Sticker Shock

While I'm waiting for my fabric to be delievered for my benches I'm gathering the other supplies I'll be needing.  Since this is my first attempt at upholstery I don't have anything on hand.  I called fabricland last week to see about their pricing for high density foam, only to be told that Fabriclands don't sell it.  Ummmm, where else am I supposed to get it! 

Luckily the lady recommended an independent place right around the corner from me, Ace Upholstery, who might.  I was happy to find that they did sell the foam, so I bought two 21x23 pieces for $20 each.  I was a little surprised that foam would cost so much.  The salesman said it was because the foam was made from oil.  Out of curiousity I called another Fabricland location and found out they do sell high density foam.  My heart dropped  a little before I asked how much they charged, in fear that I had been had at this other store.  I was pleasantly relieved to find that Fabricland's prices were more expensive.  Phew!

Since this is my first attempt, I checked a couple online tutorials and bought 3" high density foam thinking that was standard for furniture that would be sat on, but in hind sight I should have taken into account how high the tables already are.  I should have got maybe 2" foam.  But, the 3" will have to do now!  If I find they are too high I can always cut the legs down a bit.

Last week I went to Fabricland to see about some batting.  The lady looked at me like I had two heads when I told her what it was for.  Are they behind the times or something, or is it me, am I missing something?  Why is Fabricland against my little project!  So for just over 2 yards it would be $18.99.  I thought maybe this new place I found the foam from might beat that price.  I just got off the phone with them and they charge $3.99/yard!  Which would mean that 2 yards would be $8 + tax.  More than half the price! 

Moral of the story....shop around.  Turns out independent stores aren't always more expensive as I had expected!

Where do you go for your upholserting needs (fabric, foam, batting...)?