Phoenix's SAS Fabrics by the Pound may be a staple for Valley seamstresses, but the textile barn is more than just a messy warehouse of glitter chiffon. One of SAS's best-kept secrets is its ridiculously cheap stash of exotic fabrics, including a line of original African patterns.
Home décor brands including DwellStudio and Diane von Furstenberg's At Home have perfected the modern-tribal trend, but SAS's collection allows you to capture the look for a fraction of the price -- and have a little DIY fun, too.
After the jump, five ways to use the foreign-inspired fabrics.
1. This geometric print, part of the African collection, proves that not every tribal piece has to be busy with bold colors and shapes. Stretch and staple it to a canvas for instant, simple wall art. Here's the step-by-step. $3.99 per yard.
2. Looking to liven up a set of plain wooden chairs or stools? All you need is foam, adhesive, heavy-duty tape and this awesome chain-link fabric. Instructions here. $2.99 per yard.
3. This gold African print could fit right in with one of Coralie Bickford-Smith's deco-inspired F. Scott Fitzgerald book covers. Use it to frame photos or art. $3.99 a yard.
4. Bold, hand-drawn patterns are perfect for throw pillows. The project requires a bit more effort than the other tricks, but this DIY tutorial promises you'll be done in less than an hour. $3.99 a yard.
5. Take some inspiration from those DVF coasters with this popping print from SAS's African collection. One how-to requires a sewing machine but another is machine-free. $3.99 a yard.
SAS Fabrics by the Pound is at 1111 E. Indian School Road in Phoenix. Hours are Monday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Call 602-279-2171 for more details.
