Locally-owned Heddy’s Fabrics has been in business for more than 55 years and has become a Las Vegas legacy for its specialty fabrics and inventory. From left are employees Ashya and Bridget, owner Heidi Harrington, and employee Lynn Caravella, who rode the bus to work for more than 25 years.
There are thousands of small, locally owned businesses along Charleston Blvd. (Route 206) and W. Sahara Ave. (SX – Sahara Express), both considered backbones of the community and popular commercial corridors. Many of these “Mom and Pop” businesses depend on transit to bring employees to work and customers to their door.
On March 29, National Mom and Pop Business Day, we salute one such business that has been around since 1966! Heddy’s Fabrics, located at 5411 W. Charleston Blvd., is a Las Vegas legacy. Owner Heidi Harrington says her mother, Heddy, a German native, first opened the store in 1966 with ten bolts of fabric in a tiny storefront just up the street from Heddy’s current locale.
“At the time, the only places to find fabric in Las Vegas were drug stores that carried just cotton fabrics.” My mom, who was definitely ahead of her time and considered a pioneering businesswoman, saw a need and got to it. She was encouraged by her friends, Siegfried and Roy, whose costumers also became loyal customers.
Today, Heddy’s is known not only locally but regionally for its array of fabrics and notions – from everyday cottons to high-end laces, brocades, and more.
“In addition to a loyal local clientele, we have customers from the entire southwest area of the country, seeking specialty fabrics that can only be found here. I am so proud to carry on my mother’s dream.”
In fact, Heddy’s quickly became the go-to place for costume designers and fabricators for Las Vegas entertainers and shows. Heddy’s is filled with photos of celebrities who have patronized and benefited from the store’s incredible offerings: Elton John, Bette Midler and Marie Osmond, to name just a few. Fun factoid? Heidi says her mom used to darn Elvis’ socks!
Another fun RTC factoid: Lynn Caravella, one of Heddy’s longtime employees, rode the bus to work for 25 years!
So next time that DIY urge hits to get out the old sewing machine, or the next time you need a button to keep your favorite coat in working order, hit Heddy’s along Route 206! You won’t be disappointed!
