Sewing Material in Hong Kong
First of all, if you are looking for a cocktail or evening dress custom made for you in Hong Kong, please check out >this post<
When I first came back to Hong Kong and started to sew, I had no idea where to buy all the supplies I needed in this city. I thought I could get my answer easily by googling “sewing supplies in Hong Kong”. I was wrong. After days of researching in Chinese, Cantonese and English, in different vocabularies combination and phrases. I still couldn’t have a precise idea of where exactly to get all the stuff. Apparently there is a lack of information about where to buy sewing supplies in Hong Kong. So after a few trips, wondering around the Sham Shui Po area, I decided to write down all the stores I know in my blog to help out whoever is looking for the same thing in Hong Kong.
(AUG 2011: Thanks for all the wonderful response since 2009! I didn’t expect this post would benefit so many of you! If you are looking for something that’s not covered in this post, feel free to ask and don’t forget to do a quick keyword search on this page. Someone might have provide some useful information already. Again, thank you all for commenting and contributing!)
(mostly in ShamShuiPo district)
Sewing Machine
Besides the typical department stores as most people have suggested (like UNY, Yue-Wah, and the little Singer Store in Mongkok), you may try walking along Lai Chi Kok Road between Nam Cheong Street and Poplar Street . There are lots of stores along this street that sell both home and industrial sewing machine and iron. Less expensive than in department stores. I bought mine at Hoi Fung Sewing Machine Co. Ltd. [@ 127 Lai Chi Kok Road]
Dress form / Mannequin
Cheung Sha Wan Road between Wong Chuk Street and Poplar Street. There are a couple of stores on this block selling dress forms, mannequin and hangers. Different types of dress forms are available for purchase on the spot. I bought mine at Man Sang Company [@ 28 Cheung Sha Wan Road]. The old man and lady are so friendly compared to the other stores on the block. My dress form does not have collapsible shoulder, but has the measurement I wanted. Cost only HK$650. You can also order a dress form custom made to any measurement you provide, expect about HK$2500, and 2 weeks for production. Note: Cash only.
Fabric
Walk along Yu Chau street, Ki Lung Street and Tai Nan street between Nam Cheong Street and Popular Street. In this area, you will definitely find something you want. A few stores might be for wholesale only (they will have a little note sticking at the store front: 不設零售 No retail, wholesale only/ 謝絕學生 No Students), but most will accept small order, meaning 3 yards minimum.
You’re welcomed to pick up all those swatches hanging inside and outside the stores, don’t be shy. Some might have indicated the price on the swatch card, if there’s only one price on, usually that’s the wholesale price (they call it 大貨價: price for bulk order). For retail price(零售價/散剪價), you might need to walk in and ask them for it. Most stores simply add on HK$5 to HK$8 per yard on top of the wholesale price, but I’ve seen a store stated on their swatch card that the retail price is the double of the wholesale price. Check with them before ordering.
For retail order, most stores only accept payment in cash. So have your cash ready at the time or ordering. Some stores might let you put down deposit instead of full payment, especially if the amount is higher. I ordered something at HK$3000, they let me put down half for deposit. But in another stores, I paid in full for an order at HK$1000. You may also call in to order, or fax in your order, and pay full at the time of pick up. But check with the stores. Depending on the availability of the fabric, sometimes you may be able to pick up the same day to 3 or 4 days later. I got most of my purchase the day after.
Trims, Ribbon, Styling Tape (Herringbone Twill tape), buttons
From Nam Cheong Street to Kweilin Street, between Cheong Sha Wan Road and Lai Chi Kok Road You will find a bunch of trim/ button stores around. I bought my 1/4” styling tape at Flying Dragon [@92 Nam Cheong] for HK$2 per yard.
Boning
Sam Hing Ho Haberdashery Co. Ltd [@ 80 Nam Cheong Street]. They sold both nylon boning (whale bone) and Rigiline boning (imported from UK, 8mm cost at HK$5 per yard) in different width., comes in black or white. I’m not sure if they sell the metal one or not, but the rigiline is good enough for me.
Zippers , Hook & Eyes tape, snaps, (Cottom stuff from quilting?)
You should be able to find these in the trim area above especially on Nam Cheong Street. Sam Hing Ho also sell Hook & Eyes tapes. On the same block, Hing Mee Sip-Fastener [@86 Nam Cheong] is selling tons of zippers in huge variety of color. Check that store out for zipper. 22″ invisible zipper cost from KCC brand HK$3 each, and YKK cost $5 each. Short regular zipper at HK$1.
Muslin, Thread and Shoulder Pad
On Ki Lung Street between Shek Kip Mei Street and Wong Chuk Street, you will find a bunch of stall in the middle of the road .
Muslin: closer to Shek Kip Mei Street (around HK$10/yard depends on weight, and you can bargain a bit)
Thread: in the middle among all those stalls. A new spool of thread cost HK$4. You can also find Zippers there, probably cheaper than in stores.
Shoulder Pad & Interfacing: First stall from Wong Chuk Street, if you must interfacing in a store, you may try Cheung Hing on the same street [@128 Kilung Street]. The guy there said you can purchase any amount…but generally expect HK$15/yard. great variety for swatches though. (I’m also guessing you can find pads along Nam Cheong Street)
Fusible At the beginning and the end of those stalls. Also walk up to the corner of Ki Lung St/Shek Kip Mei St, there’s one stalls selling fusible and pads right across a food stall. They sell medium weight fusible at about HK$8 per yard, light weight fusible at HK$7 per yard.
Tissue Paper
Li Ko Stationary 利高文具包裝 [@10 Sheik Kit Mei St] I might have missed the English name of this store. You have to walk in and ask them about paper, as they have all of their paper selection in a folder (I saw some brown paper too). But they do carry tissue paper at HK$60 for a pack with 480 sheets (about 41″x22″).This is better than nothing and cheaper than cutting with pattern paper. I remember they also carry pattern paper, but it’s in a 9″ roll for a couple of hundred dollars.
You will also have some luck looking with tissue paper in certain old, run-down looking stationary store in some industrial areas. Cause most of those factory nearby needs packaging supplies.
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Here are some stores you might want to check out:
Norray Enterprise (HK) Limited
http://www.norrayent.com.hk/
[@ 7/F, European Asian Bank Building, 749 Nathan Road, Mongkok]
This is a one stop store that sell lots of tools. Including dress form, drafting rulers, curves, chalk wheel, tracing wheel, scissors, pattern hooks, hole puncher, notcher, pins … and pattern paper! This is the only retail store I’m able to find that sell pattern paper. However it’s just some plain white paper, and the quality is a bit flimsy. If anyone who knows where else to buy pattern paper with a better quality PLEASE LET ME KNOW!.
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Tung Shing Sewing Machine. co. Ltd
http://www.tungshing.com/
[@ corner of Nam Cheong Street and Lai Chi Kok Road.]
This store have a wider selection of scissors, notches, and rulers. So far it’s the only place I found that sell metal curves imported from the United States. They also sell sewing machines.
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Wan Sheung Co.
[@93 Austin Road, Jordan]
I have been told that this is a great place to get good quality threads in different color. Also thanks to Alison for giving the information as I have never been there personally. “They’ve got zippers, embroidery and regular thread, shoulder pads, boning, lace & other trims, good quality scissors (including left handed ones), cross stitch supplies, elastics, sequins & spangles, all sorts of pins & needles, and who knows what else.”
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Magnetic Pin Holder @ United Pattern Design
http://www.updhk.com/en/index.php
[Rm 33, 5/F Cosmopolitan Centre, 760 Nathan Road, Prince Edward]
This is a necessity for me. I first got mine at Spotlight which is now closed. Ever since then I’ve been looking around in ShamShuiPo with no luck at all. Finally I discovered the United Pattern Design nearby the Norray. They actually have some pattern making classes going on, and selling certain garment making tools. Please check them out for paper weight, tracing paper, PATTERN PAPER. About the pin holder, I believe it costs around HK$35.
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Others location:
Jordan
I’ve heard about the Bowring Street in Jordan. I went there, but didn’t find helpful. I guess most of the sewing supplies store there were closed down…besides a yarn store I walked pass by Pilkem Street between Bowring Street and Austin Road.
Central, Sheung Wan
Also heard about the Pottinger Street in Central and Western Market in Sheung Wan. When you walk uphill at Pottinger Street, there should be a lady on your right selling some needles buttons and zippers. However I’ve never been to the Western Market.
Kwun Tong
Thanks to Roy for the following information:
“in the street market in Kwun Tong there is a little booth with two old ladies. they sell all kind of buttoms, chalks, needles and so on. ”
Please leave me a message, if you have any recommendation for buy sewing supplies or just to let me know that this information is helpful for your search of sewing supplies in Hong Kong. I’d love to know that I didn’t write all this in vain. Happy sewing 🙂
When kath is blogging 
Good article for me
Thanks for this article
Woohoo! I’ve been living in HK for almost a year and this is exactly the info I’ve been looking for … I too tried googling for this info but had a tough time. There’s a fabric store in CWB that sells a lot of beautiful Japanese fabrics that I love, and also a few stalls near our flat on Marble Road in North Point that have fabric (I”m pretty sure I got some Liberty prints!?) Thanks for this … I’ll head over to Mongkok this week and check out some places. I’m glad to meet another sewer/crafter here in HK!
Monte
Monte, could you please let me know where I can pick up Japanese fabric in HK? I would love to know. Thanks!
Monte, You have mentioned a fabric store in CWB, would you please elaborate what CWB is? Do you have the name and phone number of the store? Thanks for your tip
Thank you so much for the in-dept information, glad I found your page! gonna visit there this weekend 🙂
Thanks for the information! Sounds like ShamshuiPo will have all that I am looking for. Now that Spotlight has closed, our options are even more limited! Thanks again for all the details – it’s a great help!
Thank you for this blog. I have been looking for fabric shops in HK for months and could not find anything online. Most surprising. This blog has been most helpful.
Many thanks!! Had no idea where to get boning from! Very very helpful.
Pattern paper:
#648, Castle Peak Rd, Lai Chi Kok MTR B1 exit.
Ph: 27415888
Its a stationery shop and sells excellent pattern paper in huge rolls – if I remember right, starting at widths of 36″, then 48″, 60″ etc. They will deliver for most areas of HK I think.
Also Austin Rd, TST around #154 are a couple of shops selling dress forms and mannequins – I priced a dress form @ HKD350, but this was more than a year ago.
Thank you so much for this info, I really appreciate it. I am a furniture upholsterer and am looking for stalls in SSP that sell upholstery fabric (for sofa’s and chairs). Any idea where I could go? Someone also told me that there are some stalls in SSP that sell top quality fabrics from factories in India but you need to know where to go and who to ask, any ideas on that?
Kind regards,
Gwendolyn
same as the fabric section mentioned, I remember seeing a few stores on Ki Lung Street (between Nam Cheong Street and Popular Street) that sells fabric mostly for upholstery. Im not sure about the quality, but guess you may start your search there. Particularly, I think I saw one small store (only upholstery fabric) right at the corner of the street (probably cross section of shiek kip mei st)
Thanks Katherine, I will check those out soon!
Thanks again for all the info, so helpful! I am now looking for a supplier of upholstery materials like foam, nails, spray glue, jute, cotton and more. Any idea where I could find this? I am hoping I will have a studio to work from in Stanley from thsi january but will need materials. Happy holidays!
Gwendolyn
I was only looking for a sewing machine but I know your professional listing will come very handy. I’m a beginner and am looking for a machine to do some basic alterations although I think I will end up being more creative as I used to make clothes as a kid on m sisters machine! Thanks a lot for this, great help!
sewing is addictive 🙂
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Wow, this is so helpful! As another reviewer mentioned, this guide is exactly the information I’ve been looking for! Since I’m just starting up sewing in HK, I had no idea where to begin. I live in the Prince Edward area near Sham Shui Po, so I can get started by looking at all the shops nearby…thank you!
(Also…the note about “retail-only” Cantonese signs is very helpful…since I only speak English! Hopefully with that part figured out, gestures and a basic understanding of numbers will help sort out the rest… 😉
Thanks for the message. I’m so glad that this is helpful to a lot of people. I believe most of the vendors there can understand simple English (pretty much all you need is “how much”, “yard” and numbers) . you won’t have too much trouble dealing with them 🙂
by the way, they always write “yard” simply as “yd”
hi, may i know the fabric shop’s name that sell retail japanese pattern fabric? bcoz i can’t read chinese word,thanks :p
The information about Japanese fabric in CWB was provided by another member 🙂 you might want to message her directly through her blog. Personally I don’t think if there’s any particular stores in Sham Shui Po that specialized in japanese patterned fabric, if you are looking for highend silk Japanese fabric for Kimono…
I’d say you might want to call up those Japanese department stores and ask if they carry any fabric. I was told JUSCO used to sell fabric (but I don’t know for sure if they still carry it in every locations).
if you’re just looking for anything cotton print that looks Japanese, you can just walk around Sham Shui Po, and see if any stores carry any prints that looks like what you want. I’d also try out the store on “9 Wong Chuk St., Shamshuipo”. Their showroom is upstairs (entry on Ground floor) I remember they do sell quite a lot of imported fabric, and the prints are quite interesting, quite a lot of Asian style pritn.
thanks for the reply^^
if i want to buy ribbon and button, do you have place recommended?
also do you know where to buy craft punch? the one to make scrapbook?
thanks
you’re most welcomed 🙂
I don’t have any particular favorite stores for trims/ribbon and buttons. Just head to Nam Cheong St mentioned in this post, you’ll see quite a lot of ribbon stores. Every store stocks up more or less the same stuff. Prices are very similiar anyway. Just depends on your mood, or see which store is less busy (as I don’t like to wait around for the staff to help me). But I’d definitely walk into every one of them to see if they have some special pattern on the side.
craft punch, that I’m afraid I can’t help much ^^ but if i were you, I’d go to some big book stores first (like Commercial Press), then I’d try Citysuper . Also there’s a craft store in shamshuipo on Cheong Sha Wan Road, between Nam Cheong st and Shek Kip Mei st. I forgot the name of that store, but it has a dark red marble wall on the side, it’s about 3 or 4 stores right to the BEA Bank. I remember they sell some tiny stuff that’s good for handcraft project, but not sure about craft punch.
Hope these help 🙂
Thanks for this – I was wondering why no one had thought to do this, whilst searching for the web for sewing in hk and failing, considering all the great stuff here you would think that there would be heaps of info but this is by far the most useful info I have found Thanks again.
Thank you so much for your kind words. I’m so glad that this list has been helpful to a lot of people . I hope you found what you need in ShamShuiPo 🙂
Katharine, thank you so much for the info. I’m actually coming to HK in September / October and I’ll definitely check out the area you mentioned.
Btw, I wonder how popular is eco / organic fabric in HK right now? Is there any store you would recommend?
Thanks
Glad to help out 🙂
about organic fabric…. I swear to god I saw one store sell only organic fabric in ShamShuiPo before, but i couldn’t find it again… I think they closed down…..
However, I’ll let you know if i run into another store that sell eco fabric. I believe a few stores might have a small section for it.
