How Much Does Apparel Fabric Cost?
This guide covers typical US apparel fabric prices, what affects the cost, and how to compare fabric sellers and quotes.
Common jobs and what they cost
| Job | What it involves | Typical range |
|---|---|---|
| Basic cotton or polyester | Everyday woven or knit fabric | $5 - $12 per yard |
| Apparel linen | Lightweight to midweight linen | $12 - $30 per yard |
| Wool suiting | Suit-weight wool blends or wool | $20 - $60 per yard |
| Silk or technical fabric | Specialty silk or performance textiles | $30 - $100+ per yard |
Ranges are typical, not quotes - the price for your job depends on scope and location, so always confirm with the provider.
What moves the price
Fiber and construction are major price drivers: basic cotton and polyester tend to cost less than silk, fine wool, or technical blends. Heavier weights, intricate weaves, prints, finishes, and certified or specialty fibers can also raise the per-yard price. Designer labels and small-batch production may add a premium.
Price varies by seller, location, and order size. Retail cuts are often more expensive per yard than wholesale quantities, while clearance fabric or end-of-roll remnants may cost less. Check fabric width and composition as well as the listed price, since a narrow width can require buying more yardage.
How to keep the cost down
Choose a fabric that fits the garment's use rather than paying for properties you do not need, and compare the cost per usable yard across widths. Order a swatch before committing to a large cut, check remnant and sale sections, and confirm the seller's return policy and any minimum order.
For business orders, ask about volume pricing and whether samples, shipping, or cutting fees are extra. Quotes from checked, reviewed providers on Reedleys are easier to compare because seller details and customer feedback give useful context alongside these typical ranges.
Price questions, answered
Some sellers request full payment or a deposit for custom-dyed, special-order, or wholesale fabric. Ask when the balance is due and whether the order can be canceled.
Fiber grade, fabric width, weight, finishing, origin, and brand can all change the price. Compare the specifications and usable width, not just the fabric name.
Shipping, cutting, swatches, taxes, and minimum-order fees may be added. Confirm the total and check whether fabric is sold by the yard, meter, or full bolt.
Recognized Apparel Fabric businesses
Los Angeles wholesale fabric supplier specializing in knit, woven, and stretch fabrics.
A fabric store offering materials for apparel, bridal wear, drapery, upholstery, and home decorating.
Seattle fabric store offering fabrics, yarn, sewing notions, and classes.
A Raleigh fabric store offering dress, drapery, upholstery, outdoor, marine, and automotive fabrics.
Minneapolis fabric store offering fabrics, sewing patterns, notions, tools, kits, and classes.
Chicago fabric store offering apparel, home decor, upholstery fabrics, trims, notions, rhinestones, feathers, and vinyl.
Wholesale fabrics, laces, buttons, and trim for designers, manufacturers, and retail buyers.
Chicago fabric store offering apparel, drapery, upholstery fabrics, trimmings, notions, and more.
Chicago fabric store offering apparel and interior fabrics to wholesale and retail customers.
African fashion and fabric store offering traditional attire, textiles, accessories, and custom clothing in Houston.




