When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
Textile Discount Outlet
Why Textile Discount Outlet is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Textile Discount Outlet, located in the Pilsen neighborhood of Chicago, offers an expansive 75,000 square-foot showroom featuring over 500,000 fabric items. This vast space houses more than 13 rooms dedicated to an extensive variety of textiles including apparel, drapery, upholstery fabrics, and specialty items such as trimmings, tassels, rhinestones, notions, feathers, and vinyl fabrics. The outlet caters not only to retail customers but also serves apparel and interior designers, upholsterers, school instructors, hotels, restaurants, and theaters, making it a versatile hub for creative fabric needs. Its convenient location between major expressways (Eisenhower 290 and Stevenson 55) with accessible public transit options like the Damen Pink Line station makes meeting up with friends or fellow crafters here both easy and enjoyable. Visitors can explore diverse materials ranging from delicate chiffons and organzas to robust upholstery fabrics, all under one roof. The store hours are customer-friendly from Sunday to Thursday, allowing ample time for browsing and shopping. Whether you're embarking on a DIY project, sourcing materials for professional use, or simply appreciating the vast fabric selections, Textile Discount Outlet offers a unique and inspiring environment excellent for getting creative with friends or colleagues.
Here's what people think of Textile Discount Outlet
As of recent, Textile Discount Outlet holds a 4.6-star rating based on 533 reviews.
With a strong rating of 4.6 out of 5 based on over 530 reviews, Textile Discount Outlet is widely recognized for its extensive selection and value. Positive reviews consistently highlight the incredible variety of fabrics available, often noting the expansive showroom with abundant choices that appeal to all types of customers—from hobbyists to industry professionals. Users appreciate the competitive pricing reflective of an outlet store and the helpfulness and knowledge of the staff, who assist customers in navigating the large space and finding exactly what they need. Many reviewers also compliment the quality and uniqueness of specialty materials like trims and rhinestones, making it an inspiring place for designers and crafters alike. On the downside, some negative feedback points to occasional challenges such as difficulty locating specific items due to the store’s size and layout, limited operating days (closed on Fridays and Saturdays), and customer service inconsistencies during busy times. Some customers have described the checkout process as occasionally slow because of the high volume of shoppers. Overall, however, the reviews reflect that Textile Discount Outlet is a trusted destination for fabric enthusiasts who value extensive options, affordable prices, and the convenience of a one-stop shop. The majority consensus underscores that any minor inconveniences are outweighed by the benefits of the massive inventory and specialized products found here.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Michael Damato
Amazing store with a huge selecting of well priced stock. While it can be a bit overwhelming at first things are organized fairly well on the first floor. It's when you head onto the second floor or especially the basement that it feels like you're in some forgotten warehouse. If you do any kind of sewing this is absolutely a place you should stop.
Patty Gerboc
If you can't find it here, it hasn't been made! This place is fantastic!! Absolutely anything you need for sewing is here.
Patrick Kk
Great selection of items. Been coming here for years. Would be nice if they had better hours. Maybe even have a late night would be helpful. Now that Joanne fabrics is closed, this place is the only one I know in the city that carries quality stuff. They’ve come a long way in terms if having it organized better. But I still would love to work here a few days a week to get things done further. It can be challenging to get some fabrics due to them being in a large pile. Everything is great but the hours. Oh on a side note customers should be assigned to the cactus cutters randomly.,’ I’ve watched oriole wait for certain employees, which seems totally suspicious. More the likely getting more then what they pay for. If staff overall I’ve been totally happy with. Keep it up!
Tanya Avila
On my day off i Googled ‘fabric stores’ and was decided on spending my money for a craft in a small business. I drove all the way here from Indiana. ALTHOUGH— this business is an entire warehouse full of treasures and I cannot stop raving and praising how wonderful and helpful all the staff treated all customers. Towards the end I was being helped by a really kind and helpful young man named Israel. Come to find out he IS THE OWNER. He was so helpful and humble I really left there feeling like a valued customer and I found everything I was looking for our pillow craft. THANK YOU IMMENSELY ISRAEL AND THANK YOU TO ALL YOUR WONDERFUL STAFF :)
NavyBlueBunny
Visited this place on 10/12/2023. They have a small bit of parking available. Lots and Lots of fabrics available more then I have ever seen in my life tbh. Staff was kind and welcoming and would help if asked. I do wish they sold a lil more faux furs but they did have some available!