Thanks! I bought my sewing machine from spotlight about a month before it closed down, so I’m still trying to find out where to buy everything. Thanks for the info!
you’re welcome 🙂
This has been great. I did explore Pottinger Street (sometimes just called the stairs off Queen’s Road). Good place for me to swing by in Central for notions. Plenty of zippers, buttons, thread and the like to avoid the trek over to SSP. Several shops carry apparel fabric on the block as well.
Thank you for providing this information, I’m going to include that in the post . hope that’s ok 🙂
Thank you so much for this info. I wish i`ve seen it before i bought my singer sewing machine. It would have been nice to see other brands just to try out. Thanks again because i am on the hunt for a serger machine.
I have a Janome serger. love it 🙂 you definitely should check their brand’s machine out .
Hi! This blog page is great with information! I am looking for faux fur, would you happen to have any shops to recommend? Thanks a lot! >_<
actually lots of those fabric stores in the area mentioned carries faux fur. You shouldn’t have much trouble finding them 🙂 maybe there are more stores in the area closer to Prince Edward 🙂
Hi Katharine,
thanks for all the info!
I was wondering-do you know anywhere i can get some soft leather and suede?
I’m sorry that i don’t know any particular places for soft leather. I only know that quite a few of the fabric stores carries faux leather.
Hi Katharine
Thank you for your informative article I am planning a trip to HK just to source for fabric, can you inform me in on the opening hours and days?
From Mondays to Fridays, all of the stores should be opened by 10am (I”m sure quite a number of them are already opened at 9:30am). Expect all the stores starting to close out after 6pm. Some stores might have an hour lunch break between 1pm to 2 pm.
Most of the stores are open on Saturdays as well, but then they usually close early on this day (some start closing at around 3pm)
and of course, close on Sunday and public holidays.
I hope you’ll find everything you need 🙂
Thanks so much! 🙂
Hi Katharine, and thanks so much for all your advice re fabrics etc. in HK. I’ll be there in a few weeks so am so pleased to have been able to add a few extra stops for shopping, thanks to you. I’ve been many times before but usually just stick to the usual SSP streets. (P.S. Want to meet for a coffee? I’m sure you’ve got a lot more craft/fabric shopping advice I could learn from!?? LOL).
I’m so glad to know that these are helpful 🙂 I hope you’ll find everything you want from SSP. Actually these are all i know about shopping and sourcing, you just need to spend a day there , keep your eyes open and walk around LOL
[…] amazingly cheap. Maybe I should start selling Ribbon on my site??? I also found a resourceful article on where to go. Also, I was recommended to goto another crafty place in Causeway Bay called […]
This is really awesome info, thanks!
When I need fabric and don’t feel like going all the way to Shamshuipo, I go to Li Yuen St East and West in Central or Western Market. I recall seeing some really nice imported fabrics at Western Market, but some of the shopkeepers can get a bit pushy. Was also able to get fusible on Li Yuen St (can’t remember if it was East or West) by the yard.
To fellow craftsters: Shamshuipo has all sorts of other craft supplies as well: beads, buckles, studs, rings, chains, grommets etc.
thanks so much for the information! it certainlly helps a lot!
Hi,
My mother and I are travelling to HK in January and are looking to purchase craft items and specifically looking for card making supplies. Any ideas on where to look for papers, punches, beads, motifs etc?
Any info would be much appreciated.
Thanks
Jodie.
Hi Katharine,
Thank you so much for this–it’s immensely helpful as I’m starting my own children’s clothing business here in Hong Kong. I have a question about the tissue paper you mention: is that commercial tissue paper, the kind you’d wrap clothing in and put in a gift bag? That’s what I need! Also, do you happen to recall ever seeing small dress forms/mannequins in Sham Shui Po? I need a few to display my girls’ dresses. Should I try the mannequin store you mentioned?
Let me know whenever you get a chance and thank you again for all the tips!
-Amy
Sorry for the late reply as i was out of town 🙂 But yea, the Tissue paper is the kind that you can wrap clothes in and put inside a gift bag. the only thing is that it seems to come in white only. and yes, there are dress form in children size in ShamShuiPo. definitely worth going there and check those stores out. Sometime they might not have certain sizes on display, but they’d have it in their catalog.
Hey Katharine,this info was very useful to mr as I was looking for most of the stuff you mentioned! Being my first time in Bangkok,I really benefitted from the detailed description.thank you and God bless!
Ebba
Thanks for the list. I’m debating on staying in Hong Kong, or moving back to California, and oddly enough I haven’t been able to find many sewing supplies here!
I hope you can find everything you need in HK now 🙂 although, CA is not a bad choice either
childrens clothing should be as comfortable as possible that is why the choice of fabric is also critical “`,
Thanks for this info! I’m a sewer about to go on a trip to HK and did a search for fabric sources and up popped your great overview. Will definitely be exploring the areas you mention.
you’re most welcomed 🙂 Have fun shopping in HK!
Thanks so much for this, it’s really helpful!
Do you know where I can find Wonder Under or something similar in Hong Kong? It’s a fusible adhesive that bonds fabric to fabric, like for an applique.
Hey there. I believe what you’re looking for is like a double sided paper fusible. I never bought it myself. However I believe those stalls in the middle of the road at Ki Lung Street selling fusible should have it. Also, I remember once when I was at the corner of Ki Lung St/Shek Kip Mei St buying fusible from that stall right across a food stall, the owner was explaining to another guy about a fusible he’s looking at, having glue on both side. Guess that’s what you’re looking for.
Hope you’ll find it 🙂
Great article, another good place for mannequins is a shop called SAMMI in a small lane opposite a bank near the road or bridge (can’t quite recall). Pretty good price there too, I just bought my mannequin there – black, able to put pins in it and with a metal stand for about 350.
thanks for sharing the info 🙂 that definitely was a pretty good bargin.
Hi there. What a great article, very useful indeed..thks so much. Will be visiting HK next week and thought of sourcing some materials for my girl’s Latin costume. Did u come across any place where they have nice fringe/tassel or some nice ready beads fabrics?
Thks again for the useful info.
Cheers-
hmmm fringe… that should be in the area where they sell ribbons and trimmings.
but regarding beaded fabric, I think you really need to spend some time to look for a good beading design. I think it’s would be very hard to find anything in stock that is nicely beaded and ready for you to take it with you right away. maybe allow 1 to 3 days… but you could try a place on No.11A Yu Chau Steet. I have to say tho, most of the beadings/embroidery design there looks rather Chinese to me…
Many thanks for this excellent resource, Katherine!
I lived here many years ago and had everything figured out for my sewing, but of course everything had changed by the time I moved back recently.
I’d figured out most of the places at street level, but am very happy to know about the 7/F place with things like tracing wheels – am sure I would never have found that one my own!
Hey, I recently discovered another place that is very similar with the Norray. It’s called United Pattern Design around Price Edward. I’m going to update this blog post with this info soon. But feel free to check them out first http://www.updhk.com/en/product_v.php.
What I like about this place is that they sell those magnetic pin box! (that’s something I can’t live without) They also have pattern paper there, but not sure if it’s sold by sheets or rolls.
Thanks for this information, Katharine. I’m spending a week in Hong Kong at the end of January and I always like to check out fabric stores.
Hi u have a very detailed post on fabric shopping in ssp.
By any chance if they sell silk organza and duchess satin to make wedding gowns?
I am getting married next year and custom making my gown. Hehe
Many thanks.
There is a place you should check out. it’s called “Ying Tai” on 29 Yu Chau St.
They have more bridal fabric selection. I believe they do have a few silk organza. Make sure you go through all the swatches binders.
However , sadly, I can’t find duchess satin anywhere…. (cry) I only managed to find one place that sell a thick silk satin that *might* be duchess. It’s called “Sing Sing” on 111B Yu Chau St. You have to spend some time checking out all those tiny pieces of swatches on the wall…. it’s a bit hard to find that one thick silk swatch….
Actually, I made bridal gowns too. and I have to say that, the real thick silk satin isn’t that much of a difference with the poly duchess satin, but the price is like 6 times more expensive… My recommendation would be either get the poly duchess in off white color from Ying Tai, or order the fabric online overseas from some store you trust.
and. Congratulations!
Many thanks again for the update, Katharine; will have to check out United Pattern Design too 🙂
And for Jin (and anyone else interested), although this place isn’t so near Sham Shui Po, I’ve just discovered that Angus Silks is still in business: http://www.angelfire.com/biz2/angussilkshongkong/
I used them a lot about a quarter of a century ago (shudder!!) when lots of my friends were at the marrying age and I did their dressmaking. They were very reliable then, and I see there are still some of the same people, so I think you could try them for the silk organzas, different satins and other wedding dress fabrics.
Alison. Wow Thank you so much for sharing this information. I’ll definitely check them out ! Thanks a lot.
Thanks for your fast response. You are such a great help. I was so scared that I couldn’t find the materials but now that u have pointed me to the shop itself, it put me in ease.
I’m actually from Malaysia and will be coming to HK for a holiday and making a detour to ssp to get the fabric. It’s hard to get the right fabric in my country. Looking for the fabric to a gown similar to this type of romantic gown.
http://www.preownedweddingdresses.com/dresses/12973/Modern-Trousseau-Carla-Size-8.html
And glad to know u make wedding gowns, will take your advise on the satin. Thanks a bunch *hugs*
Sorry I had to ask this again. What about appliqué? Do I find it in the lace shops in ssp?
That’s a beautiful dress. I wish that it turn out the way you want !
Regarding applique. Yes, you can definitely find them in ShamShuiPo. Quite a number of the trimming/ribbon stores have applique available. and some of the fabric store (such as the one at 11A Yu Chau St. , which i go for soft drapery silk) might have them too.
Hi Katherine,
I am desperately trying to find pure wool stuffing for toy making etc, can only seem to find polyester, which is neither soft nor particularly child friendly, non-flammable etc. Any ideas where I might find some.
Thanks
Carolyn
Hi Carolyn. hmmmm i think you need to go into some hand craft store and ask the people there….. I only know about fabric… not much about toy stuffing…Or try asking those stall’s owners on Ki lung Street…. sorry about this
Hola Katharine…
Muchas Gracias… Your post is just fantastic, Thanks for sharing all this helpful information.. I live in Dublin Ireland and I am a handbag designer and I can’t wait to go to HK in two weeks to get fabrics, and accessories for my bags.. By any chance do you know a place where I can find wooden handles, acrilic or metal frames for purses? I appreciate your advise
Thanks you..
Carolina
You’re most welcomed, Carolina 🙂
I’m not too sure about accessories for bags. but i *think* you will be able to find them around Nam Cheong Street, and possibly nearby/around Lai Chi Kok Road. The only thing I can tell you is that the closer you get towards Prince Edward district, the more fabric stores there are and the less trimmings/accessories you get. That’s why I believe you’ll have better luck up there around Nam Cheong Street.
Now that Katharine has started this great community resource, I hope I can do a bit to contribute 🙂 I’ve just discovered a good although messy notions/ equipment shop near Jordan MTR: it’s called Wan Sheung Co. at ground floor, 93 Austin Road (just a few doors west of Nathan Road, nest to the St Honore cake shop). They’ve got zippers, embroidery and regular thread, shoulder pads, boning, lace & other trims, good quality scissors (including left handed ones), cross stitch supplies, elastics, sequins & spangles, all sorts of pins & needles, and who knows what else.
I also “trawled” Bowring St, but it seems there are now only two fabric stores left on the whole length of the road, next door to each other. There were quite a few fabrics I would have liked to buy, but one of the owners (?) was trying to hard-sell stuff as “pure silk / wool / linen / etc. when one touch of the material was enough to show it had at least some synthetic content, so just beware if you go there.
For the people looking for craft punches, there was a booth with a lot at the Ladies Market this past week. I hadn’t seen them last month. I didn’t look closely but they had a lot of chinese character ones. And I didn’t ask about the prices. But it’s the Ladies Market so bargain hard.
I only found the same 2 shops on Bowring also and the hard sell was ridiculous. One of my guide books said that was a fabric street and jewelry supplies on the first few blocks of the Temple St. Night market during the day but I didn’t see anything remotely like that. I am thinking that it might be out of date.
I am going to SSP this weekend looking for feathers. In love with the Cherry Chau headbands at the Seibu in TST but not the price.
I am not sure but there might have been some card making supplies at this stationery/gift store I found this weekend in Wong Tai Sin (the Leung Cheung Mall at the MTR exit). They have other shops in Tsing Yi (Maritime Sq), Kwun Tong Plaza, and Wong Tai Sin Shopping Center. They have lots of markers and brush pen/markers, office supplies, some stamps, cute gifts, etc.. The Log On shops might also have some card making supplies in their stationery section.
Thank you so much for writing this! It has been very helpful, as I have recently moved back to HK. I figured Sham Shui Po would be the logical place to go, but you have gone above that with addresses and translating. Been to Western Market, I feel it caters more to tourists who are looking to have a suit or shirts made. Nice selection ( for the most part) of fabrics.
Happy sewing!
HI! I am soooo thankful that I stumbled upon this blog post. I am actually in need of whatever help you can give!
I am going to HK this upcoming week and Im uber excited!
It turns out that my sister is getting married this upcoming September, and she has inquired as to whether I can look and buy some white silk ribbon in bulk for her. Is this possible to find, and where should I look?
Also, what are the chances of bringing a photo of a brides maid dress I want and having it made for uber cheap, better yet, getting 2 of them made?
Im probably throwing a lot at you that you might not even know the answer to, but Im crossing my fingers you may have idea as to where to go!
I look for ward to hearing from you– send me an email if that’s alright- alms008@hotmail.com
This is the best site ever so much information!!!!! thank you so much. I am visiting HK from 28th January and cant wait to visit the fabric shops etc.
I make children’s clothing and want to have some basic nappy covers,( bloomers made up) I have cut them out and have a sample pair to bring with me, can you recommend anyone who might be able to help me with this or where would be the best area to start my search ? I need them to be made at a very reasonable price and well made!
Thanks again for the wonderful info.
Cheers Megan
Hi Megan, I’m sorry that I don’t have any information regarding finding a seamstress to get some item sewn, especially for people who are visiting HK. The problem is most places only take bulk orders. It’s very very difficult to find any small factories to take small orders. For small quantity, I usually recommend people to hire a part-time seamstress… but this would be difficult if you are not staying in HK for long.
Hi Katherine,
Thank you for all the great information.
Do you have any contacts or suggestions on where to look for a part time seamstress? I am facing the same problem, I want to kickstart a small business in making custom-fit skirts but it does not make any sense approaching a factory for a job like this as each piece is going to be different. What are your thoughts on this? Or anyone else with similar experiences? Thank you so much!
So glad I stumbled upon this site, it’s exactly what I am looking for. And thank you so much for sharing your info it’s uber useful. I have just moved to HK and am looking for reasonably priced part time seamstresses or places that can take bulk orders. Would you know of any as that would help me so much. I will definitely be making a trip to SSP very soon too. Great blogsite!!
