Lions Gate Shopping

Shopping Destinations of interest to the medievalist travelling in Lions Gate (Greater Vancouver, B.C., Canada)

(fabric) Little India

Main Draw: Source of fancy fabrics at reasonable prices.

Location: Main St at 49th Ave and environs. Three or four blocks along Main St featuring many fabric shops, grocery stores (spices, rosewater), jewelry stores, and restaurants.

Comments: Prices aren't always marked, but don't be afraid to ask. And don't be afraid to dicker a little; if you indicate to the boss that you're going to buy lots, they're generally quite happy to cut you a deal. Recognized repeat customers often don't even have to ask. Fabric content is often not available or is misleadingly labelled; buyer beware. If you pause for lunch, be sure to try the Butter Chicken (very mild) and a Mango Lassi (creamy yogurt drink).

(fabric) Little India Surrey

Main Draw: Fancy fabrics at reasonable prices.

Location: Scott Road (aka 120th St) between 96th and 80th Aves in Delta/Surrey (Scott Road is the dividing line)

Comments: A smaller, more spread out version of Little India, but with many of the same features. See also comments in "Little India" above.

(fabric) Designer Fabric Liquidators / Atex Fabrics & Consultants

Main Draw: Linen and wool fabric, many colours, good prices. Other fabrics also stocked.

Location: 150 West Hastings, Vancouver

Comments: Closed Sunday. Neighbourhood is a little seedy but is fine in daylight. Two blocks down from Dressew.

(fabric) Dressew

Main Draw: Quirky products, cheap prices. Primarily fabric and sewing materials, but halloween / theatre / beauty pageant / dance costuming materials as well. Many MANY shelf-feet of trims, buttons and zippers.

Location: 337 West Hastings, Vancouver

Comments: Cash only. No credit or debit. Must be seen to be believed. Fabulous deals to be had if you're willing to search them out. Just a couple of blocks from Designer Fabric Liquidators.

(fabric) Fabricana

Main Draw: Amazing silks, brocades and variety.

Location: United Blvd, Coquitlam

Comments: It's a bit on the pricy side but has great stuff for Italian Ren gowns to Middle Eastern outfits. Locations and hours

(fabric) Textile Clearance Centre

Main Draw: fabric sold by the yard at $6 or less

Location: just north of 41st and Fraser, Vancouver

Comments: Labelling is almost non-existant, you'll have to guess at the fabric content; and organization is minimal. Pricing is indicated by coloured tape on the end of the bolt/roll. Look for pricing boards to determine the fabric price per YARD (not meter).

(rattan) The Wicker tree

Main Draw: Source of weapon-quality rattan

Location: 20460 Langley Bypass, Langley, V3A 5E7, 604-530-0818

Comments: Has 16 ft lengths of 1 1/2" to 2" rattan and will cut what you need

(Jewelry) Rosebead Studio

Main Draw: Jewelry, rosaries, sterling silver crosses.

Location: Website: http://rosebeadstudio.com Hornby Island, BC

Comments: Jewelry, rosaries and amulets made from traditional rose petal beads, semi-precious stones, gold and silver. High quality sterling silver crosses.

(Jewellery supplier) Stuller

Main Draw: Tools, findings, mountings, ready stock, stones.

Location: 600 - 736 Granville St, Vancouver, 604-678-9615

Comments: Professional quality supplies, not condusive to browsing for beginners.

(Jewellery Supplies) Mountain Gems

Main Draw: Tools, metal and gems.

Location: 4611 Hastings St, Burnaby, 604-298-5883

Comments: Great jeweller hobbyist/artist store, some classes. Good source for soapstone and lapidary stuff. Lots of inexpensive gemstones and beads. Fun browse.

(metal)

(leather)