This Altoona business has the perfect gifts for crafty people

“More in Store” is a Visit Altoona feature, spotlighting local retail businesses around Altoona, Iowa. If you’d like to support the Altoona community by sponsoring this ongoing feature, contact us here. Sponsors receive special recognition and exposure through our multimedia marketing campaign.

Fabrics & Fun in Altoona has a little bit of everything for the sewist or crafter in your life. Visit the shop today, and you’ll find an extensive variety of fabrics, ranging from quilting cotton (in numerous colors and prints) to apparel and utility fabrics. In addition to the fabrics, you’ll find all the essential notions (tools like scissors, rulers, needles and more) as well as crafting supplies, sewing machines, craft publications, handmade artwork and jigsaw puzzles. You can even sign-up for crafting classes taught by experts.

Not sure what to get the crafter on your list? Just ask the owners: mother-daughter duo Lisa Grell and Tammy Wilkerson.

For some, it may sound like a miracle—a mother and daughter not only getting along but running their own successful business—but Lisa and Tammy make it work. Each woman brings her own skills to the table—Lisa has a background of 36+ years in the corporate world, while Tammy is a sewing and cosplay enthusiast—and, in 2019, they brought their talents together to create Fabrics & Fun.

“We are a great alternative to the big-box stores,” Lisa says. “We are an independent, family-owned business that offers fabrics you won’t find elsewhere. We also provide a personal shopping experience not available in the corporate chains.”

“I love talking with customers and hearing about their projects,” Tammy says. “Even if you’re not sure what supplies you need—or, if you’re looking for someone who’s a crafter, and you don’t know where to begin—come into the store, and we’ll help you find the right products.”

Whether you’re shopping for a serious sewist, a novice crafter or simply someone who appreciates beautiful handmade décor, Lisa and Tammy will help you find your fabric.