I have just returned from a week in HK and visited SSP wow is all I can say. Unfortunately there weren’t many places open as it was in the lead up to New Year so many were closed, But the few I went into were great. I also purchased a few items from the stalls ( not sure what road ) but great bargains. I will definitely be returning.
Just a note though most places said they are shut until 14th Feb,
Katherine once again for a fantastic site!!!!!
Megan
I didn’t find a seamstress but if you find one i would be most interested if you could pass on the details. Cheers Megan
Hey Megan, glad to hear that you managed to find some good bargain even lots of stores are closed due to CNY 😉
for the record, most business wouldn’t stay close beyond the 12th day after Chinese new year. in fact, in my impression, you see stores begin to open from the 4th or 7th.
it just came into my head, that some Hong-Kongers actually like to go across the border over to Shengzhen to have clothes tailor made at a reasonable price. I’m not sure if this is for you or not. but i guess it might worth some time to look into it.
Hi Anna,
I know its many years down but can I ask if you ended up having any luck with this?
I am facing the same problem, I want to kickstart a small business in making custom-fit skirts but it does not make any sense approaching a factory for a job like this as each piece is going to be different. What are your thoughts on the feasibility on this? Thank you so much!
This would be tough. I know you can post an ad on the government’s labour department to find a part time seamstress. But they are not contractor, so you would need to have your own workroom so they come in to work and sew. And they are mostly Chinese who don’t speak much English.
You might be able to find some tailors who had their own shop to make each piece for you. But I believe it’s not an economical way in the long run.
Doing customized piece. It makes most sense to have your pattern maker and seamstress in house. (Most seamstress would not have pattern making skills, the majority would only sew according to sample or with very detailed instructions) as you would need to work closely with your team on every changes. And running to someone else’s shop for every order isn’t really a good idea eventually.
On Tuesday, 23 August 2016, When kath is blogging wrote:
>
Spot on with this write-up, I actually assume this website wants far more consideration. I’ll in all probability be again to learn much more, thanks for that info.
hi…
very helpful article.. would you by any chance know where i can find nice lace fabric for a wedding gown in ssp? or anywhere in hk?
thanks
Hello~
This has been very very helpful but I was wondering if you knew any places where they sell cheap petticoats?
Sorry for the late reply, and that I really have no idea.
But you could try going to the Golden Plaza on Nathan’s Road near Price Edward MTR.
Hi Katharine, I been searching for fabric store high & low. Somehow you blog been the most useful & full of information. I definitely will visit the places you mentioned. Really look forwards to check out..
p/s I’m coming all the way from Kuala Lumpur 😉
Thanks & best regards
Rose
Thanks for stopping by and leave a message. I really appreciate that 🙂
Hi Katharine,
Thanks for such a great blog! I was wondering if you have any info on where to buy lace that can be used to make a wedding dress. I’m getting married in July and am desperate to find lace in order to get my wedding dress made.
Warm regards,
Melody
Hi Melody. Unfortunately, I still haven’t find any retail stores that sell good lace. but you can try a place on Ki Lung St between Boundary St and Maple St, i forgot the name. They seems to have the best among what i can find in HK.
Hi Katherine.
Thank you so much for this detailed post. I’m actually planning to go to Hong Kong this July for my graduation project. I’m just wondering if it’s easy to find silk there as they’re so dear here in Australia.
Thanks!
Hi Katherine,
Great resource – thanks so much! Just wondering if you know of any shops in particular that stock quilting cotton? It’d be great if you could let me know as I have someone visitng HK who is a keen quilter!
Thanks 🙂
Hi!
This page was so helpful! Do you by chance know of any good places to shop for quality leather?
Thanks!
Laura
(if you’ve found any since your post that says you don’t know of any ) ;P
I was at Sham Shui Po today, and found this new store called “Po Lung Handbag Material” on Ki Lung Street between Wong Chuk St and Maple St. I’m not sure if they have real leather (they might carry some, i just didn’t look specifically for that). but as far as faux leather goes, they seems to have a pretty good selection. Hope this helps 🙂
OMG! thank you, thank you, thank you.
This is like a miracle. I´ve been looking everywhere for this kind of info.
you´re the best.
merci
stumbled upon this blog. grest stuff. many thanks. will take the 905 bus over to ssp on Thursday. looking particularly for millinery stuff and open mesh type lace. went down to western market yesterday. it’s no wonder the place is dead – the fabric sellers are sharks.
it may be hard to find millinery supplies. but you can’t find anything, you could try a place called “Tak Cheung” On Cheung Sha Wan Road between Nam Cheong and Sheik Kip Mei St. I’ve seen a cocktal hat’s base there before. Otherwise, i think you might have better luck looking for millinery material in the trimming/ribbon region. (area selling trims and buttons north of Nam Cheong Street).
thank you SO much!!!
Hi Katharine, if I give you a design would you be interested making it and how much would you charge?, for example, smart casual tailored summer dress with full lining. Material excluded.
Thanks
Juanita
Cheers for this. I went to SSP last December but was a bit intimidated by one shop lady. I did find a really nice haberdashery in the area and they were really nice and bought some elastic and some tools and sewing needles. My Cantonese is really bad (sounding like I was born overseas). Anyway I saw all the samples and really liked some of the patterns but didn’t get anything in the end. I’m mostly interested in natural fabrics like wool and cotton.
I am going to Hong Kong in 2 weeks to visit my daughter who is modelling there!. I have a business in Canada making organic home decor item (www.nikkidesigns.com) and would love to find some new organic fabrics there – organic cotton, hemp, silk, linen, tencel. Have you seen any stores that sell these?
Hi Nicolette. You might have a really hard time finding organic fabric in Hong Kong. there’s a store I *think* on Yu Chau Street near Boundary street called fabricate. I never went in, but they seems to have a nice and small selection of store. I wouldn’t surprise if they do source some nice organic fabric. But I really have no idea. if there are organic fabric here in SSP, it would be inside some nice specialty shops. I wish you luck. BTW, the link didn’t work.
Hi, I agree, thanks so much for all the information on here. I have been living in Hong Kong since April and have done a lot of exploring, I am finding it difficult to find cotton fabrics for quilting and have not seen anywhere that supplies batting. Does anyone have any suggestions?
Also, I would be interested in getting together with like minded (sewing related) people.
I have seen a few random shop in SSP and Mong Kok areas that have leather, nice qualities (sorry, can’t remember any further details or locations).
Hi Viv,
Will be in Hong Kong for the first 2 weeks of Mar and hoping to find cotton fabric for quilts.
Have you been successful in finding some shops ?
Thanks
Howard
Thanks so much for this article, was looking for ribbon supplies for scrapbooking :)))
Hi Katharine, great post! Do you know the name/website of any shops in the sham shui po area that sell cotton check/plaid fabric? thanks
Hi Isabel. I don’t have any particular store in mind that sell cotton in check/plaid, as these are very basic fabric, they should be all over the ShamShuiPo area. You shouldn’t have any trouble finding them 🙂 Good luck.
Just back from Hong Kong, and because of this post, I checked out the Sham Shui Po market! It’s huge! A little overwhelming and it would help to have an interpreter with you, but I did manage to find some nice linens that I could buy yardage off the bolt. You can read about it on my blog if you like:
http://nikki-nikkidesigns.blogspot.com/2011/08/my-trip-to-hong-kong-sightseeing-and.html
Thanks for the great info, it was easy to find! btw – cash only for the yardage, there’s a cash machine in the mall to your right when you get off the MTR. Try the waffles and ice cream in the food fair there!
Just got back from Hong Kong a week ago. I found the market at Sham Shui Po thanks to this post! It was huge! The shop keepers were not very friendly, but accomodating. It would have been helpful to have someone along who spoke Cantonese. I was looking for organic fabrics – not many to be found! But quite a few samples of linen and some tencel.
I have written about it here: http://nikki-nikkidesigns.blogspot.com/2011/08/my-trip-to-hong-kong-sightseeing-and.html
There is a cash machine at the mall near the MTR stop. Try the waffles and ice cream in the food fair!
Hi Nicolette. I’m so glad to hear that you get to find ShamShuiPo Market, although I have to say that it is very hard to find organic fabric there. After all, organic hasn’t yet become a popular trend in HK like some other countries. I hope this will change in the near future.
It seems like you had a great time in HK with your daughter 🙂
Hi Katherine, thank you for your post. Do you know if I can buy thai silk at Sham Shui Po area? I am looking for orange thail silk for a dress. Any tips would be appreciated!
The Western market had some nice silks – make sure you barter!
Yea, try western market as Nicolette suggested. I don’t have any particular store in mind. But the thing about ShamShuiPo is that you really just have to walk around and pop into every store. one of them might have the fabric you’re looking for in the corner!
Thank you so much to you both! Very helpful!
you’re welcomed 🙂
THank you for all the great information. What I was wondering is if you knew of any places that I could purchase wholesale and have shipped stateside.
Pretty much all the stores do wholesales. But I’m not sure about the delivery, you will have to check with the store 🙂
Hi Katherine,
I am in Hong Kong now and planning to go to SSP today. Do you know where I can find printed cotton fabrics? As well as oilcloths or laminated fabrics? Thanks so much!!!
Hi Katharine,
Thank you for all the information. I want to travel from South Africa to Hong Kong. Mainly to buy materials and let garments be made from my designs. Now I have heard from a few sources that I can find beautiful materials there but my question for you is if you can please give me information about the making of the garments. Is it possible to make garments from sketches in Hong Kong?
Hi Marisa,
In general, I wouldn’t recommend people to try to get their garment made in HK, by showing their sketch to a tailor. while they are traveling to HK and staying here only for a few days to visit. The reason is that if you want good quality, it’s unlikely you can find a shop who would squeeze your order in their busy schedule, and get your garment made within a week (assume most tourist stay in HK no longer than a week). Of course, unless you pay them more money. However, I think most people are interested in getting garment made in HK is for the low cost, so that kind of defeat the purpose for getting clothes made here.
Secondly, you do need to look around to see who can do a better job on the type of garments you want to make. Since not everyone can do a perfect job on sewing certain material. So lots of research has to be done. But then it is a little hard since you won’t find much information online, as most seamstress here don’t really advertise online. So you will have to spend a day or two just to travel around and ask them if they would sew what you want and quote you the cost.
Lastly, communication. Most seamstress/tailor don’t speak English. It would be very difficult for you to tell them what you want, unless you have a perfectly detailed sketch with production drawing. (unless it’s something very simple). But if you only speak English, you maybe able to find some tailor in the Indian community. However, that’s something I know nothing about.
So it is possible to get your garment made here by showing a sketch. But don’t put your hopes up. If you want quality work for something nice, you either have to pay more than what you’re expecting, or you’ll have to be here and patiently do a couple of fittings.
I would like to make a suggestion, for I have lived in Hong Kong for 8 years now and from South Africa as well. My suggestion to Marisa is that you can go to the border, Lo Wu station, go through immigration into China, and there is a huge shopping mall with material and many many tailors to make your garment from your sketch. Go early, give them your sketch and material and they will have it ready same day in afternoon, while you wait, you can go for a manicure :-)) They even deliver it within a few days in Hong Kong, depending on your design. They are cheap as well. South Africans do need a visa to travel to China, single entry or multiple entry. Can arrange it very easy at the Airport with a company called China Travel Agency. Takes 3 working days, costs around HK$ 300 – HK400 for single entry.
this is amazing, thank you so much for this comprehensive post!
u’re most welcomed
Thank you so much for the information. I also would like to know if Thailand has some nice textile shops and if it is easier to make good quality garments there. I would appreciate if anyone can give me some detail. Thanks again. Keep well:-)
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Hi Katharine,
Thanks for your amazingly informative article! You’ve saved me many hours of meaningless wandering in HK and I’m really grateful for it 🙂 I have a request that I thought you may be able to suggest..
I’m a young designer here in HKG and the startup company which is employing me, wants to know where we can source nice clothing racks. Do you know where we can get these? We want really nice quality ones, with big wheels.
Thanks, look forward to hearing from you! I’ve been searching a lot for the same but don’t quite know whom else to contact
Best,
Dash
Thank you so much for this post and all your information. I visited Sham Shui Po today, and it was AMAZING! I can’t wait to explore more, and next time find the zipper shop.
Hey there,
So glad to know that you had fun in ShamShuiPo and found some materials you’re looking for! Hope you get to start on your craft projects soon! Happy sewing.
btw, thanks for mentioning my blog post. Love your little report on your ShanShuiPo trip 🙂
love
Hi Katharine,
Thanks! I had to mention your blog post, without it I would not have found Sham Shui Po – and what a treasure it is! I went to that fabric Shanty town last week too, it was bizarre. I need to explore it on my own, not with a toddler.
Nice to “meet” you!
Cat
Hi! I am visiting Hongkong this coming Christmas and would definitely go to the places you suggested! Would you happen to know though where I can buy a rotary cutter and spare blades plus the style tape for the dressform for draping?
Hope to hear from you soon! Thanks! 🙂
You can find rotary cutter at some art supplies store. I’ve seen them at one store in Mongkok, can’t remember the name though. It’s on Bute Street, Between Sai Yi Street and Fa Yuen Street. The store is right next to an escalator. If you can’t find it over there, try the other art/craft supply store on Sai Yi Street (if you’re walking on Bute street from Fa Yuen Street, turn left when you hit Sai Yi Street. there are 2 or 3 stores in that block) .
Style tape…. which type of style tape do you use? I personally use the herringbone twill tape, which you can find it from my article above. But if you’re looking for the sticky kind, then *maybe* you can try United Pattern or Norray. However I’m not too sure on this one.
Hi Katherine, I just started sewing and I’ve been to Sham Shui Po for fabrics and other sewing materials, one thing I have a problem with is where can I buy a rotary cutter and a cutting mat. Do you have any idea where can I find these? I’ve been searching the internet but all I get is a wholesale suppliers. I’ll greatly appreciate any help. Thank you for writting this blog, it is really helpful 🙂
Hi Angel, yea, ShamShuiPo is hard to find rotary cutter and cutting mat. You’ll need to hed to art supply stores! I’m not sure if Mongkok is convenient for you, but i know for a fact they have them there. You can try the art supply stores on Bute Street, Between Sai Yi Street and Fa Yuen Street. The store is right next to an escalator, sorry i can’t remember the name. If you can’t find it over there, try the other art/craft supply stores on Sai Yi Street (if you’re walking on Bute street from Fa Yuen Street, turn left when you hit Sai Yi Street. there are 2 or 3 stores in that block) .
Oh thank you so much you’re so kind, what a relief! I’m happy now. Finding a rotary cutter is like a needle in a haystack here in Hong Kong esp. I don’t speak Cantonese ( lol )….I am going to check it out asap!!!!! 🙂
you’re most welcomed! let me know if you need any other help!
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Hi Katharine,
Thank you again for this wonderful trove of information. Last week, I went to MongKok as I needed some new rotary cutter blades. The art supply store you mentioned above is called “Art Supplies Professional Limited” . The actual address is 75-77 Bute Street, MongKok, one shop back from the corner of Sai Yee Street, near an escalator like you mentioned. It is a fabulous art supply store, it has a big selection of all sorts of things like paper, glues, pens, tools. They have a large selection of Olfa gadgets, including Olfa rotary cutters and replacement blades. I bought the last 2x 45mm blades and asked for more, but was told there were none – so I hope I can go back and there will be more next time.
