Bettie Jo's Fabric Store in Columbia — Quilting Supplies, Classes, and Custom Cuts

What Bettie Jo's offers and where to find it

Bettie Jo's is a fabric store in Columbia that stocks quilting cotton, batik prints, fleece, and specialty fabrics for sewers and quilters. The shop sits at 5415 Two Notch Road in Columbia's northeast section, near the intersection with Decker Boulevard. You can walk in during business hours to browse bolts, handle fabric before buying, and talk with staff about projects.

The store carries both everyday sewing materials and harder-to-find prints and textures. Staff can cut yardage to your exact measurements and help you think through fabric choices for specific projects. If you are new to sewing or quilting, the in-person experience lets you see color and weave quality in natural light rather than on a screen.

Key Takeaways

• Bettie Jo's is located at 5415 Two Notch Road in Columbia and stocks quilting cotton, batik, fleece, and specialty fabrics for sewers and quilters.
• Staff can cut fabric to your exact yardage needs and offer guidance on fabric selection for your project.
• The store offers classes in quilting and sewing techniques for beginners and experienced makers.
• You can visit in person to see and feel fabric quality before purchasing, which is especially useful if you are uncertain about color or texture.

Classes and instruction at Bettie Jo's

Bettie Jo's runs classes for people learning to quilt or sew. Classes cover techniques like piecing, binding, free-motion quilting, and working with specific fabric types. Instruction is usually small-group or one-on-one, which means you get feedback on your work and can ask questions as you go.

Class schedules and topics change seasonally. You can call the store or visit in person to find out what is being taught in the coming weeks. Many people take a single class to learn one skill, while others sign up for a series to build on what they learned before. Bring your own machine if the class requires one, or ask whether the store has machines available.

Fabric selection and custom cutting

The store's inventory includes quilting-weight cotton in solid colors and prints, batik fabrics with hand-dyed patterns, and specialty materials like minky and fleece. Bolts are organized by type and color, so you can browse by what you are looking for or wander and find inspiration. Staff can tell you the fiber content, care instructions, and price per yard for any bolt.

When you find fabric you want, staff will cut it to the exact yardage you need. This matters because buying a quarter-yard or half-yard costs less than buying a full bolt, and you do not end up with fabric you will not use. If you are working from a pattern, bring it with you or tell staff how much yardage the pattern calls for, and they can cut accordingly.

Hours, contact, and what to bring

Bettie Jo's is open during standard retail hours, though hours may vary by season or day. Call ahead to confirm hours before you visit, especially if you are traveling from another part of the state. The store's phone number is available through a local directory or by searching the business name and Columbia online.

Bring a list of what you need if you are working from a pattern — yardage amounts, fabric type, and any special requirements. If you are taking a class, bring your sewing machine unless the class description says otherwise. Bring cash or a card; most fabric stores accept both. If you are uncertain about color or texture, visiting in person is worth the trip because online photos do not always match what the fabric looks like in your hands.

Why local fabric stores matter in South Carolina

Fabric stores like Bettie Jo's are gathering places for people who sew and quilt. Staff know the community of makers in Columbia and can connect you with others working on similar projects. Classes build skills and friendships at the same time. The store also stocks items that big-box retailers do not carry — specialty prints, unusual fibers, and the kind of batik that makes a quilt feel like art.

Shopping local means your money stays in Columbia and supports a business owner who knows the craft. It also means you can see and touch fabric before you commit to it, which saves money and frustration. For quilters and sewers, a good local store is as important as a good library is to readers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to know how to sew before I take a class at Bettie Jo's?

No. The store offers classes for beginners who have never sewn before, as well as classes for people with experience. When you call or visit to ask about classes, tell staff what you already know how to do, and they can recommend a class that matches your skill level.

Can I return fabric if I change my mind about the color?

Return policies vary by store. Call Bettie Jo's before you buy to ask about their policy on returns and exchanges. Most fabric stores allow returns within a certain number of days if the fabric is uncut and in original condition.

What is the difference between quilting cotton and regular fabric?

Quilting cotton is woven tighter and holds its shape better than regular cotton, which matters when you are piecing small shapes together. It is also usually printed with designs that work well for quilts. Regular cotton is softer and drapes differently, which is better for clothing. Staff at Bettie Jo's can show you both and explain which works best for your project.

Do I need to buy thread and needles at the same store where I buy fabric?

No, but many people do because it is convenient. Bettie Jo's likely carries thread and needles, so you can get everything in one trip. If the store does not have a specific type you need, staff can tell you where else in Columbia to find it.