How to reach Textile Discount Outlet
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Why Textile Discount Outlet may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Textile Discount Outlet with your friends?
Textile Discount Outlet is a fantastic spot to gather with friends because it offers a unique and immersive experience unlike any typical meetup location. With over 75,000 square feet of space filled with hundreds of thousands of fabric options, this Chicago-based outlet is not just a store—it’s a creative playground. Whether you and your friends are hobbyists, fashion enthusiasts, designers, or simply curious explorers, this outlet provides an exciting environment to discover and share inspiration. The vast diversity of materials, from apparel fabrics to upholstery, feathers, rhinestones, and trims, means there’s something to spark everyone’s imagination. Being a space that caters to both retail customers and professionals alike, Textile Discount Outlet encourages collaborative browsing, idea sharing, and creative planning, making it ideal for a group outing. Beyond just shopping, the atmosphere fosters bonding through creative pursuits and discovery, whether you’re planning costumes, refurbishing furniture, or designing décor. The location’s convenient accessibility and well-organized layout add to the ease of visiting with friends for a meaningful day of crafting and inspiration.
What activities can you do at Textile Discount Outlet?
Textile Discount Outlet offers far more than just browsing fabric bolts. While exploring the extensive inventory, groups can engage in hands-on selection of materials for personal or group projects like sewing, quilting, or upholstery. The availability of over 500,000 items means you can find everything from delicate lace to vinyl fabrics, drapery cloths, or whimsical feathers—all perfect for a diverse range of creative pursuits. You can organize a collaborative shop where friends help each other pick coordinating fabrics and notions, creating a team project vibe. Since they carry plenty of trimmings, tassels, rhinestones, and notions, it’s also a perfect place to design unique costumes for cosplay, theater productions, or themed parties with your friends. Moreover, discussing fabric qualities and imagining end products together makes the experience more interactive and enjoyable. The store also appeals to upholstery enthusiasts wanting to revamp furniture, providing tailored advice and textiles suited for such projects. This hands-on, interactive exploration encourages creativity, group decision-making, and shared excitement over upcoming projects.
Why is Textile Discount Outlet perfect for a group meetup?
This space is ideal for groups because of its sheer size and variety. Spanning over 75,000 square feet with more than 13 rooms dedicated to different fabric types, the Textile Discount Outlet offers numerous zones to explore simultaneously without feeling cramped. Whether your group wants to split up and search distinct categories—perhaps one focusing on apparel fabrics while another scouts upholstery materials—the layout supports independent or collective shopping. The store’s reputation and decades of business experience suggest knowledgeable staff who are helpful and enthusiastic, adding value by answering questions and helping groups navigate their options. Its location is easy to reach, situated near major highways and accessible via public transit, making it convenient for friend groups coming from various parts of Chicago. The outlet’s opening hours from Sunday through Thursday, mostly until 4:30 PM, also offer flexibility for weekday or weekend meetups. The atmosphere, large selection, and cooperative shopping experience foster camaraderie and make the Textile Discount Outlet more than just a store—it becomes a social hub for creativity and shared experiences.
What makes the shopping experience at Textile Discount Outlet unique?
Shopping here is unlike your typical retail outing. The vast variety of textiles and accessories on offer represents a treasure trove for anyone with an eye for fabric arts. The diversity includes specialty fabrics such as vinyl for upholstery, delicate netting, rhinestones for embellishment, and even feathers for costume making. Because the store has served professional designers, upholsterers, and theatrical costumers for over 30 years, its collection reflects quality, variety, and affordability that aren’t easy to find elsewhere. Shopping becomes more of an exploratory adventure where the tactile experience—touching, comparing textures and colors, mixing and matching components—plays a central role. This sensory engagement is ideal for tactile learners and creative groups wanting to experiment before committing to purchases. The generous floor space and the methodical layout allow you to spend hours discovering new materials and ideas, encouraging a leisurely, thoughtful shopping approach rather than a rushed one. This experiential aspect makes each visit memorable and offers new inspiration with every outing.