I went to the Hing Mee Zip-Fastener shop, and it was amazing, SO MANY zippers.
I was happy to find that the Hoi Fung Sewing Machine Co sell Janome sewing machine needles, as I needed some more (and at 1/4 price I used to pay for them in Australia)
Today I went to Wan Sheung Co in Jordan (93 Austin Rd) and they did have a large selection of different coloured polyester threads. Use exit D from the Jordan MTR, turn left as you leave the MTR then cross over Nathan Road, and it is a few shops up on the right.
Cheers
Cat
Hi again,
I forgot to ask, do you know where I can buy all the components to make fabric covered buttons. I have looked in many button shops, but not there. And are there any dedicated scrap-booking shops here in HK? There are some scrap-booking supplies in book and stationary shops, but never a large range or variety. The “Art Supplies Professional Limited” shop I mentioned above had a few things, but not many.
Thanks
Cat.
sorry for the late reply, and thanks so much for the information from your trip to SSP 🙂
Not too sure on the fabric covered buttons, as i never made them. But I’d guess that you have to find a workshop/small factory in the area to have them made it for you. I’d start with asking those buttons stores in SSP if them make those or not, and ask them if they know which company/stores would do it.
HK isn’t really big on scrap booking…. lol what type of stuff is usually needed for scarp booking?
This is a wonderful treasure trove for sewers visiting HK which i will be doing in December.
I am looking for traditional Chinese blue and white cottons. Sometimes stencil dyed and sometimes shibori or tie dyed, they are always dyed blue. There was a store in Jiyugaoka, Tokyo for years that recently closed and I have bought at a store in Shanghai. Any idea where I can get some when I visit HK?
I don’t think i’ve seen any traditional chinese tie dyed blue cottons in SSP. I believe you might need to look for some specialty fabric stores…..Sorry that i couldn’t be more helpful on this one.
I have just seen some blue & white in shenzhen, the Lo Wu commercial building.., a girl on the floor space by the stairs 3rd floor I think???? she has been there before as I bought some wall scrolls with blue & white flowers, she may have material to sell? or at least know where to get it.
Heather
This is a very late reply, but I stumbled across these last weekend in Central. The fabric looked very similar the traditional ones we saw in villages near the Three Gorges Dam on the Yangtze. The shop’s website is: http://mountainfolkcraft.com/
Hi katharine,
your blog is amazing!
I’m going to Hong Kong next week to buy some fabric and beading supplies.
Would you happen to know where i can find a tambour hook/needle for couture beading?
Thanks
Mel
hmmm tambour hooks…. I never look for them, so I can’t be sure. However I’d definitely try out those bead stre. They might sell tools as well. Of course check out Tung Shing too. best of luck.
Hi Katharine, this is a great help for those of us who sew, or for crafters in general. I have been trying to get fabric since Spotlight closed and have only managed 2 fabrics in Shenzhen. I have a little Cross stitch shop in Mong Kok that I go to which has just started to have some quilt fabrics, but it is just a box with only 10 – 12 pieces although the lady rang someone (??) when I wanted to take all of one story fabric (5 fat quarters). Think I will have to ask her where she get it from so that I can check out fabrics.
I looked once in SSP after I bought my sewing machine (Fortress in Tung Chung had them out -3 Brother sewing machines plus an overlocker) but was unable to find any shops… will now have to go back and look harder. Once again thank you for all the info.
Heather
Hi Heather, Glad to help out 🙂 Hope you’ll find all you need the next time you go over to ShamShuiPo !
Hi Katherine,
Thanks so much for the info! I live in Macau and am headed over to HK tomorrow, I am hoping to find some poly-pellets (little plastic seed-like things used in making plushies and bean bags). I am also hoping to get some poly-fill (stuffing for plushies) Do you know where I could look for some?
Hi Erica,
I personally don’t know where to find those poly pellets. However you could try a place called Tak Cheung On Cheung Sha Wan Road between Nam Cheong and Sheik Kip Mei St. It’s like a place for hand craft supplies.
Also, I saw someone in my work building did bought some poly pellets before. However he’s not at work today, if it’s not too late maybe I can ask him tomorrow and email you 🙂
Thanks for the suggestion! I ended deciding to wait and go to HK tomorrow because the weather is so bad. I would love it if you could send me a message when you can talk to your co-worker.
Thanks 🙂
Erica
Hi Katharine,
I too wanted to know where you can get the poly-pellets, did you manage to find out from your work friend where he got them? Also I’m desperately seeking for microwaveable organic grains to stuff pillow warmers or bean bags.
Thank you so much
Erica, Now that’ I’ve just about memorised the first part of this blog (Thanks yet again, Katharine!!) I only check in once every couple of months or so to see what other treasures have come to light. But if it’s not too late for you, then in Macau I would suggest heading down to Three Lamps: in the same section of the circle as the Watsons store is an excellent little sewing/ crafts supplies store. I don’t know if they have the poly beads, but the man boss there speaks very good English, and very helpful. If he doesn’t stock whatever you need, he can help you find it 🙂
Hi
I am looking for a place to buy good quality fabrics for dresses & tops. Please let me know.
Many thanks,
Shimoni
I think you do have to go in to the fabric section, and walk into every store to see if they have the quality you’re looking for 🙂 but in general , I think ShamShuiPo isn’t selling highend luxurious fabric. So I think it will definitely take some time .
I have learned some excellent stuff here. Definitely value bookmarking for revisiting. I wonder how much attempt you put to create such a great informative website.
Thank you 🙂 I didn’t do much, it was just gathering information that I already know and just put it all on the same page. I also have to thank all the visitors who come back and provide more up-to-date information. This wouldn’t be possible without everyone’s support and contribution 🙂
I simply couldn’t leave your website prior to suggesting that I really enjoyed the usual info a person supply to your visitors? Is going to be back frequently in order to investigate cross-check new posts
Hello Katherine,
Thank you very much for the information you provided.
Please allow me to introduce myself as Geetanjali (Geeta for short); Fashion Designer working for a maternity and kidswear brand in Dubai, UAE. Our company BluePink Fashion is a new start-up and we are looking for professional dress forms; both maternity and children.
Would you know any professional companies in Hongkong who stock such products and can ship to us in the UAE?
I look forward to hearing from you.
Cheers,
Geeta
Since most of the dress forms are made in China and then sent to HK, I believe you would be better off contact some producer located in Mainland China, and have them ship directly to Dubai.
Hi katherine,
I am starting a tailoring business for bespoke Men’s suits shirts etc in dubai would really appreciate if you could help out … i am looking for high quality fusing /buttons/canvas etc i am travelling to hong kong on the 5th december 2011 .. please if you could guide me thru it would be great .
Hi Katharine i am looking for kids cotton fabric prints and polar fleece with cartoons on them or cute kids print. Do you have any idea where in Hong Kong that i can find these types of fabrics?
[…] Given101 There is great blog – Sewing Material in Hong Kong The fabric Bazaar in SSP has plenty of choice but the layout means patience is a must. Nearby Ki […]
Thanks so much, I’ve enjoyed reading comments and your blog. I’ll keep you informed if I find any other stores that sell sewing needs.
Thank you 🙂
Hi Katherine,
I’m so grateful I found your post. I bet you never thought you would be so helpful to so many people! Especially since you posted this some time ago.
I’m heading to Vietnam where I started manufacturing a women’s clothing line (primarily blouses.)
I change planes in HK and I’m thinking about staying there for a day or two to find fabrics. Vietnam typically has remnants in their markets so, consistency is a problem.
As you might imagine, this whole thing is overwhelming to me. I’m new to manufacturing, but I love it and I want to be successful.
I’m looking for bright patterned, wrinkle-free, 95/5 (thereabouts) cotton/spandex fabric. The wrinkle-free part seems to really be difficult. Any suggestions and do you think trying to source in Hong Kong is a good idea?
AND, will shops be open on Monday, February 6, 2012 or will they still be celebrating New Year?
My sincere thanks for any advice you may have to offer. It is greatly, greatly appreciated!
Shay
Hello Shay, Thanks for your message. You’re right. It was totally unexpected that i got so much great responses. I didn’t think that there would be this many people looking for these information as I did years ago. I’m also very grateful that lots of commentator left some very helpful information 🙂
I must say, if you have the time to stay in HK for a day or two, it wouldn’t hurt to come over to ShamShuiPo area, and check out what they offer here. You might find something you like. And it’s always a good idea to compare prices and quality from different places.
However if you are staring to manufacture a line, with a large quantity, it might make more sense to source fabric directly from Mainland China. If possible , try to get yourself into some fabric/textile trade fair. If the quality is small, then check out what we offer in HK! 🙂
All stores should be back in its normal business hours from Feb 1. Typically, to be on the safe side, I’d say that stores close for 7 days from the first day of the Chinese New Year (jan 23). So, if you’re coming on Feb 6, you should be fine 🙂 have fun!
Hi Katharine,
Love your blog and the information you have been able to pull together.
I am living and working in Hong Kong and only moved here in October last year.
I have a hobby that I have been doing for some time now and want to continue in Hong Kong and that is making hats – ‘Millinery’. I am looking for places that I can purchase my hat supplies – a lot of the information you have supplied is certainly relevant, but then I am looking for straw and felt fabrics, hat trimmings, feathers, flowers, netting/veiling, braid etc – would you know where I might find these supplies.
Brenda
Hi Brenda,
sourcing material for millinery is a bit hard in Hong Kong! However, I’d look for feathers, flowers in the “buttons, ribbon” section of ShamShuiPo. You may come across a few stores that particularly sell things for wedding and bridal stuff. You might have better chance to find those feather, flowers and veil in small quantity from them. I’ve seen them have some smaller base for cocktail hats. I think the one I saw was on Nam Cheong Street, Probably at the corner of Yu Chau Street. from there if you turn right onto Yu Chau Street or Ki Lung Street, there is a small store selling flowers. Good luck!
Thanks Katharine,
Plan going there tomorrow, hopefully some stores will be open, even though it is still Chinese New Year. Will let you know how I go and what I find.
Thanks again
Brenda
Katharine – thank you I have lived in HK for over 10 years now and want to buy an overlocker. I had no idea where to start but knew there must be a ‘sewing machine street’ just as there’s a street for everything else in this place! I will check out Hoi Fung and start from there.
hey there, is the any fabric store that seels better quality than at sham shui po? I’m talking about runway fabrics, for shows and stuff… can be expensive, im visiting HK this weekend so im not sure where to go… if you do have any address please lemme know. thanks a lot.
I don’t have the address, but i noticed a store in ShamShuiPo on Yu Chai Street (closer to MTR station Prince Edward. they do sell fabric used on runway. However they only take bulk orders. You won’t miss it if you walk by it. it has lots of magazine and runway photos on on the wall.
I know most of the stuff in SSP are not exclusively high end. But if you have the patience and time, you can actually find one or two store that has the quality you’re looking for. Good luck.
Hi! Just wondering if you know of any sewing service? I ordered fabric online and I need it hemming to make a wall-hanging.
Thanks!
Hannah
[…] expect about HK$2500, and 2 weeks for production. Note: Cash only. The whole blog is here: Sewing Material in Hong Kong Reply With Quote + [Reply] « Tatami Mats | – […]
hi there! any cross stitch shop in hong kong, or ks cross stitch shop
Hi! Was wondering if anyone had come across anything else (apart from previous earlier entry) re home furnishing/upholstery fabrics? Heading over to SSP early next week for another “sampler” but really looking for some funky, furnishing fabrics for a new venture I’m working on. Alternatively, if anyone has any advice on sourcing this type of product elsewhere (Hong Kong or otherwise), I’d be eternally grateful! Thanks 🙂
HI i am looking for
(-) velvet cloth in the style of the 1920’s with flowery motives; does anyone know where i could get this in hongkong or who would produce this type of material? it seems hard to find.
(-) cloth in ebony white to transform into chair covers or i’d like to find a place where i could buy ready made chair covers?
any ideas?
thx 🙂 jerry
I know there are velvet around ShamShuiPo, with pattern or even those burn out type of velvet. but I’m not sure if they have the style of motive you’re looking for. But definitely worth to check that area out. On Yu Chau Street, Possibly cross Wong Chuk Street, there is a store at the corner that sells fabric mainly for upholstery. Good luck.
thx Katharine. had a look there. in the shop in particular nothing. but the area itself was a good tip. what i am looking for (silk burn out velvet) is quite hard to find. Finally in the area Ki Lung Street no1 (professional textile & trading co.) i found something similar to what i am looking for. Need to nego for production now.
Many thanks again for your kind assistance.
J
you’re most welcomed. I’m glad that at least you found something similar 🙂 hope the negotiation goes well!
Hi to all. Just found this blog and it is fab! I have two suggestions for fabric. 1) Yau Shing (Yau Fat) Piece Goods, formerly located at 208-220 Queen’s Road, is now at 109-110 in Western Market. The staff are very helpful, speak good English and they carry wonderful fabrics including designer eg Ralph Lauren, Miu Miu, Chanel etc. They also have some good European fabric eg Italian silk jersey — gorgeous and almost impossible to find good jersey.
2) The fabric market at Lo Wu Commercial City, Shenzhen. This is the one just right across the border at Lo Wu — very easy to get to. 5/F. They have an extraordinary range and some of it is really good. I can spend hours there ….there are also small haberdashery stalls which sell buttons, trims, etc, as well as fur …. Very good selection of silk and devore velvet (the “burned out” velvet someone mentioned) and brocade. Some ideas: #96 for stretch silk, #4-5, 58 for cotton and linen; 2, 55 and 94 for velvet. There is amazing silk chiffon at #6 and shop opposite (same owner) and shop 60. Fake fur at 57, 108. Silk brocades at 81. Try 79.
hi, where can buy cross stitch patterns in Hong Kong? thanks
Hope you can help me also. I am sewing silk kaftans for sale and I am looking for Hong Kong fabric suppliers selling at wholesale prices if possible. If my little venture takes off I would love to visit Hong Kong and shop personally, but until then I wish to buy on-line and have the fabric shipped to me. I would be very grateful if you could provide me with websites for obtaining these fabrics. Very kind regards Grace.
Dear Grance, I’m not too sure if those fabric store have websites….. it’s not too common for them to hav website and simply do trading online. as far as i know, those stores don’t bother with online presence, as customers would have at least go in there and see the fabric samples in person first.
It would be very risky for you too, to simply order everything online. There are really a lot of silk fabric with different quality. that means you might have to go through a lot of store’s sample before finding the one you want.now, imagine how much you’ll have to pay for shipping samples before even finding the right one.
All of those stores in Hong kong would do wholesales, and it usually start at around 100 yards. (for example, they sell a silk charmeuse at 60 HKD/yard for retail, if you buy in builk, then it is 55 HKD/yard)
The only thing i could think of, is for you to try researching on HK’s trade development council website. They listed some informations for most companies HK, hopefully you can find a supplier with a full website. http://www.hktdc.com/
I’m sorry, i wish i know more on this.
