with a group of friends or family, consider
Mood Fabrics
Why Mood Fabrics is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Mood Fabrics stands as an iconic destination for fabric lovers and sewing enthusiasts, celebrated for its vast and high-quality selection of fashion and home fabrics. Originally founded in New York City in 1991 by Jack Sauma, Mood Fabrics began as a wholesaler before evolving into a retail powerhouse, renowned worldwide for its exceptional fabrics ranging from budget-friendly basics to luxurious designer textiles by famed names like Oscar de la Renta, Marc Jacobs, and Vera Wang. The flagship store in New York, which draws over 1,200 daily customers, offers an immersive shopping experience with an extensive fabric collection, sewing notions, and a classroom space for workshops. Its reputation is bolstered by its role as the official fabric supplier to the Emmy-winning show Project Runway, which has helped cement Mood's status in fashion circles globally. Shoppers appreciate Mood for not only the quality and variety of fabrics but also for its customer service, online presence, and innovative programs such as the Mood Insider membership and rewards scheme. The business remains family-run, with Jack Sauma's sons continuing his legacy and commitment to the American Dream. Whether you're a beginner or a professional designer, Mood Fabrics invites you to explore its rich assortment, find inspiration, and create unique masterpieces that reflect your vision.
Here's what people think of Mood Fabrics
As of recent, Mood Fabrics holds a 4.4-star rating based on 1578 reviews.
User reviews of Mood Fabrics are generally very positive, reflected in a strong 4.4-star rating from over 1,500 reviews. Customers frequently praise Mood for its unparalleled variety and quality of fabrics, describing the store as a 'sewing wonderland' where every fabric feels like a new adventure. Positive reviews highlight the luxurious feel of materials—such as silks, cottons, and velvets—and commend the professionalism and helpfulness of the staff, both in-store and online. The affiliation with Project Runway adds to the excitement and credibility of the brand, making it a favored destination among aspiring designers and sewing hobbyists alike. Customers also value the online shopping experience, noting the benefits of the rewards program, exclusive discounts, and responsive customer support that accompanies purchases. Negative feedback, though less common, typically mentions pricing as a consideration, with some customers finding Mood Fabrics not the cheapest option; however, many acknowledge the value of the quality and customer experience provided justifies the investment. A few reviewers have also noted occasional delays in shipping or limited stock on certain popular items. In conclusion, reviews convey that Mood Fabrics is strongly admired for its comprehensive selection, dedication to customer satisfaction, and its role as a hub for creative sewing endeavors, making it a trusted and beloved fabric retailer worldwide.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Natalia Kan
the fabric store is truly impressive — it’s like a paradise for designers! And the idea with the wall installation, where the dresses are painted and decorated with real fabrics, is very creative. It’s especially cool that in the first image, you can see how the embroidered fabric from the third photo was used to create the 3D floral elements on one of the dresses on the wall. This combination of painted art and actual textiles creates the effect of “living” fashion illustrations. Each dress on the wall seems to showcase the possibilities of different types of fabrics found on the store shelves — from floral embroidery to marbled patterns and glossy red textures.
Octavia
Weird entrance system, beautiful fabrics, but slightly annoying that the in-person store offers much more than the online store. Also the male cashier I had was just awful. Rude and haphazard with my $1000 of delicate fabric (beading and lace) such that flinging beads bounced around on the counter. There are such stunning, intricate, expensive fabrics available in-person that cannot be accessed online. I recommend calling the in-person store and asking for help when it comes to intricate out-of-state fabric needs. Their most expensive fabric is around $800/yard. The least expensive one I saw was around $15/yard. Quite a variety of materials and quality!
Isabelle Vogel
It was such a huge dream to visit Mood, and my experience could not have been better! Amazing selection of fabrics and trimmings. Mood has everything I could have wanted and more!
Tim Tucker
This store has a very wide selection of fabrics, as well as leather and some accessories. My experience here was positive, and I did not think the fabrics were expensive, nor did I find the salespeople unhelpful. On the contrary, I found some fine duchesse silk that cost *one third* the price being charged at B&J Fabrics for very similar silk. And the salesperson helping at Mood me went above and beyond to help me -- she was super nice and accommodating. Based on the other reviews, some people haven't checked around and compared prices at other shops. What they think is expensive may actually be reasonable, if not cheap. And they don't seem to realize that salespeople are individuals whose abilities and moods (pun intended) vary widely. In fact, if there was anything I didn't like it was the obnoxious behavior of some of the other customers during my visit. Mood isn't perfect, but it's a good option and I appreciate what it offers. I'll be back!
Tanner Kok (tannernyc)
By far the most extensive and well documented and organized collection of fabrics and materials in the city. Online offers free patterns and delivery with minimums, some of the prices are a little higher BUT they always have on hand what they say they have on hand and have adequate staffing who are very knowledgeable and so friendly. It is absolutely wonderful. :)
How to reach Mood Fabrics
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Why Mood Fabrics may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Mood Fabrics with your friends?
