Memphis, October 6, 2025
News Summary
The recent closure of all Joann Fabrics stores in the Memphis area has left University of Memphis fashion students facing difficulties in sourcing affordable materials for their projects. With costs rising and limited local options, students are turning to online platforms, which poses challenges in assessing fabric quality. As they adapt to these changes, students exhibit resilience in their pursuit of fashion design amid a dwindling supply chain.
Memphis – The recent closure of all Joann Fabrics locations in the Memphis area has left University of Memphis fashion students struggling to find affordable supplies for their projects. Joann Fabrics, a crucial local supplier for fabrics and tools, was a go-to source for students engaging in fashion design coursework.
With the closure of Joann, students are now confronted with higher costs and shipping delays, as well as a significant reduction in in-person shopping options for materials. The closure is particularly impactful as the fashion design program at the University of Memphis, established in 2019, has a specific focus on draping, sewing, and patternmaking, culminating in a senior capstone class where students create a four-look collection.
Ryliss Amar, a junior fashion design major, has indicated that she now relies predominantly on online platforms, primarily Amazon, for fabric purchases. However, finding affordable fabric has proven increasingly difficult. Amar has also been utilizing platforms like Etsy to connect with out-of-state suppliers, but the challenge lies in assessing the quality of fabrics when purchasing online.
The University of Memphis Fashion Design program currently accommodates approximately 65 students. Each spring, students in the program participate in the annual Brooks Museum Fashion Show, a noteworthy event in the Memphis fashion scene. Reports indicate that essential materials for student projects can cost upwards of $100 per semester, with specialty fabrics found online ranging from $9 to $30 per yard.
Another student, Blaze Pointdexter, has expressed frustration over the inconvenience caused by the inability to view and touch the fabric before purchase. Faculty members such as Professor Jayla Slater have encouraged students to plan ahead in their purchasing, advising that Hobby Lobby remains a local option for supplies. However, students have reported that Hobby Lobby does not offer the same variety of materials as Joann did.
Joann Fabrics filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy earlier this year, leading to the closure of 255 locations nationwide after failing for the second time within a year. The company plans to shut down over half of its remaining stores, including several located within Tennessee. Before the closures, Joann operated 13 stores across the state, in cities such as Chattanooga, Clarksville, and Knoxville.
The closure of Joann has left a considerable gap in the supply chain for Memphis’s creative community. In light of these challenges, fashion students are adapting by ordering their supplies online, upcycling old materials, and discovering innovative methods to continue their projects. This situation has prompted students to exhibit resilience as they navigate a landscape of reduced options.
As the fashion field requires hands-on experience with materials, the loss of a key supplier such as Joann Fabrics has heightened the need for alternative resources among students. The ongoing challenges mark a significant shift in how emerging designers in Memphis will need to conduct their work and source their supplies in the future.
Frequently Asked Questions
What impact did Joann Fabrics’ closure have on University of Memphis fashion students?
The closure has left University of Memphis fashion students scrambling for alternative supplies, as Joann Fabrics was a primary local supplier for affordable fabrics and tools for student projects.
How much do materials typically cost for fashion students?
Materials essential for their work can cost over $100 per semester, with specialty fabrics online ranging from $9 to $30 per yard.
What are local alternatives for fabric supplies?
Hobby Lobby remains a local option for supplies; however, students report that it doesn’t offer the same variety as Joann.
| Key Features | Details |
|---|---|
| Closure Impact | University of Memphis fashion students struggling for supplies. |
| Material Costs | Over $100 per semester; specialty fabrics range from $9 to $30 per yard. |
| Local Alternatives | Hobby Lobby available but with limited variety compared to Joann. |
| Joann’s Bankruptcy | Chapter 11 filed with plans to close over half remaining stores, affecting Tennessee. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Joann Fabrics to Close 800 Stores Nationwide
Additional Resources
- Daily Helmsman: Joann Fabrics Closure
- Commercial Appeal: Joann Fabrics Store Closures
- Tennessean: Joann Stores Closing in Tennessee
- Fox 13 Memphis: Joann to Go Out of Business
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Joann Fabrics
Author: STAFF HERE MEMPHIS WRITER
The MEMPHIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMemphis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Memphis, Shelby County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the areaโwith deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Beale Street Music Festival, Elvis Week, and Memphis in May International Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Memphis Chamber and the Memphis Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and music that power the local economy such as FedEx, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, and AutoZone. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