Thank you Katherine your reply is much appreciated. Regards Grace.
Hi, I was wondering where in HK I can find sequince and crystal trims for costumes. thanks Cindy
You may refer to the ribbon section from the post above 🙂
Hello Katharine, I’ve just today read your fabulous blog for the first time. You are a wealth of information!
I am coming to Hong Kong this month and am looking for fabric punches/cutters; the ones that give a laser pattern to suede and leather.
I’ve heard they are available in Lai Chi Kok and Sham Shui Po and that you can even have your own designs made. Any assistance would be greatly appreciated.
Thank you
Colette
unfortunately, I never paid any attention to fabric puncher….
it sounds like something you would fin in a craft store.
if you are in ShamShuiPo area, you coud try to see if Tung Shing (see address from the post) has anything.
I’ve seen them have some japanese crafty tools, not a lot. so don’t have high hopes.
but it could be a place to start. and hopefully someone from the store may help you out.
Hi, an amazing guide – I was wondering if you knew of any great silk fabric shops in Hong Kong.
David
Hi David, Unfortunately, as far as quality goes, you do have to go to ShamShuiPo ‘s fabric section and look into every store’s sample personally.
HI Katharine! thanks a lot for info!!!! i am looking for good Adjustable size dress form. Any idea where to get it?
those places mentioned in the post would be a good place to start looking 🙂 thanks
Hk Katharine, since Spotlight closed – is there anywhere to buy patterns in Hong Kong? Thanks ucas
unfortunately I haven’t seen anywhere else that sell patterns. I might try some japanese bookstores. or simply buy it online. goodluck
You can find some commercial patterns at The Sewing Lounge in Mid- Levels
Hello. Do you guys know where I can buy rhinestones and fake pearls in hong kong? And also those little resin decorations like this
Than you very much! 🙂
You may find lots of stores selling things u are looking for in shamshuipo, Just walk around the beads and trimming area mentioned in the post . Cheers
Sent from my iPad
[…] am indebted to Katherine Yeung for her blog post on where to find sewing materials in Hong Kong and Travellersyarn for her blog post on where to buy fabric, both of which I used to […]
Hi Katherine .. I love your blog… I would love to talk to you about sewing and your blog in Hong Kong… Is it possible for us to talk?
Mel
i’m wondering if we could form a meet up for those of us here in HK interested in sewing and finding supplies.
[…] Materials – Hong Kong GeoExpatSewing Material in Hong Kong « Just a few thoughts…sewing supplies in Hong Kong « Just a few thoughts…Hong Kong Vest – Distinctive […]
Thanks for your helpful suggestions for fabric and notions in Hong Kong. I was to the Western Market and on the second floor are the fabric shops. A great selection of silks, suiting and some cotton. Silk prices seemed quite good.
Hi everyone, very useful blog Katharine, thanks. And yes, you can lose hours down in Sham Shui Po! I have all the determination, but sadly no skills! Am looking for a short course or a tutor willing to demonstrate the very basics of how to use a sewing machine – my goal is curtains, cushions and beanbags for my son’s new room 🙂 Do you know of anyone who offers this service? YMCA / YWCA have nothing on offer at this moment. Or if I buy the sewing machine in SSP, do they offer a quick demonstration? Appreciate any pointers as I’m really keen to get started! Regards, Shelley
I’ve lived within walking distance of Western Market for more than six years now. I avoid the fabric shops on the upper level and never take any visitors to HK up there. I find the traders there dishonest and the goods are overpriced.
Thank you for this blog. It saved me a lot of time looking for herringbone tape.
Also, I was also looking for fabric paint in Sham Shui Po without success and in the end I found it in CN Square (http://www.yp.com.hk/chungnamhk/) 503 Nathan Rd, Yau Ma Tei… (just in case anyone is looking)
[…] shift of the clothing factories to lower cost countries. Also there is a very good blog here Sewing Material in Hong Kong Sewing Material in Hong Kong Reply With Quote […]
Hi Katharine, I was searching for info. about sewing machine today as I am thinking to learn how to sew and viola, your blog pops up. I love it and just want to say thank you for your effort and kind heart to share the information as well as answering questions of the people from all around the world:)
I have a question and maybe you or other readers can help. I’ve never tried sewing before and I think it’s time for me to learn now, but do you know where I can learn in HK?
BTW, how was your trip to Europe in last December? I am also interested to visit several places that you visited in that trip:)
Thank you for your message, I really appreciate it 🙂
Regarding sewing lesson, if you speak Cantonese, you can try out “United Pattern Design” in Prince Edward. I know they offer pattern making classes, so i think they should have something for sewing. If you speak English only, you may check out http://www.esmdywca.org.hk . Someone passed me the information before, so i have not personally check out their courses, however maybe it’s a good starting point.
Thanks for asking about my winter trip. That was a really fun trip, even though it was quite cold! I have wrote some blog posts on it at http://trippykath.wordpress.com/ If there’s anything I could help please let me know 🙂
Dear Katharine, thank you so much again for your great information about the classes:) I’ve called them and found out some information about sewing class. At United Pattern Design, they don’t offer just the sewing machine class but they do have pattern design and clothes making classes.(They do offer private class though but it’s a little out of my budget!) I am in the midst of moving from Guangzhou to Shenzhen, so I will wait until everything is done:) Also, I’ve learnt that ywca offers quite a variety of classes in English, oh, and from the ywca website, I found out that I can also help the Hong Kong Society for the Blinds as a volunteer…:D Thanks again for your help:) FYI., I do speak Cantonese, Mandarin and English, so if you know any other places that offer just the sewing machine class, please kindly post a note here and I will check back from time to time for sure:)
I am so busy lately taking care of the move so I have no time to plan for our trip yet:( Not sure if we can make it there this year:( If not, we will go to Aussie instead…heehee…;-)
Cheers,
Juliana
check out http://www.arthouse-hk.com/home.html. I know they have some evening class for sewing in happy valley.
Are interested in private lessons?
Thank you very much for the Art House information Evgeniya. As you may already know, they offer mostly art classes with only 1 fashion design class which I think is not the same as the sewing class which I am looking for. The art classes are very intriguing but the locations are not convenient to me and the price are also out of my budget. Thanks anyway! — Juliana
Since you can understand cantonese, you could try tailor and alteration in causeway bay??? The webside is http://needleworkclub.com/index_topic.php?charset=big5&did=39&didpath=/39
Thank you so much for this article Katharine. It helped me a lot when I went to sham shui po last week. I also went to a hawker market on lai chi kok road, opposite of lai chi kok police station. Fabrics there are cheaper and you don’t need to order and wait.
BTW, does anyone know a tailor who can make cushions at affordable price?
I have 15 cushions to make with piping around…
Hi, if you don’t mind me asking, which area do you live? Hong kong island, Kowloon or NT? Cause I know for the cheapest, it gotta be over the border in Shengzhen. It’s great if you live in NT. I’m in Tsuen Wan Area, I saw a little store close to MTR station do make home decor stuff, not sure about their price, but shouldnt be expensive.
I’m not familiar with North Point, but I’m quite sure there must be someone who provide that service. cause from what i heard, they do have a market with some stalls on the streets which sell fabric and even sew a bed cover for you.
Hi, I checked out Lo Wu @ Shenzhen, a bedsheet cost about RMB 30. I think you can get great deal for 15 cushions
Hi Katherine, I’m a professional dressmaker from New Zealand.
I Found this fantastic blog as I was searching the net for fabric buying in HK. I’m about to take my first holiday trip to Europe and have a stop for 2 days in HK.
I now see I need another trip specifically for this reason as I don’t know what I’d do with all the fabrics I might lose control and buy at such cheap prices!
Do you know if it would be easy enough to send a box full home from there? Hope to get some in Cologne and Spain too, maybe Italy but am meant to be travelling Light!.
For other readers I also enjoyed, travellersyarn.wordpress.com/2011/04/03/fabric-in-hong-kong/
Perhaps you could start your own fabric/ sewing sourcing tours for people like me who have very little time and so much to look for ha ha.
I had a peek at your travel blog too and really enjoyed your photos in France.I’ll be keeping my eye out for some of those scenes. Those ochre cliffs are incredible landscape.
Thanks so much.
This is fantastic info here!
Ever think about starting a sewing group?
Haha. thanks for the suggestion 🙂
hi Katherine. Thank you so much for charting out where to buy sewing material in HK. I had a tough time initially exploring. Also, I told the people in the shop that I found their shops through your website, they were very “touched”.
Thanks again ! You helped me picked up sewing interest.
Hi Stephanie, Thank you so much for letting me know the reaction from the people in the shop. (I hope they’ll get me discounts next time hehe). Always a pleasure to help out. 🙂
today i found a store called ”chan wah kee” that specializes in scissors and cutlery. if you want a good pair of shears made in japan, or if you need to sharpen your dull pair of scissors, you can come to this guy. he’s had about 80 years of experience. 278E, ground floor, temple street. jordan, kowloon (near bowring street)
tel: 2730 4091
Hi Katherine! Thanks for this great blog. Anyway, i was just wondering if you’ve been to this shop in Jordan which sells a lot of silk and chiffon. Jordan station exit C2. Most of the designers of Lane Crawford get their materials from there. They moved somewhere and I’m wondering if you or any of your readers know where they moved..really desperate. Thanks!
I never really shop in Jordan, so I have no idea on this. Sorry. But if it’s designer based in HK, they definitely would source in ShamShuiPo too. BTW, are you looking for some place with stock fabric in store?
Hi Katherine.thanks for your reply. I wouldn’t mind checking SSP one of these days.
Hi Katherine. Forgot to ask if you know of any store in SSP that sells silk chiffon?thanks!
Hi Malou, If you want to buy something right on the spot, then I’d recommend “Wa Fat” on Shek Kip Mei St. (Between Ki lung st, and Tai Nan St.). They do have some silk chiffon in store that’s available for retail. They have another store right around the corner (ask the sales guu for direction) , which is slightly less organized, but you might find something you need.
If you don’t mind placing an order of more than 3 yards and come back in a few days to pick up. Then 70% of the store would have silk chiffon. The question is which one offer the best price and quality/weight you prefer.
Hi Katherine!
You are a lifesaver! It’s wonderful to have a platform to share all this crafty info for people who want to know where to find that ‘must have’ fabric or notion. Thanks for sharing your knowledge!
I’m a textile artist visiting from the mainland and was wondering if it’s possible to find 100% quilting cotton in Sham Shui Po?
I’m not familiar with quilting. But if you’re looking for 100% cotton, you should have no problem at all 🙂
Katherine, you’re article is so great! Thank you! I’m a pants designer going to HK in two weeks and I was wondering if you knew the best places to source good quality denim or possibly have custom jeans buttons made. Do you also recommend a place to get suit pants made and about how much do they cost at a local tailor? Thanks again for your expertise!
Unfortunately, I don’t know much about tailor suit pants. However, I believe if you want to have something in great quality and don’t mind the price tag, then you need to start your search in Central. I remember there is a tailor store next to “the escalator” in Central. and I’m sorry that I really have no clues on the price.
Thank you so much Katharine!
Hi Katharine, thank you so much for your article. I just moved to HK last week and start to wondering where I can buy sewing supplies. Do you happen to know where I can buy quilt mats. I have to leave mine in NL because it’s too big… thank you
You mean the kind of cutting mat in green with grids on top? You can pretty much buy it in any bookstore/stationary store 🙂
kath
yes, that one… thank you…;)
Btw, I live in Tung Chung, is there anyone in the area that like to sewing together?
I live in tung Chung too. Email me and see if we can meet up to do sewing together!
Telljoanna@gmail.com
Hi Ira, I live in Tung Chung too and are a keen arts and craft/sewing enthusiast. I too would like to get together with like minded people who share the same interest. Contact me if you would like to start a sewing club janettemok@hotmail.com
Hi Katharine,
I am looking for the following materials:
1) buttons, studs, buckles for leather bags, buckles for belts, denim buttons/rivets
2. Printed Fabrics: Preferably affordable or high quality.
3. Heavier fabrics: In cotton or wool in order to make little jackets and boleros for fall and winter fashion.
4. Textured Fabrics: With interesting textures and weaves, things that you don’t see in mainstream clothing lines.
You’ve probably already mentioned in this blog, but I wouldn’t mind if you have any opinions.
Hi Jerm,
I don’t have any specific store to recommend. Please refer to the post and go to the mentioned area for the specific items. For fabric, everyone has a different standard on affordability, quality and what’s that good for. You do have to spend a few hours in the area to check out and compare what every store offer.
Best, Kath
Hi Katherine
Wow! This is so usefull! Thank you for taking so much time to put it together, you have saved me so much time and frustration for my upcoming trip to HK -end of Aug. I am trying to find prepared for printing fabrics (PFP), cottons and linens…could you please point me in the right direction? I am ambitiously or stupidly shopping for fabric with my 12yr old son, time is of the essence!!
many thanks,
Lisa
Hi Lisa,
I actually don’t now about prepared fabric. Usually, I just buy regular fabric, take it a digital printer, and they’ll do the rest. I’m actually looking to do some printing too, if I come across anything you are looking for , I’ll let you know! Currently I’m out of town, getting back to HK in 2weeks. 🙂 kath
Hi, guys! I’m new in HK and this article helped me a lot! thank you! I’m looking for someone who will sew the dress for me, maybe you have some one good? I would be very happy with your help!
Dear Katherine,
I am looking for kisslock purse frames, those with sew holes, in bulk. Do you know any stores selling this? I did try looking around SSP when I was there couple of months back but I can’t locate any.
Thank you!
unfortunately, I never see them either 😦 sorry that I can’t help on this.
Hi Katharine,
Sorry that I spelt your name wrongly in my earlier comment. Thank you for reverting. No worries I will keep looking elsewhere. 🙂
Cheers!
no worries at all too 🙂 If I do come across what you need, I’ll let you know!
Ok! Thank you! 🙂
Hi Katharine,
Thank you soo much for sharing your contacts and information. I do quilted gifts and are finding it very difficult to find Cath Kidston/ shabby chic style printed cotton in HK, have you came across them in Sham Shui Po?
Thank you
Hi Janette,
I personally don’t do any quilting. However there are lots of printed cotton in Sham Shui Po. I wouldn’t say they are chic, so you might need to spend some time to dig around to look for something you like 🙂
katharine
Hi Katharine,
Thank you for your reply. I will try to make a trip to Sham Shui Po to check out the shops. Regarding an older posting about poly-pellets, did you manage to find out from your co-worker where he got them from? Also I’m desperately seeking for microwaveable organic grains to stuff pillow warmers or bean bags. Any idea where to start looking??
Thank you so much
Aw, I did. but that was so long ago and I have already lost that email. I only remember the guy said he bought it somewhere in Wan Chai district. But we no longer work in the same building, and I don’t have his contacts.
