About Us
ABOUT US:
Fabric Warehouse began in Auburn, Maine nearly 50 years ago. Back then, it was known as Sharlaine’s, and legend has it that they sold everything. In the mid-1990s, the business evolved—both in focus and in name—becoming Fabric Warehouse. Still, many longtime Mainers proudly and affectionately continue to call us Sharlaine’s.
Today, Fabric Warehouse is owned by two brothers, Chris and Tim Riley. They purchased the store on Halloween in 2014 and have spent the years since expanding the product selection and growing the business online, while staying true to its roots.
The photo you’ll see here captures the owners (plus their other brother) as young kids on their parents’ sailboat. The sail cover they’re sitting on was made by their mom, Debbie, using green Sunbrella fabric she purchased from Sharlaine’s in Auburn—a full-circle moment that perfectly reflects our story.
When you visit Fabric Warehouse, it helps to know what to expect. We are exactly what our name says: a warehouse. Millions of yards of fabric, foam, tools, supplies, and more. We’re not fancy—and neither is the building. We choose to invest our profits in our families and in bringing in more fabric to keep this ever-growing, re-budding business alive.
We’re always happy to take phone orders, help you through a project, or point you in the right direction. And if you can’t find what you’re looking for on the website, be sure to check out our shopping assistant service below.
Welcome—and have fun!
Cheers,
Tim & Chris