Joann's exit from the fabric industry could impact the overall supply of affordable fabric, independent craft businesses say.

The Joann Fabric and Crafts store near where I live is closing, one of their 800 stores being shuttered around the country ...

A pair of German immigrants founded the company in 1943. It became a publicly traded company in 1969. Then it went private ...

Here are 8 fabric stores in Pawtucket, Cranston, North Kingstown, Barrington and nearby Mass. where you can buy sewing supplies after Joann closes.

For many Joann faithfuls, though — serious hobbyists such as knitters, quilters and sewists of all levels — the closures ...

Joann has a much larger selection of fabrics than other brick-and-mortar ... she did while strolling among the assemblage of cotton, fleece, satin, organza, polyester and more.

Are you looking for fleece? That's not something we typically ... but are looking into more garment fabric to cater to Joann shoppers. Fabric Warehouse in Lockport specializes in upholstery ...

I've been shopping at Joanns for a decade to quilt, sew, cross stitch and more. The stores closing leaves a huge gap, especially for beginner crafters.

Joann stores, including the sole RI location ... breathable rayon or snuggly fleece? Apple Annie Designer Fabrics (appleanniefabrics.com), 566 Wilbur Ave., Swansea, Massachusetts, 508-678-5187.