Organic things are generally very tough to find in Hong Kong. it might be even easier if you order it online form other country. I know that there’s a place in Sham Shui Po :
Tai Tak PVC Leather Co. Tel: 2380 8356 -8 G/F, 130 Yu Chau Street, Sham Shui Po
They sell lots of plastic foam. I’m not sure if they have other plastic/poly products. But if you are in the neighborhood to find fabric anyway, maybe you can check them out and ask them. Maybe they can point you to the right way.
Sorry I couldn’t be more helpful on this.
Thank you 🙂
Hi Katherine. Great blog!! Wish I had found it earlier when first moved to HK and saved a lot of wondering..
Btw, would you know if there’s any small shop/repair place that could quickly sew in a few new zippers to 3 sofa cushion covers? Perhaps any of the places that sell zippers? Thanks!
stores that sell zippers isn’t going to help you with sewing anything, unfortunately. You need to find any places that do garment alteration, those sewing lady would sew anything (small) for you. you might need to ask around to see if there’s any garment alteration store in your neighborhood.
Actually, very close to where I bought my seing machine “*Hoi Fung Sewing Machine Co. Ltd*. [@ 127 Lai Chi Kok Road]” , I saw there’s a lady who do alterations. I don’t have te exact address. I only remember it being on the same side of the road with Hoi Fun on Lai Chi Kok Road. It can’t be more than 3 blocks away from Hoi Fung (North west direction). It’s a store on the ground floor, but inside the building. The building seems to have other stores around. But I think I first spotted the store with their chinese sign saying “改衫” when I was walking on the street. That was a year ago, but I think the lady is still there.
Hi! I run a micro designing business … For the past five years I have been lucky enough to be able to buy 20yard lots from different a supplier in Yu Chau Street.They have now convereted to WHOLESALE only What a blow!! I am very interested in finding retail outlets where I can buy between 20-50 yards of any given design in cotton/stretch woven fabrics.o The samples would need to be posted to me in Australia and then I can arrange for fabric orders to be sent direct to my tailor. Obviously expect to pay for some bright person to do this for me
You can try Shenzhen Lo Wu Commercial City, just steps from the immigration point at Lo Wu. There is a 5/F fabric market with a wide range of fabrics. Of course, you may quite sewing because getting things tailored is relatively cheap!
Hi Katherine,
Do you know of a place in SSP that sells – straw weave bundles or straw trim to make hats and bags?
Thanks!
Unfortunately, I have never came across anything for hat making in hong kong so far. Sorry about that.
kath
I am trying to find somebody to give me tuition…..I have had my machine for 2 years and have barely used it. I have a Janome QXL605 and I am really desperate to get creative but I have no confidence or skill, but a lot of enthusiasm. Do you know anyone who could help??? I live in Discovery Bay. Thanks so much!!
I know this is not a sewing questions, but does anyone know of any scrapbooking, rubberstamping, paper product shops in Hong Kong? I have been to PaperArts in HK and the Justco outlet in Kowloon. Any other places? I’m from California and will be visiting HK next year.
[…] – Fabric Street HK’s Fabric Street is on Ki Lung Street and Yu Chau Street between Yen Chow Street and Wong Chuk Street. Access: Sham Shui Po MTR station, Exit A2 for Ki Lung Street. (Also read this: Sewing Materials in Hong Kong) […]
Hi – Katherine. Have you run across simple patches – iron on – in your scouting. The two brands sold in the US (Bondex and Singer) are now made in China, but seemingly impossible to find here. Not looking for decorative patches – just plain old mending patches with backing to repair a favorite pair of shorts and jeans from some wear and tear.
After looking over a number of the blog posts on your site, I really appreciate your technique of writing a blog.
I saved as a favorite it to my bookmark website list and will be checking back soon.
Please visit my website too and let me know how you feel.
I have just found you fabu blog, thank you all. A random question for Katharine or anyone – I am in Hong Kong at the moment and would love to find a place either in HK or Shenzen that sells good quality printed velvet, if anyone has any ideas that would be wonderful
Hi, Katherine,
I just found your blog. Very informative and tks for the info though a bit lengthy for all the discussion. Love if they can be categorized by topics.
I am a crochet jewelry artisan and will mix different materials in my creation. Knit, beading, sewing, silver craft, Chinese knot and of course crochet 🙂
Just a bit of info, Apita , a Japanese dept store in Quarry Bay also sell good quality sewing and handicraft materials. The place is not easy to find, it’s near the bed linen section.
Also, seen someone mentioned a shop for mannequin called SAMMI, but didn’t have address here.
Most glad if you could enlighten me.
Maria
Hi Maria,
I had been to the sewing section in Apita in Quarry Bay/Tai Koo Shing but they are pricey. I still think Shamsuipo in Kowloon a better option 🙂
I don’t know a mannequin shop called SAMMI but I just bought a dress form from Shamsuipoo (thanks to Katherine’s blog) and most of the shops I passed by carry mannequins as well. Try walking along Cheung Sa Wan road toward Maple Street that runs across Cheung Sa Wan road. You’ll also see a sport field (think it is called Maple Soccer field). The shops on Cheung Sa Wan road facing this field carry different types of mannequins.
Cheers.
Tks, Karen. Yes, it’s more expensive in A pita. But if you need just a few items, it is worth a try since I live on Hk side. I have to take into account the return fare of MTR which adds up to the cost.
Also, a great thank you for your advice on the mannequin shops. I will visit them in my next visit to SSP for sure. 🙂
Hi Katherine,
This is a very useful blog. Although I know most of the places in sham Sui po you mentioned, I was wondering where I could find a dress form. I’ll check out the place you mentioned soon. I made one myself out of duct tape but it is only good for hanging clothes and hats, not for dress making.
An excellent blog. I followed the address given here for a dress form and found 28 cheung sha wan road but they did not have my size. A few shops down and I found another shop called Nanyang that sells mannequin and hangers. Although they did not have my size I could order one from their catalogue. A dress form without the tans is HKD 550 which is pretty good for home dress making purpose
Glad to hear that you found what you need 🙂
I love this article , it really helped a lot ! I’ve been living in Hong Kong as long as I could remember ! And I have just recently taken interest in DIY tutorials .
But there’s just two problems. I cannot find clothes dye anywhere nor any stick on studs for customing my iPhone case .
Please help ! 😦
Actually I find this difficult to find dyes too. I guess it may be easier f you order online. Or check with some art supplies store?
Try Artland at Wanchai. They sells fabric dye. http://Www.artland.com.hk
Thanks very much for all of the really useful information on your blog, I’ve havent been back to HK for a while.
I’m trying to find shops that supply buckles, d-rings etc for bags. Do you know any names of relevant stores?
I don’t have specific names of stores. but for hardware stuff, usually they are scattering in the buttons/trimming area. check on Nam Cheong St, near Ki Lung Street. 🙂
TaiNan street is best for D-ring, buckles etc
Hi thanks for all the information! i went to sham shui po yesterday & came back with a bag full of lovely swatches. Am also looking for plain jersey fabric & a place to get fabric digitally printed. Any specific ideas?
Hi, are you looking to have your own fabric designs printed? If so, try http://www.spoonflower.com – they’re US based but reasonably-priced (depending on quantity etc.). Cheers.
Thanks for the blog post!! Im living in Australia and would love to know if you have any websites i could order fabrics from? Otherwise I may have to convince hubby to move to HK?! Thanks!
Hi Ashleigh, unfortunately I have not come across any company that you can just order fabric from them online. and you really have to be there at the store to check out their fabric’s sample’s quality first. Sorry can’t be more helpful on this.
I followed your advice and had a wonderful excursion today at SSP. The shop that sell sewing machine, paper, and muslin all exact what you said. I have to plan the trip ahead of time but I will go back there very soon. Thank you!
Peter
Please wil you help me with industry that is selling trousseau royal materails in south africa
I personally consider this particular blog , “Sewing
Material in Hong Kong | Just a few thoughts”, particularly enjoyable plus it was a very good
read. Many thanks,Chad
Hi
I went to SSP today thinking it would be open but no luck. Do you know what day after NY it will be open?
Many thanks
Jude
Sorry to hear that. Well, I don’t know exactly when the stores will be all opened. but I just ordered some fabric from 3 stores, and they all told me the fabric will be ready to pick up some time after Feb 22nd. So I’d guess that the earliest would be 20th.
However, if you’re not in a hurry, I’d go there on Feb 25. Good luck.
Hi dear! Ure blog is very use full. I will be flying to hk on e 25th and will b spending 3 days on finding fabrics and appliques solely. Do u tink its enuf? Cause e next 4 days I plan to enjoy w my family. As time is of e essence, could u share w me where n which shops that sells e most or have more variety of beaded laces and applique? Also I was tinking of meeting u in person so I cn have a tailored gown made to measure. Hw fast cn u gt it done? Thks so much for ure help.
Hi? Katrin! I suppose you are very busy now. It is quite a long time since your this article. But I found it still very useful. I just beginner and want to make lots of dress for my Daugther and me.
Hi. Any chance you can point me to a cross stitch shop please? I only have 1 day next week to be in hkg and I’d really love to pick up new patterns for cross stitch. I heard there’s one in ladies market. My sister hunted for it last month but didn’t get to find it. If you can help me, I’d super appreciate it.
I’m really sorry,I’ve never done cross stitch, and haven’t really pay attention to that. Though I doubt you can find them in shamshuipo, as I don’t remember seeing them there. I’d imagine you could try some handcraft store.
There is a small shop on Austin Road in Jordan that sells all kinds of sewing stuff. I have seen cross stitch patterns there if you want to try your luck there. I think they open 6 days a week except Sunday. I forgot the name of the shop but if you know how to get to Austin Road, you won’t miss it because that is the only sewing shop there. Next to it is a bakery shop called Saint Honore Cake Shop on no. 95 Austin Road, Jordan. It is easily accesible by MTR. Good luck and have a good trip to Hong Kong!
Thanks for the information, Katherine. Haven’t read the whole comment section. I wonder if there’s any place in Hong Kong that sells high quality fashion fabric? Most of the fabric looks either poor quality or not for sewing fashion, for the shops I’ve been to. Also, I’m looking for knit fabrics, any where to go? You can also buy trimmings in Pottinger street, buy fabrics in Western Market, and there are two fabric stores in Central, but I don’t remember their names. There’s a shop in Yuen Long that sells craft notions, including fabrics, sewing notions, cross stitch, trimmings etc, try calling them or look at this map: http://www.yp.com.hk/24741475/201159/ch/
Hi Felippe,
I’m not sure if you can find a retail store that has the quality you’re looking for. I saw one store on Yu Chau street that sell fabric that appears on runway, but they don’t do retail. It does take time to find things in top quality. Sorry I can’t be more helpful.
-kath
Hi Felippe,
There is a shop on 1/F, no. 125, Yu Chau St in SSP that sells good quality fabric. The shop is called 滿裕布行 in Chinese or Moon Yue Piece Goods. They are more pricey than other shops in SSP but still considerably cheaper than retail stores in Central. You can try your luck there. I bought a lot of silk, cotton, and cashmere from them. Most if their fabrics are piece goods from top brand fashion.
There is also another shop I frequent in SSP called 華發疋頭 or Wa Fat Piece-Goods Co. On 1J and 1K Shek Kip Mei St.
Absolutely love this post! Thank you for taking the time to write it, it’s going to help me so much when I want to buy fabrics and stuff 🙂
I have a question about the sewing machines? How much do I need to get a good quality sewing machine because I’m just a student so my budget is really quite low and I just want to know before I actually go there. I could use one from school however it isn’t as convenient.
Also, I was wondering about patterns, I’m not sure if it’s pattern paper but where can I get the pattern designs for clothing? Because I’m starting a project where I want to make high waist shorts and I was wondering if you know where they sell patterns for that?
Also: If anyone is looking for studs, there is a really great store at 239 Yu Chau Street at SSP called the Sunrise Haberdashery Co. Ltd. that sells studs, buttons and all sorts of stuff you put on clothing for a really good price I think 🙂 I bought 100 pyramid studs that were iron on for about $45? If anyone knows a better place with a cheaper price then please share 🙂 also, next to it, they sell ribbons and a ton of zippers 🙂
Hi Kristie,
Thanks for the kind words. Regarding sewing machines, I think you can get a so-so one for less than 1000 HKD. Which I think would work well for some light sewing work. But if it’s possible, I’d suggest to get something in the 2000 to 3000 HKD range. I can’t remember, but I think I paid for roughly less than 3000 for mine. it got everything I needed and it is still working great. As you know, there are so much a sewing machine can do these days, so think deeply about what function you’d actually use before buying one. It’s so easy to get lost with all those fancy stitching they offer, but believe me, you probably won’t use most of them unless you are into decorative stitches. Shop around, and look up some reviews online. Test them out in the store, ask about the maintenance/repair service…. and don’t go for the cheapest ones 😉
I never looked around for clothes patterns. However, I think I’ve seen them in “Pattern United” in Price Edwards awhile back. You may look up the address from this blog post 🙂 Also i believe there were a few people mentioned about patterns in the comments section, maybe you can do a quick search on it too.
kath
Hi Katherine,
I love your blog, not only because you have excellent information about sewing but it is also like a get together of a small community of people who love sewing. I am very interested in haute couture sewing. Would you know of any second hand shops that sell used top fashion? I am thinking of getting some to deconstruct them to see how they are made. They have to sell very cheap because I don’t intend to wear them but to tear them apart :-).
Thanks.
Thank you for the lovely comment. I’m very happy to see how this blog post I put together helped so many people out there, and it is growing organically. I probably should start a forum on it 🙂
Regarding second hand clothes. Unfortunately I don’t know any stores that would sell top brand garment with an inexpensive price tag. I could only recommend you a book called “couture sewing techniques” by Claire B. Shaeffer. This book offers so much information and details on techniques that are not even used on designer brand’s ready-to-wear. I’m pretty sure you’ll learn a tons from this book, and probably more than from a second hand garment within a tight budget.
Thanks Katherine. I read Claire Schaeffer’s book before. It is indeed a good book.
Hi Katherine,
Thank you for these valued information. You’re my guidance anytime I visited Hongkong.
I am a beginner in sewing and sometimes I bring my own sewing machine when I travelled. Do you have any idea if there is any sewing machine renting somewhere in Hongkong? If any, it would be very helpful as I come along way from Europe:)
Thank you and happy sewing all!
Saniah
Hi Saniah, You’re most welcomed. I’m not sure if there is any place that rent out sewing machine. However I have heard of a sewing lounge around in Sheung Wan. The owner is Melanie, you may find more information here: http://www.thesewinglounge.com hope this helps.
kath
Thank you again Kathrine, you’re the best! I’ll contact them right away. Cheers!
Hi Katherine, very helpful blog you have here. Noted some places to go on my hunt for fabric. This I’m hoping you could help out or suggest places. I’m looking for metal or brass coin purse frames. Any knowledge where to go? Also, silk ribbons for ribbon embroidery. And lastly, wool rovings and supplies for needle felting. Are there craft stores for these kinds of supplies? Thanks much for any suggestion.
