From Spreadsheets to Strategy: Using Your Shop Numbers

If you caught our numbers-focused Shop Owner Academy post last year, you already did the hardest part: getting comfortable with the metrics that matter. (If not, this is a great place to pause and catch up—we’ll link it right here.)

This year, we’re taking the next step. Because knowing your numbers is helpful… but using them is where the magic happens.

Your shop’s numbers aren’t a report card—they’re a tool. Let’s talk about how to put them to work in everyday decisions that move your business forward.

Let Your Numbers Guide Buying Decisions

Inventory data is one of the most powerful tools you have. Instead of relying solely on gut instinct, use your sales patterns to guide reorders and refreshes.

If fabric is moving quickly, that’s a clear signal to restock or explore similar collections. If it’s lingering past the 3–6 month mark, it may be time to bundle, discount, or reposition it in the shop. The goal isn’t perfection—it’s momentum.

Try this:

• Review top- and slow-selling fabrics once a month
• Plan markdowns before fabric starts feeling stale

Use Class Numbers Beyond the Sign-Up Sheet

Classes don’t have to be huge profit centers to be incredibly valuable. When you look beyond attendance and factor in fabric, kits, and tool sales, you’ll often find classes quietly pulling their weight—and then some.

Pay attention to what customers buy because of a class. Those insights can help you refine future offerings and maximize ROI without adding more events to your calendar.

Try this:

• Track fabric and tool sales tied to each class
• Adjust class topics based on post-class buying behavior

Remember: Space Is a Number Too

Every square foot in your shop should earn its keep. Fabric or displays that linger too long don’t just tie up cash—they take up valuable selling space.

Using quilt tops, samples, kits, and precuts can help speed up buying decisions and improve turnover without bringing in more inventory.

Try this:

• Reevaluate underperforming sections quarterly
• Rotate displays to spotlight faster-moving products

A Simple Monthly Numbers Checklist

Use this quick check-in to stay on track—no spreadsheets required.

✔ Review best- and slowest-selling fabrics
✔ Check fabric aging (what’s past 3–6 months?)
✔ Look at class-related sales, not just attendance
✔ Identify one display or section to refresh
✔ Make one small decision based on what you see

Your numbers don’t need to be complicated or perfect to be powerful. Small, consistent check-ins can help you make clearer decisions, feel more confident, and keep your shop moving in the right direction.

You’re already doing the work—your numbers are just here to help guide the next step. ✨

Industry Insight:

Holly Draney: VP of Design & former quilt shop manager

“When I owned a quilt shop, I thought success meant tracking every single number. What I learned over time was that the most helpful numbers were the ones that guided my next decision.

Using sales and inventory data to decide what to reorder, what to refresh, and what to move along made running my shop feel more intentional—and far less overwhelming. It’s the same approach I still love sharing when I talk with shop owners each year at Garden of Quilts.

Your numbers don’t need to be intimidating. When you use them as a tool instead of a rulebook, they give you clarity and confidence to keep your shop moving forward.”