Gathering your friends at Mood Fabrics offers an exciting and unique experience well beyond the typical meetup. For those with an interest in fashion, creativity, or simply discovering a treasure trove of textiles, Mood Fabrics is like no other destination. Located in the heart of New York City’s Garment District, Mood Fabrics is famously known as the inspiration spot for fashion enthusiasts and was even featured on the renowned TV show Project Runway. Meeting here means immersing yourselves in a vast, three-story wonderland of fabrics—over 40,000 square feet of cottons, silks, wools, lace, denim, and knits—that promises to spark creativity and conversation. It’s a place that combines the energy of a bustling marketplace with the intimacy of a shared creative journey. Whether your group consists of designers, hobbyists, or simply people looking for a fun and visually rich outing, Mood Fabrics encourages collaboration and inspiration. It’s not just shopping; it’s experiencing the epicenter of fashion material sourcing together, sharing ideas, and maybe even planning projects or outfits side by side. The atmosphere buzzes with creative energy that makes any gathering memorable, perfect for bonding over something tactile and colorful.
What activities can you enjoy at Mood Fabrics as a group?
Mood Fabrics is more than just a fabric store; it offers a dynamic range of activities for groups to engage in. First and foremost, you can spend hours browsing through an incredible selection of textiles—from sumptuous silks to bold prints and textures—allowing everyone to explore personal tastes and creative ideas. Groups can pool knowledge and opinions, which enhances the shopping experience, as fabric feel and color often benefit from shared feedback. For those into sewing or designing, it’s an ideal spot to compare fabric qualities, discuss potential projects, and gather materials for group workshops or collaborative creations. The staff are experienced and helpful, providing expert guidance that can elevate the experience and ensure you find exactly what you need, even during peak rush times. Additionally, the store’s size and layout invite a leisurely exploration, encouraging conversations about trends, patterns, and sustainable or natural fabric choices. Photogenic and inspiring spots around the store also offer a great opportunity for friends to take pictures, captioning memories of a day well spent. Finally, the shared experience of navigating such a large, famed fabric emporium creates natural moments for fun and discovery, solidifying lasting memories of your outing.
Why is Mood Fabrics perfect for a group meetup?
Mood Fabrics provides a vibrant yet structured environment that suits a variety of group dynamics, making it an optimal venue for meetups. The sheer scale of the store means there is ample space for people to spread out and browse individually or cluster together to confer on choices—catering to both independent exploration and collaborative decision-making. The diversity of textiles appeals to a broad spectrum of tastes and interests, so no one in the group will find themselves bored or out of place. It’s also uniquely engaging because it depth of inventory means there are always surprises or hidden gems to discover, feeding ongoing conversation and interaction. Moreover, the location in the fashion district adds a metropolitan vibe and access to complementary attractions such as cafes, design workshops, and other creative hotspots, enabling an entire day of connected activities. The store’s reputation and connection to the creative community lend a sense of occasion to your meetup, elevating it beyond a casual hangout to an inspiring shared experience that can spark future creative projects or simply joyful memories.
How should groups plan their visit to Mood Fabrics?
To make the most out of a group outing to Mood Fabrics, planning is essential. Given its size and popularity, especially on weekends or after work hours, booking enough time—generally at least two hours—is recommended to explore thoroughly without feeling rushed. Groups should prepare by identifying their interests or project goals ahead of time, which helps direct the visit and prevents overwhelm due to the enormous variety of fabrics. It’s wise to bring a camera or smartphone for quick reference, to photograph fabric swatches or inspiration boards your friends might create on the spot. Consider logistics for purchasing and transporting fabric—the store’s staff can assist but fabrics can be bulky, so coordinating how fabrics will be carried home or shipped is important. Also, take breaks in nearby cafés to digest ideas and regroup for the next round of shopping or discussion. For maximal enjoyment, appoint a few friends who have sewing or fabric knowledge to help others or lead mini-group activities like fabric comparisons or planning group projects. This preparation ensures the visit is productive, social, and inspiring for everyone in attendance.
What unique features does Mood Fabrics offer for enthusiasts and beginners?
Mood Fabrics caters both to seasoned designers and beginners, making it a melting pot of experience levels. The store is well-organized by fabric type and quality, which helps novices learn fabric basics while experienced shoppers can zero in on high-end materials with confidence. Attentive staff offer guidance on fabric properties, uses, and care, providing educational moments for the group along the way. Mood’s selection includes rare and luxurious textiles that are often hand-selected, guaranteeing authenticity and quality—a significant draw for those who value genuine materials over mass-produced alternatives. The store’s cultural cachet as the haunt of Project Runway contestants and designers adds a layer of excitement and prestige for fashion fans. For newcomers, being surrounded by creativity and professionalism serves as a motivational and uplifting experience, while veterans appreciate the depth, variety, and possibility for sourcing exclusive textiles or custom orders. This balance cultivates an environment where groups can mix skill levels, share knowledge, and inspire one another.