Try this shop http://www.needleworkclub.com/index.php?charset=eng
Hi Katherine. Thak you for sharing this information. Do you know where i can find interface/stabilizer like these ones in HK???? http://www.sewsweetness.com/2012/05/all-about-bag-interfacing.html
I’d try ki lung street the part where there are lots of street stalls. Some stalls do have interfacing, bit not sure if they are they type you want. Otherwise, I remember the store on that street do carry interfacing.
(Sent via mobile)
Thank you so much! 🙂
Thanks coley for the info 🙂
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[…] thanks to HeyKumo blog, Katharine Yeung and TravellersYarn for their informative stories about sham shui po fabric market. Other related […]
I went to Sham Shui Po market recently..LOVE the place,truly a crafter haven 😉 Thank YoU Katharine for this blogspot.I even linked u up from my blog.
definately coming back for moreeeee
Thank you so much for your comment 🙂 Glad to hear that you found what you need ! Happy sewing.
i meant blog post 🙂
I’m wondering which blogging platform you might be running? I’m
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Quizilla platform. Do you consider this is a good foundation to start with?
I would be very grateful if I could ask you some
questions through e-mail so I can learn a bit more prior to
getting started. When you have some free time, please get in touch with me at:
tanjaboudreau@yahoo.de. Thanks a lot
Hi there! Someone in my Myspace group shared this website with us so I came to take a look.
I’m definitely loving the information. I’m book-marking and will be tweeting this to my followers!
Exceptional blog and great design.
Hi Kath, Thank You very much. My name is Rajesh and I have got a lot of valuable information from your blog. I am into Men’s Fashion.
Hi there. I am going over to Ki Leung Street today in an attempt to buy 100% Cotton thread. I have searched everywhere on the Island and have found that they stock only polyester thread. I am on the point of ordering on-line from cottonpatch in the UK, but am going to give this one last chance rather than getting it sent half way around the world!! What do you think my chances are?
I only know a place where your can get thread in any color. But I never pay attention for 100%cotton thread. Sorry
Hi Katherine,
Would you know of any place that accepts remnant fabric, for recycling purpose? I used to see a small shop in Stanley St or Hollywood St in Central that collects remnant fabric for handicraft but also to reduce waste but it is not there anymore. I have a lot of remnant fabric or even 1 or 2 yards of fabric I couldn’t resist buying but don’t plan to sew them now. Thanks a lot.
Hi, Karen
There is a new crafters club in town and perhaps they accept fabric remnants. You can find them on Facebook by finding ‘the crafties’
Maria
Thank you so much, Maria.
I contacted them and they confirmed they would be happy to take them.
Hi Katharina, I just discovered your blog.
I arrived just yesterday in HK, and I wanted to buy some fabric ( synthetic) with Chinese prints on it ( dragonfly , small flowers etc ) The fabrics they use for the tourist dresses, etc. I went to the lanes in Central, as I thought they might sell it, but they just have the more expensive ones. 8 years ago I had a quilt made in Shenzen of this material, as by then I lived here, but I don’t want to go there, as it costs so much time, visa, and I am already leaving on Friday. Do you know if I can buy this material in SSp area?.
I want to make a quilt blanket and some cushion covers.
Hi Ann,
If you mean the Chinese brocade fabric, you can try Wah Fat Piece Goods Co. On J-K, 1 Shek Kip Mei St. I asked the owner if they were silk brocades and he said they were synthetic brocade. Maybe they are what you are looking for.
Yes, Wah Fat is definitely a good place to start with. and there are other stores around that sold Synthetic Chinese brocade. They might not be placed as obvious as other fabric, but I’m sure I have seen them around SSP.
YES, I have 12 different colors/ styles. The wahFat store. The marketstall on corner nam Cheung str/li Kung str.
And one of the stalls, in the street hawkers bazaar. Thank you both so much for your support.
Karen, before I venture off, to make sure, I’m going in the right direction, and as I take your link the mark is pointed somewhere else, as when I type the address. as my google maps is only in characters. Do I have to take the mtr to Cheung Sha wan??, and can I walk. Or do I have to take a taxi from there. I have to come from the island
You can take the MTR to Shamsuipo, and walk to the shop. Look for Nam Cheong St, then look for Ki Lung St. As you walk down Ki Lung you’ll find Shek Kip Mei St running across it. the shop is at the junction of these two streets next to a public toilet (I think that’s what it is). If you are not sure, check on the map in the Shamsuipo Station first. Hope it helps.
Thanks for this helpful article.
A few people were looking for organic fabric and the shop Tan Tat Piece Goods Ltd. sells them. They currently have around 20 different organic fabrics for sale, mostly cotton canvas in beige or basic colors but a little bit of bamboo fabric and medium-weight cotton muslin as well. They are located at 122 Ki Lung St. in Sham Shui Po. I paid about 29-33 HKD per yard of 60″ wide fabric, depending on type. Some of it is available for sale immediately and some needs to be ordered from China and takes about 3 days to arrive. The minimum order is 3 yards per type of fabric but they sold me 2 yards of an end-of-bolt piece. The staff is really friendly too…not the case with every place in Sham Shui Po.
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Thank you so much for taking time to write this wonderful blog. I have been to Sham Shui Po a few times, and it’s such a large area I always get overwhelmed. I will try going there again with a list of all these places you have mentioned. If I find anything new I’ll post them here as well. I think it’s time someone makes a map of sham shui po for all the crafters and sewers in HK. I am willing to take that challenge! You’ve inspired me!
Btw, do you know where I can get bias tapes?
Hi Katherine,
Have you any idea where to buy the transparent plastic sheets that most shops in SSP hang over the entrance to their shops? I looked everywhere in SSP for them but couldn’t seem to find any. Thanks for your help.
I guess you have to look into places that sell plastic, not fabric. try and see if this store have what you need? http://www.thesun.com.hk/ they have store in Mongkok, and Wan Chai
Hi Karen,
I walked around in SSP today I I found this shop called Cheong Shing Plastic Limited. It’s at 192 Ki Lung Street. Tel.27511163.
http://www.cspvcleather.com
I think they have the clear plastic stuff you are looking for. I took their sample swatch so i can take a picture and email u if u want.
Thanks Katherine. Can always count on you 🙂
Thanks Sompor.
Incredible! This blog looks exactly like my old one!
It’s on a totally different subject but it has pretty much the same page layout and design. Excellent choice of colors!
Hi Kath, where can I buy sewing machine thread (the kind that sits on top of the sewing machine) as well as empty bobbins? I’m just looking for a couple basic colors–mainly neutrals (e.g. different shades of beige). Department stores? Or somewhere in Sham Shui Po? I’ve just started learning to use a sewing machine. Thanks!
For empty bobbins, you can go to Tung Shing.
and for thread, besides those road side stall on Ki lung st at mentioned in the post, you can also try C&S (97 Nam Cheong St).
However, my favorite place is actually 實用線業，it has better quality with a wider selection of colour. you bring in your fabric or colour swatch, and the man will find the best colour for you. It’s roughly on 270 Lai Chi Kok road, and it’s on 2nd floor. The entrance stairway has a tiny counter/shop selling antique and foreign money notes.
Thank you, let me give it a try!
Wow – what a brilliant blog post! I’ve taken plenty of notes for my next trip to HK.
I’ve wandered around SSP on my own and bought some great shirting, cottons and border prints.
I’ve never come across knits though, or any stretch fabric.
Is this all kept in a specific street? Or is knit fabric just not availble in SSP?
Thanks so much,
Al
Hi, Thanks for the message. Actually knits are everywhere in SSP. There are stores that only sell knits, I don’t have specific address of any stores, because they literally are everywhere. Should not be hard to spot them. Lots of stores on Yu Chau St have piles of knits swatches outside their store.
Hi Katherine,
I went to 實用線業 today. It is on 268 Lai Chi Kok Road. Unfortunately there is an iron gate at the staircase and the intercom did not work. How did you get in there? Do they have different thickness of threads and of different colours? I hanged around there hoping to see someone going in or coming out but had no luck.
Hi Karen,
Sorry to hear that. They didn’t have the gate before, I only went there once since the gate was up, and I followed someone going inside the building. hmmm I might go there sometime this week. I’ll check. But make sure you don’t do there during lunch time. I forgot what their lunch hour is , but it could be sometime between 11am to 2pm.
Thanks Katherine.
Just to let you know I went again today and asked the antique money seller at the stair entrance and he told me the 實用線業 has closed down last month.
NOOOOOOO, gosh, I have to source another place for thread now 😦 Thank you so much for letting me know.
No worries Katherine.
Please let me know when you found another thread supplier. It is so hard to find a thread supplier that sells all kinds of thread :-). The one on Austin Road in Jordan has many colours to choose from but not thickness of thread and they are more expensive than in SSP.
I really appreciate your words and pieces of jewelry articles, I will continue reading your words!
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Thanks for all the information!!!
I’ve been to Shum Shui Po many times and never knew they sell boning! I’m trying to make my prom dress and this is great help. Thank you so much!
oh and for a little bit of info about satin that you’d all probably know. In SSP, basic satin sold on Ki Lung Street is about 9 HKD per yard, where as Yen Chaw Street Hawker Bazaar sells most fabric for 20 HKD.
Yen Chaw Street Hawker Bazaar sells really good fabric, with lots of choices. However they don’t always carry the same fabric so you might not be able to find what you’ve bought the next time. Make sure to buy enough, if not more, from them.
People are generally very friendly and helpful and I’ve learnt a lot about fabric from them 🙂
Hi,
Does anyone know of anyone or any place that can do word embroidery onto fabric? I wanted to make a baby blanket for a friend’s baby and embroider the baby’s name onto the blanket. Thanks!
Hi Katharine and anyone else who’s interested – if you’re still looking for good quality machine sewing thread, I noticed in my last SSP trip on Monday that Tak Cheung have Gutermann’s 🙂 Can’t remember the exact address, but it’s on the west side of Cheung Sha Wan Rd, on the block just north of SSP playground.
It’s the first time I’ve been to Tak Cheung since the (very!) olden days when their shop was on the other side of the road – these days they have a lot more craft things (including cross stitch stuff), but not nearly as much dress-making stuff as they used to have.
Glad to see this blog is still going strong!
Thanks Alison. I was looking for a place that sells thicker sewing threads and many shops don’t carry a large variety. I hope the place you recommended have a wider choice of sewing threads. I bought a Gutermann thread in Apita Department store in Taikoo Shing and it was expensive! So I hope Tak Cheung has a more reasonable price 🙂
Thanks Alison 🙂
Art Supplies Shops
A little off topic from sewing but you can find a list of art supply shops by following this link
Art shop in Wan chai has fabric markers and rotary cutters as well!
Hi – would you know where I could buy laminated cotton fabric from? It’s softer and more pliable than the pvc stuff used for tablecloths. I plan to make my own bags and have them with a wipe-clean material. Laminated cotton is cotton fabric with a coating that makes it wipe-clean 🙂
Your list of streets of where to find particular sewing items is great! 😀
hmmm I haven’t came across any laminated cotton… but what you can do is buy regular cotton and order the iron-on vinyl online. I forgot where my friend ordered it, but i think it was amazon….
hope this helps 🙂
thanks! I’m sure I’ll enjoy having a nosey around anyway 🙂
Hi there, thanks for the blog. I am sure you hear plenty – but this is really a very helpful blog.
Do you or anyone who had feedback on this blog have any idea where I can get Brother
1. overlock vertical footer or Serger Footer
2. Ruffler Presser Footer
3. Side cutter footer
Or perhaps a place to buy 2nd hand overlocker/serger machine?
Hi, you can try Tung Shing Sewing Machine Co. Ltd in Sham Sui Po. It is located on 61-65 Nam Cheong St. I bought a Brother serger from them a few years ago. They also sell a lot of accessories for sewing machines and sergers. For second hand serger you can try smaller shops along the main road where Tung Shing is. I have seen shops selling used sergers and sewing machines.
I read about this shop. But failed to find it. Thanks for the address Karen.
I am sorry to hear that, Ivon. If you are still looking, you can try Lai Chi Kok Road in Shamsuipo. There are quite a number of shops selling new and used sewing machines. In fact, Tung Shing is right at the junction of Lai Chi Kok Road and Nam Cheong St.
i just bought my juki ddl-8700h in laichikok road slightly used .for only 2500 delivery costs 200-400hkd.
depends on place in hk…now i used it for making a bag.
..
Does anyone know where to find pre-folded bias tape? I’ve been to many of the tape and ribbon shops in SSP but I’ve never managed to find it.
I am looking for some piping cord to make piping for cushions. Anyone have any suggestions as to best place to look?
where can i buy fabric glue in Hong Kong?
Does anyone know where I can get nice silk ribbon?
Please refer to the trimming section on the post.
you can definitely find something nice on Nam Cheong Street. (on the side closer to Price Edward)
Hi. I was sure I had seen some information on your blog about a person who services sewing machines, but I can’t find it! I have my mom’s old Elna machine, but it badly needs to be looked at and tuned up. Can you tell me of a number I could contact, or a place to bring it? Thanks!
I got my domestic machine at Hoi Fung Sewing Machine Co (2381 1663)
I’m not sure if they sell Elna or do repair for it, but maybe you can call them up and ask?
Otherwise, you might need to do a bit research around to see who sells Elna here in HK,
then ask them about repair service.
Thanks so much for your speedy reply! I’ll try to give them a call.
Thanks again. They do service Elna machines! I dropped mine off this morning. Thank you!
Hi, can you guide me to a site which has details about the machines that are required for a blazer/ suit industry.Thank You.
hi, love this site and all the useful information on it.
I make soft toys, mostly teddy bears and im searching for joints for arms and legs, has anyone seen them in your craft/sewing travels. thanks
sarah
Hi, amazing write-up , very useful.
I am going to HK solely for fabric for my second collection. I am looking for textured fabric, metallic fabric, more interesting fabric than the usuals. And I’ve booked my flight on the 29th (Friday, arriving at 5pm) and I am leaving on 2 dec ,Monday morning. After a lot of research done, I am a bit nervous that I only have Saturday to shop coz if im not mistaken they said that the shops close on Sunday. Such a bummer. Therefore, if I wanna buy around 3-8 yards of fabric, do u think they can shipped the fabric to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. If they do, what documents should i take with me ? And is it normal for people to order the fabric on the spot to be shipped. I hope you can reply as soon as u can as I am leaving in couple of days! Many Thanks!
shaz x
Im not sure about shipping arrangement, I guess there must be some stores offer shipping service, but I wont be surprised if they dont want to ship internationally for small quantity orders. If they do, I believe all you need really is just pay the fabric and shipping charges upfront. please note some stores close early in the afternoon on Saturdays. Good luck.
Hi, do you know where I can find neoprane material? It is also commonly used for diving suits.
Try Tai Tak PVC Leather Co on 130 Yu Chau St in Shamsuipo. I remember i passed by a shop that sells material that looks like what you are looking for. I can’t remember if this is the shop but if not should be nearby.
Would anyone know where I could find inkjet fabric sheets? I’m making a memory quilt and want to include some photos but do not want to use iron-on photos, which is all I’m finding so far in Hong Kong. I’m looking for the sheets of actual material that are put through a printer. Thanks so much for any tips!
