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Stitching a Legacy: How WAWAK Became America’s Go-To Supplier for Sewing Notions

Discover how WAWAK grew from a small supplier to America’s trusted source for sewing notions. Explore their rich legacy, quality products, and commitment to the sewing community.

By Karen Janowitz, California Business Journal

For over a century, WAWAK Sewing Supplies has quietly built one of the strongest reputations in the sewing industry — not by chasing trends, but by doing one thing incredibly well: providing quality sewing notions, fast and reliably.

Founded in 1907 by professional tailor Frank Wawak, the company has grown from a small operation into one of the largest and most trusted suppliers of sewing notions in the U.S. With over 24,000 products available online, WAWAK is a one-stop shop for everything from premium threads and zippers to needles, buttons, and hard-to-find tools.

And in a world where speed and convenience are everything, WAWAK delivers. With distribution centers on both coasts, customers enjoy quick shipping and free delivery on orders over $99. Whether you’re a professional tailor, an in-house designer, or a hobbyist working on your latest project, WAWAK ensures that the materials you need arrive right when you need them.

What really sets WAWAK apart, though, is its focus. While many craft stores offer a little bit of everything — often prioritizing fabric or home décor — WAWAK has always specialized in the details. The company has made sewing notions its entire business. That singular focus has helped WAWAK build unmatched expertise and inventory depth, giving customers access to hard-to-find items and industry-standard tools that simply aren’t available in big-box craft stores.

Even as traditional brick-and-mortar stores close — including the recent announcement of JOANN Fabrics shutting down all its stores by May 2025 — WAWAK continues to thrive. The brand’s robust e-commerce platform, knowledgeable customer support team, and incredible blog full of sewing knowledge have helped sewists across the country stay supplied and supported, no matter where they live.

Today, WAWAK is more than just a supplier. It’s a trusted partner for professionals and hobbyists alike — offering not just products, but peace of mind. In an industry where precision matters and timelines are tight, knowing you can count on a vendor makes all the difference.

As the sewing community evolves and grows online, WAWAK is staying true to its roots: quality, reliability, and service. After 115+ years in the business, the brand’s commitment to the craft remains stronger than ever.

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