How can Mood Fabrics enhance creativity for your group?
The environment at Mood Fabrics is inherently designed to stimulate creativity. Surrounded by endless swaths of fabric in every conceivable color, texture, and pattern invites the imagination to run wild. For groups interested in design or DIY, it sparks discussions and brainstorming sessions that may not happen anywhere else. As individuals handle fabric samples, ideas for costumes, garments, or home décor emerge organically, fueling collaborative projects or friendly challenges such as creating themed outfits or sharing design tips. The layout encourages tactile exploration, which is fundamental to creativity in fabric arts. Having friends alongside provides instant feedback and encouragement, which can help overcome creative blocks. The store also often features seasonal or trend-focused collections that expose visitors to current industry directions, pushing creativity further. This creative stimulation extends beyond the visit, as group members leave with inspiration and materials, ready to turn concepts into tangible projects, making the meetup a springboard for ongoing creativity.
What should you expect in terms of atmosphere and crowd at Mood Fabrics?
Mood Fabrics is a bustling, high-energy environment that reflects its status as a key destination in the fashion district. Depending on the day and time, expect a lively crowd composed of independent designers, fashion students, hobbyists, and sometimes tourists with a keen interest in textiles. The atmosphere is serious and professional but also enthusiastic, driven by shared passion for fabrics and fashion. Because the store is large and spread across multiple floors, it can feel busy but never overwhelmingly cramped. The staff, though busy, remain approachable and ready to assist, especially during peak times. The energy can be sustained but also somewhat intense, so pacing yourselves as a group helps maintain enjoyment. Many visitors come prepared to devote significant time and attention, so it’s normal for a meetup here to become an engaging, immersive experience rather than a quick errand. The blend of fashion district hustle with a dedicated creative focus creates a unique atmosphere—both inspiring and productive.
How accessible is Mood Fabrics for group gatherings?
Mood Fabrics is centrally located in Manhattan's Garment District, making it easily accessible via public transit like subways and buses, which greatly facilitates group visits from anywhere in New York City or beyond. The store is spread over multiple floors, accessible via elevators, accommodating groups including those with mobility considerations. Given its size, moving as a group can be coordinated by splitting up into smaller teams or setting meeting points, allowing everyone to explore areas of interest then reconvene to share findings. The store layout is well signposted according to fabric types, which helps groups navigate efficiently without confusion. Ample space allows groups to shop comfortably without feeling crowded, even in busy periods. While parking in Manhattan is notoriously difficult, using public transit or rideshare is generally the best option. The store’s staff are used to helping customers of all kinds and are responsive to group needs, making Mood Fabrics a practical choice for gatherings focused on social shopping and shared creative inspiration.
What other nearby activities complement a visit to Mood Fabrics?
After immersing yourself in fabrics and fashion, the surrounding Garment District offers many complementary activities perfect for a group outing. Nearby cafés and restaurants provide ideal spots to relax, discuss purchases, or plan design ideas sparked during the Mood Fabrics visit. The district is also home to numerous sewing and crafting workshops and studios where your group can continue the creative experience hands-on. You can explore fabric warehouses, notions shops, or accessory boutiques in the vicinity to round out your materials collection. For those interested in fashion history and industry, walking tours of the Garment District provide rich context and can deepen appreciation for the fabrics just explored. If your group wants to extend the day culturally, Broadway theaters and art galleries are within easy reach, blending shopping with entertainment. This cluster of creative and social opportunities makes Mood Fabrics not just a destination in itself but the anchor for a full day of enriching group activities.
How can Mood Fabrics serve as a launching point for future group projects?
A meetup at Mood Fabrics can naturally catalyze future endeavors among friends or family by inspiring shared creative goals. Whether it’s sewing a collection of coordinated outfits, designing costumes for a party, or crafting home décor projects, the experience of choosing fabrics together plants the seeds for collaboration. Groups can set challenges inspired by their finds or even arrange follow-up meetups like sewing bees or design critique sessions. The store’s quality fabrics and broad selection mean the ideas born during the visit will have beautiful materials to come to life with. Moreover, the expertise and inspiration gleaned at Mood can elevate skill levels and confidence across the group, encouraging ongoing creative exploration. The tangible memories of fabric hunting and lively discussions help keep enthusiasm high and create social bonds through shared accomplishment. Essentially, Mood Fabrics acts as both a creative playground and a community hub where project ideas are born and nurtured with friends.
Visiting Mood Fabrics with friends transforms a typical meetup into an engaging, creative adventure. Its vast collection, prime location, expert staff, and lively fashion district atmosphere make it the perfect place for those who treasure color, design, and innovation to rally and thrive together.