Do you know which stores have a good selection of oil cloth (防水布)? Would most fabric stores in sham shui po carry a good selection of that?
Depends on your purpose, i remembered i have seen some similar fabric in Wah Fat along Ki Lung St that’s for trench coat or similar purpose. Thicker ones like those for table tops can be found along one of the stalls along Ki Lung. There are not many i know of but hope this helps.
Just an update on a shop previously mentioned–the Tailor and Alterations Needlework Club (ridiculously long name) at 467 Hennessey Rd CB is now on the 19th floor. It carries cottons for quilting, muslin, yarns, a few Japanese fabrics, and some odds and ends, snaps, buttons and the like as well as some books.
The fabrics are not inexpensive but there is a fair number of cottons from which to choose. They also have a branch in Kwun Tong. I believe you can look them up as needleworkclub.com
Good to see Kath, despite years ago, site by chance as I was searching for a sewing machine for wife. My daughter’s school was “once” – and hopefully at present as well – strong at fashion design and clothing. Sham Shui Po in Hong Kong is the place I always visit for variety as well as bargains. I am going to Hoi Fung Ltd. at Lai Chi Kok Road soon.
Regrettably HK’s education has dumped these kinds of handicrafts and arts, from ceramics to music. Maybe schools aim at crafting kids to be i-bankers, lawyers, docs and accountants… Let alone creativity and entrepreneurship.
Just envision Hong Kong’s own version of “Project Runway” amid being framed as an IFC (int’l financial centre) !
Hi Kath,
I’m looking for fabric flowers that look something like this:
http://www.sunshineshoppesupply.com/chiffon_flower_p/blossom.htm
Do you think I can find it in the “Trims, Ribbon” area of Sham Shui Po mentioned in your post? (“Nam Cheong Street to Kweilin Street, between Cheong Sha Wan Road and Lai Chi Kok Road”)
Thanks again!
Hi SY,
yes there are some stores in the trim ribbon area that sell fabric flowers.
Hi katharine , you have helped me soo much as Im going to hong kong purely for fabrics.Just wondering the best shops to find embroidered and beaded fabrics,and also lace remnants?
thank you so much!!
its really frustrating that i cant find any info to buy a mannequin in hk. im so glad that i found yr blog finally. they r really useful!!
Hi Katherine, I will be visiting HK next week and I would like to ask do you come across any shops at SSP sells tensha beads? Thanks in advance for the info 🙂
Hi Eryn,
I don’t know much about beads. however there are a few bead stores that sell fresh water pearls and crystal beads in SSP, you could check them out and see if they have the ones you’re looking for. they are in the trim/ribbons/buttons area.
On Fri, Jun 6, 2014 at 9:48 PM, When kath is blogging wrote:
>
Fab! Blog! So helpful. I’ve lived here 20 years but am needing many of your suggestions now. thanks a million! 🙂
Hi! wonderful article!
Have you came across any shops that sell clothing patterns?
I think I did saw a small pile of pattern tucked away in a box in the corner at “pattern united”. But that was a long time ago, you might want to give then a call and see if they still sell pattern 🙂 other than this, I haven’t seen any. -kath
On Friday, June 27, 2014, When kath is blogging wrote:
>
Katharine – I’m just now starting to source fabric to replace the hideous curtains in my current rental and this post is a godsend! $500 per yard quotes from the curtain shops seemed rather steep in addition to the cost of labor so I’m hoping to find a nice fabric for under $80 HKD or so per yard! I need 12 yards, so hopefully I can buy wholesale rather than retail price!
Hi Christina,
You can also try a place in sham shui Po called “hawker bazaar”. I think it’s right opposite the sham shui Po police station. They probably have more inexpensive fabric.but don’t go there earlier than 10:30am. Check then out and see if there is anything that fits. And when you walk down on yu chau street and ki lung street I’m sure you will come across something . Good luck!
On Monday, July 7, 2014, When kath is blogging wrote:
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[…] Kong I did a fair bit of googling to check out what’s what and found the excellent post by When Kath is blogging which I used as my basis for some of the shopping I […]
wonderful guide, thank you
Hi! Congrats for the wonderful guide! And thank you all for the great advices and tips!
I still need to ask: where can I find crochet supplies? Wool yarns, threads, hooks, magazines, etc…?
Thanks again!
Hi marcely, I’m not a knitter, so i don’t really know much about yarn and knitting supplies.
But, awhile back, I believe I have seen a yarn store located around Bowling Street in Jordan. I don’t remember the exact location, but Bowling street isn’t long. If it’s not right on Bowling street, I’m pretty sure the ones I saw was no more than 2 or 3 blocks away from it.
and I have also seen a few yarn store dotting nearby Mongkok East station, around Fa Yuen Street or Sai Yee Street, here is one: http://doubleknityarn.com.hk/en/ 179 Fa Yuen Street, Mongkok
Good luck 🙂
Kath
On Mon, Aug 4, 2014 at 9:35 AM, When kath is blogging wrote:
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hello Katharine! it was really great to read all these great information you have posted! yesterday i both amazing fabrics on Sham Shoe Po and now I am about to search for sewing patterns..and i can not find any…i just came 10 days ago to hong kong, do you have any suggestions where to buy (japanese) sewing patterns? thank you so much in advance!!! many greetings, nadja
Hi Nadja,
I know a Japanese Book Store in Tsim Sha Tsui that sells all kinds of Japanese magazines, including sewing pattern magazine. Some of the magazines come with 6-8 sewing patterns. The book store is called Apollo Book Company Ltd and is located on Kimberley Road. The address is Flat A, 2/F., Wing Lee Buiilding, 27-33 Kimberley Road, Tsim Sha Tsui. I hope you find what you are looking for.
Thanks for the article! Nice tips! 🙂 I wonder if you know some handyman in Island side to repair sewing machines! Thanks!!!
Yen Chow Street Hawker’s Bazaar trip today, mainly dedicated to fabrics. It’s located opposite Sham Shui Po Police Station, corner of Lai Chi Kok Road and Yen Chow Street. If you don’t know it’s there, you will totally miss it, as it’s just a tarpaulin covered market area and looks totally run down from the outside, but inside is jam packed full of fabrics to purchase on the spot. It’s not far from the main fabric street of Ki Lung Street in Sham Shui Po, so worth a trip just to see what’s there.
Don’t know if this has been mentioned before but thought I’d add this little extra info to this mega useful post too, there’s a place near Lai Chi Kok MTR (exit D2) called Lebo (http://www.lebo.com.hk, they’ve a facebook page too, all Chinese though) that teaches how to make bags, but it sells lots of Japanese fabrics, big brand sewing machines (many with discounts), and lots of Clover branded stuff. It’s in an industrial building, entrance is via elevators in the vehicle loading area, Room B1, 6th Floor, Cheung Lung Industrial building, 10 Cheung Yee Street. I actually bought a Janome sewing machine from them, 20% discount + HK$300 bonus package of threads and a pair of scissors thrown in too, but this was just because they were having a summer special deal at the time.
thank you hk for this information. Only yesterday I was womdering wherein HK to buy japanese fabrics for patchwork/quilting an a sewing machine….I am seaching the web and stumbled into this oh so helpful blog…God sent really. Thank you all for your tips .
Hello Katharine! Thanks for all the good tips and a wealth of information! Would you know where I can find tulle, like in an underskirt or a tutu. I have to make an underskirt, have been to SSP could not find any. Please help! Need it urgently1
Thanks
Hi you can find them easily in SSP. Lots of stores carries those stiff netting. Some even have them out on the store front. You can check one of the “wah fat piece goods” ( they have two stores. One on ki lung street right next to a street side eatery. I know that place often leave netting in front of the store) You can also find them in those street hawker in the middle of the road in ki lung street. Good luck!
On Tuesday, October 7, 2014, When kath is blogging wrote:
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[…] out this handy blog post and this handy blog post, both with a ton of suggestions for where to source other hard-to-find […]
Hi Katharine, I am visiting HK, to spend time with my son and his wife who are working here. I am a quilter and have enjoyed reading your blog. I was about to give up on finding fabric here so tomorrow I am off to explore SSP. Can’t wait!
Hi margaret, you are most welcome ☺ Don’t miss out on those little stalls in the middle of the road on ki lung street. Have fun!
Kath
On Sunday, November 2, 2014, When kath is blogging wrote:
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Thank you very much katearine! I just found out I have an extra day in HK so i´ll go fabric hunting 🙂
thank you for such a useful review! tomorrow going to hunt )))
Thank you for this blog. I am off to HK tomorrow and plan a shopping spree!
Thanks for the information Katherine! I’m looking for thick felt sheets (3-4mm), do you know where I can find them?
I heard from a stall holder that the Yen Chow Street fabric hawker’s market may be shut down within a year. The Hong Kong government is planning on reclaiming the land for other uses. I think the market is currently being planned, but not confirmed, to be relocated under some bridge or flyover or something like that, not sure of the exact location as of this time. But I heard that the new location might be smaller and that some market vendors will not continue because of this.
Thank you for the information. Although I have never needed to go there for fabric, it is good to know. Hope the new location would be better and more convenient ☺
On Friday, April 24, 2015, When kath is blogging wrote:
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Hi,
I am Mike. Our company Saviero Limited is an international fabrics supplier located in Hung Hom.
At Saviero Limited, we supply high-end cut-length for suits,shirts, suit-linings and jackets.
We warehouse some of the finest fabrics from the best mills from around the world.
If you are interested to know more about our collections please get in touch we shall assist you in anyway possible.
Thank you very much.
Cheers
Mike
Hi Katherine, do you know where I could get hold of some burlap (hessian fabric)? I am looking to make a burlap ring pillow 🙂
Thank you!
Paprica
I donât know any specific store that sell the particular kind of fabric youâre looking for. you will probably need to walk around the fabric area listed above and see if you have any luck.
cheers, kath >
Hi Katarine
Just arrived in Hong Kong this year , and relying on all the information I can get , so thank you for your enthusiasm at starting and keeping this blog opened , really interesting reading all the enquiries , bought a machine here , rather than risk flying out with mine , now looking for lots of Brother feet for the new machine, but most appear to be sold on line , and at a good price .
do you know of and place I can pop in to pick them up .
Eunice
Dear Katarine,
thank you so much for the information!! i am new here and i am not a “sewing” person, but for my bachelor i do need some specific thinks, i even know if i can find in a sewing store. Could you please tell me if there is some stuff like:
– conductive thread
– velostat (like Linqstat or Caplinq)
– conductive fabric
– 0,5 thick neoprene
– Cotton
for my bachelor i want to try to built a sensor that i found in the internet http://www.flickriver.com/photos/plusea/sets/72157611729656695/
Please if you can help me and say where i can find does thinks i would be so glad!!!
Thxs so much!!
Ina
bussiness expansion, i will like to tell your company to expanse to africa you can contact me for futher explanation.
Thank you so much for the article. It’s really helpful ^^
Hi Katherine!
What a lovely blog! Well written- obviously you’ve put in a lot of effort to make it as informative as possible.
I’ve been planning on making an embroidered version of The Last Supper for my home, and I think the information you’ve provided will help me a lot.
Keep up the good work 👏🏼👏🏼
Hi thank you so much for the informantion
But can i know what kind type of mannequin you bought ?
I want to buy wolf form mannequin / dress form mannequin / a proper for profesional fashion design mannequin / collapsible shoulder mannequin, do you where i can buy it in Hong kong ? I will wait for your reply thank you.
My best advice is to take the measurement you need and go to those mannequin store listed in my blog and see for yourself. Sometime they do have collapsable shoulders. And they can custom make it to your measurementire.
I personally don’t use the mannequin much. Mostly just use it when I need something 3 dimensional so I can do a few pleats over some curves. I’m fine with a foam mannequin with no collapsable shoulders.
Kath
On Wednesday, 11 May 2016, When kath is blogging wrote:
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Hi, do u know where to buy an embroidery hoop? Pls answer as quick as possible, thx. 😊
Hi Katherine,
Thank you for this guide my mum will be going to Hong Kong in a few days and I’ve given her a few samples to look for me. I’m mostly looking for picot elastic, bra straps and hook and eye for bras too. Would you know where I can find these things I’d probably be buying in bulk so around 50- 100 metres depending on price.
Thanks
Bonnie
Hi. Basically the trimming area along nam cheong street would be good to find those stuff 🙂
Hi Kath!
Thank you for taking the time to write this article. I have used it numerous times in the year I have been in Hong Kong and it has been of a tremendous help. You definitely have not wrote it in vain.
Thank you,
Luiddy
Hi there im looking for portable mini sewing machine like the once that baterry operated.
Anybody can help where i can find?
I am looking for a place in China to duplicate pairs of pants I have. I would supply the pants patterns. Realize this is not Hong Kong, but any referral is appreciated.
thx,
elsie
Hi Katherine, I found this old post of yours. Hope you are still checking your blog. I’d like to make a Pom Pom carpet and would need a large mesh mat. Any idea where to find mesh may in HK please? Thank you so much, Carmen
Hi carmen. I’m afraid I don’t know about making carpet 😅
On Tue, 20 Jun 2017 at 8:49 AM, When kath is blogging wrote:
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Thanks for your reply. No problems!
Carmen
Hi Katharine,
Would you by any chance know where I can purchase upholstery elastic webbing/upholstery supplies.
Thanks!
Iâm not familiar with upholstery material. but elastic webbing looks like you can weave it out of some elastic trim? if it is, try look around the trimming area mentioned in the post. good luck.
kath
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Thanks for your reply.
Hi Katharine, may I ask the dress form you bought at HK$650 from Man Sang Company, is it 2nd hand or a brand new one?
It was on display but brand new.
On Mon, 14 Aug 2017 at 2:35 PM, When kath is blogging wrote:
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Thank you for the prompt reply. May the i ask was if difficult for you to transport it back home?
Not at all.
On Thu, 31 Aug 2017 at 2:42 PM, When kath is blogging wrote:
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Hi I am looking for handbag handles (wooden material for crutch, big acrylic chain or fancy design handles etc… ) and also PVC fabric that I can use for bags. Can you recommend where I should go. Thank you
I believe you would need to explore both the fabric and trimming section mentioned in the post. There may be some small shop selling accessories making things. But they are mostly selling it on the side apart from the triming things. So you would need to look.
On Tue, 15 Aug 2017 at 8:14 AM, When kath is blogging wrote:
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Hey Katharine/ other readers,
has anyone found places to source Japanese/ USA fabrics in HK, rather than those manufactured over the border? In particular quilting fabrics
Cheers
You could try Ki Lung street ( 基隆街) in Sham Sui Po. Not all fabric sold in Sham Sui Po are across the border. I thought I saw some Japanese cotton somewhere in one of the shops but can’t recall where exactly. You may want to ask the shop 華發疋頭. They have a broad range of fabric from different countries and may be able to direct you.
Hi Katherine
Thank you for your blog. I’ve referred to it on several occasions. Have appreciated the details and vast information you have provided.
Hi Katherine & other readers… I am looking for sewing machine brothers brand. Would you all know any place that i can get a better deal for this sewing machines? Thanks so much.
Prince Edward. They have second hand ones too
Thanks so much