Different types of fabric shops range from high-end stores that sell expensive and sometimes imported materials.  These pieces of cloth are often beautifully designed  and grouped together by types.  They tend to offer hundreds of fabrics to chose from  which are usually accompanied by an array of trims and hardwares.  These type of shops often offer their customers memo and swatch services.  Memos are larger pieces of fabric that you can borow (for a nominal fee) and return later.  In more exclusive boutiques, staff generally suggests that you purchase from the bolt as this assures the same dye lot  thus providing a cohesive and uniformed selection of goods. 

Fabric Outlets stock a variety of discounted or discontinued materials often at a substancial discount to the consumer.  These shops usually maintain a decent selection of goods but plan accordingly as thee fabris may become discontintued and thereby be impossible to duplicate. 

Reminants are end bolt pieces that my only be a yard or tow of fabric.  The advantages of buying reminants is their cost effectiveness and tend to work best on smaller jobs such as pillows, runners, lamp shade     

Online fabric companies is a great source for purchasing materials.  Be sure, however, that the company is reputable, accepts returns within a reaonable time frame and represent what is presented on a website. 

Other sources for fabric purchases include flea markets, antique shops, bedding ensembles, flear markets, garage sales, and search engines.