Barry’s Fabrics

I’ve been to Barry’s Fabrics shop, a few times. It was somewhere that I was introduced to by a friend and also when I took part in the Inspire Fashion Design programme with Aspire 4 U CIC. I’ve since started going back there regularly if I need to get some simple bits and pieces to customise my outfit for example.
I wouldn’t say it has the best selection of fabrics and stock as some other fabric shops in Birmingham, but it does offer a nice variation of fabrics and I think it’s good for those just starting out in fashion design/​dress making; as the prices are fair. The fabrics, I personally think are a lot cheaper than some other places; so it makes it worthwhile travelling to where’s it’s situated.
The service is not to bad either, it could be better because sometimes when you go in there the staff aren’t always over friendly or helpful but you become used to it and as long as you have an idea of what you want, then you just get on with it.

I was introduced to Barry’s by a friend and my magpie nature meant I wanted all of it! It isn’t by any means the biggest selection of fabrics but they stock anything from classy liberty to fake furs and sparkly badness. It’s amazing.
They regularly discount ends of rolls and seasonal stock, which is great for a bargain you’ll buy and probably never make anything with. The out of season liberty stock and some of the wools are the reason to come here, expect to drool and a pinch in the pocket.
Yes the staff can be grumpy, but also helpful. If you are prepared for this in advance and except it then it makes the shopping trip that much more manageable.

Bargain fabrics in one big warehouse.
Whilst Barry’s doesn’t offer the same range or quality as the Fancy Silk Store does, it can offer unexpected gems — such as discounted Liberty fabrics or out-​of-​season reduced wool.
The staff are knowledgeable, but often come across as harrassed and grumpy. That said, the fabric is so cheap I just don’t care! Same as Fancy Silk Store — they don’t stock many notions, so you’d need to go to the Rag Market for those.