How can Textile Discount Outlet inspire group creativity?
Group creativity flourishes in environments that offer resources and space to experiment—and Textile Discount Outlet provides both abundantly. With access to vast quantities of fabric and assorted sewing and decorating accessories, friends can envision and plan collaborative projects such as sewing circles, costume designing for events, or home makeover projects. Sharing ideas in-store while physically seeing and feeling potential materials converts abstract concepts into tangible plans. Seeing others’ selections can spark improvisation and design twists, turning an afternoon into a dynamic creative workshop. Additionally, the store’s tools and notions offer opportunities for skill-sharing within the group—those with sewing experience can teach others, while beginners can get inspired and learn through engagement. Such interaction builds social bonds and cultivates a sense of joint accomplishment when projects are completed. The inviting environment is thus a catalyst for teamwork, artistic expression, and fun group challenges that can strengthen friendships.
What should groups know before visiting Textile Discount Outlet?
Before heading out, groups should be aware that Textile Discount Outlet is closed on Fridays and Saturdays, making Sunday through Thursday the best days to schedule your visit. Planning to go earlier in the day is a good idea since the store closes at 4 or 4:30 PM depending on the day. It is located on West 21st Street in Chicago’s Pilsen neighborhood, conveniently accessible by major highways like the Eisenhower (290) and Stevenson (55) expressways, and also reachable by public transit via the Damen Pink Line stop. The store policies generally encourage browsing but being respectful of the extensive inventory and other shoppers ensures a smooth experience for all. Since the store caters to a professional clientele as well as casual shoppers, it’s helpful to come prepared with project ideas or motivated intents to get the most from the visit. Comfortable shoes and ample time enhance the ability to explore all the rooms and fabric categories. Finally, group members can split tasks to cover more ground efficiently, making the outing both productive and enjoyable.
How can you make the most out of your Textile Discount Outlet meetup?
To maximize your group experience, prepare a rough plan or theme for your visit—whether focused on holiday costume making, home décor refurbishing, or simply exploratory inspiration. Communicating roles helps: one person can research upholstery fabrics while another scouts apparel textiles or decorative trims. Bringing measuring tapes, notebooks, or smartphones to record favorite items ensures nothing interesting is forgotten amidst the abundance. Consider organizing mini-design challenges, such as pick-the-best-fabric contests or planning coordinated project color schemes together. Take breaks to regroup and discuss finds over coffee or nearby eateries in Pilsen, integrating social time with shopping. Lastly, keep a flexible, open mindset; the variety encountered can lead to unexpected ideas and projects, making the day a creative adventure rather than a checklist errand. These tips encourage a lively, interactive outing that strengthens friendships and hones group creativity in a memorable setting.
What makes Textile Discount Outlet a standout in Chicago?
Textile Discount Outlet stands out because it combines volume, variety, and specialization in a way few other stores can match. Being in business for over three decades, it has curated an inventory that reflects evolving trends and quality needs for both casual crafters and professional creators. Unlike smaller retail stores or online-only options, it offers the sensory experience of seeing and handling fabric in person, which is crucial when choosing textiles. The location’s large footprint and multi-room setup provide an immersive shopping environment that invites exploration and discovery. Its reputation in Chicago’s creative community underscores reliability and diversity catering to designers, upholsters, educators, and enthusiasts alike. For groups seeking a venue to explore creativity while bonding, Textile Discount Outlet represents an unmatched destination in the city—balancing accessibility, diversity, and an inviting atmosphere to inspire projects of all kinds. This legacy makes it an essential stop that supports and nurtures Chicago’s thriving creative fabric culture.