Replic: the blog

The original interview was published in French.

In this interview, Marie-Lyne reflects on the creation and growth of Les Tissées, a Montreal-based fabric store known for its modern, carefully curated selection. Starting as an online project, she leveraged her background in business management to build a strong and distinctive brand in a niche market.

What led you to start a fabric store?

Before launching Les Tissées, I worked for many years in management and marketing. When I discovered sewing, I quickly noticed a lack of high-quality fashion fabrics for adults in Quebec. Most existing stores focused primarily on children’s prints. I saw an opportunity to create something different, aligned with my taste and professional experience.

I began by selling fabrics on Facebook, mainly sourcing designer deadstock, especially from Montreal designers. As demand grew, I launched a website and gradually structured the business more formally.

How did Les Tissées evolve over time?

Initially, the focus was exclusively on fabrics. Over time, I expanded the offering to include notions and accessories, sometimes by acquiring inventory from stores that had closed. Today, Les Tissées offers a broad selection both online and in-store, with significant room for continued growth.

The project developed organically, without a rigid plan at the beginning. It evolved through opportunities, customer needs, and a clear creative vision.

Where does the name Les Tissées come from?

We wanted a French name, even with international customers. Les Tissées references both textiles and a feminine identity, while also setting the brand apart from stores mainly associated with children’s fabrics.

Your favourite and least favourite parts of running a business?

My least favourite part is social media: essential, but extremely time-consuming.

What I enjoy most is working with the products themselves — sourcing fabrics, styling them, and creating visual content. I also love welcoming customers in-store. Their enthusiasm and positive feedback are incredibly rewarding, especially in a challenging retail environment.

Designers or brands you admire?

Wardrobe by Me for their excellent pattern grading, VikySews for their fashion-forward approach, and Merchant & Mills as an overall benchmark for brand coherence and quality.

What advice would you give to someone thinking of opening a store?

You have to be truly passionate. This is not a business you start for quick returns. The first years require a great deal of commitment, patience, and resilience. Without genuine passion, it’s very hard to sustain long term.