McGowen Fabric Outlet

Visited McGowen's two days ago. I and many others I spoke to thought the outlet was closed but it had been renovated. It's true that the store is not as spacious and has far fewer selections than it once had. But it still has a nice upholstery selection, and there are many coordinating fabrics that can be ordered if the bolts are not in stock (many are not). And they still have trims available--some coordinate with certain upholstery fabrics and can be ordered. I found many pieces that I love and plan to purchase this week. Unfortunately, they no longer have the party planning and huge trim selection they once had upstairs. BUT they have a moderately small room on reserve where they plan to sell trims and other supplies. . . The guy that has been there for some 20 years (when I used to come in back in the day) is still there and gave me good discounts. I've never been treated disrespectful or anything at McGowen. This store definitely needs business, and they are deserving of it. They need time and customers so they can rebuild their customer base and inventory. It will take time. I just wish they would--could--move to a more prosperous location but that would entail them having to raise their prices due to high taxes. Broad Street in Elizabeth would be a really nice location for them, even East Jersey Street. I must say that I only visit McGowen during the day because the lighting at eveningtime is poor. The 24 bus stops right across the street and the return stop is on the very opposite side. Easy. I've never had a problem with being harassed but at night I don't doubt it could happen. McGowen is a struggling business like many others and needs the support of its former customers to get the word out that this store is NOT closed and is ready to serve you best they can. If you need something and don't see it in the store ask the tall dude and he will let you know if he can order it for you. I still love this store and am very glad they are still around to serve my needs. Good Luck, McGowen.

Rene (Penny), a loyal, happy customer.

OMG. Haven't been here in like probably ten years. We were practically assaulted by prostitutes. I started stepping out of my car and one of them immediately told me to stop looking at her and called me fat and cursed me out. They were eyeballing us until we left. It is a war zone now. It was never a good neighborhood but it is a disaster zone now. Also, it shrunk to a 1/4 it's size. The owner, or one of them looked burned out and was unfriendly. There was really nothing in there to look at anymore and no customers either.

Come on guys. Talk about hold outs!! Move! Build it up again. Its a shame.

I've been shopping at this store for years and though I shop around, it always seems I end up buying here in the end. They have a huge selection and the prices can't be beat. Recently a window treatment store opened inside the fabric store and they are wonderful. I think it's called Renata Daniela Window Treatments and their prices are great. Felipe helped me find fabric and choose a style of valance. They made the window treatments and installed them. I highly recommend both the fabric store and the window treatment people!

I have been going to this place since I was a freshman in college and that was in the 70's. The staff is fantastic. I always just walk around and enjoy all the "stuff" they have.

I have been all over this side of New Jersey look at many fabric stores for obscure fabrics. This store was probably the most helpful with the best prices. At first glance their selection seems small and it can be a little harder to find some fabrics, however with the help of the very nice guy at the counter I was able to find everything I needed. Everything I mentioned on my list was met by "I have that, it's over here." The only reason I give this place 4 stars is because while they have many great fabrics, they are a little lacking in the more crafty areas like lace and ribbon and sewing supplies. Still worth a trip though. Great prices and service.